Frequently Asked Questions!
WHEN WILL 2026 RESERVATIONS OPEN? (NEW)
Reservations for picnic shelters, campsites, yurts, and cabins will be released in two phases:
Phase I:
- Begins at 9:00am (PST) on Monday January 5, 2026
- Reservations accepted for visits with check-out dates on or before June 30, 2026
Phase II:
- Begins at 9:00am (PST) on Tuesday February 17, 2026
- Reservations accepted for visits after June 30th (all of 2026)
- Due to construction, Kayak Point shelters may open later
Reservations for Yurts and cabins, with check-ins between December 31st and January 4th, can be made through the Call Center.
CAMPING - Can I reserve a site today?
Sorry, but no. To avoid conflict (double-bookings) with drop-in campers, reservations are not taken two or fewer days out. If you wish to camp today, please refer to FAQ "Can I camp without a reservation?" for details on last-minute camping.
CAMPING - Can I camp in Winter?
Yes. With exceptions to Whitehorse and RV Lot 2 at the Fairgrounds, all campgrounds are open year-round. That said, Winterization will be in effect so sites, utilities, services, and/or amenities may be reduced. Keep in mind that, in most cases, cancellation fees will not be waived due to inclement weather so be sure to plan accordingly.
See also FAQs: What is Winterization? and What are Extreme Weather Exceptions?
CAMPING - Can I camp without a reservation?
Yes! All campsites in all our campgrounds can be reserved, but any site, that goes unreserved, can be used for drop-in camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Look for sites that are not occupied and not marked reserved. Drop-in camping is good for one night and can be paid at the entrance fee machine or fee dropbox. Sorry, checks are not accepted. Contact a ranger prior to obtain restroom code or if extending your stay (to ensure the site is still available). Be advised, if there's a booking conflict, reservations will take precedence over drop-ins. Please note, there is no drop-in camping for yurts and cabins.
CAMPING - Can I camp with my horse?
Okay, maybe that question doesn't get asked a lot, but the answer is Yes, if camping at Whitehorse in sites 14-18. Those horse-friendly sites include 12'x12' corral and a centrally located compost bin. That said, you don't have to bring a horse to use the sites.
CAMPING - Can I book a reservation at the campground?
Unfortunately, not. Park Rangers are not setup to make advance reservations. They can accept drop-in (day-of) camping for unreserved campsites on a first-come, first-serve basis only. Please note: There is no drop-in camping for cabins and yurts.
CAMPING - Can I get a discount?
Maybe. Snohomish County Parks does not offer discounts, but we do honor certain discount cards issued by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. Specifically, the 5-Year Disability Card, the Lifetime Disabled Veterans Card, and the Limited Income Senior Citizen Card. No other card, placard, or other pass is accepted. Cards must be registered through the Call Center and be in your possession at the time of booking. Additional restrictions apply. For more information on discount passes, visit our Fees & Prices webpage.
CAMPING - Can I bring my pet?
Pets are allowed in all campsites at no charge and in pet friendly cabins for an additional fee. Pets must be accompanied, under control, and on a leash at all times, and their waste properly disposed. Sorry, pets are not allowed in the yurts or yurt villages.
CAMPING - Do I need an electrical adapter?
Maybe. Amperage varies among our partial and full utility sites. They can be 30-amp, 50-amp, or both 30 and 50 amp (all utility sites will have the standard household 20-amp outlet). Refer to the amperage identified in the list of amenities for the site you are reserving. Not sure what to look for? Refer to THIS CHART. To see a comprehensive list of what sites have what, you can also visit our snocoparks.org CAMPING page.
CAMPING - Do you sell firewood in the park?
Sometimes-depending on nature and timing.
We sell firewood that comes exclusively from downed trees on park property. Because of that, availability can vary throughout the year. The "Goldilocks window" is usually your best chance:
- Not too early, when wood may still be unharvested or too green to burn.
- Not too late, when we may have run out and/or when sales are paused due to a burn ban.
Occasionally, late-season availability returns once a burn ban is lifted.
In short: we offer firewood when conditions allow, but it is never guaranteed.
CAMPING - How do I reserve a campsite?
With our new reservation system, booking a campsite is as easy as 1-2-3. Well, actually it's 1-15, but we've provided those step-by-step instructions HERE.
CAMPING - How do I cancel or change my camping reservation?
CANCELLATIONS
Cancellation policies and fees are strictly enforced. Aside from extreme weather conditions, exceptions cannot be made for rain, illness, transportation delays, or other circumstances beyond our control. Penalty deadlines are set for midnight, which can lead to a miscount. To avoid penalties, DO NOT DELAY.
Cancel through your online account at https://reservations.snocoparks.org (this page, upper right corner. Click on MY ACCOUNT and log in). Click HERE for instructions.
Requests can be submitted to contact.parks@snoco.org or by calling 425-388-6600 (M-F, 8:30am-4:00pm). Be aware of the following
- Messages left for the Call Center may not be processed in time to avoid penalties.
- Messages left late in the day, on weekends, or on legal holidays will not be processed until the next business day.
- Fees are based upon the date/time of processing-not when requested.
CHANGES
Changes are made through the Call Center at 425-388-6600 (M-F, 8:30am-4:00pm). Messages left late in the day, on weekends, or on legal holidays will not be processed until the next business day.
Written or voicemail requests for changes will require a follow-up call as transaction fee(s), and any applicable charges (e.g. upgrade or an additional day) must be collect at the time of processing. Please note: change and transaction fees apply to each changed campsite, shelter, yurt, and/or cabin.
Be advised: not all change requests can be honored.
- A reduction in camping nights and shelter date changes, requested less than 14 days prior to check-in date, will be processed as a cancellation/re-booking (with all applicable fees).
- Changes cannot transfer to another park or to another person/party
- Camping reservations require at least one night carry over to the new dates. Otherwise, it is a cancellation and re-booking (with all associated fees)
Visit www.snohomishcountywa.gov/1040 for more information on cancellations and changes
CAMPING - How do I get a Restroom Code?
Restroom codes are now included in your camping confirmation letter. If your letter states the code will be emailed, log into your online account and reprint a more current letter. If you are a drop-in camper, you will need to contact a ranger, as the Call Center cannot provide restroom codes.
CAMPING - How long can I camp?
Snohomish County Parks does not offer long-term camping. With exception to the Evergreen State Fairgrounds, the maximum stay in any park is 14 days in a 30-day period. The maximum stay at the Fairgrounds is 7 days in a 30-day period.
CAMPING - When are campfires banned?
Burn bans in Snohomish County Parks are determined by the Snohomish County Fire Marshall. Outdoor burning (e.g. yard waste) bans often start in June or July and recreational fire (campfire) bans normally occur around late July or early August. Squire Creek and Whitehorse campgrounds may be sooner because they are surrounded by DNR land (and they follow DNR's lead). Burn bans normally end mid to late-October, after sustained period(s) of heavy rain.
Campfire bans are announced in the Newsflash section of our webage (which you can subscribe to) and at the park entrance. Please keep in mind, bans can be implemented with no warning, so plan accordingly.
During periods of campfire bans, propane fire rings are allowed, if they can be safely used.
As always, rangers have the final say.
CAMPING - Will my RV fit in the site?
Well, that depends on the length of your RV and the skill of the driver. Nature often dictates the shape and size of a site, so be sure to check maximum RV length (in Site Description) prior to booking. This is the maximum size a camping unit can sit straight and level. The Driveway Length is usually longer, but not a good indicator as its arc and slope can interfere with leveling and slideouts. Consider the maximum driveway length for extra vehicles and boats, and to determine if you will need to disconnect from your tow vehicle. See also, "What is an Extra Vehicle?" BE ADVISED: Flowing Lake Campground cannot accomodate 5th wheel RVs exceeding 35'.
CAMPING - What is an extra vehicle and how to pay for it?
A vehicle is a car or truck that you or your party are not camping in. One vehicle is included in your camping fee. An extra vehicle would be any additional car or truck (not used as a camping unit). Some things to consider:
- Extra vehicles fees are collected at the park (not online or through the Call Center)
- If a truck (or car) is connected to a trailer, it is considered part of the camping unit. If it disconnects, it is considered a vehicle (or extra vehicle)
- If you are camping in your car or truck, it is considered a Camping Unit.
- Boats are not extra vehicles
- Any vehicles, extra vehicles, and/or boats that do not fit in the site or encroach on vegetation must be moved to overflow parking.
- Extra vehicle fees apply to any vehicle in overflow parking.
- Annual Passes cannot be used for overnight camping/parking
Click HERE for an illustration of what is considered extra vehicles
CAMPING - What if I'm running late?
Your campsite must be setup during daylight hours and the park gates close at dusk (for both safety reasons and to avoid disturbing other campers). If the gates are closed when you arrive, you will need to return in the morning. The exception is if your staying in a cabin or yurt or if members of your party have already setup your campsite. In those cases you may enter the park and proceed directly to your site. Be sure to close and latch the gate behind you. As a general rule, paid reservations are not given away but a reservation can become a "no-show" if it's been more than 48 hours since your arrival time and you have not checked-in, cancelled, or notified Parks of your delay. All fees and charges (to a maximum of three nights) may be forfeited when your reservation turns to no-show.
DAY USE - Can I bring a bounce house or other inflatable?
Nope
DAY USE - How do I reserve a room at the Willis Tucker Activity Center?
Currently, room rental availability can be seen online, but not reservations. Click HERE for instructions on checking availability. People interested in renting the Vista or Gary Weikel Room(s) should visit the facility (at 6705 Puget Park Dr, Snohomish). Can't drop<>by? Complete this ONLINE FORM (agreeing to comply with facility rules and policies) then book over the phone at 425-388-6644. Calls and visits are accepted M-F, 8:30am-4:00pm. For more room rental information, prices, and all that stuff, visit the Activity Center webpage.
DAY USE - How do I reserve an athletic field?
Athletic Fields are reserved through an application process rather than online or through the Call Center. Please visit our Sports Fields page to familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines for athletic field use within the county. The application is in the Athletic Field Scheduling Guide, which is linked to that page.
DAY USE - When can I reserve a volleyball net?
Volleyball nets for sand courts at Willis Tucker Park are up Spring through Fall.
Reservations for incidental use (e.g. family/company picnics and scrimmages with friends) can only be booked online and no more than 7 days in advance.
Reservations for non-incidental use (e.g. leagues and tournaments) can be booked more than 7 days in advance through the Recreation Supervisor. For more information, visit our Sports Field page.
NOTE: To allow more equitable play, incidental (online) reservations are limited to no more than two 2-hour blocks per party, per day. Exceeding this limit can result in forfeiture of reservation with no refund.
DAY USE - How do I cancel or change my picnic shelter reservation?
CANCELLATIONS
Cancellation policies and fees are strictly enforced. Aside from extreme weather conditions, exceptions cannot be made for rain, illness, transportation delays, or other circumstances beyond our control.
To avoid penalties, DO NOT DELAY.
Cancel through your online account at https://reservations.snocoparks.org (this page, upper right corner. Click on MY ACCOUNT and log in).
Need help? Click HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Need more help? Contact the Call Center at 425-388-6600 (M-F, 8:30am-4:00pm).
Be aware, fees are based upon the date/time of processing-not when requested. Messages left for the Call Center may not be processed in time to avoid penalties.
Messages left late in the day, on weekends, or on legal holidays will not be processed until the next business day.
CHANGES
Changes are made through the Call Center at 425-388-6600 (M-F, 8:30am-4:00pm). Messages left late in the day, on weekends, or on legal holidays will not be processed until the next business day.
Written or voicemail requests for changes will require a follow-up call as transaction fee(s), and any applicable charges (e.g. upgrade or an additional day) must be collect at the time of processing. Please note: change/transaction fees apply for each shelter changed
Be advised: not all change requests can be honored.
A reduction in camping nights and shelter date changes, requested less than 14 days prior to check-in date, will be processed as a cancellation/re-booking (with all applicable fees).
Changes cannot transfer to another park or to another person/party
GENERAL - Prices? Prices Anyone? Anyone?
Prices will show when selecting a specific site in the reservation system, but it sure would be nice if you could see what everything else went for. You can.
Check out our Fees & Prices page, located on the Parks website. From there, click on the Fee Schedule link.
GENERAL - Can I bring alcohol?
Legally? No. The one exception is when renting the Gary Weikel Room at Willis Tucker Park. Those events may serve beer, wine, and/or Champagne if both event insurance and a banquet permit are obtained (and presented to staff) in advance.
GENERAL - What is Winterization?
Winterization is preparing park sites and facilities for cold weather and the low-demand (winter) season. This includes closing campground sites, closing restrooms and/or shutting off water and sewer to partial and/or full utility campsites (to avoid freezing pipe damage).Many day-use park restrooms will also close.
Portable toilets are set in place next to closed restrooms and may be reduced in day-use parks that have no restrooms. Winterization is scheduled by Park Maintenance staff and is dependent upon weather forecasts. It can vary between parks but typically occurs around the second or third week of October and ends around the end of March. Park users should plan accordingly.
Parks Effected by Winterization
CAMPGROUND PARKS
- Flowing Lake: Non-utility sites close day-use restroom closed and portable toilets in place (campground restrooms open year-round)
- Kayak Point: Day-use restrooms closed and portable toilets in place (campground restrooms open and water to campsites available year-round)
- River Meadows: Restrooms closed and portable toilets in place
- Squire Creek: Restrooms closed and portable toilets in place
- Wenberg: Loop 2 and 3 closed. Restrooms closed and portable toilets in place. Partial and full-utility sites in Loop 1 utilities reduced to power only (no water/sewer. self-contained camping only).
- Whitehorse: Campground closed November - March
- Evergreen State Fairgrounds: RV Lot and dump station closed November 1st thru March 31st
DAY-USE RESTROOM CLOSURES
- Flowing Lake (day-use)
- Lake Goodwin
- Lake Roesiger
- Martha Lake
- Martha Lake Airport
- River Meadows (day-use/campground)
- Tambark Creek
GENERAL - I just bought an annual parking pass. Now what?
Well, that depends on how you purchased it.
If you bought one online or over the phone, sit tight. Your placard should arrive within a week. Until then, use your receipt as a pass by placing it on your dashboard so rangers can read it.
If you bought one at the park fee machine, you will need to exchange your machine receipt for a placard. Do that by taking a picture of your receipt and uploading the image using this ONLINE FORM. We strongly encourage you to do this within 7 days of purchase as the receipt is printed with thermal ink (which will fade quickly in the sun). If your form is successfully submitted, you will receive your placard in about a week.
See also FAQ: My annual parking pass didn't come in the mail. Now what?
GENERAL - Is there a Parks Newsletter?
Why, yes! You can stay up to date on all the latest news, updates, events closures, projects, meetings, etc. by clicking HERE. And not just for Parks! You can also select to receive the latest from other County departments too. Not as cool, but informative.
GENERAL - My annual parking pass didn't come in the mail. Now what?
If it's been more than two weeks since you purchased and/or submitted your form, and your placard has not arrived, contact the Call Center (M-F, 8:30am-4:30pm) at 425-388-6600 or send an email to contact.parks@snoco.org. If it was lost or stolen, you will likely need to submit a notarized affidavit stating so. Fortunately, that doesn't happen often. Usually, it's because the address was incomplete or the image attached to the online form was bigger than 2mb (which will block the form from going through). If you didn't submit or forgot to submit an online form (for a fee machine purchase) it's not too late.
In most cases, continue using your receipt until the placard arrives.
See also FAQ: I just bought an annual parking pass. Now what?
GENERAL - What are Extreme Weather Exceptions?
As a general rule, cancellation fees are not waived for foul weather. By its nature, camping involves spending extended time outdoors. It's hot in the summer, cold in the winter, and it rains much of the time. Visitors should be aware of the seasons when booking and come prepared. That said, exceptions can be made for extreme weather conditions which close a park and/or pose a significant risk to the general public. Those conditions are limited to:
Heat Advisory: Maximum heat index temperature in Snohomish County is expected to be 100° or higher for at least 2 days, and nighttime air temperatures will not drop<>below 75°
Extreme Cold: Maximum temperature in Snohomish County drops below 20 degrees for at least 24 hours
Smoke: Air Quality Index (AQI) rating of 151 or higher (as defined by the EPA). AQI ratings between 101-150, for at-risk groups, with completed attestation, will be considered
High Winds: Sustained winds of 40 mph or higher and/or gusts of 58 mph or higher
GENERAL - Can I transfer a reservation?
Not really, but you can "gift" a site to a trusted friend or family member. This means the name of the occupant has changed, but the reservation remains in your name, and you retain responsibility for the site and its occupants. To change the name of the occupant, contact the Call Center at 425-388-6600. No charges apply or call-back necessary so leaving a message will suffice.
GENERAL - Do I pay for parking?
DAY-USE: A fee is paid for day-use parking at Flowing Lake, Kayak Point, Wenberg, and in some cases the Evergreen State Fairgrounds and Willis Tucker Park. Day-use parking at all other parks is free. A Snohomish County Annual Parking Pass, good at all our fee-use parks (for a year from date of purchase), can be obtained at the park, online, or through the Call Center. Please be aware, Discover Passes are NOT valid in our parks. Parking without a valid pass displayed is subject to a $40 fine.
OVERNIGHT: Your camping fee includes your setup (RV, tent, or trailer) and parking for one vehicle that is not used for camping. If the tow vehicle remains connected to the trailer it is considered part of the setup. This means another vehicle can park in the site without charge. Additional (extra) vehicles will be charged a fee upon arrival. Please note, Annual Parking Passes cannot be used for overnight parking. Other things to consider: Boats (that fit in campsite) are not extra vehicles Any vehicles, extra vehicles, and/or boats that do not fit in the site or encroach on vegetation must be moved to overflow parking. Extra vehicle fees apply to any vehicle in overflow parking.
GENERAL - Do you rent boats, bikes, or tables?
Pretty much no. We don't rent equipment and we cannot make recommendations. Sorry.
GENERAL - My password's not resetting-what's up with that?
There are two major reasons folks are having trouble resetting their password: 1. They're entering the wrong email 2. They never setup a new account for the new system. As a reminder, the customer database did not carry over to the new system.
GENERAL - What time are the deer let out?
Deer are let out each evening around 5pm to allow them time to feed and socialize. They're placed back in their pens in the morning, around 8am. If you're lucky, you might see one grazing in the field!
GENERAL - Where's my confirmation letter?
Confirmation letters for online reservations are automatically emailed and manually emailed if booked through the Call Center. NOTE: When checking mailbox, search for Guest Services. If it's not in your inbox:
1. Check your Junk/SPAM folder. It's often found there.
2. Check to ensure it wasn't booked using a different name and/or email address.
3. Access it online by logging into your account, then click on the Reservations tab.
3. Still no joy? Contact the Call Center. We'll verify and/or edit the address and/or send you another copy.
WORTHLESS - Do you have FAQs about your FAQs?
You bet we do! They include:
WHY DOES SNOHOMISH COUNTY PARKS HAVE AN FAQ SECTION?
- Because we know you have questions and we like answering them before you even ask. It's like mind-reading, but with more trail maps.
WHAT KIND OF QUESTIONS MAKE INTO THE FAQ?
- Only the finest! We curate questions that are frequently asked, occasionally asked, and sometimes just asked once but were too good not to include.
IS THERE A FAQ ABOUT DOGS IN PARKS?
- Yes. But your dog probably doesn't want you to read it. Spoiler: leashes are a thing.
CAN I SUBMIT A QUESTION TO BE ADDED TO THE FAQ?
- Absolutely. If your question is clever, useful, or involves squirrels, it might just make the cut.
ARE THERE FAQs ABOUT CAMPING?
- There are. They cover everything from reservations to whether you can bring your pet horse (you can).
HOW OFTEN IS THE FAQ UPDATED?
- Whenever the questions change, the rules shift, or someone asks something so brilliant we can't ignore it. So... often enough.
