Fort Ebey State Park
Explore historic WWII batteries, hike scenic bluff trails, and enjoy beach access with stunning ocean and mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Fort Ebey State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic WWII batteries, hike scenic bluff trails, and enjoy beach access with stunning ocean and mountain views.
"This place is beautiful. If you like the outdoors this place is a must."
🚗 Parking Fee Required
A $10 day-use fee or WA State Parks Discover Pass is needed for parking. :ticket:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be moderate with some elevation changes. Good for hiking and exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bluff Trail Hike
Coastal bluffs
Panoramic ocean views, Olympic Mountains vistas, and Salish Sea scenery. Moderate difficulty, loop options available.
Historic Fort Ebey Batteries
Park interior
Explore remnants of WWII coastal defenses. Intriguing for history buffs and offers unique photo opportunities.
Beachcombing and Tide Pools
Shoreline
Discover marine life in tide pools and enjoy the expansive beach. Keep an eye out for wildlife like otters and eagles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Park Entry and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee Required
A $10 day-use fee or WA State Parks Discover Pass is needed for parking. :ticket:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be moderate with some elevation changes. Good for hiking and exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal vistas and wildlife. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails. Great for furry companions! :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee Required
A $10 day-use fee or WA State Parks Discover Pass is needed for parking. :ticket:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be moderate with some elevation changes. Good for hiking and exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal vistas and wildlife. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails. Great for furry companions! :dog:
✈️ Be Aware of Jet Noise
Military jets fly over frequently; can be loud but exciting for some. :airplane:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fort Ebey State Park is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, offering panoramic ocean views, diverse wildlife, and intriguing historical sites. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails and camping facilities. Some minor issues with camp hosts have been noted, and the frequent loud military jet activity might be a drawback for some seeking absolute quiet.
"Awesome campground. New favorite state park to camp at in Washington for sure. The camp host while we were there (8/10-14) kind of sucked though. Her smoke detector was broken and kept beeping. She insisted it still worked fine, but she didn't want to take it down because that wouldn't be safe, and assured us that she was going to go into town the next day to get a new one. That was after our first night there and she never fixed it. Luckily a breeze picked up for the rest of our stay and she was far enough away from us (we were at site 8 and she was all the way on the other side of the bathroom) that the sound of the wind in the trees and the ringing of the buoy down in the sea covered the beeping. That was just irritating, but not the fault of the park and we never bothered to complain to either of the rangers so who knows if it could have been actually resolved by a camper with more courage to complain.
I definitely want to come back here. There was so much to do in the park as well as close by. We had a day exploring the battery, and a short drive to the Price Sculpture Forest, one day was beach day, and another we spent in Coupeville being tourists. Great spots to view the sunset every evening too.
If you have a kid who loves planes, this is definitely the place to be. But if you hate hearing planes, maybe don't go here because he army jets fly over frequently and can be so loud that you have to stop conversation until they pass by. I didn't mind that at all though."
Corrie Metz
"From the second we drove in it was magical. My daughter & I saw a river otter run across the beach from the tide pools to the wooded area. Saw a deer & a bald eagle landed right near me and then flew past my daughter, also lots of robins. It was magic, plus some pretty rocks."
Tabitha Basye
"Awesome state park, has one bunker to explore, beautiful views, cool like hike to a lake, also nice hike to the beach area."
zach r
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Ebey State Park is located on the west side of Whidbey Island. You can reach it by driving across the Deception Pass Bridge or taking a ferry. The park is well-signposted once you're on the island.
Public transportation options to Fort Ebey State Park are limited. It's best to have a car for easy access and exploration of the park and surrounding areas.
Many visitors find driving via Deception Pass Bridge offers scenic views. Alternatively, ferry routes from Mukilteo to Clinton are also popular.
Fort Ebey State Park is approximately a 2-hour drive from Seattle, depending on traffic and ferry schedules.
Yes, there are parking facilities available, including drive-up beach access. A day-use fee or Discover Pass is required.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Discover Pass or a $10 day-use fee is required for parking. This supports the maintenance and operation of Washington State Parks.
Fort Ebey State Park is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like campgrounds may have different hours.
While it's recommended to purchase a Discover Pass in advance online or at an authorized retailer, you can typically buy a day-use permit at the park.
Washington State Parks offers various passes, including annual Discover Passes, which can be more cost-effective for frequent visitors. Check their official website for details.
The fee is for parking. If you are dropped off or arrive without a vehicle, you may not need to pay the day-use fee, but it's always best to confirm with park staff.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Bluff Trail is highly recommended for its stunning ocean views and moderate difficulty. Other trails offer forest and beach access.
Yes, you can explore the historic Fort Ebey batteries and bunkers, which offer a glimpse into its military past.
Absolutely! The park's diverse habitats attract a variety of bird species, including bald eagles.
Visitors have reported seeing river otters, deer, bald eagles, and various seabirds.
Yes, Fort Ebey offers camping sites nestled in a wooded area, providing a peaceful retreat.
📸 📸 Photography
The Bluff Trail offers breathtaking panoramic ocean views and mountain backdrops. The historic fort structures also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, the western-facing coastline provides spectacular sunset views over the water, making it a prime location for photographers.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for exploring the fort.
If you're interested in aviation photography, the frequent military jet training can provide exciting, albeit loud, photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check park regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Bluff Trail, while moderate, can be manageable for older children, offering incredible views. For younger ones, shorter walks along the beach or around the campground are great options. The park's natural beauty and wildlife sightings, like deer or eagles, can make for an exciting adventure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity for sunset shots; the western exposure offers incredible light. If you're interested in aviation, the frequent military jet training can provide unique, albeit loud, photographic subjects. The park's diverse scenery ensures a wide range of photographic possibilities, from grand vistas to intricate details.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to bring water for your dog and be mindful of other visitors. The beach areas are also accessible for dogs, providing them with space to run and explore. It's a perfect spot for a dog-friendly outdoor adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Fort Ebey Batteries
Walking through the old fort structures can be an immersive experience. Imagine the soldiers who once manned these positions, scanning the horizon for threats. The park has done a good job of preserving these sites, making them accessible for visitors to wander through and learn about their significance.
For those interested in history, spending time at the batteries is a must. It adds another layer to the natural beauty of the park, combining outdoor recreation with educational discovery. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the terrain around the batteries can be uneven.
Hiking the Bluff Trail: Views and Wildlife
Along the Bluff Trail, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. Visitors have reported sightings of river otters, deer, and various bird species, including bald eagles. The trail meanders through diverse landscapes, from open bluffs to wooded areas, offering varied scenery and excellent opportunities for nature photography.
This trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for visitors with canine companions. Remember to keep your pets leashed and be mindful of other hikers. The trail's moderate difficulty makes it accessible for many, but sturdy footwear is recommended.
Camping at Fort Ebey State Park
The campground is well-maintained, and while some reviews mention occasional issues with park hosts, the overall experience is positive. Being close to the beach, hiking trails, and historical sites makes camping here incredibly convenient. It's an ideal base for exploring all that Fort Ebey has to offer.
Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season, as the campground can fill up quickly. Enjoying the sounds of nature and the fresh sea air makes camping at Fort Ebey a memorable experience for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit