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Who must report abuse at a Washington camp?

Sources checked October 30, 2026. Last reviewed October 30, 2026.

Knowing how reporting works helps you ask a camp clear questions and feel confident about the answers. Here is what Washington law says, in plain language.

General information, not legal advice. This guide summarizes public law as of the date above. For advice about a specific situation, talk with a licensed Washington attorney. In an emergency, call 911.

Anyone may report

According to RCW 26.44.030(3) (opens in a new tab) (checked October 30, 2026), any person who has reasonable cause to believe a child has suffered abuse or neglect may report it to law enforcement or to the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). You don’t need to be sure, and you don’t need anyone’s permission.

Supervisors must report suspected abuse by staff or volunteers

According to RCW 26.44.030(1)(b), a person acting in an official supervisory role at a nonprofit or for-profit organization must report to law enforcement when they have reasonable cause to believe a child was abused or neglected by someone they regularly supervise. This applies when that person is an employee, contractor, or volunteer who coaches, trains, educates, or counsels children, or regularly has unsupervised access to children.

The law defines “reasonable cause” for this part as witnessing, or receiving a credible written or oral report of, abuse (including sexual contact) or neglect of a child.

Some camp staff may also be required to report under other parts of the same law, for example licensed or registered nurses (RCW 26.44.030(1)(a)).

The 48-hour deadline

According to RCW 26.44.030(1)(h), a required report must be made at the first opportunity, and in no case later than 48 hours after there is reasonable cause to believe a child has suffered abuse or neglect.

Good-faith reports are protected

According to RCW 26.44.060(1)(a) (opens in a new tab) (checked October 30, 2026), a person who makes a report in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability under Washington law for making that report.

How to make a report

DCYF’s statewide intake line is 1-866-363-4276 (1-866-END-HARM). DCYF also lists regional intake numbers. According to DCYF’s report abuse page (opens in a new tab) (checked October 30, 2026), the statewide number is the one to use on holidays, evenings, and weekends, and Relay Service calls are answered. You can also contact local law enforcement. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.

Friendly questions to ask a camp

  • Who on your team is trained on Washington’s reporting law?
  • What is your written process when a staff member or camper raises a concern?
  • How and when would you contact me if a concern involved my child?
  • Can I read your reporting and abuse-prevention policies before registration?

Record what you hear on the free Compare camps worksheet.

Sources