Next Discover Pass free day is Aug. 25

Special day celebrates the National Park Service system’s 105th birthday

 

Last updated 8/18/2021 at 8:04am



OLYMPIA - 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:

 DNR lands.

 WDFW lands.

 Washington State Parks.

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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