Next state land free days are June 11, 12 & 19

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission invites visitors to enjoy a state park on Saturday, June 11 in celebration of National Get Outdoors Day, Sunday, June 12 in recognition of Free Fishing Day and Sunday, June 19 in honor of Juneteenth. Visitors are not required to display a Discover Pass for day-use visits to a Washington state park or on lands managed by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) on these dates.

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It officially became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, and now marks an annual free day for state lands. 

The free days align with legislation that created the Discover Pass. Discover Passes cost $30 for an annual pass or $10 for a one-day permit. The pass is required for vehicle access to state recreation lands managed by Washington State Parks, WDFW and DNR. The Discover Pass legislation indicated that State Parks could designate up to 12 free days when the pass would not be required to visit state recreation lands. 

The remaining 2022 State Parks free days are as follows:

 Saturday, Sept. 24 – National Public Lands Day

 Monday, Oct. 10 – World Mental Health Day

 Friday, Nov. 11 – Veterans Day

 Friday, Nov. 25 – Native American Heritage Day

The Discover Pass provides daytime access to state parks. Overnight visitors in state parks are charged fees for camping and overnight accommodations. Day access is included in the overnight fee. For information about the Discover Pass, visit www.DiscoverPass.wa.gov. 

About Washington State Parks

 The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.