Fort Steilacoom Park - Image 1
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Fort Steilacoom Park

4.7
·2k reviews·Lakewood, United States

A sprawling park offering diverse recreation, from sports fields and an inclusive playground to scenic lake trails and a beloved dog park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Fort Steilacoom Park - Image 1

Fort Steilacoom Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling park offering diverse recreation, from sports fields and an inclusive playground to scenic lake trails and a beloved dog park.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"This place has it all. From the dog park to the lake. It's breathtaking view and breathtaking taking playground for the kids."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog Park Paradise

The off-leash dog park is huge, clean, and well-maintained. Friendly people and safe vibes!

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

Enjoy flat, never-ending trails around the lake, perfect for long walks with pets or kids.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Steilacoom Dog Park

Fort Steilacoom Dog Park

Off-leash area

A spacious, fenced haven for pups to play and socialize. Fully fenced with wooded paths and plenty of furry friends!

Lake Steilacoom Trails

Lake Steilacoom Trails

Around the lake

Peaceful walking paths offering serene lake views and towering trees. Perfect for a quiet stroll or a family hike.

Inclusive Playground

Inclusive Playground

Children's park area

A modern, inclusive play space designed for all children to enjoy. Features a variety of accessible and engaging play structures.

Historic Buildings

Historic Buildings

Throughout the park

Discover remnants of the park's past, including old farm and military fort structures. Adds a unique historical character.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors Year-Round

Fort Steilacoom Park is a sprawling green space offering diverse activities from sports fields to serene lake trails. While it's a popular spot for families and dog owners, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, especially if you're seeking a quieter experience. The park hosts various events, so check the local schedule before your visit.

Explore History and Nature

Beyond its recreational facilities, Fort Steilacoom Park holds historical significance, once serving as a military fort and later an asylum.TikTokInstagram Explore the grounds to discover remnants of its past. The park's natural beauty, with its lake and diverse flora, makes it ideal for photography and leisurely strolls, offering a peaceful escape.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Tuesday afternoons
Why
Farmers Market buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Concert series & pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Dark History of Lakewood, Washington! #lakewoodwa #darkhistory #tacoma #fyp #washingtonstate #nisqually #steilacoom
@el.ndungu
5.6K likes • 52.6K views

🐾 Dog Park Paradise

The off-leash dog park is huge, clean, and well-maintained. Friendly people and safe vibes! InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

Enjoy flat, never-ending trails around the lake, perfect for long walks with pets or kids. Reddit

Come to the Lakewood Farmers Market on Tuesdays from 2-7 p.m. at Fort Steilacoom Park! Thanks to all of our vendors in the video: Mince Mercantile Tahoma Spice The Old Ref Barn Popping co Zesty’s Lemonade The Sweetest Things Mangomania Purdy Good Pickles Mena Foods The Old Red Barn Popping Co Stone Soup Kitchen
cityoflakewoodwa
135 likes • 2.3K views
Fort Steilacoom Dog Park is the perfect spot to bring your restless pups as the weather starts getting better in Tacoma! It’s fully fenced, wooded, there are walking paths, and lots of frolicking pals for your pup to befriend. Move to Tacoma | Steilacoom, WA | Tacoma Dog Parks #movetotacoma #steilacoom #tacomadogparks
movetotacoma
46 likes • 1.7K views

📅 Tuesday Farmers Market

Shop fresh produce and local goods every Tuesday from 2-7 PM at the park. Instagram+1

📸 Photo Opportunities

Beautiful scenery with tall grass, red barns, and lake views make it ideal for photoshoots. Instagram+1

𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 - 𝗖𝗶𝗿𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗴𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 (𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲) This inclusive play space is such a cool new South Sound addition and a long time coming (the project started with a state grant in 2020 and broke ground last year). We took advantage of sunnier skies and checked it out last weekend.  𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱: 💙 A whole slew of inclusive features - poured rubber surfacing, ramps, wheelchair...
suitcasesinseattle
422 likes • 20.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog Park Paradise

The off-leash dog park is huge, clean, and well-maintained. Friendly people and safe vibes! InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

Enjoy flat, never-ending trails around the lake, perfect for long walks with pets or kids. Reddit

📅 Tuesday Farmers Market

Shop fresh produce and local goods every Tuesday from 2-7 PM at the park. Instagram+1

📸 Photo Opportunities

Beautiful scenery with tall grass, red barns, and lake views make it ideal for photoshoots. Instagram+1

🎶 Summer Concerts

Catch free Tuesday Concert Series performances during the summer. Instagram

🚗 Ample Parking

Large, open parking lots make it easy to access different areas of the park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Fort Steilacoom Park for its vast open spaces, well-maintained facilities, and diverse offerings, from a top-notch dog park to scenic lake trails and an inclusive playground. Many highlight the park's safety and the friendly community atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for families, dog owners, and nature enthusiasts alike.

"Love love love this place! We love the open space the old historic buildings large open parking lots. It’s my family’s favorite place to go take our dog for a nice walk. Friendly ppl and I always feel safe. If you like nature you’ll love this place."

Amara Cohen

"The coin is tossed each time we go to Fort Steilacoom Park so we can decide which park area to go. The children's park, the off leash fenced-in dog park, or the trails around the lake? The options are plenty and the hiking trails through this park are never-ending. We enjoy the towering trees and fenced areas for long cool down walks with our fur babies in the summer. The farmer's market here also runs all the summer and is usually on Tuesday from 2 to 4 pm. The park offers multiple fresh experiences each week with a full & fresh list of vendors. Fort Steilacoom always gives us a great excuse to get outside and enjoy our community. 😋"

Sarah Girkadirk

"Fort Steilacoom Park is hands-down one of the best places around to spend a day outdoors. The park is huge, beautifully kept, and has something for everyone—walking trails, open fields, sports courts, a fantastic dog park, and even a serene lake that makes for a perfect backdrop. It’s clean, safe, and well-maintained, which makes it great for families, fitness, or just relaxing.

I love how much space there is to spread out, whether you want to enjoy a picnic, take the kids to the playground, or just go for a quiet stroll. The history of the grounds gives it a unique character, and yet it still feels like a modern, vibrant community spot. Every time I visit, I’m reminded how lucky we are to have such a gem right here.

Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors!"

Michael Michael

What People Like

Spacious open areas
Excellent dog park
Beautiful lake trails

What People Dislike

Limited food options on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fort Steilacoom Park is located in Lakewood, Washington. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the park.Reddit Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is generally recommended. Check local transit schedules if you plan to use public transport.

Yes, the park offers large, open parking lots, making it convenient to access various areas like the sports fields, dog park, and playgrounds.Reddit

While there aren't dedicated bike lanes leading directly to the park, you can cycle to the park and utilize the walking paths for exploration. Secure your bike appropriately if you do.

The park is quite large, so wearing comfortable shoes is a must. Maps are often available at park entrances or visitor centers, and many visitors use their phones to navigate the extensive trail system.Reddit

Fort Steilacoom Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access. Special events or specific facility rentals might incur separate charges.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Fort Steilacoom Park is a public park and does not require tickets for general admission. You can explore its grounds, trails, and playgrounds freely.

The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facility hours, like restrooms or sports fields, may vary. It's always a good idea to check the official City of Lakewood Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date information.

The off-leash dog park is typically open year-round during park hours. However, it's advisable to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.

Yes, picnic areas and shelters may be available for reservation through the City of Lakewood Parks and Recreation department. This is recommended for larger gatherings or events.

The inclusive playground is designed for children of various ages and abilities. While there are no strict age restrictions, supervision by an adult is always recommended.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking on trails, playing at the inclusive playground, visiting the large off-leash dog park, picnicking, and exploring the historic buildings.InstagramReddit+1 There are also sports fields for baseball, softball, and soccer.

Absolutely! Families love the spacious playgrounds, open fields for running, and the lake trails. The inclusive playground is a major draw for children of all abilities.InstagramReddit

The park boasts a large, fenced, off-leash dog park that is a favorite among local dog owners for its size and maintenance.InstagramReddit The trails are also great for leashed dog walks.

Yes, the trails around Lake Steilacoom are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for beginners and families with young children.Reddit

Fishing regulations may apply. It's best to check with Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife for current rules and licensing requirements if you plan to fish in the lake.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The park itself doesn't have on-site restaurants, but it's a popular spot for picnics. You'll find many picnic tables available. The Tuesday Farmers Market also offers food vendors.Instagram+1

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks for picnics is highly encouraged. There are plenty of open spaces and picnic areas to enjoy your meal.

The Lakewood Farmers Market at Fort Steilacoom Park features a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, snacks, and sometimes prepared foods.Instagram

Yes, the surrounding Lakewood area has numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast-food options. You can easily find dining choices before or after your park visit.

Park rules regarding alcohol consumption can vary. It's best to check the City of Lakewood's official park regulations or signage at the park for current policies.

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers diverse backdrops, including the lake, tall grass fields, historic buildings, and the playground. The changing seasons also provide unique photographic opportunities.Instagram+1

Yes, it's a popular location for senior photos due to its varied scenery, including fields, barns, and waterfront views, offering a 'farmer core' vibe.Instagram

Professional photoshoots are common here, with photographers utilizing the park's natural beauty and historic elements.Instagram Permits may be required for commercial photography; check with the city.

Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer the best natural light for photography. The open fields also provide great light throughout the day.

Drone usage is often restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. Always check local regulations and park rules before flying a drone.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fort Steilacoom Park is a top-tier choice for families. The inclusive playground is a major draw, offering fun for children of all abilities.Instagram Beyond the playground, the park's open fields are perfect for letting kids run wild, and the lake trails provide a gentle, scenic walk. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many tables, making it an easy and enjoyable day out.

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a paradise for dog lovers! The off-leash dog park is exceptionally large, clean, and well-maintained, making it a favorite spot for pups to play and socialize.InstagramReddit For leashed adventures, the lakeside trails offer beautiful scenery and plenty of space for a good walk. The community of dog owners here is known for being friendly and respectful.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

With its diverse landscapes, Fort Steilacoom Park is a photographer's dream. Capture stunning shots with the lake views, tall grass fields, and historic red barns.Instagram+1 It's a popular spot for senior portraits, family photos, and even branding sessions due to its varied backdrops and natural light. Remember to check for any permit requirements for commercial shoots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Stroll Through History

Fort Steilacoom Park is more than just a recreational area; it's a site steeped in history. Originally part of the vast prairie lands inhabited by the Steilacoom and Nisqually tribes, it later became a U.S. Army post in the mid-1800s.TikTokInstagram Visitors can still see remnants of these historical periods scattered throughout the park, adding a unique layer to the experience.

Later, the grounds were home to the Western State Hospital, an institution for the mentally unwell. This complex past contributes to the park's distinctive atmosphere. While the historical buildings might evoke a sense of the past, the park has been transformed into a vibrant community hub, offering a peaceful coexistence of history and modern recreation.Reddit

Dog-Friendly Adventures

For dog owners, Fort Steilacoom Park is a true gem. The dedicated off-leash dog park is a major highlight, described as huge, clean, and well-maintained by frequent visitors.InstagramReddit It provides a safe and spacious environment for dogs to run, play, and socialize with other canine companions.

Beyond the off-leash area, the park's extensive network of trails around Lake Steilacoom is perfect for leashed walks. The flat terrain and scenic views make it an enjoyable experience for both pets and their owners. The friendly atmosphere among park-goers also contributes to a positive experience for those visiting with their furry friends.Reddit

Family Fun and Play

Fort Steilacoom Park is a fantastic destination for families. The park features a modern, inclusive playground designed to be accessible and engaging for children of all abilities.Instagram This ensures that every child can join in the fun and create lasting memories.

In addition to the playground, families can enjoy the open fields for games, picnics, and general exploration. The walking trails around the lake offer a gentle way for families to connect with nature, and the park's overall safety and cleanliness make it a worry-free environment for parents.Reddit

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