Inland Empire residents join lawsuit alleging ReserveCalifornia.com adds hidden reservation fees in violation of state law
Tyler Industries / ReserveCalifornia.com junk feesCalifornia (Times Media Service) – A new lawsuit claims the contractor behind ReserveCalifornia.com, the official California State Parks reservation website, is charging illegal junk fees, sparking concern among Inland Empire residents who rely on the site for affordable outdoor recreation.
Lawsuit Targets ReserveCalifornia.com Over Hidden Reservation Fees
The lawsuit, filed by two California residents including Inland Empire’s Adam Fitzgerald, alleges that Tyler Technologies, the company managing ReserveCalifornia.com, violates state law by adding hidden reservation fees at the final stage of booking. The “California State Parks website contractor,” sits at the center of the controversy, as the complaint accuses the contractor of deceptive pricing practices that impact millions of state park visitors.
Honest Pricing Law and Its Impact on Park Reservations
California’s Honest Pricing Law, which took effect in July 2024, requires businesses to display the full price-including all mandatory fees-up front. Plaintiffs argue that the California State Parks website contractor fails to comply, as the site advertises one price but adds a separate reservation fee at checkout. For example, a $45 campsite at San Onofre State Beach ends up costing $53.25 after an $8.25 fee is tacked on. This fee goes to Tyler Technologies, not to California State Parks, raising questions about transparency and fairness.
Millions at Stake for Inland Empire Families
The class-action lawsuit claims that the California State Parks website contractor could collect up to $398 million in fees over its 10-year contract. In just one year, these fees could total $37 million. Many Inland Empire families use ReserveCalifornia.com to book trips to popular destinations like Lake Perris and Mount San Jacinto. If the lawsuit succeeds, local residents who paid these fees may be eligible for refunds.
Legal Claims and Consumer Protection
The plaintiffs allege that Tyler Technologies violates multiple California laws, including the Honest Pricing Law, Consumer Legal Remedies Act, False Advertising Law, and Unfair Competition Law. They seek refunds for all affected users and an end to the alleged deceptive practices. The case is among the first to test California’s new rules against junk fees and could set a precedent for other online booking platforms.
What’s Next for California State Parks Visitors?
Tyler Technologies has not yet responded in court. If the court rules against the California State Parks website contractor, it could force major changes in how reservation fees are disclosed statewide. Inland Empire residents who love the outdoors should watch this case closely, as it could lead to more honest pricing and potential refunds for past bookings.
Stephanie Ramirez / California Writer (Times Media Service)
sramirez@timesmediaservice.com
