According to nps.com, with the implementation of a mandatory parking fee in 2019, the park received a substantial increase in revenue. The funds have been used to accomplish projects that they would have otherwise been unable to afford.
It should be noted that without the support of private funding, Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield park would not be able to host events.
"Everything changed when we implemented the fee program to compete with other national parks,” said park ranger Jake Boiling. “Everything we do is for the enjoyment of our visitors to best tell the story about the history here. The money produced in fees goes into the park in numerous ways.”
In order to raise more money for certain programs, a hiking challenge was hosted over the summer that was extremely successful. Participants were challenged to hike Kennesaw Mountain’s 22 miles of trails to win a special bandana.
“Over the summer, Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Park hosted a hiking challenge that was extremely successful,” said park ranger Jake Boiling “Because it’s the year 2022, starting in May we challenged participants to hike Kennesaw Mountain’s 22 miles of trails to win a special bandana.”
One-hundred-twenty-seven prizes were awarded. The ranger had mentioned that the prize winners only represented a percentage of those who attempted the challenge.
Boiling says high attendance rates allow them to implement more things for the benefit of visitors. Park goers can hope to do a more history-related experience in 2023. Because of the funds produced, bathrooms will be coming to Cheatham hill in 2023 as well.
In 2019, Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Park lost funding from the state. This means it has to compete with other national parks in the area for funding, and park goers. According to nps.com, the park had no means of generating revenue since its inception in 1935
Kennesaw Mountain Stays Updated
By: Carsyn Taylor
Many KSU students and residents in Kennesaw attend Kennesaw Mountain’s trails on a regular basis.
Kennesaw resident Terri Pearce has been coming to Kennesaw Mountain for roughly 11 years and loves the convenience of the 22 miles of trails "right in your backyard. “
"It wasn't until I moved closer to Mountain that I realized there's so much more to see than just going to the top of the mountain," said Pearce.
She said that many of the ridges and cracks are often filled in on the trails. Since the park is so well maintained, the price for parking is reasonable and definitely worth contributing to due to the quality of the mountain.
Boiling said they are always hiring in the many different divisions at Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield park. For information about employment and park projects, visit nps.com
