State Parks in Washington
Every year the state parks department offers several “Discover Pass Free Days” throughout the year where a Discover Pass isn’t needed to park at public lands.
Jan. 1 — First Day Hikes; New Year’s Day
Jan. 19 — Martin Luther King Jr. Day
March 9 — Billy Frank Jr.'s Birthday
March 19 — State Parks’ Birthday
April 22 — Earth Day
June 6 — Free Fishing Weekend
June 7 — Free Fishing Weekend
June 19 — Juneteenth
Aug. 9 — Smokey Bear's Birthday
Sept. 26 — National Public Lands Day
Oct. 10 — World Mental Health Day
Nov. 11 — Veteran's Day
Here’s a list of some of the State Parks and why you should visit them this year!
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
Why it’s great:
• Peaceful forest trails and river access along the Green River.
• Great for hiking, bird-watching, and quiet nature walks.
• Easy picnic spots that feel like a true escape without a long drive.
Flaming Geyser State Park
Why it’s great:
• Wide open green space along the Green River — perfect for strolling or relaxing.
• Popular for picnics, wildlife spotting, and easy walking trails.
• A calm, low-key option before the busier summer season.
Wallace Falls State Park (Gold Bar area — a bit of a drive, but worth it)
Why it’s great:
• Multiple waterfalls with trails ranging from easy to moderate.
• Especially beautiful in early spring when the falls are flowing strong.
• One of those “wow” hikes that feels like a mini adventure.
Lake Sammamish State Park
Why it’s great:
• Flat walking trails that are great for families, strollers, and bikes.
• Lake views, open lawns, and plenty of space to spread out.
• A great mix of nature and convenience close to town.
Saltwater State Park (Des Moines — worth the drive for coastal vibes)
Why it’s great:
• Forested trails that lead down to the Puget Sound shoreline.
• Beach walks, tide-pool exploring, and peaceful water views.
• A fun way to feel like you “went somewhere” without a weekend trip.
Lime Kiln Point State Park (San Juan Island)
Why it’s great:
• One of the best land-based spots in the world to watch orcas and other whales.
• Picnic areas and a historic lighthouse add charm to a marine adventure.
• Easy beachcombing and interpretive displays to learn while you explore.
Deception Pass State Park
Why it’s great:
• Iconic coastal scenery with rugged cliffs, beaches, and tide pools — perfect for exploring with family or friends.
• Tons of hiking and walking trails through forests and along shoreline.
• Great spot for kayaking, picnics, scenic views, and memorable photos.
Larrabee State Park (Bellingham area)
Why it’s great:
• Washington’s first state park and a beautiful mix of saltwater shoreline + mountain trails.
• Great for tide-pooling, shellfish spotting, or just strolling the beach.
• Hiking and biking trails offer quiet woods and awesome views of Samish Bay.
Olallie State Park
Why it’s great:
• Famous for multiple waterfalls along the South Fork Snoqualmie River — great for waterfall walks and photography.
• Forested trails for hiking, biking, bird watching and nature time.
• A peaceful, lush outdoor escape just southeast of North Bend.
Steamboat Rock State Park (Eastern WA)
Why it’s great:
• Dramatic basalt monolith rising above Banks Lake — perfect for scenic photos.
• Water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing in summer (still lovely for a lakeside picnic in March).
• Trails for hiking, biking, and exploring wide-open spaces.