27 INCREDIBLE Washington State Parks to Explore - Washington is for Adventure (2024)

As you might have guessed by our website’s name, we think Washington is one of the most adventurous US states. And you’ll find many incredible adventure opportunities in its glorious state parks!

US state parks are wildlife areas protected at the state level rather than the national level. On the other hand, national parks are managed at the national level.

Washington boasts three epic national parks (Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades)—but when you’re exploring the state, don’t miss the state parks, which can be just as epic and are often quieter and secluded.

To make it easier for you, we’ve put together this list of the 27 best state parks in Washington state, with information on which are best for hiking, camping, epic nature, and accessibility!

Best Washington State Parks

Washington State Parks Near Seattle

Not in the mood to travel too far from the city but want to be immersed in nature? We got you! All of these Washington state parks are reachable from Seattle.

1. Dash PointState Park

The curiously named Dash Point (nobody’s too sure where the name originates, but it dates back to at least the 19th century!) is just south of Seattle on the Puget Sound and boasts more than 3,300 feet of saltwater shoreline.

This is the state park to visit if you want a short break from Seattle and are searching for the ultimate chill-out destination. Many tourists visit just to laze on the beach, but if you are seeking a bit more adventure, there are fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities too.

Highlights

• Swim out from the shoreline
• Fish from the Dash Point Pier
• Go skimboarding! This involves riding a short, narrow board along shallow water like a skateboard.
• Birdwatch for both raptors and shorebirds

Camping

With around 140 campsites and a few rentable cabins, there’s plenty of space to stay at Dash Point. However, due to its proximity to Seattle, this park can be bustling (especially on weekends!), and it’s recommended that you book in advance.

RELATED: 19 Killer Beaches in Seattle

2. Deception PassState Park

Ladies and gentlemen, we now bring you Washington’s most visited state park! Deception Pass boasts lakes, viewpoints, jagged cliffs, a high bridge, and spectacular sunset-watching opportunities. The state park is a strait that separates Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island.

There’s so much on offer in this incredible state park—it’s probably the best to visit if you’re craving some time in nature! Hike, explore secret spots and go swimming—all of this and more is available at Deception Pass.

Highlights

• Swim or fish in Cranberry Lake
• Visit Bowman Bay to learn about the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
• Cross the Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges, where you can enjoy immense views of the islands
• Take in the 38 miles of hiking trails, 3 miles of bike trails, and 6 miles of horse trails.

Camping

One of the best places in the state for camping, Deception Pass boasts over 300 campsites across Cranberry Lake, Bowman Bay, and Quarry Pond. Also, find campsites on Hope Island North Shore Bay.

READ MORE: Wandering Deception Pass State Park

3. Fort CaseyState Park

This is one to visit if you’re interested in history! In World War One and Two, Fort Casey was part of a complex of fortifications that defended Puget Sound.

Part of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, Fort Casey boasts tremendous views over the sound and lots of opportunities to learn about the park’s past.

History is everything at Fort Casey State Park. Visit the lighthouse dating to 1903, learn about its significance, and explore the bunkers and batteries dotted around.

Highlights

• Learn about the history of the 1903 lighthouse, which has its interpretive center
• Explore the bunkers and batteries and learn about how they defended the coastline
• Walk along the two-mile Keystone Spit, which separates Admiralty Inlet and Crocket Lake
• Stroll along the 10,810 feet of coastline

Camping

35 campsites, some with electrical hookups, are available at Coupeville (Keystone) Ferry Terminal. There are also three additional primitive campsites for people who cycle or walk to Fort Casey.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Fort Casey State Park

4. Fort EbeyState Park

Sitting on Whidbey Island, Fort Ebey dates back to World War Two; it was established in 1942, shortly after the USA joined the war. A popular camping site, there are also plenty of trails and nature spots within this state park!

Fort Ebey has something for everyone. While it started as a coastal defense fort and has plenty to explore from this era, it is now a natural wonderland, with gorgeous walking and biking trails.

Highlights

• Explore the battery, which has underground rooms and historic guns
• Hike on the 25 miles of cycling and walking trails
• Enjoy views of Admiralty Inlet and Port Wilson Lighthouse from the bluff – and take in the incredible sunset!
• Tackle the waves with a surfboard!
• Paraglide off the cliffs (if you have the gear and the knowhow)

Camping

Fort Ebey has over 50 campsites, so there’s plenty on offer for anyone who wants to stay the night. Because of its wonderful location and range of attractions, it’s popular with multi-day campers!

READ MORE: Exploring Fort Ebey State Park on Whidbey Island

5. Lake SammamishState Park

An ideal Seattle day trip, Lake Sammamish encompasses lakefront beaches, wetlands, and deciduous forest. There’s no camping here, but it’s the perfect place to spend a day!

If you want a day of activities, look no further than this glorious lake. You’ll never be bored at Lake Sammamish with watersports rentals, hiking trails, and swimming opportunities.

Fancy just kicking back and relaxing instead? There’s a glorious beach to bask on too!

Highlights

• Head to Tibbetts Beach and rent a paddle board or kayak
• Cycle around the forest trails
• Spend time enjoying the trees and looking for local birds – bald eagles and blue herons live here!
• Relax on the beach or paddle out and go for a swim

READ MORE: Exploring Lake Sammamish Just Outside of Seattle!

6. Lime Kiln PointState Park

Possibly most famous for its epic whale-watching opportunities, the rocky bluff of Lime Kiln Point is a glorious day-use park on San Juan Island with incredible views over the Pacific.

Lime Kiln Point is considered one of the best whale-watching locations on the planet, so it’s obvious what most people come here for. Visit between May and September for the best chance of spotting marine life.

Highlights

• Watch out for orcas, gray whales, and porpoises in the water
• Visit the Lime Kiln Interpretive Center to learn more about the creatures
• See the historic lighthouse and lime kiln, which dates back to the 19th century

7. RasarState Park

Located on the Skagit River, Rasar State Park encompasses 180 acres and is a popular place for campers and explorers. Its beautiful scenery reminds you that you’re close to Cascades National Park, but Rasar has an atmosphere entirely of its own.

Hiking and fishing are on the cards for Rasar State Park, although many visitors use it as a launching pad to explore more of the nearby Cascades mountains.

See Also

Washington State Parks | America's State ParksEverything You Need to Know About Washington's State ParksTop 13 State Parks in Washington StateBest State Parks in Washington

Highlights

• Hike along the 3.7 miles of trails through the forest
• Watch out for local birds and other wildlife
• Picnic by the river
• There’s also a playground for children

Camping

With around 50 sites of different sizes and specifications, there’s something for everybody at Rasar State Park. There are also three forest cabins that are perfect for groups!

8. Wallace FallsState Park

With a quintessentially Washington temperate rainforest, Wallace Falls is the perfect state park to plan a day trip from Seattle if you fancy hiking around some beautiful trails and seeing a diverse array of animal life.

This state park is made to be explored on foot; it’s one of the best places to visit if you’re after a hiking adventure. Alternatively, there are water sports opportunities on the river.

Highlights

• Walk through 12 miles of gorgeous temperate rainforest, including the Woody Trail, which visits Wallace Lake and Wallace Falls themselves.
• Take a cycling trail through the woodland
• Try out white water kayaking
• In the winter months, enjoy snowshoeing!

Camping

Wallace Falls has a tiny campsite with just two walk-in tent sites (there are two restrooms nearby as well). If you fancy staying somewhere sturdier, there are five cabins in the state park, all of which have lights, electricity, heating, and beds and are bookable in advance.

RELATED: 7 Awesome Waterfalls Near Seattle

Washington Coast State Parks

The coast is littered with state parks—all offering something a bit different. Excellently located parks to explore Olympic, a surfer’s parades, epic lighthouses, and stunning wildlife… These are our favorite Washington state parks on the coast.

9. BogachielState Park

At just 127 acres, Bogachiel is minuscule. But it offers charming scenery and is in an epic location to explore the best of Olympic National Park, so it’s one to add to your “state parks to visit” list!

The Bogachiel River, the park’s namesake, runs all the way through and is an ideal place to stroll along or just sit beside and contemplate life. There are limited hiking opportunities, but it’s a great place to camp.

Highlights

• Enjoy paddling in the Bogachiel River
• Take the short hiking trail that runs through the park
• Camp and be in a prime position for some of the best things to do in Olympic National Park

Camping

While Bogachiel State Park is small, it does offer 35 campsites. It is the ideal place to stay if you want to be close to Olympic National Park’s best beaches, including Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, La Push Beaches, and the stunning Hoh Rainforest Area.

READ MORE: Bogachiel State Park

10. Cape DisappointmentState Park

Disappointing? This state park is anything but! Named by John Meares in 1788, who was disappointed because he couldn’t locate the mouth of the river, Cape Disappointment is nowadays one of the most popular state parks in Washington thanks to its incredible natural beauty and history.

Stand on a clifftop and gaze over the Pacific Ocean, marvel at the lighthouses, and learn about US military history. Cape Disappointment has many stories to tell, but you can enjoy charming beaches and beautiful wildlife.

Highlights

• Learn about the US military at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center
• Explore coastal defense batteries and military bunkers
• Enjoy Benson Beach, where you can go digging for clams or fish for crab or salmon
• Hike along the coastline or around inland lakes

Camping

With nearly 200 campsites, eight restrooms, and 14 showers, Cape Disappointment has one of the most extensive campsites in the area. Plus, it’s open all year round!

READ MORE: 7 Things To Do in Cape Disappointment State Park

11. Fort ColumbiaState Park

If you like history, you’ll love Fort Columbia! This historical day-use state park is one of the best coastal defense parks in the USA, ideal for learning about the nation’s naval and maritime history. It dates back to 1896 and was used throughout World War One and Two.

Engage in America’s history as you explore artillery batteries and previous officers’ homes. There’s plenty to learn about in the interpretive center and lots to contemplate as you stare over the shoreline.

Highlights

• Explore the historical buildings, including the batteries
• Learn about the park’s extensive history, including its maritime importance and the historic fur trade, in the interpretive center
• Walk along the Columbia River

12. Grayland BeachState Park

Sprawling across 581 acres, Grayland Beach is the perfect place for a beachy vacation. Sitting just west of Seattle, it’s popular with city slickers wanting a short break away!

One of the main highlights of this state park is just enjoying the beach on a sunny day! There are also limited hiking trails and fishing opportunities.

Highlights

• Traverse the 0.6 miles of hiking trails through the grassy dunes with views back toward the Pacific
• Go saltwater fishing, clamming, or crabbing
• Watch out for seabirds
• Stretch out on the glorious beach!

Camping

This state park has over 100 campsites and shower facilities. Due to its proximity to Seattle, it can be busy at the weekends—so book in advance if you’re visiting during high season!

13. Leadbetter PointState Park

Spreading over 1,732 acres, Leadbetter Point is a haven for wildlife spotters—close to the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge. This day-use park is one of Washington’s hidden gems, undiscovered by mass tourism, so you may even have the entire place to yourself!

Birdwatching is the main activity at Leadbetter Point, with all sorts of creatures gracing the skies. It also boasts incredible views, perfect for anyone who needs a quick nature dose.

Highlights

• Scan the skies for birds like pelicans, falcons, and eagles
• Look out for feathered birds on the ground, including the ridiculously fluffy snowy plover chicks!
• Take in the trails, which look out over to Willapa Bay

14. Ocean CityState Park

Relish in the heart of the Washington coastline at Ocean City State Park. Ocean City is a glorious place to relax and unwind, close to Ocean Shores but far enough away to feel like a world of its own.

Life’s a beach at Ocean City State Park—most attractions involve the glorious, uninterrupted sands. Think fishing, clamming, swimming, beach hikes, and relaxing!

Highlights

• Drive onto the beach for a fun-filled beach day with swimming and relaxation opportunities!
• Take a long walk along this stretch of coastline
• Head into Ocean Shores for an 18-hole golf course

Camping

Enjoy nearly 200 campsites at Ocean City State Park, some of which have full hook-up. It’s a popular place due to its location and proximity to Ocean Shores, so book in advance for peak season!

RELATED: 7 Things To Do in Ocean Shores

15. Pacific BeachState Park

As the name suggests, Pacific Beach is right by the coast, encompassing a beautiful 2,300 feet of shoreline. It’s perfect for a back-to-basics camping vacation!

Highlights

• Explore the beach and check out the rockpools, seeing what wildlife lives in this vicinity
• Try out saltwater fishing
• Take a dip in the brisk Pacific Ocean!

Camping

Sixty campsites are on offer, some with partial hook-up. Many overlook the gorgeous beach, making this a perfect spot for a multi-night vacation to get away from it all!

16. Twin HarborsState Park

Twin Harbors State Park encompasses 225 acres along the Washington coastline just south of Westport. Trails lead the way down to the driftwood-strewn beach, and plenty of spots will make you feel like you’re in a world of your own. Back in the campground, you’ll witness a real community feel.

Twin Harbors is a place to rest and recharge, with lots of beach walks and wildlife-watching opportunities. Don’t expect immense amounts of adventure here, but it’s a lovely little vacation spot adored by Washington locals and visitors.

Highlights

• Walk down to the beach, breathe in the salty air, and stroll in either direction.
• Take the Shifting Sands Trail, a half-mile route through the forest with information about the local area.
• Storm watching with dramatic waves in the winter months

Camping

With over 160 campsites and full restroom and shower facilities, there’s plenty of space to stay at Twin Harbors. Booking is essential in the summer. In the winter, you might opt for a cabin or yurt—reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

17. Westhaven and Westport Light State Parks

Westhaven and Westport Light State Parks are next to each other, so it’s easy to visit both on the same trip! Westhaven mainly encompasses a sandy beach, whereas the 560-acre Westport Light encompasses a few beaches and its namesake, Westport Lighthouse.

Both are day-use parks, so there’s no camping, but it’s right by Westport town with hotels and a campground.

If you’re into beach-hopping, you’ll love these two state parks. Spend your day lazing on the shores or walking along the dunes. It’s a glorious addition to any Washington vacation.

Highlights

• Go surfing, as Westport Light is one of the best places in the area for it! Bigfoot Surf School offers classes, and it’s recommended not to go out alone due to currents and rips.
• Walk the 1.3-mile-long path to Westhaven Jetty, enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean and Half Moon Bay.

RELATED: 9 Adventurous Things To Do in Westport

Washington State Parks Near Columbia River Gorge

If you’re around Vancouver, Washington, or Portland, Oregon, you’ll love these state parks!

18. Battle Ground Lake State Park

Nestled in the foothills of the charming Cascade Mountains, Battle Ground Lake is a small forested camping park. A stone’s throw from both Portland and Vancouver (Washington), this 280-acre state park is a glorious dose of nature loved by city slickers during the weekend.

Enjoy the great outdoors at Battle Ground Lake, with hiking trails and calm waters for swimming and paddling. There’s plenty of trout in the water for anglers too!

Check out the nearby Moulton Falls and other nearby waterfalls.

Highlights

• Take one of the hiking, biking, or horseriding trails
• Swim or paddle in the beautiful and clean lake
• Fish for trout

Camping

Camping is available at Battle Ground Lake—it offers 58 sites (six with partial hook-up) and four cabins. If you’re set on spending the night, make a reservation before turning up!

19. Beacon RockState Park

Situated in the Colombia River Gorge Scenic Area, Beacon Rock State Park is a 4,458-acre camping park. Its namesake, Beacon Rock, is an 848-foot-high ancient volcano core. As you’d expect, the views from the top of this natural phenomenon are immense!

Summit to the dizzying heights of Beacon Rock and enjoy vistas over the spectacular Colombia Gorge, or go for an even more adrenalin-fuelled experience and partake in rock climbing. There are also bountiful hikes and epic waterfalls.

Highlights

• Go rock climbing on Beacon Rock itself
• Take the steep uphill track to a viewpoint at the top of Beacon Rock, where natural history comes to life as the gorge was carved during the last ice age.
• Enjoy one of the cycling or horseback riding trails
• Discover some of Beacon Rock’s beautiful hidden waterfalls!

Camping

There’s a more old-fashioned campsite in Beacon Rock State Park, offering 28 standard campsites – there’s a toilet but no electricity or potable water. Alternatively, nearby ​​Woodard Creek Campground offers five full hook-up sites.

20. Paradise PointState Park

A 101-acre camping park, Paradise Point is, as the name suggests, a little slice of heaven. Sitting on the Lewis River, this riverfront area is a haven for birds and is one of the most popular swimming spots near Vancouver.

Chill out, enjoy the views of the river and take a dip in the water if you’re at Paradise Point during a Washington heatwave.

The beauty of this park is that you really can have the best of both worlds – there are plenty of activities on offer if you fancy, or you can just sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation time!

Highlights

• Tackle the two miles of hiking trails
• Go boating on the river
• Try your hand at fishing
• Take a dip in the water from the lakefront beach (safe swimming zones apply)

Camping

There are 70 campsites available, some with partial hook-up. Yurts are available to hire if you want to stay somewhere a little more solid.

Central Washington State Parks

Tucked into The Cascade Mountains, alongside lakes, and down rushing rivers, central Washington’s State Parks can’t be missed!

21. Lake ChelanState Park

It’s a popular favorite for Washington locals vacationing in their state, but don’t worry if it’s your first time here. Lake Chelan has a very welcoming community!

The state park is centered around Lake Chelan, with a glorious beach lagoon for swimming, watersports, and angling opportunities.

Highlights

• Take in hikes in the beautiful North Cascades region
• Try various watersports, including sailing, water skiing, and rafting
• Chill out at the campsite, chatting to other holidaymakers
• Just relax on the beach – there’s nowhere better than Lake Chelan!

Camping

The campground offers over 100 campsites, some with partial or full electricity hookups. But, as it’s such a popular vacation destination (with some groups returning year after year since the 1960s!), you’ll need to book this one in advance!

RELATED: 12 Awesome Things To Do in Lake Chelan

22. Lake WenatcheeState Park

You’ll feel like you’re in Switzerland as you vacation at Lake Wenatchee – a glorious Washington Alpine lake fringe by dramatic mountains. There’s plenty to do at the state park itself, but it’s also the gateway to incredible hikes and adventures in the region.

The alpine lake is chilly, but if you’re brave enough, you can take to a paddleboard and explore the lake from this level. You can even take a dip if you’re feeling adventurous! There’s lots to explore on land, too, from hiking trails to cycling routes.

Highlights

• Take the nine-mile trail up Dirtyface Peak
• Head out to the water on a boat or go windsurfing
• Take a dip in the lagoon
• In the winter, visit the Lake Wenatchee sno-park!
• Hike the nearby Lake Valhalla Trail

Camping

There are nearly 200 campsites at this popular campground, including toilet and shower facilities.

RELATED: 17 of The Most Scenic Lakes in Washington

23. Peshastin PinnaclesState Park

One of the most unique landscapes in the state, Peshashtin Pinnacles consists of jagged, tooth-like sandstone rocks that pierce the sky. They’re an enigmatic place to visit and explore, and there are a few options if you’d like to get up close and personal with the rocks too!

You can take a trail to see the pinnacles, with opportunities for rock climbing too.

Highlights

• Hike the 1.5-mile trail that traverses most of the pinnacles
• Go rock climbing! You can be part of an organized trip to summit one of the pinnacles
• Look out for wildlife in the area

Camping

No camping is available at Peshastin Pinnacles State Park, but nearby Lake Wenatchee State Park, Wenatchee Confluence, and Lincoln Rock State Parks have campsites.

24. Wenatchee ConfluenceState Park

Fancy an action-packed vacation? Wenatchee Confluence, located on the Columbia and Wenatchee rivers delivers—cycling, hiking, and swimming opportunities.

A huge range of activities is on offer at Wenatchee Confluence State Park. Whether you fancy exploring the area by hiking or mountain biking or staying local and testing out the sports courts, this state park is a dream for anyone who loves doing sports on a trip!

Highlights

• Take the Apple Capital Loop Trail, a 10-mile loop that runs around the Columbia River
• Enjoy recreation and swimming in the river
• Check out the variety of courts and fields for sports, including softball, soccer, volleyball, and basketball
• BONUS – Head just 15 minute north and visit the incredible Lincoln Rock State Park to get further away from the city and enjoy the incredible views of the rocky cliffs alongside the river.

Camping

With over 60 campsites and plenty of showers and restrooms, there are many places to stay in Wenatchee State Park. Thanks to its vast array of activities, this is a very popular spot, so book in advance if you’re set on staying here!

Eastern Washington State Parks

Head to the lesser visited side of the state to discover these eastern Washington state parks!

25. Palouse FallsState Park

All of these Washington state parks are worth visiting, but dare we say it, Palouse State Park could be one of the most epic… a dramatic gorge carved by the Palouse River; this is somewhere where you can see epic natural history in action!

Walk to the dramatic Palouse Falls, one of the only remaining active waterfalls from the Ice Age flood path. This is a day-use area, and you probably won’t spend all day here, but trust us when we say it’s well worth visiting!

Highlights

• Walk along the 0.1-mile trail to Palouse Falls.
• Visit the lower and upper viewpoints, which contain information about the area.

READ MORE: 19 Amazing Weekend Trips From Seattle (1-5 Hours Away!)

26. Riverside State Park

Located near Spokane, Riverside State Park is one of the best places in the state to visit if you want a wealth of adventurous activities at your fingertips. There are dozens of miles of hiking trails, so it’s a great place to spend a few days and explore thoroughly.

Fancy hiking, boating, fishing, kayaking, or water skiing? You can do it all at this impressive state park!

Highlights

• Explore the 55 miles of hiking trails
• Enjoy watersports, like water skiing and white-water kayaking (with boating and fishing opportunities also available)
• Go mountain biking or off-road driving through the forest
• In the winter, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling opportunities are available

Camping

Riverside State Park has so much to do, so you’ll probably need a few days to take it all in! Luckily, there are 32 campsites (16 with partial hookup) available. Book in advance for peak season, as this campground can be busy!

27. Steamboat Rock State Park

Steamboat Rock State Park is one of the more dramatic on this list, dating back to the Ice Age. It boasts a 13,000-year-old canyon and dry scrub home to a surprising amount of wildlife.

There’s a lot to see at Steamboat Rock. Marvel at the canyon itself, learning about its fascinating history. Look out for a range of wildlife, and take in the atmosphere of being within a desert-like climate while still firmly in Washington!

Highlights

• Hike the 13.1 miles of trails around the canyon and throughout the state park
• Enjoy the 320 feet long dock with boating and fishing opportunities
• In the winter, try out snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, ice climbing, and ice fishing

Camping

If you’re looking for a full hookup site, you’re in luck at Steamboat Rock – there are 164 of them (along with 26 standard campsites!). There is also plenty of WC and shower facilities.

Final Thoughts on State Parks in Washington

This bumper list of state parks in Washington should be an essential resource when planning your trip here!

From the popular beaches of Deception Pass to the tiny campground of Bogachiel, each of these Washington state parks offers something different, and it’s worth seeing how many you can tick off when you visit this Northwestern state.