BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Looking to explore the great outdoors on a budget?

Washington Parks and Recreation officials have announced fee-free days for state parks in 2026.

On those designated dates, a Discover Pass will not be required to park at any state park or state Department of Natural Resources property.

Dates include national holidays like Veterans’ Day, National Public Lands Day in September and a Free Fishing weekend in early June.

The first fee-free day is on Jan. 1, where First Day Hikes are being coordinated across the state.

That includes an 11 a.m. start time for a hike at Birch Bay State Park.