Fern Hill Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Fern Hill Park is a beautiful outdoor recreation area located in the state of Washington that offers visitors a variety of activities and attractions.
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Summary
The park is situated on the eastern edge of Tacoma and is known for its stunning views of Mount Rainier.
One of the main reasons to visit Fern Hill Park is to enjoy the many outdoor activities available. Visitors can hike on one of the park's many scenic trails, have a picnic, or play a game of frisbee or soccer. For those who enjoy fishing, the park's lake is stocked with trout and bass. Additionally, the park has a playground and sprayground for kids, making it a great family destination.
One of the main points of interest at Fern Hill Park is the lake, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and provides a peaceful spot for fishing or bird watching. The park also features a large open field that is perfect for sports or outdoor events. For those who enjoy hiking, the trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are suitable for all skill levels.
Interesting facts about the area include that Fern Hill Park was originally owned by the Tacoma Land Company and was eventually gifted to the city in the 1930s. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and beavers, and features a diverse range of plant life.
The best time of year to visit Fern Hill Park is in the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and the park is in full bloom. However, the park is open year-round and offers visitors a chance to experience the changing seasons.
In summary, Fern Hill Park is a beautiful outdoor recreation area that offers visitors a variety of activities and attractions. With its stunning views, hiking trails, lake, and playground, it is a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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