State Parks expands same-day camping reservations to all campgrounds

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is enhancing camping accessibility by broadening its same-day reservation option for all parks with reservable campgrounds, effective March 24. This initiative allows visitors to secure a campsite instead of gambling on availability through first-come, first-served options. Campers can book a same-day reservation until 2 p. m. on their intended day of arrival, providing much-needed flexibility for day-of planners.

The pilot program, launched in September 2023, initially included Cape Disappointment, Deception Pass, and Millersylvania state parks, and was expanded to 24 additional parks in 2024 due to its success. To date, the program has generated over 7,000 same-day reservations, effectively filling sites that might have otherwise remained vacant. This change not only improves the camping experience but also helps the agency manage last-minute cancellations efficiently. State Parks is primarily funded through earned revenue, with camping contributing significantly to its financial resources. Overall, this development reflects a commitment to enhancing outdoor experiences for all Washington residents and visitors.