Destinations
Washington outdoors
Glacier-capped volcanoes, old-growth rainforest, and wild Pacific coast, all within a few hours of Seattle.
Washington packs an absurd amount of variety into one state. In a single trip you can stand under 200-foot trees in a moss-draped temperate rainforest, walk a wild beach studded with sea stacks, and climb into alpine meadows below a glacier-capped volcano. That range is the whole pitch: the Cascade Range splits the state down the middle, leaving a wet, green, forested west and a drier, sunnier east, and you get to choose your weather.
The big three parks anchor any outdoor plan, and they could not feel more different from one another. One protects a single massive volcano ringed with wildflower meadows, one is a peninsula holding rainforest, mountains, and coast in the same boundary, and one is a wall of jagged peaks and glaciers in the remote north. Beyond the parks, the volunteer-built trail network is enormous. Mount Baker and the Chain Lakes Loop, the Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades, Shi Shi Beach and the Hoh Rainforest on the Olympic Peninsula, and the San Juan Islands out in the Salish Sea all reward a day or more.
Time it for summer if you can. Mid-July through August is the sweet spot: trails and high lakes melt out, the subalpine meadows fill with lupine and paintbrush (peak wildflowers run roughly the last week of July into mid-August), and the dry, warm weather holds. Late May and early June can still be deep snow up high even when Seattle feels like summer, so the lowlands and coast are the better early-season call. Pack for the mountains regardless of the forecast: layers you can shed and re-add, a genuine rain shell (this is the Pacific Northwest), sturdy traction for lingering snow on high passes into July, and sun protection for exposed meadows. The coast and rainforest stay cool and damp even in August, so a warm layer earns its place in the pack year-round.
Weather and elevation
Choose coast, volcano, or alpine country before dates harden.
Washington's national parks sit in different weather systems. Olympic can be rainforest, coast, and mountains in one trip. Rainier and North Cascades ask more from road timing, snowpack, and visibility.
Best window
July to September for high-country access, with shoulder seasons better for lower forests and coast.
Base logic
Port Angeles and Forks split Olympic, Ashford or Packwood serve Rainier, Marblemount serves North Cascades.
Packing focus
Rain shell, insulating layer, traction in early season, and footwear for wet trail.
Trip shape
Olympic works as a varied road trip. Rainier and North Cascades reward fewer bases.
First Washington park trip
Choose Olympic if you want variety and lower-elevation backup plans when weather blocks a mountain day.
Peak mountain trip
Use Mount Rainier or North Cascades in the main summer window when roads, wildflowers, and alpine trails align.
Start with these guides
State park reservations
Washington booking basics
Coast, island, and mountain parks can all sell out, but ferry and pass logistics add separate friction.
Booking note
Washington books campsites, cabins, yurts, group camps, vacation houses, and day-use facilities up to nine months ahead, with same-day campsite reservations available until 2 p.m.
Agency
Washington State Parks
State park directory
Washington state park system places
A source-backed inventory layer for planning breadth. Full Kit Authority guides are marked when a park has imagery, camping detail, rules, and packing notes.
147 directory entries
1 full guides live
- Official page
Alta Lake State Park
State Park
Alta Lake State Park is a camping and day-use park where mountainous pine forests meet the desert, with a 2-mile lake offering trout fishing, water skiing and windsurfing in summer.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Anderson Lake State Park
State Park
Anderson Lake State Park is a day-use park with cedar, fir and alder forests and a freshwater marsh, with hiking, equestrian and biking trails sloping down to a lake teeming with wildlife.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Battle Ground Lake State Park
State Park
In the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Battle Ground Lake State Park offers hiking, biking and equestrian campsites, and a spring-fed lake that draws swimmers, paddlers and anglers.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Bay View State Park
State Park
Bay View State Park is a camping park on the shores of Padilla Bay with magnificent views of the San Juan Islands on clear days.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Beacon Rock State Park
State Park
Overlooking the Columbia River, Beacon Rock State Park is a destination for hiking, technical climbing, horseback riding and biking with year-round Columbia River Gorge views.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Climbing
- Horseback Riding
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Beebe Bridge State Park
State Park
Beebe Bridge State Park near Chelan is a scenic 56-acre Columbia River riverfront getaway offering swimming, boating, pickleball and roomy campgrounds.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Belfair State Park
State Park
Belfair State Park sits on Puget Sound with wetlands, pebble beaches, tidal flats and salmon runs to discover and explore.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Birch Bay State Park
State Park
Set in a cove between Bellingham and Blaine, Birch Bay State Park gives a secluded feel with relatively warm water suited to crabbing, windsurfing, swimming and paddling.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Blake Island Marine State Park
State Park
Accessible only by boat, Blake Island Marine State Park offers classic island recreation while still being close to Seattle.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Blind Island Marine State Park
State Park
Accessible only by boat, Blind Island provides few amenities but offers tranquil water views and a feeling of escape.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Bogachiel State Park
State Park
Bogachiel State Park provides a green-enshrouded riverside haven and an excellent base for touring the western Olympic Peninsula.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Bottle Beach State Park
State Park
Bottle Beach State Park sits on the tide flats of southern Grays Harbor and hosts more than a million migratory shorebirds and seabirds in springtime.
- Hiking
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Bridgeport State Park
State Park
Bridgeport State Park is a 622-acre camping park with 7,500 feet of freshwater shoreline on Rufus Woods Lake, with 18 acres of lawn amid desert terrain.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Bridle Trails State Park
State Park
This equestrian-friendly park between Kirkland and Redmond is considered one of the top equestrian parks west of the Mississippi, featuring four horse arenas and ample trails.
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Brooks Memorial State Park
State Park
Brooks Memorial State Park offers panoramic mountain views, expansive wildflower meadows and starry skies, with tall pines and oaks in the Simcoe mountains near Goldendale.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Disc Golf
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Cama Beach Historical State Park
State Park
Cama Beach is a waterfront park with spectacular views of Saratoga Passage and amenities including the Cama Beach Cafe.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Camano Island State Park
State Park
Camano Island State Park feels a world away with forested trails, rocky shoreline and sweeping views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Cape Disappointment State Park
State Park
Cape Disappointment State Park offers trails through forest, around freshwater lakes, saltwater marshes and ocean tidelands, with beaches that lure kite flyers and nature explorers.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Golf
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Clark Island Marine State Park
State Park
Located midway between Orcas and Lummi islands, Clark Island Marine State Park is a stretch of land perfect for camping and relaxing after a day of boating or paddling.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Columbia Hills Historical State Park
State Park
Columbia Hills Historical State Park offers shrub-steppe beauty, high-desert panoramas and river shoreline, with climbing, biking, horseback riding and Native American petroglyphs.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Climbing
- Horseback Riding
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Columbia Plateau State Park Trail
State Park
The 130-mile Columbia Plateau State Park Trail starts southwest of Spokane and follows an abandoned railbed along the Snake River south, ending near Pasco.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Conconully State Park
State Park
Nestled in the forested mountains of north central Washington, Conconully State Park is a 97-acre angler's paradise on the Conconully Reservoir.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Crawford State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Crawford State Park is a 40-acre forested day-use park home to Gardner Cave, one of Washington's longest limestone caves, with tours by reservation.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Curlew Lake State Park
State Park
Located in northeastern Washington, Curlew Lake State Park is an 87-acre park popular for fishing and camping with lake vistas of pine-covered hills.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
Show 123 more Washington entries
- Official page
Cutts Island Marine State Park
State Park
Cutts Island State Park is a small island reachable only by boat that offers the perfect day at the beach.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Daroga State Park
State Park
Daroga State Park is a green oasis among the dry hills of Central Washington, with a calm lagoon for swimming and paddling and Columbia River access for boaters.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Dash Point State Park
State Park
Dash Point State Park offers miles of forested hiking and biking trails plus a sandy beach on Puget Sound between two urban hubs.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Full guide
Deception Pass State Park
State Park
Spanning two islands connected by iconic bridges, Deception Pass features rugged ocean cliffs and quiet old growth forests, known for panoramic views and sunsets.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Doe Island Marine State Park
State Park
Adjacent to Orcas Island, Doe Island Marine State Park offers quiet marine camping with a short hiking loop.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Dosewallips State Park
State Park
Dosewallips State Park offers mountains and beach with clam digging and elk herds wandering through camp, on Hood Canal and the Dosewallips River.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Doug's Beach State Park
State Park
Doug's Beach is a popular site for windsurfing, swimming, paddle boarding and wildlife viewing in the scenic Columbia River Gorge.
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Eagle Island Marine State Park
State Park
Eagle Island is a place to moor or anchor your boat, with views of Mount Rainier, a beach and harbor seals close to shore.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Federation Forest State Park
State Park
Federation Forest is a day-use park next to the White River with hundreds of acres of old-growth trees and kid-friendly hiking trails.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fields Spring State Park
State Park
Located in the Blue Mountains of southeast Washington, Fields Spring is a forested camping park open year-round for hiking, biking and snow play.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Flaming Geyser State Park
State Park
Set on the Green River east of Auburn, Flaming Geyser State Park is known for wooded hiking, horse trails, expansive fields for play and fall salmon runs.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Casey Historical State Park
State Park
Fort Casey Historical State Park features historic military batteries and a 1903 lighthouse with an interpretive center, plus stunning views and beach access on Whidbey Island.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Columbia State Park
State Park
Fort Columbia State Park is considered one of the most intact historic coastal defense sites in the U.S., with bird watching, forested hiking trails and secluded beaches.
- Hiking
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Ebey State Park
State Park
Fort Ebey State Park is a coastal camping park on Whidbey Island with a historic military fort and 25 miles of wooded trails, plus beach, surfing and paragliding.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Flagler Historical State Park
State Park
Fort Flagler Historical State Park is a camping park surrounded on three sides by saltwater shoreline, with historic forts and military history.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Simcoe Historical State Park
State Park
Once a Yakama Nation camping area, Fort Simcoe was built by the U.S. Army in 1856 and is one of the few remaining pre-Civil War forts in the west.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Townsend Historical State Park
State Park
Fort Townsend Historical State Park is a small camping park south of Port Townsend with beach access on Port Townsend Bay and a hidden history dating to 1856.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Fort Worden Historical State Park
State Park
Fort Worden Historical State Park overlooks Admiralty Inlet at the entrance of Puget Sound, with camping, beaches, forests, historic gun batteries and museums.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park
State Park
A National Natural Landmark, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park offers hiking and interpretive activities, with camping and water access at nearby Wanapum Recreation Area.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Goldendale Observatory, set in the hills above the Columbia River, houses one of the nation's largest public telescopes, with reservations required for programs.
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Grayland Beach State Park
State Park
Grayland Beach offers front-row access to sandy shores and sweeping ocean views, with beach and ocean activities in summer and yurts for relaxing.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Griffiths-Priday State Park
State Park
Griffiths-Priday State Park offers both ocean and river access for picnicking, fishing or a relaxing stroll on the sandy beach.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Harstine Island State Park
State Park
Harstine Island State Park offers miles of forested trails through old growth forest for hiking, swimming, birdwatching and fishing.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Hope Island Marine State Park - Mason County
State Park
A hidden gem reached only by watercraft, Hope Island Marine State Park in Mason County offers trails, seals in the water, eagles and historic fruit trees.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County
State Park
A quick paddle or boat ride reaches Hope Island State Park in Skagit Bay, where most of the island is a nature preserve supporting a diverse ecosystem.
- Camping
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Ike Kinswa State Park
State Park
Ike Kinswa State Park sits on 454 acres on the shore of Mayfield Lake, with swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, kayaking and nature watching.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Illahee State Park
State Park
Illahee State Park offers verdant hiking trails, fishing, shellfishing and paddling, plus a memorial featuring two large naval guns from the U.S.S. West Virginia.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Jackson House State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Jackson House State Park Heritage Site is a small day-use park preserving the cabin home of John R. Jackson, the first pioneer settler north of the Columbia River.
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
James Island Marine State Park
State Park
James Island Marine State Park is a water access-only island in the San Juans with emerald coves, forested trails, spectacular views and two white sand beaches.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Jarrell Cove State Park
State Park
Located on Harstine Island, Jarrell Cove is a saltwater haven with opportunities for swimming, camping, overnight boat moorage and wildlife watching.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Joemma Beach State Park
State Park
Set on Key Peninsula in South Puget Sound, Joemma Beach offers salty bliss for kayakers, canoeists and paddlers with accessible solitude.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Jones Island Marine State Park
State Park
Jones Island lies among the San Juan Islands with cliffside campsites, untamed beaches and native residents such as deer and otter.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Joseph Whidbey State Park
State Park
Joseph Whidbey State Park is a day-use park on the west shore of Whidbey Island with expansive views of Victoria B.C., Lopez Island and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
- Hiking
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
State Park
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park is a camping park on a forested plateau next to the whitewater of the Green River, with rafting, fishing and hiking.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Kinney Point State Park Property
State Park Property
Located on Marrowstone Island and accessible only by beachable watercraft, Kinney Point State Park is a quiet place to spend the night and explore the beach.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Kitsap Memorial State Park
State Park
Located on the Hood Canal shoreline, Kitsap Memorial State Park is popular for weddings and picnicking, with Olympic Mountain views and Hood Canal kayaking.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Beach
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Playground
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Klickitat State Park Trail
State Park
The Klickitat Trail follows an old railroad corridor along the Klickitat River through Swale Canyon, lined with oak and pine forests and springtime wildflowers.
- Biking
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Kopachuck State Park
State Park
Kopachuck State Park is a day-use park with beach sunsets, saltwater shoreline, forested trails and an underwater park, great for a family picnic.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lake Chelan State Park
State Park
On the shores of Lake Chelan, this popular park offers hiking, biking, volleyball, swimming, fishing and camping.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lake Easton State Park
State Park
Located off I-90 between Seattle and Ellensburg, Lake Easton State Park is a forested camping park with freshwater access, water sports in summer and skiing in winter.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lake Sammamish State Park
State Park
Close to Seattle, Lake Sammamish State Park offers two swimming beaches, trails, volleyball courts, soccer fields and more.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lake Sylvia State Park
State Park
Set beside a placid lake, Lake Sylvia is a popular park with a classic Western Washington forest feel, a fishing bridge and a loop trail around the lake.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lake Wenatchee State Park
State Park
Lake Wenatchee is a Northwest icon with a clear blue lake surrounded by forested mountains near Leavenworth.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Larrabee State Park
State Park
Set on Chuckanut Mountain near Bellingham, Larrabee State Park is known for views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands and was Washington's first state park.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Horseback Riding
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Leadbetter Point State Park
State Park
A small day-use park adjacent to the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, Leadbetter Point is full of natural wonders and abundant wildlife for birdwatching and exploring.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lewis and Clark State Park
State Park
Horses are welcome at this 616-acre camping park set in a stand of old-growth forest with dense forest hiking trails, picnic shelters and camping.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lewis and Clark Trail State Park
State Park
Set along the Touchet River, Lewis and Clark Trail State Park is a forested park surrounded by arid grassland with unusual vegetation, geology and a rich history.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lime Kiln Point State Park
State Park
Set on a rocky cliff at the west end of San Juan Island, Lime Kiln Point is considered one of the best whale-watching spots on earth.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lincoln Rock State Park
State Park
Located just above Rocky Reach Dam, Lincoln Rock State Park offers shaded campsites, cabins and a boat launch on Lake Entiat with calm waters for paddling.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Lyons Ferry State Park
State Park
Admire the Ice Age flood-carved Palouse landscape while picnicking under shade trees or boating at the confluence of the Snake and Palouse rivers.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Manchester State Park
State Park
Manchester State Park is a year-round camping park with views of Puget Sound and a military history, including the historic Torpedo Warehouse.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Maryhill State Park
State Park
Maryhill State Park is a waterfront camping park on the Columbia River with natural beauty and cultural history.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Matia Island Marine State Park
State Park
Located in the San Juan Islands, Matia Island is a secluded little island accessible only by boat, known for old-growth trees and a dramatic cove.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
McMicken Island Marine State Park
State Park
On the waters of South Puget Sound, McMicken Island is surrounded by moorage buoys and can only be accessed by boat, making it a unique getaway.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Miller Peninsula State Park Property
State Park Property
Set in one of the driest microclimates west of the Cascades, Miller Peninsula State Park dwells in the Olympic rain shadow with shared-use trails and saltwater shoreline.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Millersylvania State Park
State Park
Millersylvania is an old-growth forest camping park on the shores of Deep Lake with two swimming beaches and miles of forested hiking and biking trails.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Moran State Park
State Park
On Orcas Island, Moran State Park features five lakes, forested campgrounds and trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding, plus Mount Constitution views.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Mount Pilchuck State Park
State Park
Mount Pilchuck State Park sits at 3,100 feet and offers alpine views, with a 2.7-mile trail up to the summit and historic fire lookout as the main attraction.
- Hiking
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Mount Spokane State Park
State Park
Nestled in the forested Selkirk Mountains with 100 miles of trails, Mount Spokane offers both summer and winter recreation.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Mystery Bay State Park
State Park
Mystery Bay State Park is a hidden escape on the west side of Marrowstone Island for a day on the water with views of the Olympic Mountains.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Nisqually State Park
State Park
Nisqually State Park is a day-use park in development on the Nisqually River with views of Mount Rainier and trails for foot, bicycle or horseback.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Nolte State Park
State Park
Nolte State Park is a laid-back day-use park on Deep Lake near the Green River Gorge for swimming, kayaking, fishing and relaxing on the grass.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Obstruction Pass State Park
State Park
Obstruction Pass State Park offers access to one of the few public beaches on Orcas Island, with madrone trees, pebbly beaches and water views.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Ocean City State Park
State Park
For a walk on the beach, clamming or camping, Ocean City State Park offers a forested campground near the sand with sandpipers, kites and campfires.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Olallie State Park
State Park
At Olallie State Park east of Seattle, view waterfalls, hike, bike, rock climb and connect to the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Climbing
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Olmstead Place Historical State Park
State Park
Olmstead Place demonstrates homesteader family life, farming history and equipment, with grounds to walk or guided tours of late-19th century life.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Pacific Beach State Park
State Park
This small camping park northwest of Aberdeen features campsites next to the Pacific Ocean with a flat, sandy beach for kites and play.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Pacific Pines State Park
State Park
Dune grasses, knobby shore pines and a sandy shore create a classic Washington beach scene at this 10-acre day-use park for sand play, birdwatching, fishing and sunsets.
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site is a 94-acre day-use park with dramatic views of the official state waterfall.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail
State Park
The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail gives hikers, cyclists and equestrians a 251-mile route from Cedar Falls near North Bend east to the Idaho border.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Climbing
- Geocaching
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail Central
State Park
The central 107-mile section of the trail begins at the Snoqualmie Tunnel and continues east through Ellensburg, over the Columbia River on the Beverly Bridge.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Climbing
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail East
State Park
The east 126-mile section runs from Warden to the Idaho border and is the most variable and remote section, requiring pre-registration before you visit.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail West
State Park
The west 18-mile section runs from the North Bend area to the Snoqualmie Pass Tunnel and is the most improved for recreational use.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Climbing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Paradise Point State Park
State Park
Paradise Point State Park is a camping park off I-5 on the Lewis River, featuring a sandy riverfront swimming area, meadow and woodsy campsites and a disc golf course.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Patos Island Marine State Park
State Park
Patos Island is a 207-acre marine park with dramatic rock formations, madrone trees and a working lighthouse, accessible only by boat in the San Juan Islands.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Peace Arch Historical State Park
State Park
The International Peace Arch is a 67-foot white arch on the U.S.-Canada border at Blaine, set among green lawns and flowering gardens devoted to peace.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Pearrygin Lake State Park
State Park
Pearrygin Lake State Park offers camping, hiking, swimming and winter snowshoeing and Nordic skiing across 1,186 acres near Winthrop.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Penrose Point State Park
State Park
Penrose Point is a forested 237-acre marine park with nearly 2 miles of Puget Sound shoreline, trails, overnight moorage and a shady campground.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Peshastin Pinnacles State Park
State Park
Peshastin Pinnacles is a 34-acre day-use park in the Wenatchee River Valley where hikers view sandstone slabs and panoramas of mountains, hills and orchards.
- Hiking
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Pleasant Harbor State Park Property
State Park Property
Pleasant Harbor is a cozy one-acre state park property for overnight moorage only, ideal for tying up your boat to enjoy Hood Canal.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Posey Island State Park
State Park
Posey Island is a one-acre marine park north of Pearl Island near Roche Harbor, with two primitive group campsites and a terrific overnight stop for kayakers.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Potholes State Park
State Park
Set in desert terrain on Potholes Reservoir with freshwater marshes, Potholes State Park is a spot for camping, water activities and family time.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Potlatch State Park
State Park
Set on a rocky estuary shoreline, Potlatch combines sea and land, with mature pine forest giving way to sweeping views of the Hood Canal.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Rainbow Falls State Park
State Park
Rainbow Falls State Park is a 129-acre camping park on the Chehalis River, a popular stay for hikers, cyclists and horseback riders on the Willapa Hills Trail.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Horseback Riding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Rasar State Park
State Park
Offering forested campgrounds, grassy fields and views of the Skagit River, Rasar State Park is a 180-acre retreat with freshwater shoreline for hikers and families.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Reed Island State Park
State Park
Reed Island State Park is a marine day-use park on the Columbia River east of Vancouver, with a sandy beach, grassy meadows and resident herons.
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Riverside State Park
State Park
Riverside State Park spans 9,194 acres along the Spokane and Little Spokane rivers, with hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, boating and more.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Horseback Riding
- Climbing
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Rockport State Park
State Park
At the foot of Sauk Mountain, Rockport State Park features rare 250-foot-tall old-growth trees and a Skagit River overlook.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Sacajawea Historical State Park
State Park
Sacajawea Historical State Park is a 267-acre day-use park at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Saddlebag Island Marine State Park
State Park
Located in Padilla Bay, Saddlebag Island is a boat-in only park with a warm pebble beach, green forest and grassy meadows with spring wildflowers.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Saint Edward State Park
State Park
Saint Edward State Park is a day-use park with sprawling lawns and forested trails set around Romanesque Revival-style brick buildings.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Saltwater State Park
State Park
Saltwater State Park delivers a sandy beach getaway two miles from I-5, with forested campsites along a creek, tide pools and an artificial underwater reef.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Scenic Beach State Park
State Park
Picturesque Scenic Beach has stunning views of the Olympic Mountain range, with groomed forest trails, native rhododendrons and the historic Emel House.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Geocaching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Schafer State Park
State Park
Schafer State Park offers fishing for steelhead, cutthroat trout and salmon as well as camping in a cool, classic Western Washington forest.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Seaquest State Park
State Park
Seaquest is a 475-acre year-round camping park among fir trees in the shadow of Mount St. Helens, with forested campgrounds, hiking trails and a wetland boardwalk.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Sequim Bay State Park
State Park
Set in the Olympic rain shadow, Sequim Bay State Park is a year-round camping park with saltwater shoreline in one of the driest microclimates west of the Cascades.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Beach
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Shine Tidelands State Park
State Park
Shine Tidelands State Park is a day-use park with a sandy shoreline along Bywater Bay offering a picnic area and views of Hood Canal.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Skagit Island Marine State Park
State Park
Skagit Island Marine State Park is a 25-acre island offering marine camping in Skagit Bay within kayaking distance of Cornet Bay.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
South Whidbey State Park
State Park
South Whidbey State Park preserves an old-growth forest with western views of Admiralty Inlet, hiking trails, a picnic area and an amphitheater.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hiking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Spencer Spit State Park
State Park
Spencer Spit State Park features a rare sand spit enclosed by a saltwater lagoon on Lopez Island, with a campground and group camps.
- Beach
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail
State Park
The Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail is a 40-mile trail running through eastern Washington from Nine Mile Recreation Area to the Idaho border.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Spring Creek Hatchery State Park
State Park
Spring Creek Hatchery is a day-use park with windsurfing in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in southeast Skamania County.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Paddling
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Squak Mountain State Park
State Park
Squak Mountain State Park is a day-use park less than 15 minutes from Seattle with hiking and horse trails amid mossy rocks and creeks.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Squilchuck State Park
State Park
Squilchuck State Park sits at 3,200 feet near Wenatchee with a group camp, forested trails for mountain biking and winter snow play.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Steamboat Rock State Park
State Park
Steamboat Rock State Park offers green lawns, climbing rocks, boating, camping and miles of trails amid a Pacific Northwest desert.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Paddling
- Climbing
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Steptoe Battlefield State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Steptoe Battlefield State Park Heritage Site is a three-acre day-use park in Rosalia commemorating an 1858 battle between U.S. Army forces and Native American tribes.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Steptoe Butte State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Steptoe Butte State Park Heritage Site is a National Natural Landmark with panoramic views of the surrounding farmlands, mountains and states.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hiking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Stuart Island Marine State Park
State Park
Stuart Island is the northwestern-most San Juan Island, a water-access-only marine park with a primitive campground and clear waters.
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Sucia Island Marine State Park
State Park
Sucia Island is a world-class boating marine park with emerald waters, forested trails, sandstone formations and sheltered coves and harbors.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
State Park
Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park is a high desert camping park between Soap Lake and Coulee City with deep gorges, lakes, hiking and golf.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Golf
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Tolmie State Park
State Park
Tolmie State Park is a day-use park on a split cove with beach exploration, an underwater park with an artificial reef and a saltwater marsh.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Triton Cove State Park
State Park
Triton Cove State Park is a small day-use park on Hood Canal with 555 feet of shoreline and an ADA-accessible boat launch.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Turn Island Marine State Park
State Park
Turn Island Marine State Park is a kayaker's destination with pebble beaches and shoreside campsites in the San Juans.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Twanoh State Park
State Park
Twanoh State Park is a 188-acre marine camping park on Hood Canal built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, with warm saltwater swimming and abundant shellfish.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
State Park
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park sits where the creek flows from the mountains to Lake Chelan, suited to a day trip or campout.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Twin Harbors State Park
State Park
Twin Harbors State Park is a coastal park with trails winding through grassy sand dunes to a driftwood-strewn Pacific beach.
- Beach
- Wildlife Viewing
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Wallace Falls State Park
State Park
Wallace Falls State Park features a lush forest, two lakes, the three-tiered Wallace Falls and 17 miles of hiking and biking trails.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Camping
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Climbing
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Wanapum Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Wanapum Recreation Area is a camping and day-use park in a shrub-steppe landscape next to the Columbia River with a swim beach.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Wenatchee Confluence State Park
State Park
Wenatchee Confluence State Park is a 194-acre park at the confluence of the Columbia and Wenatchee Rivers with camping, a swim area and a wetland preserve.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Westport Light State Park
State Park
Westport Light State Park is named for the historic Westport Lighthouse and sits along the Pacific Ocean with a boardwalk and beach.
- Beach
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Hiking
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Willapa Hills State Park Trail
State Park
Willapa Hills State Park Trail spans 56 miles between Chehalis and South Bend with scenic views of valleys, rivers, farms and small towns.
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Willie Keil's Grave State Park Heritage Site
State Park Heritage Site
Willie Keil's Grave State Park Heritage Site is a small private cemetery off State Highway 6 near Raymond honoring the so-called Pickled Pioneer.
- Historic Site
Washington State Parks
- Official page
Yakima Sportsman State Park
State Park
Yakima Sportsman State Park is a 266-acre camping park created by the Yakima Sportsman's Association to promote game management and preserve natural resources.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
Washington State Parks
Inventory source: USGS PAD-US 4.1. Curated states also use official agency directories where available. Official reservations and rules remain state-specific, so use the state booking links above before committing to dates.
National parks in Washington
Mount Rainier
A 14,410-foot glaciated volcano ringed by wildflower meadows, old-growth forest, and some of the best alpine day-hiking in the Lower 48.
North Cascades
Jagged peaks, 300-plus glaciers, and turquoise lakes an hour from a highway, with almost no crowds.
Olympic
Three parks in one: glacier-capped peaks, rugged Pacific coast, and old-growth rainforest on Washington's Olympic Peninsula.
State parks in Washington
State-park guides focus on the decisions that usually make or break the weekend: camping reservations, day-use access, trail difficulty, and seasonal crowd pressure.
Getting around Washington
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the obvious hub and puts all three national parks within an easy half-day drive. Mount Rainier is closest, roughly 95 miles and about 2 hours 15 minutes southeast. The North Cascades sit about 103 miles north, and Olympic National Park is around 126 miles and 2.5 hours to the west, with the catch that the Olympic Peninsula is huge and the park's highlights (Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rainforest, the coastal beaches) are spread an hour or more apart once you arrive. Spokane (GEG) in the far east is the better gateway if you are focused on the drier eastern half of the state.
Plan on a rental car. Public transit to and around the parks is thin, and the destinations are far enough apart that a loop takes real driving. A classic circuit runs Seattle to Olympic (about 3 hours to the peninsula), then south and east to Mount Rainier (roughly 3 hours), then a longer haul north to the North Cascades (closer to 4 hours from Rainier). Getting to the Olympic Peninsula often involves a Washington State Ferry across Puget Sound, which is scenic but worth building into your timing. Mountain roads, including the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20), close seasonally with snow, so check current conditions before any shoulder-season trip.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Washington's national parks?
Mid-July through August is the prime window for the high country. By then the snow has melted off the trails and passes, the subalpine meadows are full of wildflowers (peak bloom is roughly the last week of July into mid-August), and the weather is reliably warm and dry. Late May and early June can still be buried in snow at higher elevations even when Seattle feels like summer, so save the high alpine hikes for later and stick to the coast and lowland rainforest in early season.
Which national park in Washington is the best one to visit?
It depends on what you want, because the three are genuinely different. Olympic is the most varied single destination, packing rainforest, mountains, and wild coastline into one park, which makes it a great pick if you only have time for one. Mount Rainier is the move for that iconic glaciated volcano and its wildflower meadows, and it is the closest to Seattle. The North Cascades are the most rugged and remote, best for hikers chasing dramatic peaks and glaciers with smaller crowds.
Do I need a car to explore Washington's outdoors?
Yes, in practice. Public transportation to and within the national parks is limited, and the major outdoor areas are spread across the state, so a rental car gives you the flexibility to actually reach trailheads and link destinations. Build in extra time for a Washington State Ferry if you are heading to the Olympic Peninsula, and check seasonal road closures (like the North Cascades Highway) before traveling outside summer.