Reservations & Permits

Vehicle Permits

All vehicles entering a Washington County Parks annual vehicle permitWashington County Park must display a daily or annual vehicle permit, including vehicles belonging to registered campers and picnic shelter users. No drop-offs allowed. The annual vehicle permit is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. The annual permit is valid in Washington County parks and Anoka County parks.

Vehicle permits are not required along the Hardwood Creek Trail or at the Historic Courthouse. Vehicle permits are also not required in any park on the first non-holiday Tuesday of each month, Earth Day, the second Saturday in June for National Get Outdoors Day, and the Friday after Thanksgiving. Learn more about free admission days in our parks. 

If you've been taking pictures in Washington County Parks, submit your photos for a chance to be featured on the county's annual 2024-2025 vehicle permit. Find more details on the Photo Contest.

Reservations

Campground and picnic pavilion reservations begin in January for the upcoming season. Make a reservation.

Park Information, Rules and Ordinances 

For your enjoyment, and that of others, please observe all park ordinances (PDF). 

  1. Vehicle Permit Information
  2. Permits for Military Veterans

Purchase a Vehicle Permit

Vehicle permits can be purchased at a variety of locations.

  • Park Offices:
    • Big Marine Park Reserve (park office is open seasonally).
    • Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park.
    • Historic Courthouse.
    • Lake Elmo Park Reserve.
    • St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park.
  • Public Works North Shop Facility.
  • Purchase a vehicle permit online.
  • Washington County License Centers & Service Centers.
  • Electronic Pay Stations.

Electronic Pay Stations

Electronic pay stations are installed in all parks, either outside the Park Office at park entrances or near the parking areas. Both daily and annual permits are available for purchase. Only credit cards are accepted. Please follow directions on the machine and on the printed receipt. If an annual permit is purchased from the Electronic Pay Station, the receipt must be mailed or brought into a Park Office to be redeemed for a vehicle sticker.

Types of PermitCost
Daily Permit$7
Annual Permit (valid 12 months from month of purchase)$30
Second Annual
(For same household, and must be purchased at same time as first annual. Not available online at this time.)		$20
Bus* Daily$20
Bus* Annual$100

*A vehicle capable of transporting more than 15 passengers is considered a bus.