S.C. seniors who enjoy healthy outdoor camping in state parks feel that, as a class, they are being hit with hefty fee increases at state parks, while smokers, who use the state's medical services, are coasting along with only a seven-cents-per-package state tax on cigarettes.

Some lawmakers, including Sen. Scott Richardson, R-Hilton Head, continue to call for an increase in the cigarette tax to the national average of 60 cents per pack. A move to raise the tax failed in the 2003 legislative session. Gov. Mark Sanford threatened a veto of legislation if the tax wasn't linked to a reduction in the income tax. A last-minute, one-time federal infusion of $170 million effectively allowed the tax to die.

While none of the proposed cigarette tax hike would have been earmarked for the S.C. Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department to fund state-park operations, it is a good example of how people who enjoy unhealthy habits skate along while others suffer higher fees.

Seniors will have to pay more, just as most others at most state parks, but they will really get hit on the cost of overnight camping. A 50 percent discount on camping sites has been lowered to 15 percent, driving the cost per night from $7.50 to $12.75 for seniors at most parks.

The fee increases are designed to raise about $1.25 million, an estimated $1 million from seniors, according to The State newspaper. Parks, Recreation and Tourism says the increases are designed to provide needed services and bring the state into line with other states. Many states -- Oregon among them -- and the U.S. National Park Service have increased fees this year. However, in the South, Florida still offers a 50 percent senior camping discount. Other discounts, according to The State, include 25 percent in Tennessee, 20 percent in Georgia, 16 percent in North Carolina, 15 percent in Alabama and 10 percent in Kentucky.

South Carolinians enjoy some of the most beautiful parks in the nation. Yet, state parks, as one writer said recently, are more than recreation areas. They are a window to serenity, a respite from the day-to-day troubles in the world. "The real issue is not the cost to seniors but the long-term financial support of these beautiful natural areas that provide a wealth of peace and wonder in return for our dollars and protection," wrote Rose Faissler of Pawleys Island.

Hunting Island State Park is a good example of a place that needs help to preserve a natural treasure. The beach is eroding, taking bathhouses and cottages away. The lighthouse needs repair and the money must come from somewhere. A 50-cent increase in the fee at Hunting Island could generate nearly $400,000 a year, based on 800,000 visitors.

Still ,it is sad when S.C. seniors see their discount reduced by 35 percent, while smokers enjoy one of the lowest cigarette taxes in the nation. Somewhere in this state budget mess we have gotten our priorities wrong.