Quote of the Month:
“Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of its own." - Charles Dickens
Approximately one third of the territory of our fascinating Washington State comprises various parks, including over one hundred of state parks. The diversity of the parks is unparalleled and unique, featuring exquisite beaches of the Pacific coastline and stunning sky-high mountain peaks, magnificent rainforests and arid deserts, numerous river gorges and admirable mountain valleys with countless breathtaking views and priceless experience you may obtain while visiting the state parks.
The extensive Washington State Park System, which is one of the largest in whole United States, offers the visitors a wide range of recreation activities and resources.
The history of Washington State Park System started more than one hundred years ago, when in 1913 the Washington State Board of Park Commissioners was created. And already in two years, in 1915 two parks were established from the donated properties. And already by the year 1960 the quantity of state parks in Washington increased up to 130 parks.
Throughout the history of state parks the Washington State Board of Park Commissioners was renamed several times and since 1947 and up to now it is known as Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and it has the authority to exert the control over the State Parks System.
Within all these years there were times of prosperity and growth of the State Park System, as well as rough periods full of challenges. The period starting from 2009 was one of the hard periods for the State Parks System because of the significant budget cutting. To resolve the situation in 2011 the Discover Pass was enacted by the Legislature amounting for $10 (a pass for a day) and $30 for an annual pass.
But all the hardships haven’t decreased the people’s interest in active outdoor recreation. State parks are the same popular and well-beloved both by residents and by visitors of Washington State.
Here we offer you the list of all Washington State Parks with their description and outline of their main attractions. For the ease of search we grouped the parks by the regions they are located at.
1. Olympic and Kitsap Peninsulas Region
Olympic Peninsula
Sequim Bay State Park
Sequim Bay State Park is a marine park in the northeastern part of the Olympic Peninsula, in Clallam County. Its 92-acre territory is open all the year round for camping and other numerous activities. The park’s 4,909 feet coastline, which is situated in the Sequim “rain shadow area”, is washed by the salt waters of magnificent Puget Sound.
Fort Worden State Park
Fort Worden State Park is an incredible all-embracing park with the territory of 434 acres, located at the extreme northeast point of the Olympic Peninsula, in Jefferson County. Being a historical state park, Fort Worden Park in reality is a multi-use recreation center offering its visitors a wide range of various activities, from historical tours around the numerous facilities of Fort Worden to camping and multiple water activities on the beautiful two-mile shoreline of the park. Open all the year round, the Fort Worden State Park also hosts various events and festivals, providing more and more reasons to enjoy this unique place.
Fort Townsend State Park
Fort Townsend State Park (previously known as Old Fort Townsend State Park) is a marine camping park, located in the northeastern part of the Olympic Peninsula, in Jefferson County. Its territory of 367 acres, situated on Port Townsend Bay, offers the park visitors 3,960 feet of a beautiful shoreline. The park occupies approximately one third of the territory of Fort Townsend, which was originally built by the U.S. Army in 1856, and has wealth of military history.
Anderson Lake State Park
Anderson Lake State Park is located around a beautiful Anderson Lake in Jefferson County. Most of the park’s lands are situating at the territory of Port Hadlock-Irondale. This quiet, secluded park is designated only for the day use. Its 476-acre territory consists mostly of the forested area and some wetlands. The park offers the visitors some hiking, biking, fishing and boating (non-motorized) opportunities.
Shine Tidelands State Park
This small 13-acre state park has stretched out along the shores of Bywater Bay, in Jefferson County. The 5,000 feet of the tidal area of this day-use park becomes a great place for different beach activities at low tides.
Dosewallips State Park
Dosewallips State Park is an amazing camping park, which can be found in the eastern part of Jefferson County, on the western shore of Hood Canal. The park, occupying the territory of 425 acres, is open all year round. The unique feature of the park is that it provides various saltwater activities as well as freshwater activities, as the Dosewallips River flows almost through the whole territory of the park. Thus the Dosewallips State Park may offer you the 5,500 feet of Hood Canal Shoreline and 5,400 feet of the Dosewallips River shoreline (on each river bank).
Pleasant Harbor State Park
Pleasant Harbor State Park Property can be found in Jefferson County, approximately at two miles distance to the south from Brinnon and Dosewallips State Park. The park is used only as a moorage facility and doesn’t provide any other services. The visitors may fish, boat and scuba dive at the territory of the park.
Triton Cove State Park
Triton Cove State Park is a small 29-acre marine park, located on Hood Canal, at the southeastmost point of Jefferson County. This day-use park, comprising 555 feet of shoreline, offers the visitors numerous water activities. One of the main features of the park is the boat launch, which is ADA-accessible.
Bogachiel State Park
Bogachiel State Park is an out-of-the-way park, located on the Bogachiel River, in the northwestern part of the Olympic Peninsula. This secluded camping park occupies the territory of 123 acres in Clallam County. Situating on the Hoh Rainforest skirt, the park is densely forested and provides some great opportunities for wildlife watching.
Marrowstone Island
Fort Flagler Historical State Park
This amazing marine camping park is located at the northern part of Marrowstone Island, Jefferson County, at the territory of an old artillery fort, and from three sides is washed by salty waters of Puget Sound. The grounds of the park, occupying 784 acres, provide the visitors with multiple recreation activities, and 19,100-feet shoreline is perfect for various water activities and beach recreation.
Mystery Bay State Park
This tiny marine park, having the territory of only 10 acres in the middle of Marrowstone Island (on its western edge) faces Mystery Bay. Though camping is not permitted at the territory of the park, its 685-feet long shoreline offers the visitors various water activities options and fascinating views of the Olympic Mountains.
Kinney Point State Park
At the very southern end of Marrowstone Island, in Jefferson County, one may find a small remote marine park, named Kinney Point State Park. It has an area of 76 acres, and a 683 feet long shoreline. This beautiful park also constitutes a part of Cascadia Marine Trail.
Kitsap Peninsula
Kitsap Memorial State Park
Located in Kitsap County, Kitsap Memorial State Park expands along the 1,797 feet long part of the Hood Canal coast. The camping park has the territory of 58 acres and provides the visitors with various outdoor activities.
Scenic Beach State Park
Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, in Kitsap County, Scenic Beach State Park is facing Hood Canal, boasting of 1,500 feet long shoreline with amazing views of the canal and unbelievably beautiful Olympic Mountains. The 88-acre territory of this camping park has numerous picnic and day-use facilities, and offers the visitors a wide range of various recreation activities.
Illahee State Park
This incredible park is located on Port Orchard Bay, which is a part of Puget Sound. It can be found on the Manette Peninsula, which is a part of the Kitsap Peninsula. Illahee State Park occupies the territory of 75 acres in Kitsap County and provides its visitors with almost all the activities they may desire. The main features of this marine park are the veterans’ war memorial and one of the oldest Pacific yews in the country, which has been growing at this park for almost 400 years. 1,785 feet long shoreline offers the park visitors various water activities as well as Puget Sound fascinating views.
Manchester State Park
Occupying the territory of 111 acres of mostly forested area on the Kitsap Peninsula, Manchester State Park is a great place for wildlife viewing in Kitsap County. Besides of that, its 3,400 feet coastline, as it is located on Rich Passage, provides the visitors with some water activities and distant views of Seattle and nearby Bainbridge Island. This camping park is situated at the territory of an old military fort, that is why a couple of old fort’s facilities can still be found there.
Belfair State Park
Located on Hood Canal, this beautiful State Park with the territory of 65 acres can be found in Mason County. Its 3,720 feet long beachfront territory is composed mostly of wetlands and tidal flats.
Potlatch State Park
This amazing camping park, located in Mason County, is a great place for a family outing, as it offers a wide range of various recreation activities, suitable for each family member. Potlatch State Park has a territory of 57 acres, and situating on Hood Canal has a 5,700 feet long beachfront. The park is located in the northern part of Skokomish Reservation.
Twanoh State Park
This 182-acre camping park is located in Mason County, on Hood Canal. Twanoh State Park is one of the most beloved parks among residents and visitors of this area, having 3,167-feet shoreline, one of the most popular activities of which is shellfish harvesting.
Jarrell Cove State Park
Jarrell Cove State Park is a waterside camping park with the territory of 43 acres, located at the northern part of Harstine Island, in Mason County. This remote park consists mostly of forested area and of 3,500 feet of shoreline, washed by salty waters of Puget Sound. Jarrell Cove State Park has five satellite parks, which are located on nearby smaller islands, except for Harstine Island State Park, which is 2 miles away from Jarrell Cove State Park on the same island.
Joemma Beach State Park
This beautiful marine park, occupying the area of 122 acres on the southeastern part of the Key Peninsula, is located in Pierce County. The lovely forested territory of Joemma Beach State Park, together with its 3,000 feet long shoreline, attracts a lot of visitors throughout the year.
Penrose Point State Park
Penrose Point State Park can be found on the Key Peninsula, in Pierce County. One of its edges is facing Mayo Cove, and the second one – Car Inlet of Puget Sound. Due to such location the park has a longer than 2 miles shoreline, providing the visitors with a wide range of water recreation activities.
Kopachuck State Park
Kopachuck State Park is situated on Henderson Bay, in Pierce County. This beautiful marine park has a territory of 109 acres and is the most popular among the visitors during the low tides when a great sandy beach becomes available. The 5,600 feet long beachfront of the park provides the visitors with numerous water activities. Kopachuck State Park used to be a camping park, but since 2011 it became only the day-use park. Cutts Island is considered to be a part of Kopachuck State Park.
2. Pacific Coast Region
Pacific Beach State Park
This small camping park, occupying the territory of only 10 acres, is located in Grays Harbor County. It provides the visitors with 2,300 feet of beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline with long sandy beach, offering various beach / water activities. The park is also located a little bit more than three miles from Quinault Reservation.
Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park
Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park is a remarkable marine park, located in Grays Harbor County. The unique feature of the park is that it combines 8,316 feet of the Pacific Ocean coastline and 9,950 feet of river side, as it is stretching from the Pacific Ocean beach to the Copalis River. The park is not designated for camping, but its 364-acre territory is a perfect place for wildlife viewing. And the northern part of it, which is the Copalis Spit natural area (which was established as a designated wildlife refuge), is the best place for bird watching.
Ocean City State Park
Ocean City State Park is located in Grays Harbor County. This beautiful camping park with the territory of 170 acres on Pacific Ocean coast is a perfect place for bird watching and beach exploration.
Westhaven State Park
Westhaven State Park is located in Grays Harbor County, several minutes drive from Westpoint City. This park, with the territory of 79 acres, has a beachfront access to the shores of the Pacific Ocean and Half Moon Bay. Westhaven State Park is also connected with another beautiful marine state park – Westport Light State Park – by a concrete pathway.
Westport Light State Park
Westport Light State Park is another amazing marine state park, located on the Pacific Ocean coastline in Grays Harbor County. The 212-acre territory of the park is connected with Westhaven State Park, which is situated on the coast northward of Westport Light State Park, by a concrete pathway. One of the main appeals of this park, except for the Westport Lighthouse, are the breathtaking views of the fascinating Pacific Ocean.
Twin Harbors State Park
This amazing camping park, located in Grays Harbor County, faces the Pacific Ocean coastline. It occupies the territory of 172 acres, which long ago became a favorite recreation place for many residents and visitors of the area. That is why Twin Harbors State Park is quite crowded, especially in summer.
Bottle Beach State Park
This marine day-use park can be found at Grays Harbor’s southern part, in Grays Harbor County. The 75-acre territory of Bottle Beach State Park is considered the most significant feeding area for migrating birds, especially shorebirds and waterfowl that is why the park is popular among bird-fanciers.
Grayland Beach State Park
This large camping park, occupying the territory of 412 acres in Pacific County, is one of the favorite places for people fond of kite-flying. Its 1,4 miles broad ocean beachfront is a great place for various water and beach activities.
Leadbetter Point State Park
This day-use park is located at the northern part of the Long Beach Peninsula, in Pacific County. Having the territory of 1,698 acres it faces both, the Pacific Ocean in the west and Willapa Bay in the north and east. Leadbetter Point State Park also neighbors the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.
Pacific Pines State Park
This small 10-acre day-use park can be found just in the middle of the Long Beach Peninsula, short distance northward from Ocean Park. The park is situated on the Pacific Ocean shore, in Pacific County.
Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment State Park is located on the southern edge of the Long Beach Peninsula, at the place where Columbia River empties itself into the Pacific Ocean. This camping park occupies the territory of 1,882 acres in Pacific County. The main features are two lighthouses and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. Cape Disappointment State Park is one of numerous parks in Washington State and Oregon, which is a part of Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks.
Fort Columbia Historical State Park
Fort Columbia State Park is a historic park intended for the day use only, occupying the territory of 593 acres in Pacific County. The park was established at the territory of an old military fort on the Chinook Point and still harbors different fort facilities.
3. The Islands
San Juan Islands
Patos Island Marine State Park
Patos Island, together with some small islets adjacent to it, constitutes a beautiful marine park, occupying the territory of 207 acres in San Juan County. Patos Island itself, which is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous states, is included into the San Juan Islands National Monument.
Sucia Island State Park
Sucia Island State Park is one of the most beautiful and most often visited marine state parks. It occupies the territory of 564 acres on Sucia Island, which is the largest island of “Sucia Group”, located in San Juan County, approximately 2,5 miles northwards from Oscar Island.
Matia Island Marine State Park
Matia Island which is a part of San Juan Islands, has the territory of 145 acres. It is one of the islands constituting the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge. And a part of it (with the area of 5 acres and 680 feet long shoreline), located at Rolf Cove, is available for camping and public use as a State Park. The island can be found northward of Oscar Island and eastward of Sucia Island.
Stuart Island Marine State Park
This beautiful camping park with the 85-acre territory in San Juan County is included into the Cascadia Marine Trail. The park is located in the middle of Stuart Island and faces Reed Harbor from one side and Prevost Harbor on the other, thus having 33,030 feet of coastline offering different moorage options as well as various water activities.
Posey Island State Park
This tiny camping park, located on Posey Island, has the area of only 1 acre. Posey Island can be easily found approximately 0,25 mile northward of a bigger Pearl Island, in San Juan County. It is also included into the Cascadia Marine Trail.
Jones Island Marine State Park
Located on Jones Island, one of San Juan Islands, this camping park has the territory of 188 acres, together with 25,000 feet long beautiful shoreline facing the San Juan Channel. It can be easily found as it’s only about 1 mile westward of southwestern part of Oscar Island.
Turn Island Marine State Park
This state park occupies the whole 35-acre territory of Turn Island, which is located in San Juan County, eastward of the eastern part of San Juan Island and southward of Shaw Island. Turn Island is also one of the islands constituting the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
Lime Kiln Point State Park
This amazing park with the territory of 36 acres is designated for day use only. It is located on the western coast of San Juan Island, facing the Haro Strait. It is reckoned as a perfect place for whale watching.
Spencer Spit State Park
Spencer Spit State Park occupies the territory of 138 acres on the northeastern shore of Lopez Island, which is a part of San Juan Archipelago. The long shoreline of the park, which encloses a lagoon, provides the visitors with various water activities.
James Island State Park
James Island State Park occupies the whole 113-acre territory of James Island, which is one of San Juan Islands and can be found in Rosario Strait, westwards of Decatur Island. This camping park has the shoreline which is 12,335 feet long and is available for moorage and various water activities.
Blind Island State Park
This small 3-acre camping park is situated on Blind Island and occupies the whole territory of the island. Blind Island can be found at the entry to Blind Bay, near Shaw Island, San Juan County. It is included into the Cascadia Marine Trail and constitutes a part of a well-known San Juan Islands National Monument.
Saddlebag Island Marine State Park
Saddlebag Island State Park, located in Skagit County, occupies the 24-acre territory of Saddlebag Island and a smaller Dot Island in Padilla Bay. These two islands are a part of San Juan archipelago, and Dot Island constitutes a part of San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
Doe Island Marine State Park
This camping park occupies the whole 7-acre territory of Doe Island, San Juan County. The Doe Island can be easily found in the Salish Sea as it is located very close to the southeastern shore of Orcas Island. The coves of the 2,049 shoreline of the Doe Island State Park are popular among kayakers.
Obstruction Pass State Park
Obstruction Pass State Park occupies the territory of 80 acres at the southern part of Orcas Island, in San Juan County. This camping park has a long (more than a mile long) shoreline designated for public use.
Moran State Park
This large camping park covers the territory of 5,252 acres in the middle of the eastern part of Orcas Island, San Juan County. Actually it rates number four in the list of the largest state parks of Washington State and the largest park at the San Juan Islands area.
Clark Island Marine State Park
Occupying the entire territory of Clark Island, which is 55 acres, this camping park offers its visitors numerous water activities as well as some moorage options. Clark Island can be easily found between Orcas Island and Lummi Island, located eastward of Barnes Island.
North Puget Sound Area
Deception Pass State Park
Deception Pass State Park, occupying the territory of 4,134 acres, is located around the Deception Pass – a waterway joining the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Skagit Bay. The park is situated on two big islands: at the northern part of Whidbey Island (Island County) and at the southern part of Fidalgo Island (Skagit County). Close to this camping park can be found the Swinomish Reservation, located at the eastern part of Fidalgo Island.
Joseph Whidbey State Park
This beautiful park occupies the territory of 112 acres on Whidbey Island, Island County, and is designated for day use only. Its 3,100 feet long beachfront facing the Strait of Juan de Fuca is a great place for water and beach activities.
Fort Ebey State Park
This large camping park covers the territory of 645 acres on Whidbey Island, Island County. Among other features it offers the visitors approximately three miles of saltwater shoreline facing the Strait of Juan de Fuca and freshwater shoreline on Lake Pondilla, located at the northern part of the park.
Fort Casey Historical State Park
This camping park was established at the territory of a former military fort and occupies 467 acres of Whidbey Island, Island County. It provides the visitors with various water activities, camping, boating and interpretive opportunities.
South Whidbey State Park
One of five state parks, located on Whidbey Island, South Whidbey State Park covers the territory of 347 acres at the southern part of the island. South Whidbey is a camping park, but currently it is available only for day use as the camping area is closed because of hazardous old growth trees.
Cama Beach Historical State Park
This unique old-style state park can be found on Camano Island (its southeastern shore), in Island County. The park occupies the territory of 433 acres and is overlooking Saratoga Passage. Cama Beach State Park is joined with a smaller camping park (Camano Island State Park) by a walking trail.
Camano Island State Park
Camano Island State Park, located approximately a mile southward of Cama Beach State Park on Camano Island, is connected with it by a walking trail. The 173 acres territory of this camping park has quite a lot facilities available for camping and picnicking, and together with 6,700 feet long shoreline facing Saratoga Passage, the park provide the visitors with numerous water activities.
Skagit Island Marine State Park
Located in Skagit Bay, Skagit Island is hosting a beautiful Skagit Island State Park, occupying 24 acres of its territory. This camping park is situated in Skagit County; visitors can access it only by boat.
Hope Island Marine State Park (Skagit County)
Hope Island State Park can easily be found at the northern part of Skagit Bay, on Hope Island. This marine park with several primitive campsites occupies the territory of 200 acres. Visitors can access it only by boat, and the access may be quite challenging as a great part of the island’s territory is surrounded by cliffs.
South Puget Sound Area
Blake Island Marine State Park
This camping park, occupying the territory of 475 acres of Blake Island, is located in Kitsap County. Surrounded by Puget Sound the island lies southwards of Bainbridge Island, and to the west from Seattle, thus providing the visitors with unforgettable views of both - Seattle sky-line and gorgeous Olympic Mountains. Tillicum Village at the northeastern part of the island is also a must visit of this state park.
Jarrell Cove State Park
Jarrell Cove State Park is a waterside camping park with the territory of 43 acres, located at the northern part of Harstine Island, in Mason County. This remote park consists mostly of forested area and of 3,500 feet of shoreline, washed by salty waters of Puget Sound. Jarrell Cove State Park has five satellite parks, which are located on nearby smaller islands, except for Harstine Island State Park, which is 2 miles away from Jarrell Cove State Park on the same island.
Harstine Island State Park
This small state park can be found at the eastern shore of Harstine Island, approximately 2 miles south from Jarrell Cove State Park and is considered to be its satellite park. It is designated for day use only.
Stretch Point State Park
Stretch Point State Park is also a small satellite park of Jarrell Cove State Park. This 8-acre state park is located at the northeastern end of Stretch Island, in Mason County. The Stretch Island can be easily found northwards of Harstine Island in Case Inlet. It is accessible by boat or by road from Kitsap Peninsula.
McMicken Island Marine State Park
This 11,5-acre picturesque state park is located on McMicken Island, in Mason County, and is designated for day use only. The island is situated eastwards of Harstine Island, in southern part of Puget Sound. It is so close to Harstine Island that during the outgoing tide periods a sand bar emerges between the two islands, connecting them. McMicken Island State Park is also a satellite park of Jarrell Cove State Park.
Eagle Island State Park
The 10-acre Eagle Island, located on Balch Passage, is cozily housed in between McNeil Island and Anderson Island, in Pierce County. This island is accommodating a beautiful day-use state park – Eagle Island State Park, which is also a satellite park of Jarrell Cove State Park
Hope Island Marine State Park (Mason County)
Located in Mason County, westwards of Squaxin Island Indian Reservation, Hope Island is a home for the Hope Island Marine State Park. This camping park occupies the territory of 106 acres with 1,5 miles beachfront. Visitors may access the island and the park on it only by boat.
Cutts Island State Park
Carr Inlet, located in the southern region of Puget Sound, is a home to a small island with the territory of 2 acres, preserved as a state park – Cutts Island State Park. Situated only 0,5 miles to the northwest from a larger Kopachuck State Park (located on Kitsap Peninsula), Cutts Island State Park also lies in Pierce County.
4. Northwestern Region
Northern Area
Peace Arch Historical State Park
This exquisite historical park is located at the border of Canada and the United States of America, in Whatcom County. The park is divided into 2 parts by the International border. The US part of the park is named Peace Arch Historical State Park and occupies the territory of 20 acres in the city of Blaine, and the Canadian part is known as Peace Arch Provincial Park, and can be found in Douglas, British Columbia.
Birch Bay State Park
Birch Bay State Park is a beautiful waterside camping park with the territory of 194 acres in Whatcom County, which can be found approximately 9 miles southwards of Blaine. Facing the Birch Bay, the park has 8,255 feet long saltwater beachfront as well as a long freshwater bank line along Terrell Creek, which is crossing the park.
Larrabee State Park
Larrabee State Park is one of the largest gems of Whatcom County, occupying the territory of 2,683 acres southwards of Bellingham. This amazing camping park, overlooking Samish Bay, offers a wide range of various outdoor activities.
Bay View State Park
This small camping park, facing Padilla Bay, covers the territory of 25 acres in Skagit County. Bay View State Park is located within the territory of Padilla Bay National Estuarine Sanctuary, and approximately 6 miles southwards of it the Swinomish Reservation can be found.
Rasar State Park
Rasar State Park is a camping park in Skagit County occupying the territory of 169 acres on the northern bank of beautiful Skagit River between the town of Hamilton (approximately 4,5 miles west of the park) and town of Concrete (about 8 miles east of the park).
Rockport State Park
Located at the bottom of Sauk Mountain, Rockport State Park features an amazing camping park with dense old-growth forest in Skagit County. It occupies the territory of 670 acres near Rockport. Unfortunately the camping area is currently (as of the year 2016) closed and the park is available only for day-use because of the hazardous old trees, but camping sites are available at Howard Miller Steelhead Park, located less than a mile of Rockport State Park, or at Rasar State Park, located about 15 miles westwards of the Rockport State Park.
Mount Pilchuck State Park
This large state park, covering the territory of 1,893 acres in Snohomish County, spreads out over the western side of Cascades Mountains, approximately 10 miles eastwards of Granite Falls. The park is designated only for day use. The fire lookout, located at the top of the summit of Mount Pilchuck is a must-visit feature of the park.
Wallace Falls State Park
This incredible camping park can be easily found at the western part of Cascade Mountains. Its territory is stretching for 4,735 acres in Snohomish County, less than two miles northeastwards of Gold Bar.
Southern Area (Seattle / Tacoma Area)
Saint Edward State Park
Saint Edward State Park covers the area of 316 acres in King County. Most of the territory of this beautiful day-use park is located in Kenmore, and its southern part lies in Kirkland. The park features many historical buildings and facilities.
Bridle Trails State Park
One more recreation gem of King County is Bridle Trails State Park, occupying the territory of 482 acres in Bridle Trails neighborhood. The park is located in between Bellevue, Kirkland and Redmond. Bridle Trails State Park is designated only for day use.
Lake Sammamish State Park
This amazing park is stretching along the southern shore of Lake Sammamish, located in King County. The park is easy to reach from Interstate 90 through Exit 15. It’s 512-acre territory offers the visitors numerous activities to fit any taste.
Squak Mountain State Park
A little bit less than 3 miles southward of Lake Sammamish State Park, adjoining the city of Issaquah, the Squak Mountain State Park is located. The park covers the territory of 1,545 acres in King County, offering a various picnic facilities and hiking options.
Iron Horse State Park
Iron Horse State Park (or as it is also called – Iron Horse State Park Trail, or John Wayne Pioneer Trail), is a large park, occupying the territory of 1,612 acres in King and Kittitas Counties. The park is stretching from Cedar Falls to the Columbia River, following the 110 miles part of former rail trail. The western part of the park lies within the Northwestern Region, and the eastern part of the park lies within the South-Central Region. The western part of this state park starts at Cedar Falls and stretches up to the city of Cle Elum. And the eastern part of the park runs up to the Columbia River, the town of Vantage, Kittitas County. More information about this park you can find HERE
Lake Easton State Park
This amazing state park, covering the territory of 516 acres in Kittitas County, is spread out over the shores of a beautiful Lake Easton (located at the bottom of the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains. This camping park is 15 miles away from Snoqualmie Pass and is “on the arm’s length” from the John Wayne Pioneer Trail.
Olallie State Park
Olallie State Park can be found on the western side of gorgeous Cascade Mountains, on the banks of the South Fork Snoqualmie River. It is located in King County, about 6 miles southwestwards of North Bend and about 12 miles westwards of Snoqualmie Pass. The park’s territory of 2,338 acres id designated for day use only.
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park is located on the southern bank of the Green River, approximately 3 miles away from Ravensdale, King County. The 320-acre territory of this camping park, together with two-miles long bank line offers its visitors a wide range of outdoor activities.
Nolte State Park
Going south from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, in 3,5 miles one can found another beautiful park of the western Cascade Mountains slopes – Nolte State Park. It is also located in King County, approximately 5,5 miles northward of Enumclaw, occupying the sores of Deep Lake. The park is designated only for day use.
Flaming Geyser State Park
Flaming Geyser is another day-use state park, located in King County. Covering the territory of 480 acres, the park lies on the banks of the Green River. It can be easily found just near the southern border of the city of Black Diamond.
Federation Forest State Park
Located on the banks of the White River, this 619-acre state park boasts of its incredible diversity. The park is situated in King County, and can easily be found by following Route 410 for approximately 15 miles eastwards of Enumclaw. Federation Forest State Park is designated for day use only.
Saltwater State Park
This waterside state park is located between Seattle and Tacoma, in King County. Saltwater State Park covers the area of 87,4 acres within the territory of Des Moines city. Facing Puget Sound this camping park offers the visitors 1,445 feet long beachfront as one of the main features of the park. Find more info about this state park HERE
Dash Point State Park
This popular camping park is adjoining the northern edge of the City of Tacoma. It is divided in half by the border between King County and Pierce County. The part of the park, which is located in Pierce County, is also a part of Puyallup Reservation. Dash Point State Park occupies the territory of 398 acres and if facing Puget Sound, thus offering the visitors various water activities. More information about the park is HERE
5. Southwestern Region
Schafer State Park
Schafer State Park, occupying the territory of 119 acres in Mason County, is stretching over the banks of the Satsop River’s east fork. This camping park can be found in between the two large cities – Aberdeen (about 23 miles northeast of it) and Olympia (a little bit more than 38 miles northwest of it). Due to many historical features, in 2010 the park was included into the National Register of Historic Places.
Lake Sylvia State Park
Located in Grays Harbor County, Lake Sylvia State Park occupies the area of 233 acres within the territory of Montesano city. Its location on Lake Silvia provides this camping park with various water activities alongside with other recreation activities. Lake Sylvia State Park is about 15 miles southwestward of Schafer State Park.
Tolmie State Park
This beautiful marine park is located in Thurston County, just about 8 miles northeastwards of Olympia. The park stretches over Nisqually Beach, facing Puget Sound. The 105-acre territory of the park offers the visitors numerous activities and is designated only for day use.
Millersylvania State Park
Millersylvania State Park has stretched its 842-acre territory out on the shores of Deep Lake, in Thurston County. It can be easily found as it is located only about 10 miles south of the capital of Washington State.
Rainbow Falls State Park
Lewis County is proud of 3 outstanding state parks, and Rainbow Falls State Park is one of them, occupying 139 acres of its territory. This quiet camping park is located on the Chehalis River, eastwards of Dryad.
Lewis and Clark State Park
Lewis and Clark State Park is another jewel of Lewis County, located east of Interstate 5, just about 2,5 miles east of its intersection with Highway 12. This camping park, covering the territory of 621 acres, boasts of its dense, over-mature forest.
Ike Kinswa State Park
This beautiful camping park is situated on the northern shore of Mayfield Lake and along the Tilton River. It covers the territory of 454 acres in Lewis County and can easily be found just by about 4 miles drive along State Route 122 from Mossyrock in northwestern direction.
Seaquest State Park
This camping park with the territory of 475 acres is located in Cowlitz County. It can be found about 6 miles west of Castle Rock, alongside of Spirit Lake Highway. Silver Lake lies just across this highway. Mt. St. Helens Visitor Center is located near the entrance of the park.
Paradise Point State Park
Paradise Point State Park is located along the southern bank of the Lewis River’s east fork, along the eastern side of Interstate 5. It occupies the territory of 88 acres in Clark County and is less than 3 miles west of La Center.
Battle Ground Lake State Park
Located on Battle Ground Lake, about 3 miles northeastwards of Battle Ground city, and 15 miles north of Vancouver, this camping park offers its visitors a wide range of outdoor activities. The park lies in Clark County and has the territory of 280 acres.
Reed Island State Park
Reed Island, located on the Columbia River in Clark County, is home for the Reed Island State Park. This camping park occupies the whole 510-acre territory of the island and can be reached only by boat. Reed Island is situated about 10 miles eastward of Vancouver.
Beacon Rock State Park
This large camping park is located along Route 14 on the Columbia River. It occupies the area of 5,100 acres in Skamania County and is situated within the territory of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and is approximately 30 miles away from Vancouver.
Doug’s Beach State Park
Doug’s Beach State Park, located on the Columbia River, is the favorite place of windsurfers. It is situated in Klickitat County, only 2,5 miles away from Lyle. This 400 acre state park is designated only for day use.
Columbia Hills Historical State Park
This large camping park is located on the Columbia River and Horsethief Lake, which is actually a reservoir on the Columbia River. Columbia Hills State Park occupies the territory of 3,338 acres in Klickitat County, and can be reached by driving approximately 6 miles eastward of Dallesport.
6. North-Central Region
Pearrygin Lake State Park
This camping park occupies the territory of 1,200 acres in Okanogan County. It can easily be found about three miles northeastwards of Winthrop. The park is located on one of the shores of Pearrygin Lake, thus providing the visitors with various water activities on a 11,000 feet long shoreline.
Conconully State Park
Conconully State Park is spread out over the northern shore of Conconully Reservour, in the town of Conconully, Okanogan County. It has the territory of 81 acres and is considered one of the best places for fishing. Conconully National Wildlife Refuge can be found eastwards of the park.
Alta Lake State Park
Alta Lake State Park is a beautiful camping park located near the city of Pateros, Okanogan County. Being disposed on the shores of Alta Lake this state park occupies the territory of 181 acres. If you feel that recreation activities, offered by Alta Lake State Park are not enough for you it will take you approximately 30 minutes (a little bit more than 20 miles) to get to the city of Chelan and enjoy the time at Lake Chelan with the huge range of activities it offers to its visitors.
Bridgeport State Park
Bridgeport State Park lies on the shores of Rufus Woods Lake, located right after the Chief Joseph Dam on the Columbia River. This camping park with the territory of 748 acres is situated within the territory of Colville Reservation, in Okanogan County, with the city of Bridgeport being located just across the Columbia River from it.
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
This beautiful camping park is ensconced on the southern shore of the beloved by many visitors Lake Chelan, separating gorgeous Cascade Mountains from a scenic lake. It covers the territory of 235 acres in Chelan County and is located about 10 miles northward of Lake Chelan State Park and 20 miles northwestward of the city of Chelan.
Lake Chelan State Park
Lake Chelan State Park is another amazing camping park located on Lake Chelan, just in the middle between Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park and the city of Chelan. It has the territory of 127 acres and is very popular for the wide range of recreation activities it offers to its visitors.
Lake Wenatchee State Park
Lake Wenatchee State Park is a beautiful waterside camping park located on the shores of Lake Wenatchee and on the Wenatchee River. It covers the territory of 489 acres in Chelan County, stretching out over the eastern side of Central Cascades. It offers a wide range of activities to the visitors, and can be easily found 20 miles north of Leavenworth.
Daroga State Park
This unique state park, which is situated on the bank of the Columbia River, stretches out on the fringe of Washington scablands. It covers the territory of 90 acres in Douglas County, and can be found 6,5 miles northward of Orondo.
Lincoln Rock State Park
Lincoln Rock State Park is a shoreline camping park, which can be found on Lake Entiat, formed on the Columbia River by Rocky Reach Dam, which is half a mile southwards of the park. The territory of the park is 80 acres and it is 9 miles north of Wenatchee.
Peshastin Pinnacles State Park
Peshastin Pinnacles State Park is a day-use park in an arid area of Chelan County with breathtaking views of the incredibly beautiful territories surrounding it. It occupies the territory of 34 acres 3 miles eastwards of Dryden.
Squilchuck State Park
This beautiful park covers the territory of 228 acres in Chelan County. It is located 9 miles southwest of Wenatchee, just beneath the Mission Ridge. The park is designated for day use, but there is one camp available for group reservation on its territory.
Wenatchee Confluence State Park
This camping park is located at the place of the Columbia River and Wenatchee River confluence. The park is divided into 2 halves by the Wenatchee River, with its northern half being located in Sunnyslope, and its southern half – in West Wenatchee. It covers the territory of 197 acres in Chelan County.
Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
This unique camping park is located near Coulee City in Grant County. 4,027-acre territory of the park is not only a great recreation place, but also a geological wonder, attracting millions of tourists every year.
Steamboat Rock State Park
This large camping park is located on the northern shore of Banks Lake, 4 miles south of Electric City. Occupying the territory of 4,027 acres, it offers a wide range of various recreation activities to its visitors.
7. South-Central Region
Olmstead Place Historic State Park
Created at the territory of a pioneer farm (which is still working), Olmstead Place State Park covers the territory of 217 acres in Kittitas County. The park is designated only for day use, and can be easily found approximately 4 miles east of Ellensburg.
Iron Horse State Park (eastern part)
Iron Horse State Park (or as it is also called – Iron Horse State Park Trail, or John Wayne Pioneer Trail), is a large park, occupying the territory of 1,612 acres in King and Kittitas Counties. The park is stretching from Cedar Falls to the Columbia River, following the 110 miles part of former rail trail. The western part of the park lies within the Northwestern Region, and the eastern part of the park lies within the South-Central Region. The western part of this state park starts at Cedar Falls and stretches up to the city of Cle Elum. And the eastern part of the park runs up to the Columbia River, the town of Vantage, Kittitas County. More information about the park you can find HERE
Potholes State Park
Potholes State Park has stretched out over the southern part of Potholes Reservoir, occupying the territory of 640 acres in Grant County. This camping park, beloved by many visitors due to a wide range of activities it offers, is about 20 miles northeast of Royal City. Columbia National Wildlife Refuge is only 2 miles east of the park.
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park / Wanapum Recreation Area
This unique state park is located at Wanapum Recreation Area, in Kittitas County. Ginkgo Petrified Forest state Park is a large camping park, which spreads out its 7,470 acre territory over the western shore of Wanapum Lake (located on Columbia River). The northern edge of the park adjoins Vantage. A part of John Wayne Pioneer Trail runs through the Wanapum Recreation Area.
Sacajawea Historical State Park
Sacajawea State Park is located in Franklin County, within the southern part of the city of Pasco. The park occupies the territory of 284 acres right on the junction of the Snake River and the Columbia River. Aside of the diverse recreation activities, this camping park offers also a wide range of interpretive opportunities concerning Lewis and Clark expedition.
Yakima Sportsman State Park
Yakima County is proud of its 2 beautiful state parks. One of them is Yakima Sportsman State Park. This camping park, occupying the territory of 247 acres, lies on the eastern bank of the Yakima River. It is less than 3 miles away from the city of Yakima, which is located at the opposite bank of the Yakima River.
Fort Simcoe Historical State Park
Fort Simcoe State Park is another highlight of Yakima County. This 200-acre park is located within the territory of Yakama Nation Reservation. The park is about 40 miles northwest of Yakima and is designated only for day use.
Brooks Memorial State Park
South Cascades Region hosts a quiet camping park (seasonable), located in Klickitat County, at the northern part of Yakama Nation Reservation. Brooks Memorial State Park occupies the territory of 700 acres approximately 15 miles north of Goldendale.
Goldendale Observatory State Park
Goldendale Observatory State Park can be found near the northern edge of Goldendale, in Klickitat County. It occupies the territory of 5 acres. The main feature of this educational facility is a large telescope available for public use.
Maryhill State Park
Maryhill State Park is a waterfront park, occupying 99 acres at the south-western part of Maryhill, Klickitat County. This camping park is located along the Columbia River and offers its visitors a wide range of recreation activities.
8. Northeastern Region
Crawford State Park
Crawford State Park is located in Pend Oreille County, less than half a mile from the Canadian Border and approximately 12 miles northward of the town of Metaline. The main feature of this 49-acre park is Gardner Cave.
Curlew Lake State Park
Ferry County is proud of this beautiful, quiet camping park, located on Curlew Lake. The park occupies the territory of 123 acres. The eastern border of the park is near the territory of Ferry County Airport. The park is located 20 miles northward of Colville Reservation and about 8 miles northeast of the city of Republic.
Mount Spokane State Park
The Selkirk Mountains became a home to the second largest state park of Washington State – Mount Spokane State Park, occupying the territory of 13,919 acres in Spokane County. This camping park lies about 25 miles northeastward of Spokane and is the perfect place for various winter activities.
Riverside State Park
Traveling northwestwards of the city of Spokane in the direction of Nine Miles Falls, you will find the largest state park of Washington State – Riverside State Park, with the territory of 14,000 acres. This camping park is located on the banks of the Spokane River and the Little Spokane River, and offers its visitors a wide range of recreation activities which will suit any taste. Find more info about this state park HERE
Centennial Trail State Park
Centennial Trail State Park features a paved trail, which is 37 miles long, leading from Nine Miles Falls to the border with Idaho State, and running along the Spokane River.
Columbia Plateau Trail State Park
Columbia Plateau Trail State Park is not a usual state park. It’s a 130 miles long trail at the eastern part of Washington State, between the city of Pasco (in Franklin County) and the city of Cheney (in Spokane County) following the route of the old railroad, built by Portland, Spokane and Seattle Railway Company. The most maintained and developed part of the trail is near South Cheney. The trail runs through Spokane, Lincoln, Whitman, Adams and Franklin Counties.
9. Southeastern Region
Steptoe Battlefield State Park
Steptoe Battlefield State Park is a small day-use park in the town of Rosalia, in the north of Whitman County. The park occupies the territory of 4 acres at the place of 1858 battle between the US army and Native Americans.
Steptoe Butte State Park
Steptoe Butte, located in the heart of Steptoe Butte State Park, covering the territory of 150 acres in Whitman County, is a National Natural Landmark. The park is located about 6 miles northeast of Steptoe and is designated only for day use.
Palouse Falls State Park
The 105-acre territory of this amazingly beautiful camping park is divided into two halves by a border between Franklin and Whitman counties. The park is located on the Palouse River, and its main attractions are breathtaking Palouse Falls. The park is approximately 25 miles southwest of Lacrosse. Find more info about this state park HERE.
Lyons Ferry State Park
Lyons Ferry State Park can be found just about one mile southward of Palouse Falls State Park, at the place where the Palouse and Snake Rivers meet together. This waterfront park is approximately 7 miles north of Starbuck and is available only for day use.
Lewis and Clark Trail State Park
This densely forested camping park is located on the southern bank of Touchet River, in Columbia County. The 37-acre territory of the park is about 5 miles southwest of Dayton.
Fields Spring State Park
The gorgeous Blue Mountains became a home for one more attraction of the Southeastern Region – Fields Spring State Park. This camping park occupies the territory of 792 acres in Asotin County and can be found 4,5 miles southward of Anatone.
Photo: Roman Khomlyak
Photo Editing: Juliana Voitsikhovska
Information: Svetlana Baranova
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