Nestled Between Seattle And Tacoma Is A Scenic Washington State Park With A Lovely Beach, Camping, And Trails

The Pacific Northwest state of Washington is known for its amazing national parks, like Mount Rainier and Olympic. However, there are plenty of other places that show off the state's nature. Some of these nature escapes are well within Washington's urban spaces, too. This is the case for Dash Point State Park, a scenic waterfront getaway between Seattle and Tacoma. Despite the fact that these cities combine to form the state's largest metropolitan area, Dash Point is chock full of relaxing and family-friendly outdoor activities.

Dash Point State Park occupies a lovely portion of the Puget Sound shoreline, complete with a sandy beach. The beach is sectioned off by huge trees that make it feel all the more untouched, making it perfect for taking a dip in the water, birdwatching, beachcombing, or simply taking in Washington's dreamy Puget Sound views. You can get a different view by bringing a kayak or a canoe out onto the water as well. Keep in mind that you'll have to bring your own, however. There are no boat rental facilities on-site.

You can hang out at Dash Point State Park for a few hours or have an extended outdoor adventure by booking a campsite. This charmer on Washington's coast has sites for tents and RVs with either full or partial hook-up capabilities. Both types come with access to restrooms with showers as well. If camping isn't your thing, there are cabins here, too. Regardless of choice, be sure to book in advance. This is especially true for the cabins, as there are only six of these in the park.

The beach at Dash Point State Park and the campgrounds are both close to the park's many hiking trails. From the parking lot near the beach, you can head out onto the Thames Creek Trailhead. This trek leads to the campgrounds, and along the way, you'll see the creek, wooden bridges, ferns, and other types of greenery that make the Pacific Northwest so lush and rainforest-like. The same can be said for Fern Alley Trail, also close to the campgrounds. Both trails are less than one mile in length, making them easy to fit into your Dash Point trip even if you don't stay long enough to camp.