Washington State Parks Commission approves new camping stay limits

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has approved new limits on camping stays in state parks to improve access and resource management.

At its meeting on July 18, the commission voted to amend regulations limiting campers to no more than 10 nights in one park within a 30-day period. The changes also cap total camping nights at 90 per calendar year across all state parks.

The new rules, which take effect August 18, replace a more complex system that had different limits for peak and off-peak seasons. Officials say the changes will make stay limits clearer and more consistent for visitors and staff.

The commission considered historical data showing that of more than 321,000 reservations in 2023, only 676 stayed longer than 10 nights. Additionally, fewer than 100 out of almost 10,000 discount pass holders exceeded 90 total nights last year.

Public comments were accepted from June 1 to July 12, 2024, with over 300 responses received. According to park officials, the majority were favorable or neutral to the proposed changes.

Existing reservations that exceed the new limits and were made before August 18 will be honored. After that date, the new stay restrictions will apply to all new bookings.

The commission authorized filing the amended regulations after making minor edits recommended by the Attorney General's office.

State parks officials say the changes align with the Commission's strategic goal to effectively manage resources needed to create and sustain an exceptional park system.