Get ready to make 2025 a year of outdoor adventure! Imagine exploring jaw-dropping landscapes, soaking in stunning views, and diving into thrilling outdoor experiences—all with free access to Washington State and National Parks. Everyone is invited to step into nature’s playground for several free on special entrance fee-free days throughout the year. Whether you’re strapping on your hiking boots or packing a picnic, these days are the perfect excuse to explore, recharge, and reconnect with the beauty around us. Curious when to plan your next outdoor getaway? Let’s dive into the must-know dates for an unforgettable year in the wild!
On each of these significant days of celebration or commemoration, parks waive entrance fees.
The following are 2025 State Park free days:
- Jan. 1 — First Day Hikes; New Year’s Day
- Jan. 20 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- March 9 -- Billy Frank Junior's Birthday
- March 19 — State Parks’ Birthday
- April 22 — Earth Day
- June 7-8 — Free Fishing Weekend
- June 19 — Juneteenth
- August 9 — Smokey Bear's Birthday
- Sept. 27 — Public Lands Day
- Oct. 10 -- World Mental Health Day
- Nov. 11 — Veterans Day
Details about State Park Fee Free Days. Note that free days apply only to day use (not overnight stays or rented facilities), and a Discover Pass is required on these days to access lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sno-Park permits are still required on free days at designated Sno-Parks during the winter season.
The following are 2025 free days at National Parks:
- January 20: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- April 19: First day of National Park Week
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 27: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Details about National Park Free Days. There are more than 400 parks available to everyone, every day. The entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities such as camping, boat launches, transportation, or special tours.
