Dash Point State Park
A 400-acre park on Puget Sound offering swimming, camping, hiking, biking, and hand-launched boat access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beach vibes & sunset magic
Dash Point State Park
Best Time
Beach vibes & sunset magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 400-acre park on Puget Sound offering swimming, camping, hiking, biking, and hand-launched boat access.
"Beautiful state park on the shores of Puget Sound. Best of both PNW worlds - a wonderful beach and extensive trail system."
🚗 Get Your Discover Pass
Essential for parking! Buy online or at the park. Supports Washington State Parks.
🥾 Trail Shoes Recommended
Well-maintained trails, but good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Puget Sound Beach
Shoreline
Miles of sandy shoreline perfect for beachcombing, shallow wading, and sunset viewing.
+1
Forested Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore miles of well-maintained trails winding through beautiful PNW forests.
+1
Clamming Opportunities
Beach
A popular spot for clamming, especially during low tide. Bring your gear!
Camping Under the Stars
Campground
Enjoy camping with RV and tent sites, some shaded, some sunny, with beach access.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Pass is Key
Beach vs. Trails: Plan Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Get Your Discover Pass
Essential for parking! Buy online or at the park. Supports Washington State Parks.
🥾 Trail Shoes Recommended
Well-maintained trails, but good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Crucial for beach access and clamming. Plan your visit around low tide.
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep the park clean by taking your trash with you. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Get Your Discover Pass
Essential for parking! Buy online or at the park. Supports Washington State Parks.
🥾 Trail Shoes Recommended
Well-maintained trails, but good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Crucial for beach access and clamming. Plan your visit around low tide.
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep the park clean by taking your trash with you. [^Review]
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Enjoy the park with your furry friends, but keep them on a leash. [^Review]
🏄 Skimboarding Fun
Check for local skimboarding events or bring your board!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dash Point State Park is praised for its beautiful blend of Puget Sound beach and extensive forest trails, offering diverse outdoor activities like hiking, clamming, and camping. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, though some note that bathroom cleanliness could be improved and occasional trash on the beach detracts from the experience.
"Nice State Park with campground and access to the Puget sound and beach. Lots of hiking trails to go exploring. Dog friendly if on a leash. Before venturing out to the state park, get yourself a discover pass. It's relatively inexpensive and supports the state parks. Plus, you'll need a Discover pass to park your car in the park. You can also buy a 1-day pass at the park. Overall a great place to visit and take in a little bit of nature."
Gustave Schneider
"Wow! Great trail. Well maintained. Family and I had an amazing walk here. There is a campground close by and not too far from the water. Beautiful area. Lots of bench to rest if legs are tired."
KuLiTz Ohana
"The park is great. Camping is good. Separate camping spots, not too dense. Some shaded, some in sun. Both rv and tent. The Campground wasn't full either. Nice late checkout 1pm! My main complaint is the bathrooms are not cleaned very well."
Shana G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dash Point State Park is located between Tacoma and Federal Way, WA. It's easily accessible by car via I-5. Follow signs for the park entrance.
Yes, there are parking lots available. However, a Discover Pass is required to park your vehicle.
Public transportation options may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive to the park for the most convenient access. Check local transit schedules for potential routes.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Dash Point State Park as long as they are kept on a leash. [^Review]
From Seattle, take I-5 South and exit at 154 for WA-516 E towards Des Moines Memorial Drive. Turn right onto WA-516 E, then turn right onto Pacific Hwy S/WA-99 S. Continue to Dash Point Rd and follow signs for the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Discover Pass is required for parking your vehicle at Dash Point State Park. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass.
You can purchase a Discover Pass online, at select license retailers, or a 1-day pass can often be bought at the park itself. [^Review]
Dash Point State Park is generally open year-round from 8 AM to dusk. Camping facilities have specific check-in and check-out times.
The Discover Pass is for parking. Pedestrian entry into the park itself is typically free, but you'll need the pass if you're driving and parking.
Yes, it is highly recommended to reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak season, through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, biking, beachcombing, swimming, picnicking, camping, and even clamming. Hand-launched boats are also permitted.
Yes, Dash Point State Park has kid-friendly trails that are great for family walks and exploring nature.
The beach is a long, sandy stretch along the Puget Sound, known for being shallow for a good distance, making it easy to walk out into the water.
Yes, the park offers picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day trip with family and friends.
You might spot various shorebirds, marine life in the Puget Sound, and forest animals along the trails.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park. It's best to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or plan to dine in Federal Way or Tacoma.
Yes, campfires are permitted in designated fire pits, especially for campers. Be sure to check for any fire restrictions.
Federal Way and Tacoma, located a short drive away, offer a wide variety of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Bring your favorite picnic foods, drinks, a blanket or chairs, and any cooking supplies if you plan to use a fire pit or grill.
Potable water is typically available at the campground and in some day-use areas. It's always a good idea to bring your own water bottle.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach at sunset offers stunning views. The forested trails provide opportunities for capturing the lush PNW greenery.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most beautiful light for beach and landscape photography.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Washington State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check park regulations for specifics.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is helpful for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park also features kid-friendly hiking trails, making it easy for families to explore the beautiful forests together. Remember to bring beach toys, snacks, and a Discover Pass for parking. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The trails are suitable for various levels, offering both leisurely strolls and more challenging routes. Don't forget sturdy footwear and water. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you wander through this natural wonderland. 🏖️ Beach Lovers and Sun Seekers
+1 The shallow waters make it a great spot for wading and cooling off. Visiting during low tide can also open up opportunities for clamming. Remember to bring sunscreen, towels, and beach chairs to maximize your enjoyment. [^Review]🏕️ Campers
[^Review] Sites offer a mix of sun and shade. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Be prepared for basic amenities and consider bringing extra supplies as services within the park are limited. [^Review]Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
+1Popular routes include loops that take you through dense woods, offering shade and a cooler environment, especially on warmer days. Some trails lead to scenic viewpoints or connect different areas of the park. For those interested in biking, there are designated paths that allow for a more dynamic exploration of the park's interior. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be uneven.
Community members often share their experiences on platforms like Instagram, highlighting the peacefulness and beauty of these forested paths. It's a great way to discover hidden gems within the park and get a sense of the different terrains you might encounter.
+1Beach Life and Activities
+1Beyond simply enjoying the sand and water, the beach is a hub for various activities. It's a popular spot for clamming, particularly during low tide, so bringing your gear can lead to a rewarding culinary adventure.
The beach also provides a fantastic backdrop for sunset viewing, offering photographers and visitors alike a chance to capture breathtaking moments over the water. [^Review]Social media often showcases the vibrant beach scene, from casual strolls to organized events like skimboarding competitions, highlighting the dynamic nature of this coastal area.
+1 Visitors frequently mention the enjoyment of picnicking on the beach, roasting hot dogs, and simply soaking in the PNW atmosphere. [^Review]Camping at Dash Point
[^Review]A significant advantage of camping here is the convenient access to the Puget Sound beach, allowing campers to easily enjoy the shoreline. The park also offers a relatively late checkout time of 1 PM, providing a bit more flexibility for morning activities. [^Review] While the camping spots are described as not too dense, ensuring a degree of privacy, it's always wise to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred spot.
Campers often appreciate the proximity to nature and the ability to enjoy campfires in designated areas, adding to the classic camping experience.
[^Review] However, some reviews mention that the cleanliness of the bathrooms could be improved, which is a common point of feedback for many campgrounds. [^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit