Press Release

March 30, 2023

State Parks co-hosts Washington Coast Cleanup April 22

OLYMPIA – March 30, 2023 – As a proud member of the Washington Clean Coast Alliance, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission will co-host the annual Washington Coast Cleanup this Earth Day.

This year's event will take place 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 22 at nine state parks: Cape Disappointment, Fort Townsend, Fort Worden, Grayland Beach, Mystery Bay, Ocean City, Pacific Beach, Shine Tidelands and Twin Harbors.

In partnership with Washington CoastSavers, Parks puts on three beach cleanup volunteer events a year – and there is always work to be done. Over the last three beach cleanups, 1,175 volunteers picked up over 61,380 pounds of trash off our beaches. For the 2023 Washington Coast Cleanup, Parks is also working with Washington Surfrider and the Grassroots Garbage Gang to bring in volunteers to support this effort.

On arrival, participants volunteering at a Washington state park will check-in at one of these beach approaches:

  • Northern Shores: Chance A La Mer, Ocean City Beach Approach
  • South Beach: Bonge Ave Beach Approach
  • Long Beach: Bolstad Beach Approach
  • Port Townsend Marine Science Center
  • Chimacum Corner Farmstand
  • Shine Tidelands (due to the tides, the Shine Tidelands cleanup will take place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Volunteers should dress for variable weather conditions, wear sturdy footwear and pack a lunch with plenty of water. Upon check-in, participants will receive supplies to help them pick up debris; however, volunteers are encouraged to bring reusable gloves. The check-in station also serves as the dumpster location for marine debris after collection.

Visit CoastSavers.org to learn more about the Washington Coast Cleanup, view a list of all participating beaches and pre-register for the event.  

A Discover Pass is not required for vehicle access on state-managed lands on April 22 in recognition of Earth Day.

News media contact:
Paul Ruppert, Volunteer Program Specialist, paul.ruppert@parks.wa.gov
Emily Masseth, Communications Office, media@parks.wa.gov

About Washington State Parks

The Washington State Park Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.