State Parks urge people to recreate responsibly this Fourth of July

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Parks) asks anyone planning a Fourth of July celebration at a park or beach to be safe and protect friends, neighbors, public lands, and wildlife.

Parks sees high levels of visitation during Independence Day celebrations, particularly on its beaches, which increases the amount of trash left behind. Last year, volunteers collected more than 111,000 pounds of garbage from ocean beaches during the annual July 5 beach cleanup. That’s equivalent to the weight of about seven adult orca whales. 

To reduce trash, follow beach safety rules, and pack out everything packed in. Litter left behind threatens the safety and future of beach wildlife.

Consuming or getting entangled in trash can disrupt an animal’s ability to hunt, escape predators, or provide for its young. High tides from the night of July 4 to the morning of July 5 can wash litter out to sea, harming marine animals. 

Fireworks are illegal on all state park lands, including the beaches in front of state parks. Discharging fireworks on state park lands can result in a $99 fine.

Although it is legal to drive onto some areas of the beach, all road rules apply. The beach speed limit is 25 mph, and pedestrians and horses always have the right of way.

Please obey all posted no parking signs, including along the entry to beach access points.. Congestion at access points limits the response-ability for emergency vehicles. 

Cars parked below the high tide line may get stuck or washed out to sea and tow support is limited.

It is illegal to use drugs or alcohol and get behind the wheel. Open container laws apply to Washington beaches.

Visitors should be mindful and stay out of beach areas designated to protect wildlife and marine habitats. Campfires must be at least 100 feet from the dunes, less than four feet in diameter ad height. No fires are allowed on any shellfish beds. 

In partnership with Washington Coast Savers, Parks organizes three beach cleanup volunteer events yearly, including one on July 5. Visit CoastSavers.org to view a list of participating beaches and where to check in on the event day. Pre-registration is not necessary—just show up and help.

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.  

Check for parking at parks.wa.org before heading out. For those visiting a state park, a Discover Pass is required for vehicle access.