The Gifford Pinchot National Forest covers 1.3 million acres of national forest lands in southwest Washington, providing a broad range of quality recreational opportunities and experiences for visitors around the world. Over a million people visit each year, with the vast majority coming to enjoy recreation opportunities.

Our goal is to provide high-quality services to the public. To help achieve this goal we are seeking proposals for a concessionaire to operate and maintain 33 campgrounds, group camps, and associated recreation sites on the forest. Sites being offered in this prospectus are located on the Cowlitz Valley, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams Ranger Districts. Applicants are encouraged to consider new ways to enhance user experiences at existing campgrounds. This could include interpretive services, campfire talks, concession-owned yurts, cabins or other overnight camping options, to name a few.

The new concession permit will replace the current permit which expires December 31, 2019. The term length will be for up to 10 years, with the option to extend up to five additional years. We anticipate making a selection in fall 2019, with the successful applicant beginning operations in May 2020.

Applicants are advised to read the prospectus carefully. An electronic copy of the prospectus is attached to this special notice and can also be found online at http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/gp/campgrounds. Hard copies will be available upon request.

Complete applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13, 2019. Mail applications to: Gifford Pinchot National Forest; Attn: Debbie Terrion; 501 E. 5th St., #404; Vancouver, WA 8661.

Applicants may also drop off their applications to forest staff Tuesday through Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center; 1501 E. Evergreen Blvd; Vancouver, WA 98661.

For questions about the prospectus, contact Debbie Terrion, Special Uses Coordinator at 360-891-5175 or deborah.terrion@usda.gov .

Thank you for your interest in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. We look forward to receiving your proposal.