No Discover Pass? Visit Washington state parks for free on these 12 days in 2026
If your New Year’s resolution involves getting more active or spending more time outdoors, you’re in luck.
Washington residents can access hundreds of state parks, recreation sites and wildlife areas on Thursday, Jan. 1, for free — no Discover Pass needed.
It’s the first of 12 free days at Washington state parks in 2026.
Here’s when you can take advantage of the free access program:
Are there free days for Washington state parks?
On most days, a Discover Pass or day-of fee is required to visit state parks across the Evergreen State.
Each year, a select handful of dates are designated as days for all to visit free of charge, “creating more opportunities for visitors to experience our state’s beauty,” Washington State Parks said in a news release.
On Discover Pass free days, no passes are needed at state parks or lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources or Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
However, you still need Sno-Park permits at applicable locations including Ahtanum Meadows, Bumping Lake and Elk Heights Sno-Parks.
This access covers all lands that normally require Discover Passes to access, including more than 100 state parks, 350 recreation sites, 700 water access spots, 33 wildlife areas and more, according to the release.
Popular destinations included in Discover Pass access include Deception Pass State Park, Flaming Geyser State Park, Patterson Lake and Douglas Falls.
You might also find educational talks and demonstrations, ranger-led walks and junior ranger activities at many state parks on free days.
When can I visit Washington state parks for free in 2026?
In 2026, Discover Pass free days include federal holidays as well as days honoring environmental activist Billy Frank Jr. and U.S. Forest Service mascot Smokey Bear.
“Each of the Discover Pass free days celebrates an important day of the year with the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the restorative impact of nature with friends, family or in a moment of well-deserved solitude,” Washington state park officials said in the release.
You can visit public lands in Washington state for free on the following days in 2026:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday, Jan. 1
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, Jan. 19
- Billy Frank Jr.’s birthday: Monday, March 9
- Washington State Parks’ 113th birthday: Thursday, March 19
- Earth Day: Wednesday, April 22
- Free Fishing Weekend: Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7
- Juneteenth: Friday, June 19
- Smokey Bear’s birthday: Sunday, Aug. 9
- National Public Lands Day: Saturday, Sept. 26
- World Mental Health Day: Saturday, Oct. 10
- Veterans Day: Wednesday, Nov. 11
Why are Washington parks free to visit on New Year’s Day?
Washington state in is participating in First Day Hikes, a national movement encouraging people to spend time outside, by offering free access to public lands on Jan. 1.
First Day Hike began in 1992 in Massachusetts, becoming a nationwide movement in 2012, according to America’s State Parks.
“Whether it’s a hike, snowshoe or even a swim, First Day Hikes are an opportunity for park visitors to start the new year on the right foot in the outdoors,” the America’s State Parks site said.
Family-friendly walks will take place at more than 30 Washington state parks on the first day of 2026, according to the release. Some parks will also host hikes for those with mobility needs.
The full list of participating parks is available online, along with details about meeting places, difficulty levels, themes, gear recommendations and refreshments.
When do I need a Discover Pass in Washington state?
To access state parks outside of free days, you need a Discover Pass.
These passes can be purchased through several state agencies, including the Washington State Department of Licensing while renewing your vehicle’s tabs.
A year-long pass costs $45 and includes unlimited day-use parking and land access for everyone in the owner’s vehicle, encouraging carpooling.
According to the release, Discover Pass sales fund Washington state parks, the state Department of Natural Resources and the state Department of Fish and Wildlife.
“These funds support recreation and conservation opportunities, keeping bathrooms cleaned and trails maintained, caring for the health of forests and protecting seashores for generations to come,” park officials said.
This story was originally published December 5, 2025 at 5:00 AM with the headline "No Discover Pass? Visit Washington state parks for free on these 12 days in 2026."