New law raises Discover Pass price, updates off-road vehicle rules and veterans’ benefits
WASHINGTON STATE — Washington’s annual Discover Pass is going to cost a bit more after a recent bill was signed into law.
The Discover Pass is a fee charged for parking at state parks and lands managed by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife and the Washington Department of Natural Resources. Starting Oct. 1, 2025, the cost will rise from $30 to $45.
The price hike, the first since the Discover Pass was introduced in 2011, was approved by the Legislature in April and signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson on May 17. The bill also includes changes affecting off-road vehicle requirements and the Lifetime Disabled Veterans’ pass.
The Discover Pass, along with camping and other fees, is crucial for funding the operation and maintenance of Washington’s state parks.
In the upcoming biennium, 2025-27, approximately 71% of State Parks’ funding will come from earned revenue, up from about 65% in the current biennium, according to Washington State Parks (WSP). Despite the pass’s fee increase, significant new revenue is not expected to be seen by WSP. The Legislature reduced general fund appropriations and added new costs to the agency in response to the state’s budget shortfall.
More details on the Discover Pass changes can be found on their website.
