(a) The department may provide hostel facilities in any unit of the state park system where consistent with the general development plan for such unit, and may provide for hostel facilities in the general plan for any unit; provided, however, that no hostel facility may be provided in any unit classified as a state wilderness, natural preserve, or state reserve.
(b) The department may also provide hostel facilities at any park or recreation area under the jurisdiction of any local or regional public agency if such agency enters into an agreement with the department for the care, maintenance, and control of such facilities at the agency’s expense.