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State Parks E-News
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April 2023
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 Blooming now ? spring programs!
Every spring, state parks blossom with flowers - and also with fun, educational events to intrigue and entertain you and your family and friends.
As our interpreters schedule spring and summer activities, we urge you to check our calendar of events for updates. We don?t want you to miss anything!
A Discover Pass-free day on state recreation lands, Earth Day is coming Saturday, April 22. Events include:
Lake Sammamish will host their annual Walk ?n Wag May 7, 10 a.m. ? 3 p.m.
Our Folk and Traditional Arts Program and Arbutus Folk School bring you a cedar bark weaving class with Quinault Master Basketweaver/Storyteller, Harvest Moon. Tolmie State Park, May 13, 10 a.m. to noon. Register here. Class fee will be waived for members of regional tribes.
Artists of all mediums: here?s your chance to spend a month on an island at Deception Pass this summer, creating, teaching and sharing your art. The Artist in Residence application period is open until April 23.
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Family events and adventures |
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 A day at the beach: Volunteer for the Washington Coast Cleanup
If nothing makes you happier than a day at the beach, then you know it's important to protect our coastline and you want to do your part!
Treat yourself to a day or a weekend at the coast for a cause: join the Washington Coast Cleanup (WCC) this Earth Day - a Discover Pass free day - 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 22 at:
- Cape Disappointment
- Fort Townsend
- Fort Worden
- Grayland Beach
- Mystery Bay
- Ocean City
- Pacific Beach
- Shine Tidelands (11 a.m. to 2 p.m. due to tides)
- Twin Harbors.
Volunteers will want to dress for the weather, wear sturdy footwear and pack a lunch with plenty of water.
Participants will receive supplies at check-in to help them pick up debris but are encouraged to bring reusable gloves. The check-in station serves as the dumpster location after collection.
Learn about the WCC, see participating beaches, pre-register at?CoastSavers.
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 Foster Family program transforms
We've streamlined our Foster Family pass program with a new application process and an official discount pass. That means many more foster families will be able to access this discount program!
Washington State residents who provide out-of-home care to a minor child can access free nightly camping (reservation fees still apply) and free day-use parking.
Applications will be accepted starting June 1.?Currently, foster families must show WDL and foster license or caregiver ID card to prove they qualify, which has been challenging and excludes many Washingtonians who provide out-of-home care for children.?
Families can still use the current system of proof until June 1, 2024. After that, they'll need the Foster Family pass to participate.
The child in care and the foster parent or caregiver must be together when using the discount. Passholders may claim one site per night using the discount.
Get help with applications and trip planning from our Information Center:? 360-902- 8844 or?[email protected].?
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Where to wed? A WA State Park, of course!
When it comes to weddings, we?ve got it all ? epic views, diverse landscapes, historic homes and buildings, venues of all sizes, affordability, DIY autonomy and a place to start ? or keep - making family memories.
In these two blog posts, you can:?
find your ideal wedding spot, and get details on planning?your state park wedding.
While we can?t pick your food, flowers or photographer, our blogs, website and staff can help make your dream day a dream come true.
Photo by Jen Lee Light Photography, Fort Worden State Park
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Boating season is coming. Get your moorage permits now.
Boaters ? here is the line on mooring permits:
Washington State Parks has the largest state-managed mooring system in the nation, with more than 40 marine parks and more than 8,500 feet of public moorage space - all available for you.?
You?ll need (and want!) a Moorage Permit to use our docks, buoys, floats or linear moorage sites for a spectacular overnight stay. (Think sunsets and sunrises over the Sound!)
When you buy your permit, please keep your vessel registration number handy; you?ll need it to complete the Moorage Permit transaction.?
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Live the Park Aide life: there's still time to apply!
We're still looking for seasonal park aides to work this summer at Lake Chelan, Twenty-Five Mile Creek, Camano Island, Maryhill, Goldendale Observatory, Columbia Plateau Trail, Fields Spring, Lewis & Clark Trail, Lyons Ferry, Sacajawea, Potholes, Sun Lakes, Dry Falls Visitor Center and Steamboat Rock.
Many State Parks staff started their careers as park aides; others came out of retirement for sheer love of the park aide life! If you or someone you know would be great in this job, please send them our way. Have them apply today!
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