Can I bring my own BBQ grill?
Yes, you can bring your own grill but you are responsible for the safe operation of your grill.
Can I bring my dog(s)?
Yes, but dogs must remain on a 6' (maximum) leash at all times.
Can I bring my own pop-up canopy?
You may put up your own pop-up canopy as long as it is within the confines of your rented picnic area and you do not stake it into/damage the ground. If a canopy impedes park enjoyment for others or becomes a safety hazard due to high winds the ranger may request that you remove the canopy. You are responsible for any injury or damage caused by a tent/canopy blown away in the wind.
Can I decorate the facility?
All sites must be left in a "leave no trace" state. Users can use decorations, confetti, etc., but everything needs to be picked up before you leave.
Can I use a sound system?
Sound systems are allowed insofar as they do not inhibit park enjoyment for other users. Content must be appropriate for all ages. The ranger recommends that speakers face toward the river.
Do I still need a "Liquor License" if I've paid the $60 Alcohol Use Fee to Whatcom County Parks?
The Alcohol Use Fee charged by Whatcom County Parks is not a liquor license. To find out if you need a State of Washington Banquet Permit please check here. It is your responsibility to research and follow all laws pertaining to alcohol use at your event.
Can I have a food truck?
You are allowed to have a food truck in the Group Picnic Shelter parking lot. The truck needs to be fully self-contained (not needing any electrical or other utility hookups) and the vendor must provide Whatcom County Parks with a certificate of insurance naming Whatcom County as an additional insured prior to the event.
Insurance Requirements:
- General Aggregate limits of $1,000,000
- Commercial General Liability limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence
- Property Damage limits of $300,000 CSL per occurrence
Clean-Up Policy
Customers are required to leave the facility in the same condition as when they arrived. Cleaning supplies are provided. Garbage and recycling must be removed from the premises unless the customer has paid the optional waste disposal fee.
Determining Whatcom County Residency
- The credit card address is the address that determines resident versus non-resident.
- If the credit card is not in Whatcom County, but the customer is a county resident, they can provide a utility bill to get the resident rate.
- If the credit card address is not in Whatcom County but the customer owns property in Whatcom County, the customer can provide property tax info to get the resident rate.
Cancellation Policy
- Reservations cancelled 30 days or more prior to the scheduled arrival date are entitled to a refund of all fees except the reservation fee.
- Cancellations made less than 30 days prior to the arrival date, no refund.
- Only the person whose name is on the reservation may cancel the reservation.
