County Forest parking permits contribute to Recreation Trails

County Tree Farm harvest in Post Canyon leads to a new trail for recreational users supported by permit revenue

The primary purpose of the County Tree Farm is to produce and sell timber, a renewable natural resource. Additionally, it serves as a free multi-use recreational area supported by the County Forest Parking Permit program.  

Since its launch in 2022, the Parking Permit program has significantly contributed to the recreational uses in the County Forest. All funds generated through the program are directly allocated to the maintenance and development of trails and recreational areas.

“The funding from parking permits and grants plays a crucial role in trail maintenance and improvement, much more than many people realize,” says Forestry Director Doug Thiesies. “The revenue generated from parking permits supports our County recreation trail staff, who also seek grant funding for trail projects. These grant funds are substantial, and with the support of HRATS and other volunteers, their impact is even greater.”

A County Forest Parking Permit is specifically required for parking in Fee Parking Zones and is not for entry, recreational use, or access to any County Property or Fee Parking Zone. 2025 County Forest Parking Permits are available for sale online at hoodrivercounty.net/parking-passes and at several local shops.

• Beargrass Bicycles 1260 Tucker Rd, Hood River
• Goodwynn's Hood River 1235 State St. Suite 200, Hood River
• Discover Bicycles 1813 Cascade Ave Unit A, Hood River
• Fun Country* 1318 W 2nd St, The Dalles
• Hood River Powersports and Marine* 3335 Cascade Ave, Hood River
• Mt View Cycles 205 Oak St, Hood River
• Shortt Supply 116 Oak St, Hood River
• Visit Hood River 202 Cascade Ave Ste B, Hood River
• XTC Truck & Toy* 1203 12th St, Hood River

Annual permits are transferable and cost $30, or $25 with an Oregon OHV sticker (available at local shops noted with *). Daily permits are $5 (valid for the day of purchase only). Online purchases incur transaction fees of 46¢ for daily permits $1.20 for annual permits.

A map of Fee Parking Zone Staging Areas can be found on the Hood River County Trail Map. 

Each zone is clearly marked with signs. Permits are valid through the end of the calendar year at improved staging areas. Passes must be visibly hanging from a rearview mirror or placed on the driver’s side dashboard of vehicles parked in designated areas, whether they are purchased onsite or online. Please read and follow all instructions for displaying a permit.

Permits may be purchased on mobile devices at staging areas in the County Forest. Users who park in designated zones and purchase onsite are asked to write the order confirmation email information on paper (available at staging area kiosks or on a piece of scrap paper) and display the paper on vehicle dashboards.

Thank you for purchasing a 2025 Parking Permit to support Hood River County Forest recreation and trails!