Seattle Chinatown >> Seattle Community News >> Washington State Parks
9/10/2007 Seattle- The state of
Washington offers an extremely diverse landscape. From the temperate rainforests
of the Olympic Peninsula and the moderate Pacific coast in the west to the high
peaks of the Cascade Range and the dry deserts of the west, it is no wonder the
beauty of Washington state parks attracts visitors from all around.
There are 120 Washington state parks and recreation areas with a wide variety of
amenities, attractions, and activities. Windsurfing, rock climbing, skiing, and
snowmobiling, Washington state parks offer plenty of activities to suit every
outdoor lover. There are also plenty of historical sites, cultural exhibits, and
interpretive centers for educational opportunities.
More than 30 of the state parks in Washington are on lakes or rivers, with over
70 public boat launches, so boating and water sports at the parks are quite
abundant. One of the best Washington state parks for water recreation is
Deception Pass. Here, visitors can enjoy their favorite saltwater and freshwater
activities on more than 4100 beautiful acres along the quiet Puget Sound.
Enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming on one of the three Deception Pass lakes or
try crabbing, clamming, mooring, or diving in the saltwater of the sound. This
Washington state coastal park also offers boat rentals so everyone can enjoy the
fun of being on the water. Deception Pass is also a great location for
whitewater kayaking and sailboarding. Don't forget your Coleman inflatable boat
when you visit this park.
In the winter months Washington is a haven for snow lovers, especially in the
central mountainous regions. One of the best Washington state parks for winter
recreation is Lake Easton state park in the Cascade Mountain foothills. The 45
RV site and 95 tent site campground is open year round so guests can enjoy a
weekend of cold weather camping, dog sledding, cross-country skiing,
snowmobiling, and family snow activities including tubing and sledding.
Washington state parks access almost 700 miles of scenic hiking trails, ranging
from easy strolls through natural exhibits to strenuous treks through mountain
passes. There are also three long distance backpacking trails that can be
reached from various parks. Mountain biking trails are quite abundant as well.
Beacon Rock is one of the best Washington state parks for mountain biking, with
20 miles of designated trails.
There are two water trails in Washington that are designated for canoeing and
kayaking. These trails wind through miles of scenic waterways and pass by
several state parks that offer primitive camping and pullouts. Washington state
parks are also popular destinations for horseback riding. There are 10 parks
with equestrian trails, some offering horse campsites as well, and horses are
allowed on most beaches. Just outside of Seattle, Bridle Trails is one of the
best Washington state parks for horseback riding with 28 miles of riding trails.
Lake Wenatchee state park offers horse rentals for day trips, as well as
overnight excursions.
Whether you're interested in rock climbing at Columbia Hills state park,
paragliding at Lincoln Rock, or just enjoying a weekend of Washington state park
camping, there is plenty to do and lots to see across the state of Washington.
(For more tips and information about Camping Gear, check out http: www.summitcampinggear.com)