State Parks updates roofed accommodation, other fees to support operations

OLYMPIA - The Washington State Parks system stands as a historic institution, predating the National Parks system and overseeing 122,000 acres across the state. Many of Washington's most iconic landmarks, such as the Deception Pass bridge, Palouse Falls state waterfall, and orca sightings at Lime Kiln, are found within state parks.

Washington's state park system attracts residents and tourists. They see the most visitors per acre of any other state-managed lands agency, with more than 40 million visitors a year. And of those, 2.3 million choose to stay the night in one of more than 100 parks.

Revenue from roofed accommodations, camping, Discover Pass sales, and other fees is a primary funding stream to keep state parks staffed, operational, and open.

To continue meeting visitor needs, several fees will rise in 2026 and early 2027, including those for the Senior Off-Season Pass, non-resident reservations, and roofed accommodations such as cabins, yurts, and vacation homes.

Starting April 1, 2026, the non-resident reservation fee will increase from $5 to $15. Reservations before this date are not affected. For an average two-night stay, the new non-resident reservation fee adds less than $5 per night, shifting more costs away from residents.  

Effective Sept. 1, 2026, the Senior Off-Season Pass increases from $75 to $100; the nightly utility fee rises from $10 to $12. Senior Limited Income Pass holders remain eligible for a 50% discount. 

Effective Jan. 1, 2027, roofed accommodation fees will rise. Cabin and yurt pricing will be standardized for consistency, while Adirondack, teepee, and some vacation rental fees remain unchanged.  

Because visitors can book reservations up to nine months in advance, customers will begin to see updated fees on April 1, 2026, for stays beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

While fee increases are being considered, State Parks recognizes that rising costs aren't just affecting the agency; they're affecting visitors as well. Any fee adjustments are made under careful consideration. Since 2019, utility costs have increased by more than 37 percent, and cabin construction costs by more than 90 percent.

In 2025, in response to the state's budget shortfall, the Legislature reduced State Parks' general fund appropriations and added new costs to the agency. Approximately 71% of State Parks funding must come from earned revenue. 

However, the agency believes it is necessary to balance rising costs with equitable access to the outdoors and continues to explore opportunities to break down barriers to recreation.  

The agency currently administers five discount pass programs that offer discounted or free camping to eligible residents: Disability, Discover, Foster Family, Lifetime Disabled Veteran, and the Senior Off-Season.

Visit discoverpass.wa.gov to learn about free access to state lands, including the 12 Discover Pass Free Days.