SEATTLE, WA – Hikers and campers visiting several national forests in the Pacific Northwest will now have access to a new digital payment option known as “Scan and Pay” through the Recreation.gov app.
This tool allows users to scan a QR code at designated trailheads and campgrounds to purchase a required day-use pass or campsite fee using their mobile devices. The option is intended for those who do not have a valid Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass. Pass holders are not required to use the new feature.
To use Scan and Pay, visitors must download the Recreation.gov app and log in before heading into areas where internet access may be limited. Once payment is made, users must write the confirmation code provided in the app on a piece of paper and place it on their vehicle dashboard.
Each national forest is implementing the system on a different timeline:
- Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: All six districts are transitioning to cashless payments using Scan and Pay starting Memorial Day weekend. Most first-come, first-served campgrounds are expected to be on the system by June.
- Gifford Pinchot National Forest: Scan and Pay is operational at fee-required trailheads and first-come, first-served campgrounds.
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: Rollout at trailheads will begin mid-June. Campgrounds are not included, as they are managed by a concessionaire.
- Olympic National Forest: As of April 2025, the forest is primarily cashless. Scan and Pay is active at fee-required trailheads and most campgrounds, excluding those listed in a separate press release.
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: QR codes are posted at applicable trailheads and first-come, first-served campgrounds. Users must search for the correct location after scanning.
- Colville National Forest: Scan and Pay will be available at campgrounds starting in January 2026.
Officials recommend hikers who frequent national forests consider purchasing an annual Northwest Forest Pass, which may be more cost-effective for those who hike more than six times per year. Passes are also available for purchase at local vendors, which helps support surrounding communities.
More information is available at Recreation.gov and Washington Trails Association.