Want to learn more about Washington State Parks? Click on the map markers for a brief introduction to each location, then click on the included web link to go to my full review. You can also link to reviews from the photo gallery below. The most recent entries appear first in the gallery.

Of course, there are many more state parks than what I’ve listed here, and I’ll post new reviews and updates as we visit (and revisit) more parks. For a complete list of parks and all kinds of helpful info, visit the Washington State Parks website. For camping reservations, visit the Washington State Parks reservations website.

• Most Washington State Parks require you hang a “Discover Pass” in your car window or else pay a day use fee. The Discover Pass is an annual pass that covers state park entry fees for twelve months from the date of purchase. You can list two license plate numbers on each pass, allowing you to use it with two vehicles. The pass costs $30 if you purchase one at a state park or, for Washington State residents, if you elect to receive one when you renew your vehicle tabs. It can also be purchased online or from another vendor for $35. Since day use fees are usually $10, the Discover Pass is a great deal if you visit three or more parks in one year! The pass also covers other state natural and wildlife areas. For more information about the pass and where to buy one, visit the Discover Pass website.
  
  
• What if $30 isn’t in your budget? While the Discover Pass fee is reasonable for many, this is not the case for everyone. This is one big reason I believe we need to provide better support for our parks with our tax dollars — our public lands should be available to all! Fortunately, there are a number of free days throughout the year, including January 1st, the day after Thanksgiving, and many others. View the full list of annual free days online here.
  
  
• Some people may qualify for a discounted pass. Check the Washington State Parks website to find out more.
  
  
• Visiting a sno-park? There’s a fee for that. Sno-parks charge an additional fee on top of the Discover Pass. In 2021, the cost was $20 per day or $40 for a season pass. Find more info on the State Parks Sno-Park webpage.

• Did you know you can rent cabins, yurts, and even vacation homes at a number of Washington State Parks? It’s a great option if you want something comfier than tent camping, or the chance to stay in an historic residence. You could even stay in a former lighthouse keeper’s quarters! Visit the Washington State Parks rentals webpage for details.
  
  
• Campers, make your reservations for popular parks and summer weekends early! Campgrounds like Moran, Fort Worden, and Deception Pass often fill up well in advance. Campsites can be booked nine months ahead, so plan accordingly. Luckily, if you’re not set on a specific park, there are often last-minute reservations available somewhere. It’s also much easier to find a campsite on the fly during the off season. Check the State Parks reservation website to view availability and reserve.
  
  
• Kids, want to be a Junior Ranger? Washington State Parks offer Junior Ranger activity booklets to complete at the park of your choice. Once the requisite activities are done, get their Junior Ranger certificate signed to make it official! Check out the Junior Ranger webpage for more info.
  
  
• Most of all, have fun, and keep our Washington State Parks clean and pristine for everyone! Our parks are meant to be enjoyed, and there are so many ways to do just that, whether on a weekend gettaway, an afternoon picnic, or just letting the kids blow off some steam. Remember to follow the “Leave No Trace” principles — they’re not just for hiking! With care, our parks will be there for others to enjoy for generations to come.