Many Washington state park campsites are still open before the season wraps up — you just need a little flexibility
It’s great to be able to plan ahead, but sometimes you just want to be a little spontaneous. That spirit is what you want to tap into to find last minute camping spots while using Parks’ “Flexible Date” feature.
Tips for Last-Minute Trips
Stay flexible
You may not get your first-choice spot, but that can be part of the adventure! With 124 state parks and 75 offering camping, you’ll likely find something if you’re willing to drive a bit.
Be prepared to drive
Sometimes the perfect site isn’t close to home, but that’s part of the fun.
Create a packing list
Save a “go-to” list for your gear to make last-minute departures easier. If you need equipment, the Washington Trails Association has resources for renting or borrowing.
Stay safe
Check the weather, carry the ten essentials, and make sure someone knows your plans. Unexpected moments can turn into the best campfire stories.
Use the “Flexible Dates” Feature
The Washington State Parks reservation system makes it easy to find a spot without endlessly scrolling through unavailable dates. Just:
- Go to washington.goingtocamp.com
- Click on Arrival and Departure and select Flexible Dates
- Pick your park and choose up to four months in advance
- Add your group size and equipment
- Use filters to match your camping style
Same-Day Reservations
Need a spontaneous getaway? You can book same-day camping at 27 parks until 4 p.m. Simply reserve online or call 1-888-CAMPOUT (1-888-226-7688).
Tips for Last-Minute Trips
Stay flexible
You may not get your first-choice spot, but that can be part of the adventure! With 124 state parks and 75 offering camping, you’ll likely find something if you’re willing to drive a bit.
Be prepared to drive
Sometimes the perfect site isn’t close to home, but that’s part of the fun.
Create a packing list
Save a “go-to” list for your gear to make last-minute departures easier. If you need equipment, the Washington Trails Association has resources for renting or borrowing.
Stay safe
Check the weather, carry the ten essentials, and make sure someone knows your plans. Unexpected moments can turn into the best campfire stories.
Your Guide to Fall Concessions at State Parks
September is one of the best times to explore a Washington state park — and many concessionaires are still open.
➡️ Closing in September (schedules vary: some daily, others weekends only)
- Battle Ground Lake Store
- Cay Sal Pies – Belfair
- Sugar Shack Ice Cream – Birch Bay
- Campstuff Coffee – Deception Pass
- Deception Pass Tours – Deception Pass
- Beachcomber Café – Fort Flagler
- Olympic Kayak Tours – Fort Flagler & Fort Worden
- Gypsy Coffee – Fort Worden
- Lake Sammamish Paddle Co – Lake Sammamish
- Icicle Outfitters – Lake Wenatchee
- The Blowhole – Lime Kiln Point
- Café El Camino – Millersylvania
- Posh Pescatarian – Twanoh
- Bigfoot Surf – Westport
➡️ Closing Nov. 30
- Dancing Tree Farms – Moran
➡️ Open Year-Round
- Christeen’s Coffee Cabin – Belfair
- Cama Beach Café – Cama Beach
- Taps at the Guardhouse (Tipsy Gypsy) – Fort Worden
- Surfside Golf – Cape Disappointment
➡️ Open Weather-Dependent
- Intrinsic Flow – Larrabee
- PNW Trail Rides – Mount Spokane & Riverside
- Nordic Hut (Dec.–March, snow-dependent) – Mount Spokane
- Snoqualmie Nordic Club (Nov.–March, snow-dependent) – Lake Easton
For more information, visit the Washington State Parks website.
