Snohomish County added Wenberg State Park

With the transfer, Snohomish County will be the sole owner and operator of the 46-acre park, which includes a boat launch, a swimming beach, 45 tent sites, 30 full utility campsites, three ADA-approved campsites, a bathhouse, restrooms, picnic shelters and a concession stand. Wenberg attracted nearly 418,000 day visitors and about 24,000 campers last year.

"Im pleased were able to keep this jewel of a resource open to the general public and residents of our county," Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon said. "I thank the state for its willingness to work with us in preventing Wenbergs closure."

Wenberg began as a 20-acre county park before the state acquired it in 1947. Additional land donations from the Wenberg family and the Wenberg Public Park Association increased the park to its current size, including access to Lake Goodwin's eastern shore.

The acquisition adds to the more than 100 park properties and more than 10,000 acres the county parks system currently operates.

"This property only adds to an already world-class parks system," said Tom Teigen, the countys parks and recreation director. "Its a location that we expect will continue to be popular with the public."

As a Snohomish County park, some operating changes have been made. Alcohol consumption will no longer be allowed, which is consistent with policy for all parks locations.

Also, a $5 parking fee will be charged instead of the current $7 boat-launch fee. Visitors are encouraged to buy a $60 annual pass that covers entrance and launching fees at Wenberg, as well as Kayak Point, Wyatt and Flowing Lake county parks. Beginning in 2010, the passes are good for a year from the date of purchase.

Snohomish County will honor all camping reservations already made through the state for July 16 through Sept. 15. New reservations, cancellations or other changes beginning July 16 will be processed through Snohomish County at scparksrec@gmail.com or by calling 425-388-6600.