Washington State’s New Camping Rules

To improve access and ensure equitable use of camping resources, the Washington State Parks Recreation Commission has announced new limits on campers staying in state parks. The updated regulations, which go into effect August 19, 2024, are intended to ensure more residents and visitors have a fair opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Washington State Parks.

The new regulations set a limit of 10 days per park in any 30-day period and no more than 90 nights per calendar year for all state parks. The change is part of the Commission’s efforts to better manage park camping resources and meet high demand for camping sites, especially during peak seasons.

Previously, camping stay limits were seasonal, allowing for longer stays during the less busy winter months. However, the new policy applies year-round, reflecting the growing popularity of camping and the need for a more consistent approach to stay times.

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The decision to make these changes follows a public consultation period, during which feedback from park visitors was taken into account. The Commission believes that the new limits will not only improve park management, but also improve the camping experience by reducing overcrowding and ensuring that sites are accessible to a wider range of people.

Campers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new stay limits and plan their travel accordingly. Reservations made prior to the effective date of the new policy will be honored, even if they exceed the new limits. However, future reservations will need to comply with the updated regulations.

Details of the new changes and existing camping codes, including the full section on park rules in the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), can be found on the Washington State Parks website. The site provides comprehensive information on the rules that must be followed when visiting and staying in state parks, ensuring that all park visitors can responsibly enjoy the outdoors.

As new limits approach, the Washington State Parks Recreation Commission is committed to effectively communicating these changes to the public. They have expressed their commitment to making the transition as smooth as possible for campers and to continuing to improve the state park system for all to enjoy.

For additional information on the new camping limits and to make reservations, visit the official Washington State Parks website. Campers can also contact the Commission’s Communications Department via email at [email protected] for more information.

With these new measures, Washington State Parks is once again demonstrating its commitment to protecting the state’s natural resources while providing enjoyable and sustainable outdoor opportunities for all.

Bill Kaczaraba is a content editor at MyNorthwest. You can read his stories here. Follow Bill on X, formerly known as Twitter, Here and email him here.