Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Washington State Parks Camping

The state of Washington offers an extremely distinct landscape. From the temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula and the moderate Pacific coast in the west to the high peaks of the Cascade Range and the dry deserts of the west, it is no wonder the beauty of Washington Parks attracts visitors from every state and country. Outdoorsmen from every area are attracted to Washingtons outdoor environment.


There are 120 Washington parks and recreation areas which attract the public with a wide variety of amenities, attractions, and activities. Windsurfing (on the Columbia River), rock climbing, skiing, and snowmobiling, Washington state parks end up with loads of activities to suit every outdoor lover. There are also plenty of historical sites, cultural exhibits, and interpretive centers for educational opportunities.


More than 30 of the state parks in Washington are on lakes or rivers, with over 70 public boat launches, so boating and water sports at the parks are fairly abundant. One of the best Washington state parks for water recreation is Deception Pass. Here, visitors can enjoy thier favorite saltwater and freshwater activities on more than 4100 beautiful acres along the quiet Puget Sound. This is one of the most fascinating areas in the Northwest.


Enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming on one of the three Deception Pass lakes or try crabbing, clamming, mooring, or diving in the saltwater of the sound. This Washington arena coastal park also provides boat rentals so everyone can enjoy the fun of being on the water. Deception Pass is in a great location for whitewater kayaking and sailboarding. Don't forget your Coleman inflatable boat when you visit this park.


In the winter cycles Washington is a haven for snow lovers, especially in the central mountainous regions. One of the best Washington state parks for winter recreation is Lake Easton state park in the Cascade Mountain foothills. The 45 RV sites and 95 tent sites are open year round so guests can enjoy a weekend of cold weather camping, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and family snow activities together with tubing and sledding.


Washington state parks access almost 700 miles of scenic hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls through natural exhibits to strenuous treks through mountain passes. There are also 3 long distance backpacking trails that can be accessed from different parks. Mountain biking trails are quite abundant as well. Beacon Rock is one of the top Washington arena parks for mountain biking, with 20 miles of designated trails.


There are two water trails in Washington that are designated for canoeing and kayaking. These trails wind through miles of scenic waterways and pass by several state parks the present offer primitive camping and pullouts. Washington state parks are furthermore popular destinations for horseback riding. There are 10 parks with equestrian trails, some giving horse campsites as well, and horses are allowed on several beaches. Just outside of Seattle, Bridle Trails is one of the best Washington state parks for horseback riding with 28 miles of riding trails. Lake Wenatchee state park offers horse rentals for day trips, as good as overnight excursions.


Whether you're interested in rock climbing at Columbia Hills state park, paragliding at Lincoln Rock, or just enjoying a weekend of Washington neighborhood park camping, there is plenty to do and lots to see across the state of Washington.


Find More on Camping at Outdoor World


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