What’s Happening

Lo que está sucediendo

Help out, learn, build community and have fun!

¡Ayuda, aprende, construye una comunidad y diviértete!

Southwest Washington has so many opportunities to connect with nature. See the event calendar for a wide range of opportunities with our regional partners.

Looking for something special with a group? Contact the partner directly. Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information. Let’s get outside!

El suroeste de Washington ofrece muchísimas oportunidades para conectar con la naturaleza. Consulta el calendario de eventos para conocer la amplia gama de oportunidades con nuestros socios regionales.

¿Buscas algo especial para un grupo? Contacta directamente con el socio. Es posible que parte de la información de esta página no esté actualizada, así que contacta con el socio para obtener la información más actualizada. ¡Salgamos!

June is coming up and that means celebrating Get Outdoors Day!

Communities and partners across southwest Washington are getting ready to host you, your family and friends with a variety of outdoor activities to celebrate the beautiful Pacific Northwest region we know and love. Join us!

Get Ready for Get Outdoors Day!
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  • LCNN is excited to share our Partner’s events, click each event for more detailed information - check with event host for most up to date information (LCNN does not lead these events).

  • NEW! For events that sound super fun but are just outside southwest Washington are listed as ROAD TRIPs.

Filtering by: “park updates”
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Earth Day celebration
Apr
22

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Earth Day celebration

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Earth Day, recognized as the modern environmental movement, raising awareness for planet protection through activities like cleanups, tree planting, and advocacy, growing from a U.S. event in 1970 to a global observance with over a billion participants, inspiring environmental laws and promoting conservation efforts like reducing waste, saving water, and supporting sustainable energy. Dennis Hayes, one of the founders of Earth Day, is from Camas, WA. 

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day Arbor Day
Apr
24

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day Arbor Day

Ready to celebrate Arbor Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Arbor Day is a national celebration to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees! Learn more HERE.

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day International Migratory Bird Day
May
9

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day International Migratory Bird Day

Ready to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Learn more about IMBD below and at their web page.

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: “Kids to Parks” Day
May
17

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: “Kids to Parks” Day

Ready to celebrate “Kids to Parks” Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Learn more about National Park Trust’s annual celebration below and at their web page.

Kids to Parks Day is a national day of outdoor play celebrated annually on the third Saturday of May. The day connects kids and families with their local, state, and national parks and public lands through hundreds of park events that promote discovery and exploration in the great outdoors. 

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Want to go on a road trip to visit statewide parks?

Check out these ideas from Buddy Bison:

View Event →
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
May
22

Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles

Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!

Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.

Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.

2026 Community Paddling Schedule:

Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.

Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront

Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup

No experience is needed and equipment is provided.

View Event →
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Memorial Day
May
25

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Memorial Day

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of Memorial Day, there are no entrance fees to federal public lands. Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday on the last Monday in May, honoring military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, originating from Civil War traditions of decorating fallen soldiers' graves as "Decoration Day". It's a day for remembrance, with traditions like laying wreaths at monuments, attending services, and placing flags on graves, serving as a solemn occasion to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made for the country

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

View Event →
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Free Fishing Weekend
Jun
6

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Free Fishing Weekend

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Free Fishing Weekend - Fishing licenses are not required to fish for many species in Washington. See WDFW’s 2025 news release to learn more about the event. 

Best opportunities for anglers: Some great fishing opportunities available without a license on Free Fishing Weekend include:

  • Rainbow trout and bass in lowland lakes across the state.

  • Lingcod, cabezon, flounder, and sole in Puget Sound.

  • Rockfish and surfperch on the Washington coast.

  • Shad in the Columbia River.

  • Fishing licenses are still required for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut and all shellfish, including clams, crabs, mussels, oysters, and shrimp.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Free Fishing Weekend
Jun
7

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Free Fishing Weekend

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Free Fishing Weekend - Fishing licenses are not required to fish for many species in Washington. See WDFW’s 2025 news release to learn more about the event. 

Best opportunities for anglers: Some great fishing opportunities available without a license on Free Fishing Weekend include:

  • Rainbow trout and bass in lowland lakes across the state.

  • Lingcod, cabezon, flounder, and sole in Puget Sound.

  • Rockfish and surfperch on the Washington coast.

  • Shad in the Columbia River.

  • Fishing licenses are still required for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut and all shellfish, including clams, crabs, mussels, oysters, and shrimp.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Flag Day
Jun
14

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Flag Day

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of Flag Day, there are no entrance fees to federal public lands. Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the U.S. flag by the Continental Congress on that day in 1777, honoring American unity, freedom, and patriotism through displays of the flag, parades, and patriotic ceremonies.

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

View Event →
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Juneteenth
Jun
19

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Juneteenth

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Juneteenth - June 19th, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, that enslaved people in Texas were informed that they were free.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: Summer Solstice
Jun
21

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: Summer Solstice

Ready to celebrate the Summer Solstice?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. The summer solstice is the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring between June 20–22 (specifically on June 21, 2026, at 4:24 a.m. EDT). It marks the official start of astronomical summer, when the Earth’s tilt toward the sun is at its maximum, creating peak sunlight.

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:

  • Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.

  • Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.

  • Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.

  • Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.

  • Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.

  • Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.

  • Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.

View Event →
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Independence Day Weekend
Jul
3
to Jul 5

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Independence Day Weekend

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of Independence Day, there are no entrance fees to federal public lands. The Fourth of July, is the U.S. federal holiday celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, marking the birth of the United States as a free and independent nation, separate from Great Britain.

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National Wildlife Day
Jul
11

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National Wildlife Day

Ready to celebrate the National Wildlife Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks.

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:

  • Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.

  • Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.

  • Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.

  • Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.

  • Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.

  • Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.

  • Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.

View Event →
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Smokey Bear’s BD
Aug
9

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - Smokey Bear’s BD

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Smokey Bear’s birthday.

Since 1944, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has used the iconic Smokey Bear symbol to teach generations of Americans about the importance of wildfire prevention. Smokey's powerful message, “Only you can prevent wildfires” is at the heart of the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history.

Did you know? Nearly nine out of every 10 wildfires in the United States are human-caused. Do your part and protect our nation’s wildlands from unwanted human-caused fires by following Smokey's wildfire prevention tips: 1. Drown, Stir, Drown, Feel; 2. Keep Burning Debris Piles Small; 3. Don't Drive or Park on Dry Grass; 4. Be Careful with Lawn & Power Tools on Hot Days; 5. Extinguish & Dispose of Hot Coals; & 6. Protect Your Home

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National Relaxation Day
Aug
15

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National Relaxation Day

Ready to celebrate the National Relaxation Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks.

Walking in nature (or biking, hiking, flying a kite…..you know, anything) has been proven to improve your health and well-being. So get there! Take your binoculars and bird watch, put your paddleboard on the water, grab your skateboard and skate the trails or have a BBQ picnic with your family to watch the sunset. Head outside to your favorite park!

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:

  • Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.

  • Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.

  • Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.

  • Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.

  • Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.

  • Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.

  • Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.

View Event →
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - 110th Birthday of the National Parks Service
Aug
25

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - 110th Birthday of the National Parks Service

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of the 110th birthday of the National Park Service, entran e fees will be waived. The National Park Service was created on August 25, 1916 to "preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations." Over the hundred plus years, we've grown into more than 400 national parks and many programs that reach communities around the country!

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

View Event →
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Constitution Day
Sep
17

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Constitution Day

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of Constitution Day, entrance fees will be waived. Constitution Day and Citizenship Day is an American federal observance that recognizes the adoption of the United States Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens. It is normally observed on September 17, the day in 1787 that delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

View Event →
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - National Public Lands Day
Sep
26

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - National Public Lands Day

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates National Public Lands Day 2026. Since 1994, this annual event on the fourth Saturday of September has been the nation's largest single-day volunteer effort in parks.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - World Mental Health Day
Oct
10

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - World Mental Health Day

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. Studies have shown that time spent outdoors, in nature, have positive effects on our mental and emotional health.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Washington & National State Parks Fee Free Day - Veteran’s Day
Oct
10

Washington & National State Parks Fee Free Day - Veteran’s Day

Explore Washington's & Federal Public Lands

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Veteran’s Day, honoring all military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces, a day to thank living veterans for their service and sacrifices, distinct from Memorial Day which honors those who died in service. It originated as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the end of World War I, and was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to include all who served in any war or peacetime period.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National “Take a Hike” day
Oct
17

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National “Take a Hike” day

Ready to celebrate the National Take a Hike Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Find a trail near you!

Yes, the days are getting shorter and cooler, and getting outside isn't always easy during the week, but getting outside is rewarding. On National Take a Hike Day, we like to remind folks hiking can be simple—no heavy pack or rugged mountain required. You can enjoy the mental and physical health benefits of hiking right in your neighborhood. Grab a few essentials and head outside. A short stroll along a tree-lined street is a great way to celebrate National Take a Hike Day. Happy Hiking!

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:

  • Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.

  • Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.

  • Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.

  • Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.

  • Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.

  • Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.

  • Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.

View Event →
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
Oct
27

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of President Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday, entrance fees are waived. Roosevelt was the "conservation president" who established much of the National Parks System, protecting over 230 million acres of public land, created five National Parks (like Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Mount Rainier), 18 National Monuments (like Devil's Tower and Muir Woods), and 51 bird sanctuaries, including the first National Wildlife Refuge at Pelican Island, making his birthday a day to honor his legacy of preserving America's natural heritage for future generations.

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: Green Friday
Nov
27

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: Green Friday

Ready to celebrate the Green Friday?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Find a trail near you!

Welcome to the holiday season. What better way to celebrate than to head out to one our your FAVORITE county parks for a walk with family and friends. See you there!

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:

  • Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.

  • Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.

  • Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.

  • Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.

  • Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.

  • Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.

  • Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: International Volunteer Day
Dec
5

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: International Volunteer Day

Ready to celebrate the International Volunteer Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Find a trail near you!

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:


Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:

  • Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.

  • Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.

  • Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.

  • Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.

  • Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.

  • Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.

  • Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.

View Event →

New Renaissance Point Park ribbon cutting
Apr
9

New Renaissance Point Park ribbon cutting

parksforclark

✂️ Ribbon cutting at Renaissance Pointe

Celebrate a major milestone with the Parks Foundation of Clark County as we unveil Renaissance Pointe, a project that reflects a renewed commitment to creating safe, clean, and vibrant parks and trails for all.

Renaissance Pointe, located at the east end of the Renaissance Trail, was developed through a partnership of private organizations, public agencies and philanthropic support. The site is intended to serve as a community space for recreation, reflection and connection along the waterfront.

A moment worth celebrating and a future worth building 🌿

View Event →
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day "National Take a Walk in the Park" Day
Mar
30

Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day "National Take a Walk in the Park" Day

Ready to celebrate National Walk to a Park Day?

Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks.

Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.

There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.

Annual passes are available for $40.

Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.

Learn more about:

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On The Road Tour with Master Gardeners: Spring Fever
Mar
26

On The Road Tour with Master Gardeners: Spring Fever

Join the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener program for an On the Road Tour and leave the driving to us.

Join the Clark County Master Gardeners for our first tour of 2026. Sit back and enjoy visits to three nurseries or farms.

“Spring Fever”. “Fiebre de primavera.” “Varfeber”. ” Fievre du printemps.” Noun – A feeling of restlessness and excitement felt at the beginning of spring. Are you restless on those rainy days you’re stuck in the house perusing seed catalogs? Excited at the prospect of planting new things and getting your hands dirty in your garden?

Meet in the parking lot of the 78th Street Heritage Farm at 8:15am to board our vans for a tour of some Portland locations to help ease the transition into our next gardening season.

  • Our first stop will be Garden Fever where we will be treated to talk on what’s new and what’s tried and true for 2026.

  • Our next stop will be a Portland staple – Portland Nursery – to get more info on great things for our gardens. There will be ample time at both locations to pick out your new favorite plant.

  • Next, we will break for lunch at McMenamins Cedar Hills Pub. They have a menu featuring sandwiches, salads and burgers. Lunch is on your own.

  • At our final stop of the day, Deby Barnhart of Cornell Farm will speak to the group about plant diversity. There will be time for shopping.

  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes. Dress for weather. Bring a walking stick if necessary.

LOCATION: Hazel Dell Neighborhood, address at registration. No admission without registration.

COST: $35 plus tax and fees

REGISTRATION REQUIRED by March 17th: Click here

FOR MORE INFORMATION: (564) 397-5738 or Erika.d.johnson@wsu.edu.

Read about all Master Gardener upcoming events

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Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - WA State Parks’ BD
Mar
19

Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - WA State Parks’ BD

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates the Washington State Parks' history and encourages public use, as Washington State Parks, was founded in 1913. 

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026

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Hazel Dell Community Park Improvements Open House
Mar
11

Hazel Dell Community Park Improvements Open House

Join Clark County Parks & Nature for an Online Presentation and Q&A:

Parks and Nature will host an online presentation with project details followed by a Q&A session via Webex. 

Online via Webex:

Meeting Link: https://clarkwa.webex.com/clarkwa/j.php?MTID=md227204f0f009f3f0376c5d55ba668fc

Password: Clark

The community is also welcome to provide feedback on the project via email at PWParksProjects@clark.wa.gov between March 7 and 17. 


About the project:

Play area updates

The play areas will be closed beginning in early January for the removal and replacement of play equipment. Other areas of the park will remain open during construction. Those visiting the park during construction are reminded to stay out of closed areas and watch for construction traffic. 

Community feedback was taken into consideration in the planning process for the concept. The replacement play equipment was selected based on community feedback from an online survey and several events. A castle/medieval theme was selected. 

Park plan update

In 2026, Parks and Nature will finalize the preferred park plan for the undeveloped five acres of Hazel Dell Community Park shown in the “master plan update – concept” above. Design and construction of this area is pending future funding. 

Access improvements project

Clark County Parks and Nature is working to update the park facilities plan and improve access at Hazel Dell Community Park. In 2024, we met with the community to discuss the project and gather feedback. The project design is nearing completion, and construction is currently scheduled to start later this summer. Construction will include paving the existing parking area and improving park pathways to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) criteria. 

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Clark County Parks & Nature ADA Transition Plan Open House
Feb
26

Clark County Parks & Nature ADA Transition Plan Open House

Share your thoughts!

Clark County Parks and Nature is committed to creating safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces for all. In support of fulfilling the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we are drafting a transition plan outlining a strategy to remove physical barriers experienced by people with disabilities.

Respond to the survey online any time before early March. 

Provide feedback in person at the project open house, where you can also learn more about how the plan is being developed:

Clark County residents are essential to the development of an ADA transition plan. Opportunities to participate in plan development may include:

  • In person and online open houses events.

  • A community survey.

  • Online mapping and reporting of barriers.

  • A public comment period.

  • Advisory committees or focus groups.

Project Schedule

  • Project kickoff: summer 2025

  • Data collection & analysis: fall 2025

  • Draft ADA transition plan & public engagement: winter 2025

Funding

Metropolitan Park district funds support the ADA transition plan development process.

Contact

Michael Chau, park and trails planner
564.397.5886
michael.chau@clark.wa.gov

Photo source: NPS

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Put on your adventure hat and head outdoors