06/06/2012: "State Parks Programs"

During the month, many state parks across Washington are offering events to celebrate outdoor enjoyment. “Outdoor recreation is an ideal way to exercise, appreciate nature and enjoy memorable experiences with family and friends,” said State Parks Director Don Hoch.

“State parks are premier destinations to discover the natural and recreational places of Washington. Great Outdoors Month encourages citizens of all ages and lifestyles to celebrate these opportunities at state parks and make active outdoor activities a part of daily life.”

Visitors are invited to enjoy the following state parks events, but there are charges related to some of these:

• June 8 to 10: Sacajawea Bluegrass Festival and Dutch Oven Rendezvous at Sacajawea State Park in Pasco
• June 9: Salish Sea Native American Culture Day at Deception Pass State Park on Whidbey Island
• June 16: CamOcean World Oceans Day Festival at Cama Beach State Park on Camano Island
• June 16: Dirty Dash mud run at Riverside State Park near Spokane
• June 23: Folk and bluegrass concert by Dana and Susan Robinson as part of the Waikiki Beach concert series at Cape Disappointment State Park near Ilwaco
• June 24: Skandia Midsommarfest at Saint Edward State Park in Kenmore
• June 30: Blues concert by the Julie Duke Band as part of the Fort Flagler Summer Concert Series at Fort Flagler State Park on Marrowstone Island
• June 30: 5k Foam Fest foam and mud run at Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah

For a full list of events at Washington state parks during Great Outdoors Month, visit www.parks.wa.gov/events.

June 9 is also a State Parks’ free day in recognition of National Get Outdoors Day. A Discover Pass is not required to visit Washington state parks on free days, however, a Discover Pass is still required when visiting lands managed by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.