Life Outdoors

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!

Discover recreational opportunities in EasternNorth CentralSouth CentralNorth Puget SoundSouthwest, and Coastal Washington.
 

Recreational opportunities


Never miss an opportunity

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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

Sunrise at L.T. Murray Wildlife Area
Photo by WDFW

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:

 

Beaver pond in autumn at McLane Creek in Thurston County
Photo by WDFW

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:

Sunrise with the fog at Potholes State Park
Photo by Paula Zanter-Stout

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

Sage thrasher atop sagebrush
Photo by Tom Koerner (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

Pass requirements: America the Beautiful passfederal 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:

Lupines for Days
Photo by Lauren Dawkins

Pass requirements: America the Beautiful passNorthwest 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:

Mount Baldy
Photo by Joe Tucker

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:

Good Morning, Rainier
Photo by Rachel Heaton

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.