Here’s when Washington state parks and campsites will reopen

State parks and campgrounds in 22 counties across Washington will start to re-open on Monday, June 1, according to several Washington agencies.

Joint statements issued Friday, May 29, by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Natural Resources said that parks in Safe State Phase 2 counties have been cleared by county officials.

Camping sites have been closed since March 23 in reaction to the coronavirus pandemic and additional two-week closures were implemented in Gov. Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order.

Cabins, yurts, overnight accommodations and group campsites are still closed and anybody with overnight reservations will be issued a full refund. Day campers are encouraged to make a reservation to ensure they have a spot ready for them.

“This is an important milestone for the public and for parks,” Parks and Recreation Commission Director Don Hoch wrote. “This year, it’s especially important Washingtonians have access to outdoor recreation. We know that access to the outdoors is good for everyone’s health and well being. Camping is a big part of that outdoor experience.”

Campsites managed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife will not have running water or draining and dumping sites. Some primitive campsites and dispersed camping at wildlife areas will also be opened.

Department of Natural Resources campsites will open on a rolling basis and will have no running water or garbage services. Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz said that practicing distancing and good hygiene will be key to keeping the campgrounds open.

“As summer arrives, a cherished family tradition is camping and enjoying the great outdoors together. Opening camping on our public lands is a step toward normalcy for all of us,” Franz said. “While we get back outside, it is imperative to do all we can to keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe by recreating responsibly.

Whatcom County has three state parks in Birch Bay, Peace Arch and Larrabee, but since the county hasn’t yet moved to Phase Two, no camping is allowed.

The following counties have been cleared to re-open campgrounds:

• Adams
• Asotin
• Columbia
• Cowlitz
• Ferry
• Garfield
• Grant
• Grays Harbor
• Kitsap
• Kittitas
• Lewis
• Lincoln
• Mason
• Pacific
• Pend Oreille
• Skamania
• Spokane
• Stevens
• Thurston
• Wahkiakum
• Walla Walla
• Whitman