10 Most Popular State Parks in Washington (Based on 2023 Visitor Numbers)

With over 100 state parks spanning coastal beaches, mountain forests, and freshwater lakes, Washington offers endless outdoor recreation opportunities. In 2023, Washington State Parks recorded 41.4 million total visits (including both day-use and overnight visitors according to WSP data), highlighting just how beloved these natural spaces are.

Among them, the most popular state parks in Washington stand out for their stunning landscapes, accessibility, and diverse outdoor activities—some even surpassing the visitation numbers of the state’s most famous national park!

A closer look at the top 10 most-visited state parks reveals a common thread: easy accessibility and prime locations. Many are within driving distance of major cities and suburbs, making them ideal for day trips and weekend getaways. Others are situated along scenic byways, drawing road-trippers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring Washington’s diverse terrain.

Whether you’re searching for hiking trails, sandy beaches, or panoramic viewpoints, this list may help you decide which state park to visit next.

Top 10 Most Visited State Parks in Washington

Deception Pass State Park

• Location: Whidbey Island
• Annual visitors: 3,440,392
• Busiest month: July

Ranked as the most popular state park in Washington, Deception Pass State Park attracts nearly 3.5 million visitors annually—almost double the visitation of Mount Rainier National Park, the state’s famed national park. Spanning over 4,100 acres across Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, this breathtaking park is known for its rugged cliffs, old-growth forests, and dramatic coastal views, making it one of the most scenic and visited destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

Deception Pass State Park is best known for the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, a high-arching steel bridge that connects Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands while offering spectacular views of the swirling currents below. The bridge, completed in 1935, stands as one of Washington’s most recognizable landmarks, and has become a bucket list destination in the state.

The park’s coastline features hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and tide pools teeming with marine life. Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of adventure, with over 38 miles of hiking trails winding through old-growth forests, scenic bluffs, and beachfront landscapes. Popular trails include the Lighthouse Point Trail, which offers panoramic views of Puget Sound, and the Bowman Bay Trail, where hikers can spot bald eagles, seals, and even the occasional orca pod.

As expected for Washington’s most-visited state park, summer is the busiest time of year at Deception Pass. The park sees over 500,000 visitors per month in July and August, when the weather is ideal for hiking, boating, and beachcombing. Even in the off-season, Deception Pass remains a popular destination, with over 100,000 visitors per month in winter, thanks to its dramatic storm-watching, wildlife viewing, and peaceful hiking opportunities.

One of the key reasons behind Deception Pass’s staggering visitor numbers is its prime location, just 90 minutes north of Seattle and less than two hours from Vancouver, B.C. This accessibility makes it an easy getaway for both Washington residents and international travelers. Additionally, its position along Highway 20—part of the Whidbey Island Scenic Byway—makes it a must-see stop for road trippers exploring the Pacific Northwest.

With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and endless recreation, Deception Pass State Park continues to captivate millions of visitors every year, securing its place as Washington’s crown jewel of state parks.

Lake Sammamish State Park

• Location: Issaquah
• Annual visitors: 2,098,329
• Busiest month: July

Surprisingly, Lake Sammamish State Park ranks as the 2nd most popular state park in Washington, drawing over 2 million visitors annually, with nearly half a million stopping by in July alone.

Located in the Seattle metro area, the park is situated at the southern end of Lake Sammamish, the sixth-largest lake in Washington. Visitors can enjoy two swimming beaches, Sunset Beach and Tibbets Beach, which offer not only swimming but also a variety of watersports.

At Sunset Beach, guests can grab a bite at the Sunset Beach Café, which serves pizza, snacks, beverages, coffee, Italian sodas, and ice cream. The café operates on weekends in May and September and is open daily from mid-June to Labor Day.

Meanwhile, Tibbets Beach offers kayak, pedal boat, and stand-up paddleboard rentals from Issaquah Paddle Sports, open daily throughout summer. Beyond the water, visitors can take advantage of sandy volleyball courts, soccer fields, and picnic areas. The park is also home to an officially recognized Great Blue Heron rookery, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Since Lake Sammamish is the park’s main attraction, summer is peak season, with nearly 400,000 visitors in July and 304,410 in August. May and June welcome around 250,000 visitors, while the off-season (November through February) sees fewer than 80,000 visitors per month.

Its prime location—just 20 minutes from downtown Seattle via Interstate 90 and 15 minutes from Bellevue—makes Lake Sammamish State Park an easily accessible and extremely popular getaway for city dwellers.

Spokane River Centennial Trail State Park

• Location: Spokane
• Annual visitors: 1,555,328
• Busiest month: July

Ranked as the 3rd most popular state park in Washington, the Spokane River Centennial Trail is a unique linear state park that stretches 37 miles from the Idaho state line to Nine Mile Falls. Unlike traditional state parks, this one is a multi-use paved trail that winds alongside the Spokane River, offering stunning river views, diverse wildlife, and access to multiple parks and urban areas.

A favorite among walkers, joggers, cyclists, and skaters, the trail provides a perfect mix of city and nature, passing through downtown Spokane, Riverside State Park, and other scenic spots. Along the way, visitors can explore dozens of trailheads, picnic areas, and even whitewater sections of the river popular for kayaking and rafting.

With its accessibility, year-round usability, and connection to major landmarks, it’s no surprise the Spokane River Centennial Trail draws over 1.6 million visitors annually. Peak months are July (250,458 visitors) followed by June (187,118 visitors), when locals and tourists take full advantage of the warm weather, while fall and spring offer stunning seasonal scenery.

As a state park that seamlessly blends outdoor recreation with urban convenience, the Centennial Trail is a must-visit destination in Eastern Washington, whether you’re looking for an afternoon stroll, a long-distance cycling route, or simply a chance to soak in the beauty of the Spokane River.

Cape Disappointment State Park

• Location: Ilwaco
• Annual visitors: 1,097,971
• Busiest month: July

Cape Disappointment State Park ranks the 4th most popular state park in Washington. Despite its name, the park offers anything but disappointment! Nestled at the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, this park spans over 2,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including dense forests, freshwater lakes, saltwater marshes, and ocean tidelands.

The park is home to two historic lighthouses: the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, the oldest functioning lighthouse on the West Coast, and the North Head Lighthouse, both offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline. History enthusiasts can explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which chronicles the Corps of Discovery’s journey and their arrival at the Pacific Ocean.

Outdoor recreation abounds with miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along scenic bluffs. Anglers can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities, while beachgoers can comb the shores for agates and shells. The park also offers camping facilities, including yurts and cabins, accommodating those seeking an overnight stay amidst nature.

This park sees over one million visitors annually, with summer being the peak season—July (162,926), August (159,384), and September (141,792). During winter, from December through February, visitation drops significantly to under 50,000 per month.

One reason for Cape Disappointment’s high visitation is its prime location—just a two-hour drive from Portland, making it an easy getaway for city dwellers and a favorite destination for Northern Oregon Coast residents. Its position along Highway 101, the famed Pacific Coast Highway, also makes it a must-see stop for travelers road-tripping up the West Coast and along Washington State’s coastline.

Whether visitors are drawn by the park’s dramatic coastal landscapes, rich history, or outdoor recreation, Cape Disappointment remains one of the most iconic and accessible state parks in the Pacific Northwest.

Riverside State Park

• Location: Spokane
• Annual visitors: 1,086,709
• Busiest month: July

Ranked as the 5th most popular state park in Washington, Riverside State Park offers a stunning 10,000-acre outdoor haven nestled along the Spokane River. Just a short drive from downtown Spokane, this expansive park is a prime destination for those seeking hiking, biking, fishing, and camping within a scenic, easy-to-access setting.

The park’s highlights include over 55 miles of trails that wind through forests, grasslands, and riverbanks, providing ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Riverside State Park also features a variety of campgrounds, including group campsites and yurts, allowing for a range of experiences from tent camping to more comfortable stays.

The Spokane River is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, while the ** Bowl and Pitcher area**, with its iconic rock formations and suspension bridge, is a must-see spot within the park.

As one of the most accessible state parks for residents of Spokane, its popularity is understandable, with peak visitation during the summer months, especially June to August, when visitors flock to the park to enjoy its variety of outdoor activities. In July, the park sees almost 180,000 visitors, and the numbers remain high throughout the warmer months.

However, winter offers a quieter experience with fewer visitors, though cross-country skiing and snowshoeing attract those looking for a winter escape.

Moran State Park

• Location: Orcas Island
• Number: 930,499
• Busiest month: July

Ranked as the 6th most popular state park in Washington, Moran State Park is a must-visit destination on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands. With miles of woodland and lakeside hiking trails, multiple campgrounds, and opportunities for swimming and boating, it’s no surprise this park is a favorite among Washingtonians and tourists alike.

The park’s crown jewel is Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands, rising nearly 2,400 feet above Orcas Island. From its summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Mount Baker, the North Cascades, and the surrounding islands. With its exclusive location and phenomenal, one-of-a-kind views, it’s no wonder this park is a bucket-list destination for those exploring the San Juans.

With its stunning landscapes and diverse outdoor recreation, Moran State Park plays a key role in making Orcas Island a beloved getaway for both tourists and retirees.

July is the park’s busiest month, welcoming 148,949 visitors, followed by August (134,106) and June (110,000). The quiet season runs from December to March, when the park receives only 35,000 to 40,000 visitors per month.

Fort Worden Historical State Park

• Location: Port Townsend
• Annual visitors: 884,978
• Busiest month: July

Ranked as the 7th most popular state park in Washington, Fort Worden State Historical Park offers a unique combination of historical significance and natural beauty. Located near Port Townsend, this 433-acre park was once a military fort and now serves as a public recreation area, attracting over 800,000 visitors in 2023.

Fort Worden, established in 1902, was a key military installation designed to protect the Puget Sound region. The fort remained active until 1953 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore historic military structures, including batteries, gun emplacements, and the iconic Point Wilson Lighthouse, which has been restored and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country.

Beyond its historical sites, the park boasts over two miles of saltwater shoreline along Admiralty Inlet, offering stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Mount Baker. The park features two campgrounds: the Beach Campground, offering full-hookup sites with views of the inlet, and the Upper Forest Campground, providing a more secluded, forested setting.

The park’s peak visitation occurs during the summer months, with July and August seeing the highest numbers. Its proximity to Port Townsend, a charming Victorian seaport town, enhances its appeal, offering visitors a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor recreation.

Another reason for Fort Worden’s high visitor numbers is its location near the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, a scenic route that attracts road trippers exploring the Olympic Peninsula.

Birch Bay State Park

• Location: Birch Bay
• Annual visitors: 868,401
• Busiest month: July

Ranking as the 8th most popular state park in Washington, Birch Bay State Park is an ideal destination for campers seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. Nestled in a tranquil blue cove between Bellingham and Blaine, this state park is secluded without being far from urban conveniences.

The campground, set beneath towering pine trees, features well-equipped campsites, a basketball court, and summer environmental education programs, making it a family-friendly getaway. Just a short walk away, Birch Bay’s calm waters are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing, while the rocky shoreline offers sweeping views of the North Cascade Mountains and Canadian Gulf Islands.

July is the park’s busiest month (135,523 visitors), followed by August (128,655) and June (101,016). Understandably, November and December are quieter, with under 40,000 visitors per month.

Birch Bay’s popularity is due to its prime location—just 9 miles south of the U.S.-Canadian border, making it a favorite getaway for Canadian travelers. It’s also 20 miles north of Bellingham, a lively college town, attracting residents looking for an easy outdoor escape.

With its mix of coastal scenery, recreational activities, and convenient access to urban centers, it’s no surprise that Birch Bay State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Washington.

Saint Edward State Park

• Location: Kenmore
• Annual visitors: 801,332
• Busiest month: July

Ranked as the 9th most popular state park in Washington, Saint Edward State Park is a serene 316-acre park located on the shores of Lake Washington in Kenmore, just a short drive north of Seattle. Known for its lush forests, scenic trails, and panoramic views, this park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park is renowned for its dense forested trails, including the Saint Edward Trail and the Tolt River Trail, which offer visitors a chance to explore the park’s varied landscapes— from moss-covered trees to stunning vistas of the lake and the Cascade Mountains.

One of the park’s most unique features is the historic Saint Edward Seminary, a grand 1930s structure that once served as a Roman Catholic seminary. The building, now home to the Saint Edward State Park Lodge, stands as a distinctive landmark within the park. Visitors can explore the seminary’s architecture and enjoy views of the lake from its grounds.

Saint Edward State Park attracts over 800,000 visitors annually, with summer being the peak season. During the warmer months, the park sees anywhere between 70,000 and 100,000 visitors per month, particularly in June through August, when the park’s lakeside activities are in full swing. Winter brings a drop in visitors, with numbers falling to around 30,000 per month from December through February, but the park remains a peaceful retreat for those enjoying a quieter, off-season experience.

Saint Edward’s proximity to Seattle makes it an easy destination for residents of the city, as well as surrounding areas. It’s just a 20-minute drive from downtown Seattle, making it a perfect option for those looking to escape into nature without venturing far from the city.

Larrabee State Park

• Location: Bellingham
• Annual visitors: 587,161
• Busiest month: July

Larrabee State Park, ranked as the 10th most popular state park in Washington, welcomes over 850,000 visitors annually, drawing outdoor enthusiasts to its stunning Chuckanut Mountain views, rocky beaches, and forest-lined trails.

Located just south of Bellingham along Chuckanut Drive, Larrabee holds the distinction of being Washington’s first official state park, established in 1915. More than a century later, it remains a beloved destination for hiking, beachcombing, and camping along the Salish Sea.

Larrabee State Park offers a perfect mix of mountain and marine scenery. The park’s most famous feature is its rugged shoreline, where visitors can explore tide pools and scenic coves with breathtaking sunset views over Samish Bay. The park is also a prime spot for kayaking, fishing, and crabbing.

For hikers, Larrabee serves as a gateway to Chuckanut Mountain, home to some of the best trails in the region. The Fragrance Lake Trail and Oyster Dome Trail are two of the most popular hikes, offering dense forests, alpine lakes, and sweeping views of the San Juan Islands. Mountain bikers and equestrians will also find plenty of trails weaving through the park’s rugged terrain.

As with many coastal state parks, summer is the busiest time at Larrabee, with July and August each bringing in over 80,000 visitors. The park is particularly popular with campers, at its 85-site campground which fills up quickly during peak months. In the off-season, Larrabee remains a favorite for locals and winter hikers.

Larrabee’s popularity is due in part to its convenient location, just 20 minutes south of Bellingham and within 90 minutes of Seattle, making it an easy getaway for day-trippers and weekend campers. The park’s position along the scenic Chuckanut Drive, one of Washington’s most picturesque coastal byways, also makes it a must-stop destination for road trippers exploring the northwestern corner of the state.

With its dramatic coastal cliffs, lush forested trails, and unbeatable sunset views, Larrabee State Park remains a cherished retreat for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility in the Pacific Northwest.