CA Contractor Faces Lawsuit Over Illegal Junk Fees

Hesperia-area families hit as ReserveCalifornia.com accused of deceptive “junk fees” that violate state law and inflate camping costs

California (Our Hesperia) – A major lawsuit claims the contractor running the ReserveCalifornia.com website, used by thousands of Hesperia and High Desert families to book state park campsites, is illegally adding junk fees that drive up reservation costs and violate California’s new Honest Pricing Act.

ReserveCalifornia.com Lawsuit: Hidden Junk Fees Spark Outrage

The ReserveCalifornia.com website, operated by Texas-based Tyler Technologies, is at the center of a class action lawsuit over illegal junk fees. Plaintiffs say the company adds hidden reservation fees at checkout, a practice known as “drip pricing,” which is now banned by California’s Honest Pricing Act. This law, effective July 2024, requires all advertised prices to include mandatory fees, ensuring families see the real cost upfront.

How the Alleged Junk Fees Hurt California Campers

According to the lawsuit, Tyler Technologies tacks on last-minute fees that can increase a campsite reservation by more than 20%. For example, a $45 campsite at San Onofre State Beach ended up costing $53.25 after an undisclosed $8.25 fee was added at checkout. Plaintiffs argue these fees are not kept by California State Parks but instead go straight to Tyler Technologies, which is projected to collect nearly $400 million over its ten-year contract.

Legal Claims: Violation of the Honest Pricing Act

The lawsuit claims Tyler Technologies is violating the Honest Pricing Act, California’s False Advertising Law, and the Consumer Legal Remedies Act. The law clearly states that the price shown must be the price paid, with no surprise charges at checkout. Tyler Technologies’ contract with California requires it to follow all state laws, but the lawsuit alleges the company knowingly ignored these obligations.

Impact on Hesperia and High Desert Families

Many Hesperia-area families use ReserveCalifornia.com to plan affordable state park trips. Hidden junk fees mean families pay more than expected, stretching already tight budgets. The lawsuit also claims these fees create the false impression that extra money supports California’s underfunded parks, when in reality, the contractor keeps the profits. This practice undermines trust in public services and takes money out of local communities.

What’s at Stake for California Residents

If the lawsuit succeeds, it could force Tyler Technologies to refund millions in junk fees and change how government contractors operate in California. The case is among the first to test the new Honest Pricing Act against a major state contractor, setting a precedent for transparency and fairness in public services. Consumer advocates and state officials back the law, aiming to ensure families see honest prices and aren’t blindsided by extra charges.