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User fees help keep lands open to the public to enjoy

OLYMPIA – July 14, 2014 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission would like to remind Oregon residents they will need to have a Discover Pass when visiting Washington state parks and other state recreation lands.

An annual Discover Pass costs $30 and may be transferred between two vehicles (one use at a time). A day-use permit costs $10. In state parks, the Discover Pass is required for vehicle access for day visits only. Those paying for overnight accommodations such as campsites, cabins, yurts and vacation houses do not need a Discover Pass. The pass is required for overnight visits to lands managed by the state’s other two recreation providers: Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

“We know that many Oregonians love Washington’s state parks and recreation lands, and we appreciate these visitors and neighbors who come to visit,” said Washington State Parks Director Don Hoch. “Beacon Rock State Park, Cape Disappointment State Park and Yacolt Burn State Forest are two areas we know are very popular with folks from Portland. We want to remind our out-of-state neighbors about the importance of the Discover Pass and how much we depend on use fees to keep these areas open for public enjoyment.”

Revenue from the Discover Pass helps keep Washington’s recreation lands open for the public to enjoy. Prior to 2011, recreation on Washington state lands was funded in large part by revenue from taxes through the state’s General Fund. The Washington State Legislature and Governor created the Discover Pass in 2011 to offset steep reductions in general tax support for the three agencies.

The Discover Pass provides visitors with access to millions of acres of Washington state recreation lands, including:

• More than 100 state parks: www.parks.wa.gov

• More than 350 primitive recreation sites, including campground and picnic areas: www.dnr.wa.gov/recreation

• Nearly 700 water-access points: wdfw.wa.gov/lands/water_access/

• More than 80 natural areas: www.dnr.wa.gov/ResearchScience/Topics/NaturalAreas/Pages/amp_na.aspx

• More than 30 wildlife areas: wdfw.wa.gov/lands/wildlife_areas/

Visitors have several options for purchasing a Discover Pass:

• Online at: https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/wa/license/select

• In person from 600 vendors where state fishing and hunting licenses are sold. (For a list of vendor locations, go to: wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors/)

• By calling 866-320-9933.

• At state parks when staff is available.

Visitors who don’t display a Discover Pass are subject to a $99 citation.

For more information about the Discover Pass, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.

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