Special day celebrates the National Park Service system’s 105th birthday
OLYMPIA – Aug. 12, 2021 – In recognition of the National Park Service system’s 105th birthday, Washington State Parks, Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will offer free entrance to state lands on Wednesday, Aug. 25.
On this day, visitors to Washington state lands will not need a Discover Pass to park. Discover Pass free days apply to all visitor parking on DNR and WDFW lands and in day-use areas at Washington state parks.
Washington state lands agencies encourage visitors to enjoy this free day and beware of wildfire risks. Many state-managed recreation areas are currently closed for fire danger or active wildfire. Updates can be found at the websites for:
Visitors can help protect public lands by:
- Following statewide burn bans currently in effect during this unprecedented fire year.
- Refraining from the use of open fires and charcoal grills. Propane stoves and generators are allowed.
- Reducing the risk of accidental fire by disposing of cigarette butts in appropriate receptacles and avoiding parking vehicles on dry grass.
Adventurers are being asked to recreate responsibly by exploring close to home, having a Plan B if their destination of choice is crowded or closed, packing out what they pack in and bringing their own health and hygiene supplies.
The remaining 2021 State lands free days are:
- Saturday, Sept. 25 — National Public Lands Day
- Thursday, Nov. 11 — Veterans Day
- Friday, Nov. 26 – Autumn Day
About the Discover Pass
State lands free days align with 2011 legislation that created the Discover Pass, which costs $30 annually or $10 for a one-day visit. The pass is required for vehicle access to state recreation lands managed by Washington State Parks, WDFW and DNR. The Discover Pass legislation directed State Parks to designate up to 12 free days when the pass would not be required to visit state parks.
The Discover Pass provides daytime access to state parks and day and overnight access to DNR and WDFW lands. Overnight visitors in state parks are charged fees for camping and other overnight accommodations and day access is included in the overnight fee.
News media contacts:
Meryl Lassen (503) 490-8796 media@parks.wa.gov
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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.
About Washington Department of Natural Resources
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources manages nearly 1,300 miles of trails and 160-plus recreation sites in 3 million acres of working forest state trust lands. DNR trust lands keep forests development-free, provide clean water, and generate revenue for public services and school construction.
About Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities.
News release number: 21-048