Welcome to your next adventure!
The outdoors fits into everyone’s life in unique and personal ways, and we here at WDFW want to foster connections with and appreciation of nature, the wide variety of Washington landscapes, and all forms of outdoor recreation through the Life Outdoors resources below.
Read on for informative blog posts, the Weekender Report of monthly recreational opportunities in your area, links to state and federal lands to explore, and how to share photos of your adventures with us.
We hope to see you in the field and on the water enjoying the Life Outdoors!
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Weekender
Discover recreational opportunities in Eastern, North Central, South Central, North Puget Sound, Southwest, and Coastal Washington.
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Places to explore
There’s something for everyone on your public lands. Check out the state and federal resources below to find public lands and discover a new outdoors adventure. The information below can help those just starting out as well as the seasoned enthusiast find a path to a Life Outdoors.
State lands
Pass requirements: Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass, and hunting and fishing licenses depending on activity
Acreage: More than 1 million acres
Mission: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities.
Must-see gem:
Pass requirements: Discover Pass
Acreage: Roughly 5.6 million acres
Mission: Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Must-see gems:
Pass requirements: Discover Pass and other passes, permits, and fees that vary by site and activity
Acreage: Roughly 120,000 acres
Mission: The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission cares for Washington's most treasured lands, waters, and historic places. State parks connect all Washingtonians to their diverse natural and cultural heritage and provide memorable recreational and educational experiences that enhance their lives.
Must-see gems:
Federal lands
Pass requirements: America the Beautiful pass; federal duck stamp; entry fees vary by site
Acreage: About 381,000 acres in Washington
Mission: The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Must-see gems:
Pass requirements: America the Beautiful pass; Northwest Forest Passes
Acreage: About 9 million acres in Washington
Mission: To sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Must-see gem:
Pass requirements: America the Beautiful pass; day use and camping fees vary by site
Acreage: More than 438,000 acres in Washington
Mission: The Bureau of Land Management's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Must-see gems:
Pass requirements: America the Beautiful pass; day-use and camping fees vary by site
Acreage: More than 1.8 million acres in Washington
Mission: The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.
Must-see gems:
Wild Washington lessons
To provide support for learners in Washington, the WDFW has a new environmental education program called Wild Washington. Parents and educators can explore the variety of wildlife-themed curriculum for elementary, middle school, and high school students.
Wild Washington lessons incorporate disciplines ranging from math and science to art and literature. Lessons align with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s state and national environmental and sustainability learning standards.
The Wild Washington Program also hosts online events periodically throughout the year. Check WDFW's event calendar or Facebook page for more details. Visit WDFW's YouTube channel to watch recorded Wild Washington LIVE! events and visit the Wild Washington Program page for more information.
Never miss an opportunity
Enter your email below to receive information on monthly recreational opportunities near you.