Washington’s state parks are hosting a number of events this month as part of Great Outdoors Month.
“Outdoor recreation is an ideal way to exercise, appreciate nature and enjoy memorable experiences with family and friends,” State Parks Director Don Hoch said in a prepared statement. “State parks are premier destinations to discover the natural and recreational places of Washington.
“Great Outdoors Month encourages citizens of all ages and lifestyles to celebrate these opportunities at state parks, and make active outdoor activities a part of daily life,” he added.
Among the events schedule are:
Saturday: Kids’ fishing derby at Lake Sylvia State Park. Prizes will be awarded in different categories. The event begins with a pancake breakfast. Breakfast is $3 per person.
Saturday: Salish Sea Native American Culture Day at Deception Pass State Park on Whidbey Island.
June 16: CamOcean World Oceans Day Festival at Cama Beach State Park on Camano Island.
June 16: Dirty Dash mud run at Riverside State Park near Spokane.
June 24: Skandia Midsommarfest at Saint Edward State Park on Lake Washington in Kenmore.
June 30: Blues concert by the Julie Duke Band as part of the Fort Flagler Summer Concert Series at Fort Flagler State Park on Marrowstone Island.
June 30: 5k Foam Fest foam and mud run at Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah.
For a full list of events at state parks during the month, visit parks.wa.gov/events.
Saturday also is a State Parks’ free day in recognition of National Get Outdoors Day. A Discover Pass is not required to visit Washington state parks on free days, however, a Discover Pass is required when visiting lands managed by the state departments of Fish and Wildlife and Natural Resources.
Free admission
As part of its celebration of National Get Outdoors Day, the National Park Service will not charge entrance fees on Saturday. That means admission to places such as Mount Rainier and Olympic national parks will be free, instead of $15 per vehicle. Learn more about the parks at nps.gov/mora and nps.gov/olym.
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