Fort Worden is the quintessential WSP (Washington State Parks) experience. Set on an old military fort, it features historic buildings, batteries, beaches, outdoor spaces, trails, and campgrounds for visitors of all ages. I hadn't been here in decades, but recently visited for a few fun days of glamping in the ol' RV. Sadly, despite securing a coveted campsite reservation 9 months ahead, we weren't able to book at the uber-appealing beachside campground; but we found the upper forest campground area just fine. The park itself is vast, clean, and well-staffed. It would be great for a day visit of exploring the beaches; but was also fun for a multi-day visit where we were able to ride our bikes around the park (and also, once, all the way to town!). We also enjoyed beers a couple of times at their on-site restaurant, Taps at the Guardhouse. And ate lunch along the water another day at their casual burger joint. If you're camping, they only take reservations (no walk-ins), and as long as you keep your camping receipt visible in your car, you don't need a Discover Pass during your visit. If visiting for the day, however, a Discover Pass is required. There's plenty of parking, and lots to do (including visiting a beautiful lighthouse). For less crowded beaches, their north beach area was a fun treat. We'll definitely be looking to book campsites at Fort Worden again! read more

See all

What a great park. So much to do. Hiking, beachcomber, historical buildings. Plus a bus is available to go into the eclectic Port Townsend for free! Great restaurants. Ferry available to go to Whidbey Island. Only $2.50 for seniors and kids free. Very busy in the summer. Full hookups along the beach and partial up in the forest. No dump at sites, in the forest, but one available for use. Great bathroom s and showers. Only two mile walk into town, on low tide. read more

See all

Steve and I returned to Fort Worden State Park after coming here for the first time several years ago. We came here with a relative who recently moved here and it was wonderful to walk around and talk along the beach... visit and catch up as we strolled up towards the lighthouse. It is spring so it was windy and a bit cold but with enough layers we were pretty comfortable on our short walk. Such a beautiful state park and definitely a "must" to visit while in Port Townsend! read more

Fort Worden State Park - Love roaming along the beach and admiring the Straight of Juan de Fuca! - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

See all

Fort Worden is a true 10/10 experience for families, especially those with a passion for military history! We can spend hours here and are never disappointed. There is a wonderful trail that loops around the beach, lighthouse and through many of the old structures. Sometimes, the narrow hallways are unfortunately flooded and there are some areas of garbage and vandalism but for the most part it's no impact on the experience. We saw a cute little otter friend right near the lighthouse too! read more

See all

For Worden State Park used to be somewhere I visited frequently in 2015. It's one of those unique places that has the ability to blend history and scenery so seamlessly that is stays with you forever. The historic military structures and preserved officer dwellings create a fun sense of stepping into the past. I did feel like that the park had a sense of weight to, in a super natural way if you catch my drift. I loved being able to sit on the beach and watch for wild life while feeling grounded. Highly recommend you visit this location in the Triangle of Fire. read more

This state park has so much to offer! We visited the Point Wilson Light, built in 1913. It was a cool old structure in need of repairs. There was signage showing they are currently asking for donations to repair it. It was closed for the season when we visited, so we weren't able to go inside. There is beach access by the lighthouse as well. There were quite a few RV and camping spaces, picnic areas and restrooms available. Driving through the buildings around the barracks was super cool. There are so many different buildings! One was even converted into a pub. The cemetery was nice to see too. The grounds are well kept. We really enjoyed our time here. We'll definitely be back! read more

See all

We stopped by Fort Warden on a Saturday morning. The park is huge! Many trails, many old base buildings, and many old structures. Great place to take a stroll and explore! We had so much fun checking out the old military buildings and taking in the breathtaking views. The trials were well maintained with garbage cans throughout for dog waste. Be careful climbing to the top of the old concrete structures as the steps are slippery after a rainy day. read more

See all

When I originally wrote this my wife and I did not have an innerstanding regarding ADA laws and service animals. Since than we have become educated so as to protect the laws set in motion by the ADA. There are 2 questions that can be asked regarding an animal that may be in question: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform? Staff are not allowed to request any documentation for the dog, require that the dog demonstrate its task, or inquire about the nature of the person's disability. [Source: https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/) These questions were not addressed by the Park employee and the Park should have in place a plan on how to address an animal that isn't showing behavioral issues (ie: zero training, aggressive towards people/animals, etc.). There is a need for an awareness of the importance of being respectful to service animals. There is sadly many who claim their dogs as service animals when they're clearly not trained for any tasks and therefore should be labeled as ESA (Emotional Support Animal). read more

A nice park with some interesting historical buildings and such, along with the shoreline and a lighthouse (closed). Perhaps the best is the Commanding Officers Quarters. It's packed with period furnishing, photos and household items, providing a glimpse into life on the post. For the high ranking officers anyway. read more

Fort Worden State Park - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

This place is incredible. Miles of trails, most of which overlook a stunning coastline of clear waters, green pines, and the white cliffs of Whidbey Island. At low tide, you can search for sea glass and walk around to the lighthouse. There are lots of old fort buildings, including a tunnel, to explore. This is a great place for adults and children alike and restful and inspiring for the soul. read more

Fort Worden State Park - By the field. - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

See all

This is an interesting abandoned old building in Port Townsend that's fun to explore and has a really nice vantage point when you climb to the top. It's solid concrete and structure so you don't have to worry about falling through anything. The concrete stairs are steep going up and there's just a wall to hold onto going down so if you're scared of heights be mindful read more

See all

I've visited PT many times but Fort Worden only a few of those. However, I've never been to the WW1 artilliery emplacements there until these last 2 visits. They are really cool! What surprised me is the ability to explore deep into the bunkers. (bring a flash light!). They are so open to the public. As a better than average amateur photographer, I was having a blast (artillery pun) photographing inside. Lots of cool nooks and crannies. There are more bunkers behind the officer's quarters than those by the light house. I'll explore later. Over all, this park is a unique gem. The converted soldier and officer's quarters are available for short stays and retreats. (book thru the state parks web side). read more

Fort Worden State Park - The main barracks and fort by the light house - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

See all

Massive grounds to wander at this state park. We stopped by to check it out and take a trail. The old fort grounds are interesting, some revamped for modern usage and others left for nature to take back. We found the trail system, while expansive, to be just okay. Best part for us was watching the deer enjoy their day, loads of fawns, and seemingly roaming everywhere. :) read more

See all

Beautiful location and fabulous park. We have returned year after year. But the campsites are now full of sharp thorns in the grass. Clearly they have a severe problem and had we have known in advance we would not have gone. They stuck into the dogs paws, stuck into our shoes. Stuck in our bike tires. Poked through the outside mat and consequently we walked them into the RV they were awful. It would have been nice if the park had forewarned us (there were other campers laying down double layers of tarps) No warning signs whatsoever. Be warned if you're camping or walking through the beach loop. And WA state parks need to address this. read more

I couldn't think of anything that would make this park more lovely than it currently is. It has it all: - tons of intersecting trails - old ruins for kids to run around on - beaches and blue water anyway you look - plenty of restrooms, and clean ones at that - old buildings that leave you feeling put back in time - mountain/lighthouse/island views - meandering deer and swooping birds We spent about two and a half hours walking and relaxing around here, and it was so nice. read more

See all

This was a very nice place to go, and it has a lot of beach area to walk on. They have to campsite one on the water and one up in the woods when I was there the one in the woods was closed and the one on the water was open and I would've preferred it the other way around, because the wind was blowing so hard for the two days I was there that I really could not leave my camper read more

See all

Great walking beach! Lots of cool rocks and plenty of space to let kids and dogs and adults run around Cool battery concrete structure Extremely clean bathrooms Great campsites read more

See all

This is one of the best state parks in Washington! You will spend all day at Fort Worden State Park, exploring the bunkers, batteries, and perhaps the officer quarters along the many trails that will lead you to something historic and significant. Fort Worden was set up as an artillery base, as it was one of the three forts to protect the Puget Sound in the early 1900's. The other two, which you can see from this fort are Fort Casey and Fort Flagler. Fort Worden is the biggest of the three, so is the most visited. Prepare to wear comfortable shoes and be immersed in history. Though the artillery base was set up for war, it fortunately never had to fire a shot in anger. Yet, you can still see where the six batteries with the 41 gun emplacements are. Some of the bunkers will have you walking underground in the dark where kids will spook you. Use the flashlight feature on the phone to get around! Some bunkers will have you climb up ladders, and go through narrow passageways throughout. It's pretty neat! Other parts of Fort Worden include the lighthouse, where you can climb the rocks nearby for beachfront views and watch those who are fishing nearby. There are several trails around here, so I encourage you to explore and take your time, learning the history of the "Triangle of Fire". For a break, there's a taphouse and a restaurant or cafe, which are open at this time. However, guided tours and the visitor's center is closed during COVID-19. Do your research though, and you'll love learning about what was once and is now here. read more

See all

This park was now well kept like Fort Casey. It had trash around, lots of weed, bags of dog poop, cups and trash inside, smelled of urine in spots. I was disappointed. What was awesome was the general store and museum. Theres a great shop with friendly workers and the most haunted house in WA there. read more

See all

Park is absolutely gorgeous, and full of history and pop culture. From castles to cemetery's you will find many things to wander around and see. I recommend setting aside, at the very least, 3 hours to see this park. An Officer and a Gentleman was shot here in 1982 if you are in to movie history/pop culture, and they have done a wonderful job at maintaining natural beauty of the original construction. Don't miss out if you're in the Port Townsend area. read more

See all

Gorgeous! That's about the only word necessary to describe this place. It's definitely an old fort and was built up during WWII when the army transferred many soldiers here to protect our coastline. The beautiful old buildings remain and are rented out for events and lodging. The old Guardhouse is now a Bar and Grill. The jail bars remain. There's an artillery museum and also a gift shop. The best part, however, is the beach and camping area. At the end is a lighthouse that's great for picture taking. Love this place. Not much else to say and not much else to compare it to. read more

Fort Worden State Park - The old guardhouse - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

See all

Fort Worden is a beautiful state park that is nicely preserved with reservable camping spots/cabins/rooms, a gorgeous beach, event spaces, an automated lighthouse and a rich history as it was a WWII bunker site for the US military. Down by the campsites, there are restrooms and showers. There is ample parking and BBQ grills. Campfires are allowed. Many weddings are held here and one was going on while we were visiting. We went to the beach and strolled around and had the whole place to ourselves in June. read more

See all

Fort Worden is a former Naval Base turned into a State Park located within the town of Port Townsend. It was an active base from 1902 to 1953 and in 1971 was transferred to the State Parks. The movie "An Officer and a Gentleman" was filmed here as well as "The Ring." There is so much to do here. You won't be able to explore everything in one day. Numerous bunkers are available to be explored. There's an Artillery Museum, several restored officer quarters, and the Point Wilson Lighthouse is also located here. The park is home to a Woodworking school, a publishing company, and a marine science center. We came by on a beautiful January weekend. We parked where the former barracks are located near the Artillery Museum. We walked/hiked everwhere from there. There are about 2 miles of beaches and we walked almost the entirety of it. We ran into 3 cute otters frolicking in the water near the beachside. We checked out the lighthouse and Battery Vicars and Battery Kinzie. Among a trail of trees on the opposite end is Battery walker. We didn't get to see all the batteries as dusk was going to hit soon and we needed to start heading back to our car. If you didn't visit the artillery museum prior, you may not appreciate the batteries as much. We were also quite lucky and ran into a very knowledgeable volunteer who took the time to show us videos off of his phone and walked us around Battery Kinzie giving us a history lesson and known facts. Because we visited on a January weekend, parking and crowds weren't an issue. read more

See all

We recently stayed two nights at the Corporals. It was okay, but is really old and smelled old and in need of some maintenance/paint/restoration. The stairs are very steep and the units are really duplexes with locked connecting doors - we could hear our neighbor cough. We saw it advertised as one bedroom with a queen bed and one bedroom with two twins, I asked if they had any with queen beds in both bedrooms and said yes they do and confirmed by email and then again when I called. But we got two twin beds... Overall a bit expensive for what you get and better to spend the day at the park instead of overnight in their accommodations. A bit disappointing. read more

Enjoyed looking at the homes around this area. It reminded me of Carmel and Monterey coastal type of homes with a cottage charm. Sand was soft and less rocky. There were toliets but if you wanted water, you'll need to buy at the canteen. Semi walking distance to Point Wilson lighthouse read more

A long drive to get to. Plenty of parking, but remember to have your Discover Pass it plan to spend $10 for the day. Restrooms are amazing. Clean and don't smell. There are a lot of things to do. Beaches were perfect for searching for something unique. Looked like there were lots of places to camp in your RV with onsite hookups. Port Townsend wasn't too far away for great places to eat and shop. read more

Fort Worden State Park - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

This place is so much more than a state park, it is more like a McMenamins to history buffs. The fort sits on 433 acres of well-maintained ground, which used to house an Army unit during the late 1800's to early 1900s. Now most of it is just a well-preserved historcal site, but that is where the fun begins. Most of the homes and a few cabins are for rent, although a bit expensive. They also have a fully stocked bar (Taps at Guardhouse) with good snacks and nice craft beer selection. The park also offers a plentroa of hiking trails, incredible views, muesems, and a gift shop. Definitely worth checking out even if you are not much into history. Just a beautiful place. read more

If you enjoy the outdoors, history and respect those who have served, then Fort Worden State park is for you. A Discover Pass is required to explore this park. Discover passes as well as Day passes can be purchased at the Gift Shop (open daily from 10am-4pm). We stayed in Alexander's Castle and a day pass was part of our stay. My wife and I explored/hiked over 10+ miles of this park. Some trails (not all) are accessible to handicap people or small children. Keep in mind that Fort Worden is very close to the Puget Sound so be sure to carry a light jacket to ward off the chill in the early mornings and late evenings. I would recommend carrying a flashlight in order to explore inside the dark battery fortifications. Several bathrooms are also available for use if needed while exploring. We both enjoyed exploring (10+ miles worth) and reading the history of 100 years ago. It was also a pleasant surprise to witness herds of deer leisurely walking and grazing about. A peaceful, quiet, healthy way to spend ones' time. There are a couple dining venues on site as well: Cafe at the Commons (breakfast and lunch) which is open daily from 7am-3pm. Taps at the Guardhouse (21+) which is open Mon-Thurs from 2pm-8pm, Fri 2pm,-10pm, Sat 12pm-10pm and Sun 12pm-8pm. Cablehouse Beach Canteen is seasonal. Several paid activities are offered as well such as: Coast Artillery Museum (Open daily 11am-4pm) Adults: $4 Age 6-12 $2 Under 5 and Active Military is free Madrona MindBody Institute Yoga, massages etc... 360-344-4475 Marine Science Center Exhibits Open Fri-Sun 12pm-5pm Adults $5 Kids $3 School of Woodworking Classes & workshops 360-344-4455 Kayak & Bicycle Rentals - Seasonal Commanding Officer's Quarters - Seasonal Point Wilson Lighthouse - Seasonal Thank you Fort Worden for maintaining the grounds of our history. Thank you for keeping us humble. read more

See all

We recently moved to Washington and have been taking lots of small road trips exploring this great state. Decided to go to Fort Worden since there would be something different to look at besides the scenery. This was alot of fun if you have seen the movie Officer and a Gentleman. Soon as we pulled into the park, I immediately thought of the movie because of the white buildings. I picked up a pamphlet at the gift shop. Employee was friendly and offered the map as I came in looking for a restroom and asked about the movie and film locations. Beautiful water views. Seattle can be seen in the far distance. Little far of a drive, but if you are close. This is a great stop. Little detour but worth it. read more

See all

I've been going to Ft Worden all my life. It's a beautiful park to walk around in, enjoy the beach, see some history, and hang with friends. The campground is beautifully kept with awesome views. There's now a pub on site and always plenty of deer to feed. read more

Fort Worden State Park - Pt Wilson lighthouse - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

See all

This park goes for miles !!! So it's an old military fort , my husband is Air Force so he loves all fort history . There are so many cracks and crevices that you must see. Hidden gems, so many rooms in the bunkers , being able to see where the old guns where, it's amazing . They have pictures of it in motion which is mind blowing to think there were troops here ! There is a mess hall, officer housing, barracks , lots of amazing trials kid friendly and stroller friendly . Fun for all ages we went with a group aging from 6months-60 years old . So everyone made it up the hill to the "big fort" and those views are spectacular! There is also a huge field I'm guessing the old parade deck where we just enjoyed our lunch on the grass then went to the beach ! Which is right down the way . It was a wonderful day trip with family so much to do and see . Very clean . Very peaceful. read more

See all

What a beautiful park. We came to Port Townsend for the first time, and we miraculously were able to make it just in time to see the sunset from Fort Worden State Park. I am going to post a few pictures, but they do Not so the view justice. We were in awe that we could see a beautiful beach, a beautiful sunset, and beautiful Point Wilson Lighthouse all within just a few minutes. It was absolutely crazy to see so many beautiful sights. If you go to Port Townsend, you must take a trip to this beautiful park. I only wish we would have had more time! The sunset I saw here was easily the most amazing I have ever seen! read more

See all

We enjoyed our visit to Fort Worden. Interesting history and great views. Built and used from 1902-1953. read more

Fort Worden State Park - Entrance to Fort Worden - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

See all

Great event place! Super service with the rental chairs and arch! Beautiful cottage on the bluff for getting ready! read more

Fort Worden State Park - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

A favorite place to go! Camping, beach walks, jetty viewing, bicycling paths, wildlife, military museum, WWI &II bunkers, frisbee golf, has so much to offer. read more

This park is HUGE! Just located at the coast of Port Townsend. Upon entering the Fort Warden you will feel like this place is well taken care of with signs everywhere, park rangers visible, and clean buildings. Once we reached the coast, there is a long strip of beach, some with playable area and some with grainy rocks area. Kids are visible playing with each other, creating sand castles and wooden houses using tree branches near by. All around good vibes with alot of families and friends visiting at that time. Once we went to the deepest part of the park, we were greeted by a historical building, Battery Kinzie. It is an abandoned military bunker that was used back in World War 2. Definitely a place to visit when you are visiting Port Townsend. They have a small musuem as well to visit right in the middle of the park. Public washroom is available. You will need the discovery pass to visit this park. read more

Fort Worden State Park - View from the beach bench - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

This is easily a 5 Star rating, because I'm including the amazing acres of exploration through out the bunkers, buildings and grounds, restaurants and lodging!! I arrived on Friday 3/16 and leaving Sunday 3/18 for a full weekend with 40 friends for my buddy's 60th Birthday bash! The grounds have a ton of lodging! I stayed in Alexander's Castle, which is a brick 3 story building with full kitchen, full bath and 1/2 bath upstairs attached to 1 bedroom. There's a 6 chair dining table and living room with seating for 6 as well, along with a gas "wood stove". :) the 3rd floor is blocked off, but 2 floors is plenty for a beautiful view of the grounds and water. They have a couple of late halls/buildings you can rent for large parties. We were in the JFK Pavilion/Hall and had a 5 piece band and just over 40 people. It was catered and fantastic! The beach, lighthouse and so much more... get down here!!! It's quite the adventure! read more

See all

We enjoyed our time here. It's a great family place to visit. Beautiful and quiet. We noticed there is a place to set up campers and it's right across from the "beach". We want to plan a stay here before we leave WA. I have recommended this place to a few other families I know. This place was recommended by pictures from another person and I'm glad that I planned the trip out! I have a family of 7 and each one of us enjoyed our time here. Restroom are clean and showers are available with park coins, you get them right outside of the buildings. There are also water sprayers to wash off sand! There are a few things to look at and check out. We didn't have enough time to check it all out. But if you want a good family time I would recommend you check it out! You do need a discovery pass for this place. Or pay the $10 fee for the day. read more

Fort Worden State Park - Some pictures in a collage. - Parks Near Me - Port Townsend, Washington

*Beach and bunker review* We drove the initial area admiring the architecture of times past and checked out the bunkers and beach... Lots of concrete, lots of corroded and rusty doors... eaten away by time and Mother Nature... definitely interesting walking through the area and enjoying the views, the surroundings. Also, I totally caught a sting-ray ghost thingie on my phone camera! It looked like, "Oh, la la la, don't mind me floating through the area." "Yeah, ok buddy." read more

Great museum and friendly people.lots to see learn. Had stolen fun !!!!!!!!!!Its cheep if you have a discover pass