Top 7 State Parks in Washington: Best Camping, RV Spots, and Must-See Attractions

JC | June 4, 2024 @ 12:00 AM

Top 7 State Parks in Washington: Best Camping, RV Spots, and Must-See Attractions

Washington State is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to arid deserts, mountainous terrains, and serene coastlines. Among these natural wonders, the state's parks offer some of the most breathtaking sceneries and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Here are seven of the best state parks in Washington that you shouldn't miss, highlighting their best camping and RV spots, must-see attractions, and available activities.


1. Deception Pass State Park

Location: Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island

Highlights:

  • Iconic Deception Pass Bridge
  • Rosario Beach tide pools
  • Goose Rock trails
  • Cranberry Lake

Activities:

  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Hiking
  • Wildlife Viewing

Best Camping: The park offers 172 tent sites and 134 partial hookup sites, with Cranberry Lake and Quarry Pond campgrounds being particularly popular.

Best RV Spots: Sites with partial hookups in Quarry Pond campground provide easy access and scenic surroundings.

Must-See Attractions: The iconic Deception Pass Bridge, Rosario Beach tide pools, Goose Rock trails, and Cranberry Lake.


2. Mount Spokane State Park

Location: Spokane County

Highlights:

  • Panoramic views from Mount Spokane
  • Extensive hiking and biking trails
  • Winter sports opportunities

Activities:

  • Hiking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Snowshoeing

Best Camping: The rustic campground features 11 sites, ideal for a quieter, more secluded experience.

Best RV Spots: While there are no hookups, the designated RV camping area offers beautiful forest views.

Must-See Attractions: Panoramic views from Mount Spokane, extensive hiking and biking trails, and winter sports opportunities.


3. Cape Disappointment State Park

Location: Pacific County

Highlights:

  • Historic lighthouses
  • Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
  • Expansive beaches

Activities:

  • Beachcombing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Wildlife Viewing

Best Camping: The park has 137 standard campsites, with the sites near Benson Beach offering great coastal views.

Best RV Spots: Full-hookup sites provide convenience and are located near the beach for easy access.

Must-See Attractions: Historic lighthouses, Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and expansive beaches.


4. Palouse Falls State Park

Location: Franklin County

Highlights:

  • Majestic Palouse Falls
  • Dramatic canyon landscape

Activities:

  • Hiking
  • Photography
  • Picnicking

Best Camping: The park offers 11 tent campsites with views of the Palouse River canyon.

Best RV Spots: Though hookups are not available, the tent sites can accommodate RVs with basic amenities.

Must-See Attractions: The majestic Palouse Falls and the dramatic canyon landscape.


5. Lake Wenatchee State Park

Location: Chelan County

Highlights:

  • Glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee
  • Extensive hiking trails
  • Winter activities like cross-country skiing

Activities:

  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-Country Skiing
  • Snowshoeing

Best Camping: The park features 155 standard campsites, with South Campground offering lake views.

Best RV Spots: Partial-hookup sites in the North Campground provide easy access to the lake and trails.

Must-See Attractions: Glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee, hiking trails, and winter activities like cross-country skiing.


6. Moran State Park

Location: Orcas Island

Highlights:

  • Mount Constitution for panoramic views
  • Serene Mountain Lake and Cascade Lake

Activities:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Paddling
  • Swimming
  • Fishing

Best Camping: The park offers 151 campsites, with Mountain Lake and Cascade Lake campgrounds being the most scenic.

Best RV Spots: While hookups are limited, several standard sites accommodate RVs comfortably.

Must-See Attractions: Mount Constitution for panoramic views, serene Mountain Lake and Cascade Lake.


7. Fort Worden State Park

Location: Jefferson County

Highlights:

  • Point Wilson Lighthouse
  • Historic military bunkers
  • Cultural venues

Activities:

  • Hiking
  • Boating
  • Historical Tours
  • Cultural Events

Best Camping: The park offers 80 campsites with options near the beach and historic buildings.

Best RV Spots: Partial-hookup sites near the main campgrounds provide access to park amenities.

Must-See Attractions: Point Wilson Lighthouse, historic military bunkers, and cultural venues.


Conclusion - State Parks in Washington


Washington State’s parks are treasures that offer a wide range of experiences, from the rugged coastlines of Cape Disappointment to the alpine beauty of Mount Spokane. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a glimpse into history, these seven state parks provide some of the best that Washington has to offer. So pack your gear, hit the trails, and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Evergreen State, with the comfort of knowing you have great camping and RV options available.