Rincón de la Vieja National Park has renovated camping area

Visitors to Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Guanacaste can now benefit from improved infrastructure for overnight camping.

The National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) announced the completion of a $74,000 project that includes six elevated platforms for camping tents, improved sanitary services and showers in the park’s Santa María sector.

The additions come as some environmental organizations and park rangers call for improved working conditions at Costa Rica’s national parks.

“For this administration, the improvement of infrastructure in protected wildlife areas is an urgent priority,” said Grettel Vega Arce, SINAC’s executive director.

“Proof of this has been the portfolio of construction works that has been executed in recent months, with sustainable, low-impact designs that are respectful of the natural environment.”

Financing for the Rincón de la Vieja improvements included support from the Corcovado Foundation and the Foundation for the Development of the Arenal Conservation Area (FUNDACA).

Established in 1978, Rincón de la Vieja National Park contains several important riverbeds for the Guanacaste province. The Santa María sector of the park provides 40% of the water used by the city of Liberia, according to the Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG).

Attractions in the Santa María sector include hiking trails, hot springs, a lookout point and a waterfall.

Entry to Rincón de la Vieja National Park costs 1,000 colones (about $1.75) for Costa Rican citizens and residents, or $15 for foreign non-residents. Camping is $4 per person, according to ACG.