Changes to winter schedule for State Parks

Posted

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission today announced its 2014-2015 winter schedule, with more than 60 parks remaining open seven days a week for camping and day-use activities.

The winter schedule is available online at www.parks.wa.gov/158/Winter-Schedule. More than 60 parks will remain open seven days a week, while about 24 parks are closed until dates in March, April or May, due to weather and other circumstances.

Battle Ground Lake State Park remains open seven days a week, but some services are limited, including restrooms.

Each year, Washington State Parks identifies which parks will remain open and which will offer limited or partial services, such as reduced camping sites and restrooms. 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 the current operating budget and to provide a geographic balance of services across the state. Parks that close in the winter generally reopen in the spring when weather and conditions allow.

Some parks are open but specific areas within the park are closed, and some are open on weekends and holidays.

State Parks offers some good camping opportunities for those who enjoy camping in the winter months. Campgrounds that remain open are less crowded, and there are more campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis in the winter. Most parks offer off-season rates. Parks that accept year-round camping reservations are Cape Disappointment, Deception Pass, Dosewallips, Grayland Beach, Ike Kinswa, Kitsap Memorial, Ocean City and Pacific Beach. For a list of parks with extended reservation dates, visit www.parks.wa.gov, and follow the link to “reservations.”

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 are available by reservation. Cabins and yurts have heaters and electric lights. Guests bring along their own bedding. More information is available at: www.parks.wa.gov/403/Cabins-Rustic-Shelters-Yurts.

Reservations may be made online at www.parks.wa.gov or by calling (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688. Reservations for Fort Worden State Park may be made by calling (360) 344-4431; Telephone Device for the Deaf at (360) 379-9385. General State Parks information is available at www.parks.wa.gov or by calling (360) 902-8844 or the Washington Telecommunications Relay Service at (800) 833-6388.

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.



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