As summer nears and schools wind down for break, families across Washington state are preparing for what has traditionally been the most affordable kind of vacation: time spent in the great outdoors.

Whether it’s a weekend camping trip, an afternoon of fishing on the lake, or a scenic drive through a state park, these moments are woven into the fabric of Washington life.

But for many working families, these once-accessible traditions are slipping further out of reach.

Washington is already the fourth most expensive state to live in. Yet, this year, the Legislature, led by Democratic majorities in the House, Senate and Governor’s Office, approved a series of increases in fees and taxes that impact outdoor recreation and everyday living.

These include hikes in hunting and fishing license fees, Discover Pass costs and gas taxes.

The Discover Pass, required for access to state public lands, rose from $30 to $45. Hunting and fishing licenses saw increases of up to 38%. And Washington, which already has the third-highest gas prices in the country, added another six cents per gallon to the gas tax with a 2% automatic annual increase. Fuel here now costs more than $1 per gallon above the national average.

This represents the largest cumulative tax increase in Washington’s history. And its effects are not abstract — they’re deeply felt by families who rely on affordable outdoor activities to unwind, recharge and reconnect. For many, a fishing trip or camping weekend isn’t just a leisure option — it’s the only vacation within reach.