I wasn't aware that NPS had changed their policy. I just came back from a two-nighter in Saguaro National Park and the policies and permit prices (+$1.00) were much the same as they were in '09. I got a permit for the Grand Canyon for this coming May: same policy and price as the last time I got a permit in '09.

I don't know about the entrance fees; they could have changed and I wouldn't have been aware because I use the lifetime senior pass I got for $10.00 about 1999. Truly this was the best money I've ever spent.

Could this be something specific to one of the California parks. As I said, I've heard nothing and I'm usually aware of what is going on in the western National Parks.