There are 124 state parks in Washington… and considering they see a collective 40 million guests a year, it’s safe to say it’s no secret that our parks are the best. Whether your idea of spending time in nature means scaling a mountain or strolling by the sea, you’ll find it in the Evergreen State. The next time you have a free weekend to explore, we highly recommend checking out these three stunning state parks. From beginning to end, this trip will completely relax you. Without further ado: we present an itinerary for an epic weekend road trip in Washington!

You’ll find the itinerary for the trip on Google Maps.

Google Maps
Start your journey at Deception Pass State Park, which just happens to be Washington's most well-known state park.
Deception Pass State Park, 41229 State Rte 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, USA
Karen Neoh / Flickr
The Deception Pass Bridge is iconic, but there's a lot more to discover at this 3,854 acre park.
This park is actually located on two Islands, Whidbey and Fidalgo.
Rain Rannu / Flickr
In addition to the 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline (on three lakes), there's a fantastic camping area here.

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Next, head a bit south to Camano Island State Park.
Camano Island State Park, 2269 Lowell Point Rd, Camano, WA 98282, USA
liquidcrash / Flickr
Camano Island is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, and this park is definitely the highlight.
Camano Island State Park offers plenty of campsites, or you can head to Cama Beach and sleep in a rustic cabin.
Chelsea Nesvig / Flickr
Either way, plan on spending a night on Camano, because there's a lot to see and do here.
The next day, drive a bit south (again) until you hit Saint Edward State Park in Kenmore.
Saint Edward State Park, 14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA 98028, USA
Abed Oumousse / Google
This park has something for everyone: a massive playground, an abundance of nature trails, picnic areas, a wedding arch, and freshwater shoreline (it sits above the shores of Lake Washington).
At the end of your camping adventure, it's only fitting to reward yourself with a luxury hotel stay... and luckily, there happens to be one at this park.
The Lodge at St. Edward State Park / Facebook
The Lodge at Saint Edward State Park opened in 2021 after many years of diligent restoration. Between the garden-like setting, tranquil spa, and farm-to-table restaurant, this place is perfect for celebrating spending a weekend at Washington's state parks.

Tell us about the state parks or natural attractions you’d add to this nature-filled weekend road trip in Washington. And while you’re searching for places to explore, don’t forget to check out our previous article for more of the best state parks in Washington! 

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Weekend Road Trip in Washington

Sarah M. | April 24, 2023

What are the best places to visit for a weekend road trip in Washington?

Inspired to explore all the Evergreen State has to offer? Then pack up the car and set out for a weekend road trip to one of these amazing places in Washington:

  • Cape Flattery, Clallam County. Our list of must-visit places in Washington begins at Cape Flattery. You can discover this natural beauty on the Olympic Peninsula after a short hike, most of which features a boardwalk
  • Hurricane Hill, Olympic Peninsula. No list of must-see places in Washington is complete without a trip to the Olympic Peninsula. You'll catch some unforgettable views of the Elwha Valley on this hike and, at some points, even Mount Baker. This is a fantastic destination for your next weekend road trip in WA!
  • Perfection Lake, Enchantment Lakes. This flawless body of water just outside of Leavenworth (another must-visit place for an amazing weekend getaway in Washington!) gets its name for a reason! Learn more about why the Enchantment Lakes are among the most magical destinations in Washington.
  • Hoh Rain Forest, Forks. Plan an exotic visit to Olympic National Park one of these days to explore this temperate rainforest. Beautiful in any season, the Hoh Rain Forest is truly bucket list-worthy.
  • Priest Point Park, Olympia. One of the most heavenly waterfront parks you'll visit in your lifetime! There's plenty of picnic area for a comfy outdoor feast at Priest Point Park.
  • Duncan Garden, Spokane. Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful, if you haven't already taken a billion pictures of this beautiful botanical garden in Manito Park, let this be your reminder to go out and explore this Washington oasis!

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