Dash Point State Park

Located directly on the Puget Sound, the 398-acre Dash Point State Park is by far the largest area of protected natural space in Federal Way.

The park's main draw is the 0.6-mile beach and shoreline that overlooks the Puget Sound's East Passage, The beach is fully equipped to handle any number of visitors and offers dozens of picnic tables, barbecue grills, a covered picnic shelter, as well as an outdoor shower and restrooms. With a shallow slope, the water is just deep enough for wading, but don't expect to be able to fully immerse yourself for a swim when the summer's heat cranks up.

Uphill from the beach, an extensive trail system climbs the peninsula's slope, crossing under SW Dash Point Road to lead up to the park's 143-site campground, easily southern Puget Sound's largest. The park also hosts a well-shaded upper picnic area with a shelter, an extensive group campsite, and a ranger station.

Note: To reserve one of the park's two picnic shelters, call 253.661.4955.