State Easing Outdoor Restrictions

Beginning Tuesday, May 5, some outdoor recreation will be allowed with appropriate safety precautions.

Fishing, hunting, playing golf, day use at state parks, state public lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources and at state Fish and Wildlife areas are now permitted, however some parks may not open immediately due to impacts on rural communities and the potential for crowding. State Parks is working with local communities and its partners to determine the best approach and timing to reopening these areas.

Visitor centers, camping and other overnight accommodations on state-managed lands will remain closed.

King County Parks is working through a phased-in reopening scenario for its parks, trails and other facilities, likely starting with natural lands and regional trails.

Parks patrons, anglers, and hunters should only venture out well-prepared.

The public should expect limited access to restrooms. WDFW is also recommending that people bring their own handwashing materials, toilet paper, and masks or bandanas, and be prepared to change plans if sites appear congested.

Any additional relaxing of outdoor recreation restrictions will depend on data and compliance. The governor outlined the following guidelines:

• If you feel sick at all, even a little bit, you need to stay home. Wait until you feel better.
• Gatherings are still prohibited. You can golf or fish or hunt or go to the park with people in your own household, but not with your other friends or family just yet.
• People must recreate locally: Do not travel farther than necessary and do not stay overnight to recreate.
• Any public land or recreation site may be closed to curtail unsafe conditions.
• Practice social distancing at trailheads, boat launches, and all areas where you encounter others and utilize facial coverings in any situation where social distancing is not possible.
• Golfers: space out tee times, limits on size of parties, walking-only (unless for mobility), no on-site beverage or food service (take-away only) and more.
• Bringing your own food and supplies when possible will also help reduce exposure.

Click the links below for more information :

• ️ From Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife
• ️ From Washington State Department of Natural Resources
• ️ From Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
• ️ From the Governor's Office