ExplorUS, a national provider of concession services in national and state parks, has signed a definitive letter of intent to assume control of Crater Lake Hospitality’s operations at Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. The Oregon-based park features three retail gift shops.
ExplorUS, based in Overland Park, Kansas, already manages concessions in 11 national park locations, including Hawaii Volcanoes, Muir Woods, Mammoth Cave and Acadia National Park. Overall, the company provides concession services at nearly 80 locations nationwide.
“Crater Lake is the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Oregon and one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest,” says Frank Pikus, CEO of ExplorUS. “We are looking forward to working with the National Park Service in gaining approval for the transfer of the concession contract. We are committed to working with the National Park Service to enhance and protect the visitor experience.”
ExplorUS plans to transition all current employees involved in concessions at Crater Lake and make a significant investment in the park’s facilities, staff training and visitor services. Crater Lake concessions include boat tours; lodging and dining at historic Crater Lake Lodge; the Cabins at Mazama Village and Mazama Campground; Rim Village Cafe and Gifts, which is open year-round; Annie Creek Restaurant and Gift Shop; and the Mazama Village Store. in addition to boat tours; lodging and dining at historic Crater Lake Lodge; the Cabins at Mazama Village and Mazama Campground.
ExplorUS says it focuses on providing high standards for visitor safety, environmental stewardship and employee working conditions. Additionally, to ensure visitors that there is no interruption in service, all reservations and deposits for future stays and services will be honored. “The transition will be seamless,” says Pikus.
“The opportunity at Crater Lake National Park is a perfect match with our capabilities and expertise,” Pikus adds. “We are dedicated to providing an excellent experience at the country’s fifth-oldest national park and we look forward to the opening of the 2024 season in May.”
