Washington State Parks announces 2018-2019 winter schedule

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission today announced its 2018-2019 winter schedule, with more than 100 parks remaining open for camping or day-use activities.

The winter schedule is available online at http://www.parks.state.wa.us/winterschedule. More than 100 parks will remain open during the winter, while about 18 parks are closed until dates in March, April or May, due to weather and other circumstances.

Each year, Washington State Parks identifies which parks will remain open and which will offer limited or partial services, such as fewer camping sites and restrooms. Specific areas within a park may be closed, and some parks are open only on weekends and holidays. Campers should be aware that some state parks may shut off water systems, even if the park is open. Some boat launches are closed, and some docks are removed for the winter.

State Parks works to maintain services within its current operating budget and to provide a geographic balance of services across the state. Parks that close in the winter generally close in October or early November and reopen in the spring when weather and conditions allow.

State Parks offers ample opportunities for those who enjoy camping in the winter months. Campgrounds that remain open are less crowded, and more campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, most parks offer off-season rates.

Reservations are accepted for arrival dates between May 15 and Sept. 15. Some parks offer extended reservation dates.

For parks that don’t accept reservations for the winter, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. For more information about reservations, visit parks.state.wa.us/223/Reservations.

Reservations cannot be made Dec. 1 to 15, due to a planned system upgrade.

For those who aren’t keen on camping in the winter but like the idea of getting away to the outdoors, many State Parks cabins and yurts are open and available by reservation. Cabins and yurts have heaters and electric lights. Guests bring their own bedding. More information is available at: http://www.parks.state.wa.us/yurtsandcabins.

Reservations may be made online at or by calling (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688.

Even though most of Washington’s state parks are open year round, some or all of a park may need to close temporarily due to inclement weather, repairs or other reasons. The public can check current park condition on State Parks Alert Center at: parks.state.wa.us/AlertCenter.aspx. From this link, people can also sign up to receive e-mail alerts for the parks of their choosing.