Lake Sammamish State Park Kayak Rental Concession

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is seeking a vendor to operate a kayak and Stand-Up-Paddleboard (SUP) rental concession at Lake Sammamish State Park, specifically located at Tibbets Beach. The Request for Proposal (RFP 325-589) requires the selected vendor to provide and manage all rental equipment, including kayaks, SUPs, paddles, and lifejackets, with a contract period of up to five years and potential for one additional five-year term. Bids are due on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, by 1:00 PM PST, and must be submitted electronically to BidBox@parks.wa.gov. The vendor will be responsible for their share of utilities and must provide their own internet/WiFi services. The operating schedule mandates service on weekends in May and daily from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, with core hours of 10 am to 6 pm. The RFP suggests that vendors will be evaluated based on their proposed operational plan, equipment quality, and ability to provide excellent customer service at the park.

The procurement encourages participation from small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses, with potential scoring preferences for certified Washington small businesses or veteran-owned enterprises. The current concessionaire is retiring and has a comprehensive inventory of equipment available for purchase, which includes 45 Pau Hana Big Easy VFT paddle boards, 24 Double Sit-On-Top kayaks, 21 Single Sit-On-Top kayaks, 140 life jackets, and various accessories like storage containers and canopies. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the vendor will be expected to invest in high-quality rental equipment and maintain a professional operation that enhances visitor experiences at Lake Sammamish State Park. The contract appears to be structured as a concession agreement, where the vendor will generate revenue through rental fees while paying a percentage or fee to the state park system. Interested parties should carefully review the full RFP document to understand all requirements, qualifications, and potential financial considerations for this opportunity.