OkanoganWenatchee National Forest shifting to mostly cashless payments

Deborah Kelly, the public affairs specialist for Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest, announced the shift to a cashless fee collection system at most recreation sites by Memorial Day Weekend. This change will impact all trailheads, day-use sites requiring fees, and nearly all first-come, first-served campgrounds. Visitors are encouraged to download the recreation. gov mobile app prior to their visits to ensure they can access it without connectivity issues. The app will allow for offline transactions in areas lacking WiFi or cellular service.

The U. S. Forest Service intends to streamline operations by removing cash and check payment options, which will free up staff for visitor assistance and site maintenance. Fees collected at recreation sites are vital for the upkeep and enhancement of these facilities. Campgrounds and other developed sites can still be reserved in advance through the agency's website, unaffected by the cashless transition.

This initiative reflects a growing trend in outdoor recreation management toward more efficient payment systems.