This is our favorite dog park to take our pup. Simply put, it's MASSIVE. Our dog can run, play, and socialize with so many different dogs all over this park and he comes back exhausted and so happy from his fun filled day. Worth the drive no matter where you are in WA. Rain or shine this park is always open. Just don't be surprised if your pup comes back covered in mud on a rainy day . read more

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This is on the site of a former territorial military fort, then a state mental hospital and work farm (c.1868). With the farm's closing in the 1970's, a wonderful gift to the people of Lakewood and Washington state grew out of the distress of those hospital days. A diamond rising from the ashes, so to speak. There are a few of the farm buildings remaining plus the foundation to the barracks for the hospital's farm workers. More over there is tons of room to spread out, no matter what your activity might be (sports fields, trails, picnic areas......) read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

This park is an amazing place to spend a good chunk of your day - a lot of areas to explore and discover! Me and my kids love walking around the lake then walking over to the playground to enjoy all that there is to do. A lot of open areas to run around or have a picnic in the grass. Picnic tables and covered areas are available too. The bathrooms are in decent shape as well. I always see people riding their bikes here or running. I've never gone to the farmers market here yet, but that is on my list of future things to do! This park has always felt safe and I am glad it's an option. read more

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Been coming here since childhood and I love it. I don't remember as much housing development near some of the trails, but I love this place no matter what. Loooooove the dog park here especially. read more

At first when I drove by Fort Steilacoom Park I thought that it was mostly a park oriented towards sports because pretty much all you can see as you go by are the large sports fields. Well there are those but there is a LOT more to this park than that. This park has a ton of features to it and has some history to it as well. You might even say it is a minor tourist attraction. As you go further in and park by some barns that are also in the park you realize the history and the association the property once had with Western State Hospital which is right across the road. There is remains of old buildings that were once affiliated with the hospital, a patient cemetery and various signs that illustrate what the land was used for by the hospital and what was what at one point and time. If that alone doesn't draw you in there are lots of great walking paths all over the place and you can get lost in the forested areas on those paths. One portion of the path network goes by some old watertowers towards Pierce College and I found that outing to be enjoyable. There is a paved path that goes around the lake and that is very tranquil to do the circle and you can look at any water fowl that may be there as well. Other great features to the park is a large leash free dog park, an area where you can enjoy your RC vehicles, a large BBQ area and playground. It seems like the more you explore this park the more you find. In a very short amount of time I have come here about four different times and I don't really live all that close to the park... I just found it to be that enjoyable! read more

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As I update my previous review, I'm surprised to notice that there are so many intertwined trails in the back portion of the park. One could actually get lost back there, which is a good thing. I didn't even know there was a small lake as you get closer to the Pierce College. Anyway I really like Ft. Steilacoom Park due to it's close proximity to Lacey and also the overall amount of space there is to spread out around the park. There is always plenty of parking which spaces by the athletic fields, playground, dog park, and the barns. The park also is reasonably safe as Lakewood police appear to patrol the area regularly. There are restroom facilities and areas for grilling throughout. As noted there are several miles of trails around and within the park. The trails aren't marked heavily, so you can just make your own path. Shady in some places, open fields in other places. I've been able to walk about 7-8 miles by piecing the trails together. If you walk over by Pierce College there is a decent uphill elevation gain, but nothing too strenuous. Yes, there is a dog park too which has plenty of open space for little and large dogs alike. Also, if you're not visiting the dog park, the trails are dog friendly and there are doggie doo bags in most places. You can also ride bikes throughout. There are historical buildings that are still standing back toward the dog park and I believe there is a cemetery back there as well from the fort days. I've seen people shooting engagement or family photos around the barns. Honestly, there is something for almost everyone at this park and it's a perfect place to relax or just take the kids and let them run. read more

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My daughter and I love coming to this park. The playground is perfect for her. She is 2. It's not as crowded as Chambers Bay, but has a similar feel, just military themed. Lots of grass to have a picnic, bbq, picnic tables, and covered areas as well. There are also bathrooms. There is a dog park that we haven't been to, but have seen a lot of dogs and owners walking around. I believe they have a farmers market in the summertime. Overall a great place to bring the whole family and relax or play. read more

Always an insanely clean park !!! I have been here A LOT!! For walks, runs, beach walk, play ground, I even was married at the perch it the half gazebo that has a phenomenal view. It was a great experience! I truly love coming here and it helps that I live really close. The town itself is literally adorable not many shops, but just a quaint vibe that it's enjoyable. I truly enjoy spending the day here relax, as well as they have a great fire work show on Fourth of July . If you have a chance to visit or go to any events you definitely should !! The views a lone are perfect when it's not rainy, always a clean atmosphere, kind people , and a great time ! read more

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This park is GORGEOUS. Has a lake in the middle of it. The first time I visited this park I was in awe. I am really going to miss it when I move back to California. :/ Anyway, it has something for everyone. Has a dog park for the dog lovers, a jogging path for the fitness buffs, playground for the children and lots of grass areas for the sports players. My husband comes here to play football with his friends. While he does that, I take the kiddos to the playground. read more

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I would post photos but I think you should go and enjoy the beauty of this great park. We started going to the park to take our dogs - but we decided it was not just for them. Walk around the pond or go up the hill to get a great view as well as a history lesson. Take some photos next to the red barn or take a walk or bike ride. This park is great with plenty of things - picnic - playground - fields If they had a water park then it would be the best place - but I guess I will have to go when it is raining read more

I remember coming to this park as a little one but haven't been here in ages! At least 8-10 years ago? Wow.. I seem old now that I think about it. Well, I came today for a church outing event and I was shocked by how clean it is! And its quite a large park! I mean... clean by... no goose poop and such. I don't know if it's a dog friendly park (I saw SOME dogs) not many. I would love to bring my dog here on walks... if it was closer to my place since I live in Puyallup... But dang, I would like to come back here often but I don't really have a good enough reason to come here :/ Definitely give it 5 stars! Extra points for having a decent size play ground too! The kids from church were very focused on playing and didn't get bored or tired easily. read more

Really love coming here. I get to enjoy the view with my husband and every once in a while I bring my cat. I do know that this is a dog park, but my cat loves to be able to get out and enjoy nature just as much as we do. I love how there are so many hiking trails and I can discover a new one almost every day. The park is kept pretty clean which I am very grateful about because most parks are so filthy and people don't care. I bring a bag with me whenever I go just in case I see little bits of trash and I'll pick it up to help. I really do recommend coming to this park. Your dogs children and even if you have a cat they will enjoy it!! read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - Fun place to sit, relax, and find inspiration for art. - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

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FUN FOR TODDLERS! What an incredible park! I took my toddler here, unfortunately it was snowing, but that also meant we had the park to ourselves. I was thrilled with how accessible and fun it was for my 14 month old! We had an absolute blast playing on the playground, swinging, and walking on the trail. read more

This park has everything you could want. Took 2 stars because there is no basketball court. Plenty of space for like 3 of them but not one im site read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - Dont know how to explain still 3 stars though - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

Actually I want to write about the fort that is across the street. It is next to the hospital. The fort was built in 1849 and was in operation during the Civil War. It was finally decommission in 1868. The present day park was once part of the Fort grounds and it is where the rifle practice was held. The present day fort consists of four buildings that have survived. In one building is a museum. The other three are restored to what they looked like when the fort was in operation. There is a tour that is very inexpensive and well worth it. It is the best kept secret around. read more

What a beautiful and diverse expanse of public-park land. Fort Steilacoom Park is truly one of the nicest parks in the greater Tacoma area. Miles of hiking trails, walking paths, and places to mountain-bike.... Whether you prefer the solitude of a walk in a dense forest or across acres of open field, you'll find exactly what you're looking for. There are numerous picnic locations, as well as a very elaborate play area for children right near one of the reservable shelters ($50 at last check). There are a couple giant off-leash parks (big dogs + little dogs), also with lots of "people paths" as well as open dog-romping areas. On the North side are sports fields - great place to watch or play softball, soccer, touch-football, etc. year round. To the West is Waughop Lake - a very old spring-fed pond that's about 1 mile in circumference, paved all the way around. Perfect for walking or biking. I've been coming to this park since the early 1980s and we walk at least a few times a month around the lake or with the dog. If you've never visited Fort Steilacoom Park you're in for a real treat Dave read more

This is a great park. Lots of play area for different age groups. I wish it had more benches around the play area. Bring your own shade if it's a hot/sunny day. Has bathrooms and shaded areas for picnic lunches. But the shade is a little farther away from the play area than ideal for me. Didn't get to check out the other park features but this was a great place to stop and play for my 2 and 7 year old. read more

With a dog park on the West side, a lake on the East side and some great trails and even old ruins from the former Asylum that used to be on site, you just cannot go wrong. I used to live near here and would do my morning run through this wonderful park. The sun cresting over the tree tops drops a beautiful glaze of golden sparkle atop the tall wheat strewn grass. The morning dew drizzles the land with what seems like mother natures glitter and it is truly gorgeous. I've seen coyotes here early in the morning, at the peak of dawn-barely seen through the winding wild brush and kept trails. The old barns and history here help you feel connected to a time in the past. They have annual festivals, including old car demos and the big Summertime Steilacoom Festival. It's adorable. Quaint and sweet but larger than life, this park lends itself to its neighbors with plenty of room for those coming to visit from out of town too. I highly recommend coming out of your way to partake in this park...then find a nice local place for brunch, lunch or dinner. It really rounds out a lovely day, surely being the highlight of your trip-no doubt. read more

This is one of the first "parks" I found when I first moved out to Tacoma almost 8 years ago and it's still my fav, along with my daughter. No matter what age you are this park has pretty much everything!!!! We have named it the "castle park," which is suiting when you look at the actual play area for the kiddos, but it also has a large swing set, furnished with a tire swing and a chair swing as well. Lots of options for picnics, along with covered areas, grill, and picnic tables. Though I am not a pet owner, I have been to the large dog run and also the garden!! THis park pretty much as it all and don't get freaked by the place across the street, lo!!! have never heard any issues with that one:) read more

There's a small lake with a paved path around it with lots of trails that go off of the path. There's also the old western state hospital. It's just a Slab of concrete now but it's still a cool piece of history for the area. Good for bike riding and walking with or without dogs. There's always a decent amount of people so it feels safe but not crowded. read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - The old western state hospital - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

I lived like 10 minutes (walking) from it and it an amazing park!! There is an dog park and a big playground for the kids! The walking paths there are very cool. You got to go to the lake and walk around it! It is a Pretty place! read more

The dog park is GREAT. Plenty of grass and well behaved pups. My pup came home happy and exhausted.

My daughter and I only visited this place once when my husband's aunt and uncle took us here. I was amaze at the story behind this huge community park. So to brief according to my husband's uncle. This place was taken under the wing of the community and funded by them. Since it was unkept my the city. They build it up to how it is today with an amazing playground area for the kids, lake and wide stretch of grassy areas to play sports on. With that said my little one was too little to truly enjoy this place to its extent but she did not mind trying to explore as she went through the castle and viewed the kids climbing the rock wall. The swings are her favorite. So though i only visited once it is definitely a park I will find myself visiting again with my now bigger little one to enjoy. read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - She loved the castle and swings. Uncle Larry knew what she liked. - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

I hadn't been to this park since I moved to WA in 2018, to think I use to live right down the street from my daughters now favorite park!! Love it very clean and spacious! read more

I miss this place. It has a huge area which includes a baseball field, soccer grounds, children play ground, a lot of trails, picnic areas, dog park, and a beautiful pond. Perfect place for spending some quality time! read more

Beautiful park. Surprising amount of trails if you keep your eyes open. Nice playground, and plenty of space for the kids to run around. read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - Trail around Waughop Lake. - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

This place is Beautiful! Has a play place. Has a dog park. Has trails I love it here! read more

Fort Steilacoom Park - Beautiful Day at the park!!!! - Parks Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

Very good park. Lots and lots of trails to explore. Sad that most of the ruins of the old hospital are non existent now.

Hard to find parking lot for our first visit. A bit unkept. Short trail. Crowded. Off of busy street. Still worth a visit! read more

I love this park, 27 acres of mixed terrain. read more

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Here visiting from out of town and wanted to find a place to play but the playground here was for little kids and my 6 yr old was boated after 5 minutes. read more

It's a beautiful vast area to stroll around at. The fact that there is a huge dog park where you can have your dogs run free without a leash is also a great plus. It's a nice structured walk around the lake area and there are usually some folks there who go to fish. It's a nice place to have leisurely stroll with your family. read more

Amazing park - wonderful trails, but in the past few months, it's been tricky and frustrating to enjoy with other park goers who let their dogs run off leash on the narrow trails. Please leash your dogs on the trails (park rules) or take them to the off-leash portion of the park. That's what it's there for. read more

Today was the first time I went to Fort Steilacoom....what a cool place! Will definately be exploring again soon!

I remember living in some nearby apartments, and watching this place go up! What a great park. Be sure to walk around the lake and educate yourself about the local history. Neat stuff. Keep exporing the park grounds, there's a lot to bump into! Trail runners love this place. read more

I'm so happy to live close by. When I take my son out here we always have a blast. They keep the area clean and the atmosphere is great! There are places to run, hike, kids park, trail around a body of water and more! It's another addition why I love Washington State! read more

My family and I love coming to this park! We can get our exercise while exploring the cool old ruins of the site! Everywhere you go at this park you can find the remnants of the days of the asylum that stood here. There's many fruit trees scattered all over the park, there's the old barns, a cemetery, and there's wild bunnies running around all over too! Everytime we come here we treat it as a new adventure. We love that there is so much to see here, and a history/story behind it! read more

One of my favorite parks for running. There is a good choice of trails, paths, hills, flats, paved, dirt, gravel, wooded areas, open areas....get my drift....this park has it all for runners. They also have a pretty cool playground for kids, a huge off leash area for dogs, and a ton of sports fields. Oh, and a cemetery right in the middle of it all....weird yes, but kind of neat at the same time and really interesting if you learn the history of the mental hospital and grounds. read more

My kids have played soccer here with the Lakewood Steilacoom Dupont soccer club for 5 years. The fields are nicely maintained. There are bathrooms with flush toilets as well as honey buckets in more remote areas. There are miles of paved and dirt trails to explore, wild fruit trees and berries everywhere, a huge dog park, ample parking and more. There is a great playground built by the community.Explore the old ruins and the woods around the little lake. We love this park! read more

I absolute LOVE this park. I think I love it more than my 28 month old. I haven't even mad a debt in learning about this park. It's huge. I speaking about the play ground area. It huge and safe! There is always a bunch of people but never feels crowded. read more