Blue Stilly Access Area near Arlington closed to vehicle entry until Sept. 16 

MILL CREEK – Due to persistent littering, vandalism, and other illegal or improper behavior, the Blue Stilly Access Area will be closed to vehicle entry effective immediately through Sept. 15, 2023. The site will reopen to vehicles Sept. 16 through Jan. 31, or otherwise when fishing is open on the adjacent section of the Stillaguamish River.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will evaluate the effects of this closure as well as input from community members, recreation partners, and the public, and may consider closing this area to vehicles annually Feb. 1 through Sept. 15.

This WDFW access area off Interstate 5 near Arlington has become extremely popular during the summer season, with littering, vandalism, illegal or improper parking, unpermitted camping, and other issues reaching untenable levels as well as impacting access for emergency responders.

The Blue Stilly Access Area was acquired by WDFW to support fishing access, and the Department intends to continue to allow vehicle access during fishing seasons, along with other responsible walk-in access, while deterring irresponsible and potentially dangerous behavior.

More information about the site is available at: wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/water-access-sites/30546. 

There are several county and city parks nearby, including Haller Park and Twin Rivers, that provide alternative options for people to responsibly enjoy access to the river. 

Tips and information on ways to recreate responsibly on Washington's public lands and waters are available at recreateresponsibly.org.

WDFW manages more than a million acres of land and hundreds of water access areas throughout the state. By actively managing lands, restoring habitats, and preserving wild places, the Department serves as stewards for Washington’s natural places, protecting the state’s land and water for its human and wildlife.