Oregonians and Oregon's many visitors enjoy diverse recreational opportunities from the snows of the Wallowa Mountains to the sands of the Pacific coast. Outdoor recreation is available across Oregon. If not properly cared for, these outdoor resources could diminish from overuse. We need to plan in advance for when, where, how, and how often the public uses these outdoor recreational areas. Local, state, and federal agencies and the private sector must coordinate their plans for recreation facilities and activities to protect these resources. Communities need to prepare for the demand these recreation destinations place on public services and facilities such as roads.
Statewide Planning Goal 8: Recreational Facilities requires local governments to plan for the recreation needs of their residents and visitors. The goal places priority on:
- Non-motorized forms of recreation,
- Recreation areas that serve high-density populations with limited transportation options and limited financial resources, and
- Recreation areas that are free or available at a low cost to the public.
Destination Resorts
Destination resorts are self-contained developments that provide visitor-oriented lodging and developed recreational facilities in a setting with high natural amenities. In 1994, Goal 8 was amended to include information on small and large destination resorts. There are specific definitions and guidelines available for the creation of destination resorts, as well as references to the statutes that relate to Goal 8 and destination resorts.
Original Adoption: 12/27/74; Effective: 1/25/75
Amended: 10/11/84; Effective: 10/19/84
Amended: 2/17/88; Effective: 3/31/88
Amended: 1/21/94; Effective: 3/18/94
Amended 2/2/06; Effective 2/10/06
Amended 3/21/08; Effective 4/18/08
Read full text version of Goal 8.
Administrative Rules that implement Goal 8:
OAR 660-034 – State and Local Park Planning
Related:
Rural Development
Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreations Plan (SCORP)