Discover Pass required across Fort Worden campus beginning March 1

OLYMPIA — As management and operation of the upper campus at Fort Worden Historical State Park returns to the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the agency is bringing it into alignment with the other 123 parks in its system. 

Beginning March 1, 2025, a Discover Pass will be required for day-use parking in all areas of the park. This requirement was waived for the 90-acre upper campus when it was under the management of the Fort Worden Public Development Authority.  

This change will not impact campers in the park. A Fort Worden camping reservation will continue to serve as a parking pass for overnight visitors.   

Special Activities Permit holders will continue to work with park staff for event parking requirements. 

About the Discover Pass 

Purchasing a Discover Pass directly supports your state parks. Discover Pass sales, along with camping reservations and other fees, make up 64% of the agency’s budget. These funds are used to support 122,000 acres of land, 124 developed parks, 1,300 miles of trails, 6,186 traditional campsites and 67 group camps, 67 yurts/platform tents/tee pees/Adirondacks and 273 cabins and vacation rentals in the State Parks system alone. 

The Discover Pass also provides access and support to lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Fish and Wildlife. 

A Discover Pass can be purchased at the Fort Worden park office, at the self-serve kiosk at the beach and at a new self-serve station being installed near the park's the main entrance. Learn about more ways to buy a Discover Pass here. 

A Discover Pass is required for day-use parking in a state park in accordance with RCW 79A.80.020 and RCW 79A.80.080.