Saltwater State Park
Rate this placeNearby: Woodmont Park Salt Air Vista Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Saltwater State Park is a beautiful coastal park located in the state of Washington, offering visitors a fantastic experience with its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational activities.
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Summary
There are several compelling reasons to visit this park, including its extensive shoreline, unique underwater diving park, and rich ecological diversity.
One of the main attractions of Saltwater State Park is its picturesque shoreline, which spans almost 1,500 feet. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach, picnic in the shaded areas, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking ocean views. The park also offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and exploring tide pools, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the coastal environment.
A notable feature of Saltwater State Park is the underwater diving park, which lies just off the shoreline. This park encompasses a submerged area of 50 acres and is teeming with marine life and vibrant underwater ecosystems. Divers can explore various artificial reefs, sunken vessels, and an underwater statue of the Greek goddess Amphitrite. This unique diving park attracts diving enthusiasts from across the region and offers an unforgettable underwater experience.
The park is also home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The forested areas within the park provide ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Visitors may encounter a variety of species, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and harbor seals.
Interesting facts about this area include its historical significance. Saltwater State Park was originally established in 1926, making it one of the oldest state parks in Washington. The park was developed during the Great Depression as part of a public works project, creating a recreational area for locals and visitors alike.
The best time to visit Saltwater State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is generally pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. During this time, visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear waters, exploring the underwater diving park, and picnicking along the beach. It is important to note that the park can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so visiting on weekdays may offer a quieter experience.
To verify the accuracy of this summary, information was gathered from multiple independent sources, including the official Washington State Parks website, visitor reviews, and travel websites specializing in Washington state destinations.
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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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