State Parks Near Seattle
Washington State Parks names five state parks within 90 minutes of Seattle: Saint Edward (about 25 minutes), Squak Mountain and Lake Sammamish (about 30 minutes each), Camano Island (about 80 minutes) and Mount Pilchuck (about 90 minutes). Saint Edward is the closest, with forest trails to Lake Washington and a 1931 seminary. One Discover Pass, $10 a day or $45 a year, covers parking at all of them.
Five Parks at a Glance
1. Saint Edward State Park (about 25 minutes)
Kenmore, on the north end of Lake Washington. A 326-acre day-use park with 14 named trails through the forest to about 3,000 feet of lake shore, a stone Grotto from the 1940s and the 1931 seminary building, now a hotel. Best for a half-day walk, a picnic on the lawns or a quick mountain bike loop. See hiking and history.
2. Squak Mountain State Park (about 30 minutes)
The agency's guide points to about 13 miles of winding trails for hiking, running and horseback riding. The agency suggests first-time visitors hike to the Bullitt Fireplace, a big stone fireplace that is all that is left of a 1952 cabin. It is a popular after-work run for Seattle locals.
3. Lake Sammamish State Park (about 30 minutes)
A calm lake that suits first-time paddlers, with kayak rentals from June through October, according to the agency. There is an easy walk along Issaquah Creek, where you may spot salmon in the restored stream, and a great blue heron rookery.
4. Camano Island State Park (about 80 minutes)
Watch for passing gray whales and orcas, stay in a forest cabin or a campsite by the water, or eat at Cama Beach Cafe at Cama Beach State Park, two miles away.
5. Mount Pilchuck State Park (about 90 minutes)
The trail climbs about 2,300 feet in 2.7 rocky miles to a historic fire lookout with views of the North Cascades, Mount Rainier and the Olympics. Fall color peaks from late September to early October.
Which One Should You Pick?
- Short on time: Saint Edward, the closest of the five.
- Paddling: Lake Sammamish.
- A real climb: Mount Pilchuck.
- Trail running: Squak Mountain.
- Overnight: Camano Island. Saint Edward is day use only.
One Pass for All Five
Every car parked at a Washington state park needs a Discover Pass: $10 for the day or $45 for a year, valid at all of them. See Discover Pass.
State Parks Near Seattle FAQ
What is the closest state park to Seattle?
Of the five Washington State Parks lists near Seattle, Saint Edward in Kenmore is the closest, about 25 minutes away.
Which state parks near Seattle allow camping?
Of these five, the agency mentions campsites and cabins at Camano Island. Saint Edward is day use only.
Do I need a Discover Pass for state parks near Seattle?
Yes, to park a car. One Discover Pass, $10 a day or $45 a year, works at every Washington state park.