Boating Program

Legislation created the boating program in 1983 and made Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission responsible for administering the program. The boating program ensures boating laws and regulations are enforced on all of Washington's waterways, provides recreational boating safety education and information as well as conveniently located boater septic pump-out facilities.

Funding for these programs comes from grants, registration fees and fuel taxes paid for by boaters. All boater paid fees go back to the boaters in the form of boating access facilities, boating safety education and law enforcement. 

The State Parks Boating Program encourages you to have fun as you head out on the water and be smart. There's a lot to learn and we're here to help you! Explore the website, if you don't find what you need feel free to contact us at (360) 902-8555 or email. 

​Safety on the water

The following actions are known to be the top reasons for recreational boating and paddlesport fatalities. 

• Failure to WEAR life jackets, especially in small boats
• Operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol and drugs
• Failure to follow navigation "rules of the road"
• Operator inexperience, inattention, unsafe speeds and improper lookout
• Inability to call for rescue when an accident happens