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Become an advocate for boating and water safety by supporting these annual campaigns!
The Recreational Boating Safety Program provides leadership in boating safety education and water competency.

OLYMPIA – May 15, 2024 – Recreational boating is a popular pastime in Washington. In fact, nearly 225,000 vessels were registered in 2023. When you include Washington residents who own at least one canoe, kayak, rowboat or stand-up paddle board, boats and boaters are everywhere! During the month of May, those who participate in boating activities (and those who don’t!) are encouraged to keep safety in mind.

The Recreational Boating Safety Program maintains a record of boating-related accidents and fatalities in the state.
Learn about the boater education programs, how to get your boater card and how to boat safely.
While boating and paddling is typically low-risk, it's important to understand that any type of boating can put you in a situation where you may unexpectedly fall into dangerously cold waters.
Washington state’s diverse waterways of rivers, lakes, bays, inlets and coastal areas require different skills, preparation and safety equipment. Research will help you determine what's best for you.

OLYMPIA – Paddlesports like kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, are among the most popular recreational activities in Washington State. In a recent study from the Recreation and Conservation Office, 52% of survey respondents participated in paddlesports.

Brush up on your fire safety with our Interpretive Ranger!

OLYMPIA – May 11, 2022 – Recreational boating is a popular pastime in Washington. In fact, several hundred thousand Washington residents own at least one canoe, kayak, rowboat, personal watercraft, stand up paddleboard, drift boat, runabout, sailboat, motor yacht or other recreational vessel. Boats and boaters are everywhere!

Boating, however, is not without risk. The chilly waters of the Pacific Northwest can be unforgiving, and safety must be on the minds of everyone who plays in and around Washington waterways.

Sno-parks visitors are responsible for knowing rules and safety information for winter recreation.
Learn about the rules and regulations to follow for a fun and safe outdoors experience.
Boating is a great activity to enjoy the many lakes, rivers, and coastal waters in our beautiful State! Motorized boats, sailboats, and personal water crafts (PWC’s) are just some of the vessels used in our State. Boating offers recreators the opportunity to fish or swim from beyond the shore!
Make sure your boat is ready to hit the water.
Learn about launching your watercraft at State parks.
Learn about how you can be a responsible boater.
Washington State Parks has the largest state-managed mooring system in the nation.
Build your own toy boat at Camano Island State Park!

Most parents talk with their kids about defensive biking on their streets at home, but It’s easy to let down our guard and think campground riding is always safe. A campground is indeed different from an urban street, a suburban cul de sac, or a rural road – and it has unique hazards. This blog offers some tips for safe biking in campgrounds.
Many recreational boaters in Washington are required by law to complete a boating safety course and carry a Washington State Boater Education Card.
Recreational boaters and paddlers are required to know laws and regulations that apply to them out on the water.

OLYMPIA – May 16, 2023 – Recreational boating is a popular pastime in Washington. In fact, nearly 225,000 vessels were registered in 2023. When you include Washington residents who own at least one canoe, kayak, rowboat, or stand-up paddle board, boats and boaters are everywhere!

Learn about and comment on the Pumpout Assessment.

Construction will impact boat launch use during 2023 halibut, lingcod fishing season

OLYMPIA – March 16, 2023 – Construction is underway for the new Keystone Boat Launch on Whidbey Island. Located near the Keystone Ferry Terminal, the popular launch is part of Fort Casey Historical State Park.