Washington State Park

Park Information

Petroglyphs, quaint hiking shelters and incredible Ozark overlooks define the Washington State Park experience. Easy access to the Big River makes the park great for swimming or fishing. Hikers can choose from three rugged hiking trails. Buildings constructed by African American Civilian Conservation Corps stonemasons complement the park and add to its sense of history.

Park Hours

For temporary closures related to weather, stewardship activities and maintenance, as well as temporary trail closures, click here to visit our Park and Site Status Map.


On the following days (actual or observed), staff will not be available and park buildings will be closed: Thanksgiving Day; Nov. 24, 2023; Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year’s Eve; New Year’s Day; Martin Luther King Jr. Day; Lincoln’s Birthday; and Presidents Day. 

Park Grounds:

  • 7 a.m. to sunset, year-round.
  • November through March
    The roads to Shelter #1/CCC Ridge, the swimming pool, cabins and the Big River Day-Use Area (including Shelter #2/Big River Day-Use Area Shelter) are closed to vehicles. They are open to foot traffic.

Interpretive Center hours

Sunrise to sunset, year-round

On the following days (actual or observed), staff will not be available and park buildings will be closed: Thanksgiving Day; Nov. 24, 2023; Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year’s Eve; New Year’s Day; Martin Luther King Jr. Day; Lincoln’s Birthday; and Presidents Day. 

Park Office hours

April through October

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday

Closed Sunday, Monday and Saturday

Please note there may be times when the office is closed while staff are working in the park.

November through March

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Friday

Closed Saturday through Tuesday

On the following days (actual or observed), staff will not be available and park buildings will be closed: Thanksgiving Day; Nov. 24, 2023; Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year’s Eve; New Year’s Day; Martin Luther King Jr. Day; Lincoln’s Birthday; and Presidents Day. 

Please note there may be times when the office is closed while staff are working in the park.