URGENT UPDATE: Starting January 2, 2024, families in San Diego, California will face a significant fee increase of $25 to book picnic areas in local parks. This hike will raise the cost of renting a family picnic area from $125 to $150, impacting many who enjoy outdoor gatherings.
This change, confirmed by the County of San Diego, affects various picnic area sizes, with fees escalating based on capacity. For instance, areas accommodating 50 to 100 people will cost $225 instead of $200, while spaces for 101 to 250 people will increase from $300 to $325. The largest areas, meant for 251 to 400 people, will see a jump from $475 to $500.
Families still wishing to book picnic areas before January 2 will not incur the new fees. Those who have already made reservations for the spring or summer of 2026 will also retain the current pricing, easing some immediate concerns for planning gatherings.
The motive behind this price increase is to enhance maintenance and upkeep of park facilities. Many residents have voiced concerns about cleanliness, specifically regarding trash disposal near picnic areas. Local resident Mike Petersen expressed his frustration about picnic spots being close to overflowing trash cans. “It’s important that park users dispose of their litter in the receptacles,” he stated, highlighting the need for better waste management.
“Having trash cans nearby makes it easier for people to dispose of it,” a city spokesperson told KUSI-TV.
This fee increase comes on the heels of a broader trend affecting outdoor recreation across the United States. Just weeks ago, it was reported that visitors to US National Parks will also see a price increase of $100, with major parks like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone being particularly impacted. Starting January 1, 2024, annual passes for international tourists will rise to $250, while American visitors will pay $80.
As these changes unfold, San Diego residents and park-goers are urged to take action quickly to secure their picnic spots at the current rates before the deadline. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops and consider sharing this information with friends and family planning outdoor events.
