Beginning June 1, campers will be able to stay at the city campground in Griffin Park as long as they like but will need to pay a little more to do so.
Tonight, the Pierre City Commission updated the city’s campground policy, lifting restrictions on how long RV campers are allowed to stay in the park.
“Last year was the busiest our campground in Griffin Park has ever been; even then we were seldom at max capacity,” said Tom Farnsworth, Parks and Recreation Director, when explaining the change. “With that in mind, we really don’t have a strong reason to limit nights at the campground.”
Campers staying anytime between the beginning of May and the end of October will pay $25 a night. Those camping between the beginning of November and the end of April will be charged $10 a night. Previously, peak season camping spots cost $16 a night; off season spots were $10 a night.
Farnsworth says the fees which haven’t been changed since 2006 help the city cover the cost of doing business.
“In the summer months, our bathhouses are open and water service is available. In the colder months, we don’t supply those services,” said Farnsworth. “That’s why there are seasonal rates.”
The city has 16 RV spots available. There is no reservation system; the campground is first come, first serve. Camping privileges can be revoked for violation of ordinance or validated complaints.
Tent camping for special events may be allowed in the city park system with prior authorization from the City.
“Occasionally, we have a boy scout troop or some group of that nature that wants to do a camp out,” said Farnworth. “We’ll work with those groups.”
Within the last month, a new RV filling station was installed at the campground. Last year, a shower house and storm shelter were opened in Griffin Park.