The Best State Parks To Visit In Washington
Washington State’s parks are truly a gem the state can be proud of. There are over 140 state parks, trails, marine parks, and historic sites in Washington waiting to be discovered. Each year, more than 40 million people visit the state’s parks to hike, run, and drink in the history that Washington State has to offer. Visitors can see the coastal fortifications at Fort Columbia or gander at the majestic rock faces at Beacon Rock State Park. There is no shortage of things to do in Washington, but nature lovers are especially in for a treat. To help you plan your trip, here are the best state parks Washington offers.
Peshastin Pinnacles State Park
The activities that can be done in Washington’s state park system are as varied as the parks themselves. Peshastin Pinnacles State Park is, to put it squarely, a hiker’s paradise. This day-use park can be found in the Cascade Mountains deep in the foothills of Chelan County. The twisting trails that wind through the rocky outcrops of this park lead to wonderful panoramic views of Washington. Sandstone spires punctuate fruit orchards, and the Wenatchee River Valley’s beauty can truly be appreciated at altitude. Wild roses sprout up throughout the park. There are picnicking opportunities here, and bird-watching is especially popular. Rock climbers, hikers, and everyone else will have a field day at this park.
Rasar State Park
Based along the sonorous Skagit River, Rasar State Park has numerous trails where you can discover the park's second-growth forest, wildlife, and rich pioneer history. With 4,000 feet of shoreline to its credit, this 180-acre camping park provides opportunities for birders, anglers, and families alike. Trek along the Skagit Woods Trail, the Skagit River Trail, and the Field Trail to experience serene natural splendor. As a bonus, these trails are dog-friendly. Nearby, Sauk Mountain can be seen from the Field Trail on a clear day, while the River Trail is perfect for bird-watching. Camping opportunities are here for overnight stays, and there are even deer! Rasar State Park is a temperate rainforest wonderland that must be seen and believed.
Fort Flagler State Park
At ease, soldier. Fort Flagler State Park was once a military fort that was turned into a park for everyone’s enjoyment. This former fort offers excellent views along the coast. The park is surrounded on three sides by 19,000 feet of shoreline. You can see Port Townsend while walking along the beach and look across towards the Cascade Mountain Range. The park’s bluffs can be climbed for even better views of the water and horizon. River otters and bald eagles can be spotted at Fort Flagler to the delight of animal lovers, and even though the park is now decommissioned, there is still plenty of historical enrichment to be had. The officer’s quarters and even the main gun have been maintained and are open for public viewing.
Federation Forest State Park
This park is one of Washington’s hidden gems. The park received less than 50,000 visitors in 2022, but do not let that fool you. Federation Forest has 600 acres of cedars, first, and hemlock to explore. Overshadowed by the nearby Mount Rainier, this peaceful park is the best place to decompress and get away from it all. There are over 12 miles of trails to trek, and at the end of the West Trail, one can find the mighty White River, which is fed by glacial waters by way of Mount Rainier. The park gets its name from the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, which purchased the park to protect it from deforestation. The Catherine Montgomery Interpretive Center is a great place to learn about the park’s flora and the organization's history.
Steamboat Rock State Park
Elevated at 800 feet and extending over 5,000 acres, Steamboat Rock is sure to impress everyone, from seasoned travelers to newcomers. Visitors can hike the basalt rock formations which reward those who can put in the legwork to views of Grand Coulee and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
The park was carved by floods dating back to the Ice Age, leaving multiple depressions in the canyon, which would become lakes dating back over 13,000 years. Affectionately known as “Scabland,” this park is home to wildflowers and animals hiding in the sagebrush. Hiking the columnar basalt butte, camping out, or spending the day at Banks Lake with its many watercraft launches are three perfect ways to experience this Washington wonder.
Larabee State Park
As Washington State’s first state park, Larabee has plenty of history to spare. This park boasts over 8,000 feet of pristine coastline to be enjoyed at your pleasure. There are tidepools by the dozen and beachcombers will be delighted by the marvelous strand awaiting at Larabee. The best time to enjoy the beach is at low tide, however, so be sure to consult the park’s tidal chart. If water sports are of interest, kayaking and paddleboarding here are not only allowed but highly encouraged. There are also 18 miles of trails to hike, run, and explore. Stop at Fragrance or Lost Lake, or even try your hand at Chuckanut Mountain for a bigger challenge. Camping is possible here, and best of all, the park is less than two hours from Seattle.
Moran State Park
Moran State Park is known for being scenic. Densely forested and remote, this Orcas Island retreat is the perfect place for some much-needed solitude. Moran State Park is found on the largest island in the San Juan archipelago. It can only be reached by the Washington State Ferries, but once there, the island’s lakes are teeming with freshwater fun for the whole family. Moran State Park has nearly 40 miles of paths and trails, and that is only the start. Mount Constitution is a real challenge for hikers and bikers alike, but the views from its top are worth all the perspiration. The radio tower at the top is one of the best vantage points around to take in Washington’s splendor.
Deception Pass State Park
Washington’s most popular state park may very well be Deception Pass, and for good reason. This state park is so great, it covers two islands at one time. There is so much to do at Deception Pass, a return trip is recommended. Only a shade over an hour’s drive from Seattle, this park makes for a great getaway from city life. Be sure to stop on the famed Deception Pass Bridge, a gorgeous specimen that offers views of the surrounding area in 360 degrees. Fidalgo and Whidbey islands, home to the park, are beloved as campgrounds and there are both fresh and saltwater lakes here. With 38 miles of trails lacing through old-growth forests, Deception Pass State Park does have it all.
The natural wonders of the Cascadia region along the American West Coast, from the deserts of California to the rain forests of Washington, are a sight to behold. Ancient sentinel trees that have stood for over a thousand years and witnessed the birth of a nation remain there, along with the engineering marvels that allow us to see them first-hand. From the sweeping coastline to the soaring peaks of the state’s mountainous regions, Washington’s parks are full of beauty. We hope you get to see them all.
