Seasonal campers will be spending more over the next few seasons at some local parks.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority's (SCRCA) board has approved rate hikes of seven per cent in 2024, and of 10 per cent in both 2025 and 2026.
The combined 27 per cent increase will bring the projected cost to $3,388, up from the $2,625 charged in 2023.
In a report to the board, SCRCA Manager of Conservation Areas Greg Wilcox said a number of factors played into the decision.
"Fee increases are a result of increasing staffing costs, maintenance, park upgrades, and general cost increases," said Wilcox in his report.
"Fee increases are also required to ensure financial reserves are maintained at levels sufficient to undertake large capital expenditures (septic system updates, road improvements, etc.) when required," he said.
Wilcox said right now, the average competitor’s 2023 seasonal camping fee is about $595 higher than SCRCA.
"Our rates need to be closer to the average to ensure sustainability," he said. "Assuming the market rate continues to increase through to 2026, the SCRCA will need to reevaluate our rate at that time."
When Sarnia News Today reached out for further information, the SCRCA said the organization was "not looking to comment on the recent staff recommendation and board approval to increase our seasonal camping fees."
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority operates four seasonal camp grounds including: the A.W. Campbell, Lorne C. Henderson, Shetland, and Warwick Conservation Areas.
A full copy of Wilcox's report to the board can be found here.