Check Out Washington Contest 2023

Capture the Magic of Your First State Park Adventure!

Calling all nature enthusiasts and adventurers! We are thrilled to announce the launch of our exciting summer contest – the State Park First-Time Adventure Photo and Story Contest! We invite you to share your captivating first-time state park experiences through photos and stories, showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty and unforgettable moments you experience at Washington State Parks. First prize is a $250 gift card for outdoor gear and an annual Discover Pass.​

Submission Period: The contest begins on June 21, 2023, and runs through October 15, 2023. During this period, visitors can submit their entries via our online submission form.

Eligibility: The contest is open to all individuals who have visited any Washington state park for the first time. Whether you just borrowed an Adventure Pack from a library, you’re a pro solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, we want to hear about your unique and memorable adventures.

Submission Guidelines: To participate, you must submit two things:

  • Photo: Choose your most captivating photo that embodies the essence of your first Washington state park adventure. It could be a breathtaking landscape, a close encounter with wildlife, or a joyous moment of discovery with friends or family. Creativity is encouraged, so let your imagination run wild!
  • Story: Craft an engaging narrative that brings your first-time state park experience to life. Share the details of your journey, the emotions you felt, and any interesting anecdotes that made your adventure unforgettable. Aim to inspire and ignite the curiosity of future visitors!

Judging Criteria: All entries will be evaluated based on the quality and engagement of the stories shared. The judges will look for originality, creativity, and the ability to captivate readers with your first-time adventure. So, let your storytelling prowess shine!

Winners Announcement: After careful consideration, the winners will be selected by our panel of esteemed judges. The results will be announced on November 1, 2023, on our website and social media platforms. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated!

Prizes:

We believe that everyone’s state park adventures are their own reward. While we can’t recognize every story, we will be awarding prizes to the top three entries:

First Prize: $250 gift card for outdoor gear + a one-year state park Discover Pass
Second Prize: $150 gift card for outdoor gear + a one-year state park Discover Pass
Third Prize: $100 gift card for outdoor gear + a one-year state park Discover Pass
Inspire Others with Your Story!

By participating in our State Park First-Time Adventure Photo and Story Contest, you not only get a chance to win exciting prizes but also contribute to inspiring countless others to experience the wonders of state parks. Your stories and photos will be shared on our website and social media platforms, reaching a wide audience and encouraging more people to embark on their own unforgettable adventures.

So, dust off those hiking boots, grab your camera or phone, and get ready to capture the magic of your first state park adventure! We can’t wait to hear your incredible stories and see the breathtaking moments you’ve encountered. Start crafting your entry today and let the world know why Washington state parks are a treasure to be explored.

If you have any questions about the contest or need further information, please reach out to us via email. We’re here to help!

Note: By submitting your entry, you give us permission to share your photo and story on our website and social media platforms for the promotional purposes of supporting Washington State Parks.