Say it with us: I will fill my summer with nature.





Header graphic with the Parks logo, a green background and text saying Get ready for summer at WA State Parks




Two women smile and wave at the camera. One is dressed in a park ranger uniform. [ [link removed] ]
Prep for your state parks visit with these helpful video tutorials 

Visiting your state parks is all about the fun, adventures and the memories you make. We know after you've loaded up your car, you're ready for campfire lounging — not logistics. That's why we're thrilled to share an exciting new resource from our official charitable partner, the Washington State Parks Foundation.

Check out this new video series, available in English and Spanish, that will help guide you through what you need to know so you're ready for your adventure when you arrive:


* "*Check-In*" guides Washington state park visitors through arrival procedures and getting situated at their campsite
* "*Campground Etiquette*" explains guidance and best practices to make sure everyone has fun
* "*Bringing Your Dog to the Park*" provides tips for a safe and pleasant camping experience with pets

View all of the videos here [ [link removed] ].

Thank you again to the Washington State Parks Foundation [ [link removed] ] and Fridie Outdoors [ [link removed] ] for their work to develop these tutorials and improve the state parks experience for all. Fridie Outdoors empowers people to get camping and outdoors by making the skills accessible from anywhere.






Kayakers enjoying the water at Lime Kiln while a couple watches from above on a bench

Lime Kiln Point State Park

Manifesting your next adventure

Say it with us: I will fill my summer with nature. I will cook food over a campfire. I will dip my fingers into the salty sea water. I will sleep in a tent under the stars. Here are a few more unforgettable experiences waiting for you to make them a reality:


* Hiking through lush, forested trails at Federation Forest [ [link removed] ], Lewis and Clark Trail [ [link removed] ] or Fort Townsend [ [link removed] ]
* Paddleboarding on crystal-clear lakes like Millersylvania’s [ [link removed] ] Deep Lake or Moran’s [ [link removed] ] Cascade Lake
* Day tripping to a park you’ve never visited — maybe one with beach access like Lyons Ferry [ [link removed] ], Lake Chelan [ [link removed] ] or Steamboat Rock [ [link removed] ]
* Exploring history at an Interpretive Center like Ginkgo Petrified Forest [ [link removed] ], Goldendale Observatory [ [link removed] ] or Lewis and Clark [ [link removed] ]

More to do at your state parks

* *May 31:* Grand reopening of the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center [ [link removed] ] — stay tuned for the official reopening announcement
* *June 7:* Celebrate the annual Salish Sea Day [ [link removed] ] with the Samish and Swinomish Canoe Families at Bowman Bay in Deception Pass
* *June 22:* Join us for Sundaes Outside [ [link removed] ] at Bridle Trails where the Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle will offer horseback rides and historical education
* *June-August:* Enjoy live music at Deception Pass [ [link removed] ] and Cape Disappointment [ [link removed] ]
* *July 5:* Help keep our shores beautiful and free from debris July 5 beach cleanup [ [link removed] ]
* *July 26:* Discover natural wonders at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls’ [ [link removed] ] annual Floodfest

Your perfect summer adventure starts here — get outside and make some memories! See our full calendar of events here [ [link removed] ]. 











A parent and two children sitting in front of a campfire roasting marshmallows

Photo by Freya Fennwood

Explore the Field Guide

Find helpful information, learn about the flora and fauna in our parks, try a new campfire recipe and more in the Field Guide [ [link removed] ]. Check out a few helpful blogs below to get started.

What you need to know before visiting a Washington state park for the first time

Starting a new outdoor adventure can feel overwhelming, but State Parks makes it easy with activities for all skill levels — especially beginners. With 700 miles of trails for hiking, biking, skiing, horseback riding, and more (including ADA-accessible options [ [link removed] ]), there’s something for everyone.

*Find out more before your park visit* [ [link removed] ]


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Learn about Washington's outdoor passes

Whether you're new to Northwest nature or you're a PNW pro, you might be scratching your head about which recreation pass goes with which outing/activity. Help is just a click away in our comprehensive blog on state, federal and activity-specific passes and permits.

*Washington outdoor passes explained* [ [link removed] ]


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What is leave no trace, and why we should all do it

It’s easy to get caught up in nature’s beauty and accidentally leave a trace — like litter, straying off trail or forgetting a dog waste bag. The 7 Leave No Trace Principles offer simple ways to protect the outdoors and keep it enjoyable for all.

*7 Principles of Leave No Trace* [ [link removed] ]


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The “10 Essentials” to take on every outdoor adventure

Heading outdoors? Pack the Ten Essentials — key items like navigation tools, fire starters and extra snacks — to stay safe, prepared and ready for anything.

*Learn about the Ten Essentials* [ [link removed] ]






Discover Pass logo with a tree

Buy your Discover Pass today!

Your purchase of a Discover Pass [ [link removed] ] helps keep our state recreational lands open and beautiful. Price increase on Oct. 1, 2025, so buy yours today!

Our parks are home to several endangered species, some of the only known occurrences of many rare plant communities and the majority of Washington’s remaining lowland old growth forests. When you buy a Discover Pass, you’re contributing to the care of these lands and animals for future generations. It's also an incredible deal!

A Discover Pass is required for parking at Washington State Parks and recreation lands managed by Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and Department of Natural Resources (DNR). One pass can be used by two vehicles, but is only valid for one vehicle at a time.

Learn more, and buy your Discover Pass online here. [ [link removed] ]

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Three kids laying inside a tent poking their heads out smiling

Take advantage of our flexible dates and same-day reservations features

*_Flexible dates_*

If your schedule has some give, our flexible dates feature makes booking a campsite easier — no need to search through countless dates! Plus, you can add filters to match your specific needs.

How it works:


* Visit our reservations website [ [link removed] ] and choose "Flexible dates"
* Choose a time period up to four months in advance
* Select your park, group size and equipment
* Hit "Search" to see all available dates and sites
* Pick the perfect spot and book your stay

*_Same-day reservations_*

All parks with reservable campgrounds can now be booked for same-day reservations until 2 p.m. the day of arrival.

Customers have two options for booking a same-day reservation:


* Online at washington.goingtocamp.com [ [link removed] ]
* Call Center 1-888-CAMPOUT (1-888-226-7688) 

*For more information, please reach out to the Parks Information Center by calling (360) 902-8844 or emailing **[email protected]**.  ** *






Know before you go on your next adventure

Before heading out, take a minute to check for any trail, weather or fire alerts that could impact your trip. Park closures, wildfire restrictions or severe weather can change plans fast, and staying updated can help you avoid surprises.

Check local forecasts and visit our website [ [link removed] ] to view current park alerts. A little preparation keeps you safe and ensures a smoother, stress-free adventure.

Stay informed, stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors this summer!

*Check park alerts* [ [link removed] ]








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