7 Washington State Parks on the Olympic Coast You Should Visit for Stunning Views and Outdoor Fun

If you’re looking to explore some of the best natural spots in Washington, the Olympic Coast offers a great mix of scenery and outdoor activities. From beaches to forests, the state parks along this coastline provide a perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation.

This article will help you discover seven Washington state parks on the Olympic Coast that are worth adding to your travel list. Whether you want to hike, camp, or just soak in some ocean views, these parks have something for everyone.

Olympic National Park

When you visit Olympic National Park, you’re stepping into a massive wilderness that covers nearly a million acres. The landscape is incredibly varied, with snow-capped mountains, dense old-growth rainforests, and rugged Pacific coastline all within the park boundaries.

You’ll find plenty of ways to explore, from hiking trails through lush forests to coastal walks where you can watch the waves crash against dramatic cliffs. The weather and elevation changes create unique ecosystems that make this park special.

If you’re into nature or just want to experience some quiet beauty, this place won’t disappoint. It’s easy to find a spot that suits your pace, whether you’re looking for adventurous hikes or peaceful nature walks.

Rating: 4.8 (10,496 reviews)
Location: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Contact: (360) 565-3130
Website: Visit Website

Bogachiel State Park

If you’re looking for a green escape, Bogachiel State Park offers lush rainforest surroundings perfect for hiking and bird-watching. The park’s dense, moss-covered trees create a peaceful setting where you can soak your feet in the river and unwind.

The park serves as a great base to explore the western Olympic Peninsula. You can easily visit nearby spots like the Hoh Rainforest or enjoy parts of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. If you want to extend your stay, the campground supports RVs up to 40 feet long and has tent-only group sites.

Bring your dog on a leash and enjoy the picnic spots, including a kitchen shelter with electricity and a big grill. Fires are allowed in designated pits only. Just remember, elk in the park have the right of way, so keep a safe distance and don’t feed them.

There’s no water station currently, so plan to bring your own water. After a day of exploring, you might want to grab some dinner in Forks or pick up “Twilight” souvenirs if you’re a fan of the series.

Rating: 4.4 (405 reviews)
Location: 185983 US-101, Forks, WA 98331
Contact: (360) 374-6356
Website: Visit Website

Scenic Beach State Park

Scenic Beach State Park offers beautiful views of Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains. You can walk along groomed forest trails or explore the beach, where the historic Emel House is a popular spot for weddings.

There are plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating nearby. Just know that shellfish harvesting is currently closed due to population declines, and you’ll need a recreational license for fishing.

If you’re camping, the park has 50 campsites, with some closed during winter. There’s also a group camp for tents with basic facilities. Fires are allowed only in designated areas, and dogs must be on a leash.

The park features picnic shelters, restrooms, showers, and an automated pay station for Discover Passes. A nearby watercraft launch is available, but it requires a vehicle access pass.

Rating: 4.7 (1308 reviews)
Location: 9565 Scenic Beach Rd NW, Seabeck, WA 98380
Contact: (888) 226-7688
Website: Visit Website

Sequim Bay State Park

If you’re looking to camp by the ocean with easy access to hiking and sports facilities, Sequim Bay State Park could be a good fit. You’ll find year-round camping, including both standard and full-utility sites, though reservations are only accepted between May and mid-September.

The park offers plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking along the Olympic Discovery Trail to playing baseball or basketball. You can bring your dog, but they have to stay on a leash. Fires are allowed, but only in designated spots.

Be aware the moorage dock is closed for safety reasons, but you can still use the boat launch for quick loading and unloading. The park will be closed from June to mid-September 2026 for construction of a new entrance, so plan ahead.

Picnic areas include both open-air and sheltered tables with great views of the bay. Parking is limited, so carpool if you can. Nearby towns like Sequim and Port Angeles offer plenty of options for food and supplies.

Rating: 4.5 (804 reviews)
Location: 269035 US-101, Sequim, WA 98382
Contact: (360) 683-4235
Website: Visit Website

Olympic National Forest

If you’re looking to explore a mix of landscapes, Olympic National Forest has you covered. From towering temperate rainforests to high mountain ridges, you can enjoy a wide range of scenery in one spot.

There are plenty of ways to spend your time here. Hiking trails lead to mountain views, while rivers and streams offer fishing opportunities. You can also camp and take in waterfalls and beach areas nearby.

The forest covers over 600,000 acres on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. It’s a great place to get away from city life and immerse yourself in nature, whether you want an easy stroll or a more challenging hike.

Rating: 4.8 (3885 reviews)
Location: Washington 98363
Contact: (360) 956-2300
Website: Visit Website

Pacific Beach State Park

If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to camp right by the ocean, Pacific Beach State Park is a solid choice. The sandy beach here stretches wide and flat, perfect for running, flying kites, or just relaxing while you listen to the waves. You can camp year-round with options that include tent sites, RV hookups, and even yurts.

The park has some rules to keep things safe and pleasant. Dogs are welcome if on a leash, but fires in the campground are not allowed—you’ll need to use propane or gas grills instead. Wood fires are okay on the beach as long as you keep them away from vegetation and fully put them out before you leave.

Be careful if you decide to swim or fish here. There are strong rip currents and drift logs that can be dangerous, so stay alert. Fishing and shellfish harvesting require a recreational license, and clamming is off-limits unless announced for a season. Vehicle traffic is allowed only on the hard-packed sand at certain times, with a 25 mph speed limit.

The campground features a mix of 18 standard campsites and 41 partial hookup sites, plus two yurts. If you’re tentative on space, most hookup sites are back-in and 60 feet max. Day visitors can find eight picnic tables, but parking is very limited, especially for large groups.

Rating: 4.6 (1315 reviews)
Location: 49 2nd St S, Pacific Beach, WA
Contact: (360) 276-4297
Website: Visit Website

Twanoh State Park

Twanoh State Park offers a laid-back getaway with warm saltwater beaches perfect for swimming and boating on Hood Canal. You’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy the water, along with forested trails stretching 2.5 miles for a peaceful break from the sun.

If you’re camping, the park has 25 standard sites and 22 full hook-up spots. There’s also a primitive campsite for those arriving by kayak or non-motorized boats. Keep in mind reservations for camping are paused starting June 2026 for a shoreline restoration project.

The park’s picnic areas include lots of uncovered tables and two kitchen shelters you can reserve for your group. A small café opened in 2025, offering food and drinks if you want a break from packing your own meals.

Fishing and shellfish harvesting are popular activities here, but you’ll need a recreational license. Don’t forget that oysters must be shucked on the beach. Dogs are welcome on leashes, but horses aren’t allowed.

Rating: 4.6 (1587 reviews)
Location: 12190 WA-106, Union, WA 98592
Contact: (360) 275-2222
Website: Visit Website

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