Washington State is home to a remarkable collection of State Parks, each offering its own unique beauty and charm. The length and breadth of the Pacific North West’s diverse ecosystems is showcased in over 140 State Parks in Washington State. They offer a variety of outdoor experiences across rugged coastlines, towering mountains, tranquil lakes and dense forests.
National Parks and Monuments like Mount Rainier or Mount St Helens often steal the spotlight, and justifiably so. But don’t overlook the pearls within the State Parks system. From ancient petrified forests to hidden waterfalls, glacier-carved fjords to rocky canyons. After 4-years exploring the PNW, these are our top picks for State Parks in Washington State.
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Get yourself a Discover Pass
Access to Washington State Parks by vehicle requires a Discover Pass. You can purchase a day pass for $10 or a great-value, annual pass for $30. The Discover Pass can usually be purchased onsite, either from a machine or putting cash in an envelope with your vehicle details, so come prepared. For more information see the Discover Pass official website.
Practise no trace
While enjoying these incredible Washington State Parks, remember to practice the seven Leave Not Trace principles:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find (except rubbish, if you pick up other people’s trash you are a superstar)
- Minimise campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others
The best State Parks in Washington State
Ok, we can’t claim to have been to all 140 Washington State Parks. However, we’ve covered quite a few now and these are my favourites. Check back, as we update and add to the list regularly.
Deception Pass State Park
Deception Pass State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Washington State. Located at the pass between Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands, this Park offers a stunning combination of rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and breathtaking views. This was one of the first State Parks in Washington State to cross my radar.
One of the main attractions of Deception Pass State Park is the Insta-icon, Deception Pass Bridge. The Bridge spans the narrow strait between the two islands and is a popular spot for photography. Take in panoramic views from the bridge itself, then admire it as part of the scenery from beach and forest below.
Aside from the bridge, the Park boasts miles of hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests and along the shoreline. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, spot wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. There are opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, beachcombing, picnics and events. The camping facilities are super popular, especially through the summer months. Don’t miss the chance to explore this outstanding Washington State Park!
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is a small but fascinating spot overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. This Park encompasses an ancient forest that was petrified by volcanic activity. The namesake feature of Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park can be explored through hiking trails. Visitors can also learn more at the Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center.
The modest bungalow houses a stunning collection of petrified wood samples. It’s truly remarkable to see these ancient trees transformed into beautiful, colorful minerals. The Interpretive Center explains more about the Park’s formation and the process of petrification. It holds a prime position looking over the outstanding Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding landscape.
The Park offers boating, fishing, camping and hiking. It’s also a perfect leg-stretching spot for your Washington road trip. Explore the ancient wonders and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this remarkable Washington State Park.
Lake Chelan State Park
Lake Chelan State Park is nestled at the foot of the Cascade Mountains running alongside its namesake fjord, Lake Chelan. The primary attraction of this Washington State Park is its stunning lakefront location, amidst the wineries of one of the State’s 20 official viticulture regions. This is one of our top 10 favourite destinations east of the Cascade Mountains.
The crystalline waters of Lake Chelan are perfect for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, providing endless opportunities for water-based adventures. For those who prefer to stay on land, the Park offers several easy hiking trails that wind through forests that open to reveal breathtaking views of the Lake and its surrounds. Wildlife enthusiasts will also appreciate the Park’s diverse ecosystem, which is home to a variety of bird species.
Lake Chelan State Park offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal destination for families and groups. Don’t miss the chance to explore this picturesque Washington State Park like we did on our Central Washington long weekend.
Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment State Park is located on the Long Beach Peninsula where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. One of the Park’s main features is its views of the Pacific Ocean, especially in storm season when the drama is turned up to 11.
Visitors can explore the natural features such as windswept beaches, wetlands and forest. There are almost 13-km (8-mi) of hiking and biking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. The Park also boasts two working lighthouses, the remains of Fort Canby, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and art installation known as the Maya Lin Confluence Project.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or historical exploration, winter storm swells or summer escapes, Cape Disappointment State Park has something for you.
Lyons Ferry State Park
Lyons Ferry State Park wasn’t on our itinerary until we crossed Lyons Ferry Bridge. On a mission to reach Palouse Falls, we almost overshot this little-known treasure. Located where the Snake River meets the Palouse River, this Washington State Park is a top choice for camping, boating, fishing, swimming and really getting away from it all.
The somewhat remote location in the southeast corner of the State was carved by Ice Age flooding. Stop for a picnic as you pass through, or get out and swim, kayak, fish, boat and paddle this watery haven in the middle of a contrasting, high desert landscape. Though there are no hiking trails, cyclists can follow the nearby stretch of the Columbia Plateau Trail from Snake River Junction to Ice Harbor Lock and Dam.
This is a seasonal Park, so make sure to check the hours first. There are camping facilities available, making it a perfect spot for a family getaway or a weekend retreat April through October.
Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site
Palouse Falls State Park is a remote but completely worthwhile Washington State Park to explore. This park is known for its namesake waterfall, which plunges 61-m (200-ft) into a deep canyon, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. In fact, of all the amazing waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest, Palouse Falls is the official “State Waterfall” of Washington. AND it’s in the desert!
The park offers several viewpoints that allow visitors to admire the Falls and the columnar basalt, Palouse River Canyon, from different angles. The only hiking path, is a short 1.6-km (1-mi) trail between the three viewpoints. There are no sanctioned trails into the canyon anymore. You can read about it here, but basically too many people were getting injured and they had to close the trail to the base of the Falls. Don’t worry, the views from the Canyon’s rim still make this an incredible State Park to visit.
Palouse Falls State Park is a must-visit for waterfall-chasers. Combine it with the aforementioned Lyons Ferry State Park, a short distance away for a really scenic day trip out of Spokane or the Tri-Cities. For those travelling from the west of the State, budget the time for an overnighter.
Steptoe Butte State Park Heritage Site
From its namesake Butte, rising far above the surrounding loess, Steptoe Butte State Park offers panoramic views of the surrounding Palouse region. Picnickers, sunset-watchers and photographers flock to the top of Steptoe Butte for its sweeping vistas that stretch as far as Idaho and Oregon.
This isn’t a Park for hikers. Instead, it’s the perfect place to start or end the day with the sun. The long shadows enhance your view of the loess that skirt the Butte. These rolling hills are made of wind-blown dust that was deposited at the edge of the continental ice sheet during the last ice age. The undulations and seasonal light-play give the landscape an unusually beautiful texture. Steptoe Butte State Park also offers wildflower meadows and birdwatching.
This is a day-use Park and there is no camping, so be careful to check closing times or risk being locked in. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone who appreciates breathtaking views, Steptoe Butte State Park is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe of Washington State’s natural wonders.
Wallace Falls State Park
Wallace Falls State Park is a popular recreational site in the Cascade Mountains, just over an hour’s drive from Seattle. This park is renowned for its stunning waterfall, which cascades down a series of rocky cliffs, creating a breathtaking sight. Wallace Falls State Park offers a picturesque setting and a variety of activities to enjoy amidst the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The main attraction of the park is the Wallace Falls Trail, a 9-km (5.6-mile) round trip hike. The trail takes visitors through lush forests, over wooden bridges and alongside the scenic Wallace River . It culminates in three viewpoints, each capturing a different tier of the magnificent waterfalls, plus the Skykomish Valley Overlook.
Aside from hiking, Wallace Falls State Park offers a range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking in the designated areas, kayaking in the Park’s two lakes, biking, rock climbing and camping. The park also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, with the chance to spot birds, deer, and other native species.
Wenatchee Confluence State Park
Wenatchee Confluence State Park is situated at the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers. This Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities including the longest loop trail in the State.
Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, taking in the stunning views of the rivers and surrounding landscape. The park also offers picnic areas and camping. For those interested in water activities, Wenatchee Confluence State Park provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls Wenatchee Confluence State Park home. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including bald eagles and ospreys, while hikers may encounter deer, mukcrats, beavers and other native animals.
We love a cycle around the Apple Capital Loop, a 10-mi paved, walking and cycling trail that joins Wenatchee Confluence Park with several other riverfront parks to create a scenic roundtrip. The trail has incredible views back at Downtown Wenatchee, the confluence and Cascade Mountains.
Whether you’re looking to get active, discover incredible viewpoints, learn some history or simply relax in nature, Washington State Parks have something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of the Pacific Northwest and go exploring!
Peace, love & inspiring travels,
Madam ZoZo
