PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Oregonians will soon have more options for camping — especially those looking for a quick trip — as the state parks department works to finalize details on a capital improvement plan.

Oregon Public Broadcasting reported on Thursday staff in the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department staff recently outlined some of the plans at a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting.

Park Services Manager Matt Rippee said expanded campgrounds are in the works for several state parks in the Willamette Valley, including Silver Falls and Champoeg.

“It also gives folks an opportunity, if a big storm comes through in the middle of the night, or a baby is crying, they can hop in the car and head home, and it’s not a four hour drive,” he said.

The expansion is part of an approved $50 million, by state lawmakers, to fund a series of projects over the next five years.

In addition, as part of the package the iconic Smith Rock State Park is set to receive $4 million to $6 million for upgrades throughout the park — including added parking, extended hiking trails and a visitor center.

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The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is inviting contractors to bid on the upcoming construction of a new visitor center complex at the popular Silver Falls State Park.

The Department has issued an for contractors interested in bidding on the project, which will feature the remodeling of a roughly 9,000 square foot unfinished structure purchased by OPRD in 2005. The building has since that time been a focus of the department and its efforts to improve Silver Falls State Park, the largest in Oregon.

This contract provides an initial phase of work to improve and weatherproof the exterior envelope of the building, improve structural elements and replace electrical and mechanical systems.

When complete, the renovated center will have four stories, including a below-grade basement providing general office space. The ground floor will be highlighted by a conference room, lobby, dining and kitchen areas and large front and rear porches. Three public restrooms will also be provided.

The second floor will provide more office area, while the third and upper floor will house HVAC and other mechanical systems.

Interested contractors will be bidding on all labor, materials, transportation, equipment and services related to completing the construction of the project. The total value of the project is estimated at $600,000.

A voluntary pre-bid conference is set for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at the project location at 21125 Hullt Road in Silverton. Solicitation documents may be viewed online beforehand on the state’s ORPIN system: .

All bids are due before 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, at the Parks and Recreation Department, 725 Summer Street Northeast, Suite C, Salem, OR, 97301. For further information contact Senior Contracts Coordinator Kayleen Warner at 503-986-0701.

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