WA state parks expands same-day camping reservations

Planning a last-minute family adventure just got a whole lot easier. Starting March 24, 2025, Washington State Parks will offer same-day camping reservations at all parks with reservable campgrounds—no more rolling the dice on first-come, first-served sites.

This update is a game-changer for families who love spontaneous weekend getaways or want to chase a sunny forecast. You can now book a campsite online or by phone up until 2 p.m. on the day you want to arrive. That means no more packing the car and hoping for the best when you get there.

This change only applies to tent and RV campsites, not cabins, yurts, vacation rentals, or day-use shelters, so plan accordingly if you’re aiming for roofed accommodations.

Benefits of same-day camping reservations

More flexibility for weekend or school break plans
Less stress over site availability
More access to sites made available by last-minute cancellations
Still allows walk-up camping after 2:30 p.m. for truly impromptu trips

The same-day reservation system has proven successful in parks like Deception Pass, Cape Disappointment, and Millersylvania, with over 7,000 reservations made since the pilot launched. With this expansion, even more families can enjoy the beauty of Washington’s outdoors. So whether you’re chasing wildflowers, looking for a campfire night under the stars, or just need to unplug with the kids, this new system helps you get out there with less guesswork and more peace of mind. Happy camping!