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 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.
Thank you again to the Washington State Parks Foundation and Fridie Outdoors 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.
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 Lime Kiln Point State Park
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:
Your perfect summer adventure starts here — get outside and make some memories! See our full calendar of events here.
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 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. 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), there’s something for everyone.
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.
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.
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.
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Your purchase of a Discover Pass 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.
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 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:
For more information, please reach out to the Parks Information Center by calling (360) 902-8844 or emailing [email protected].
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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 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!
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