Overview
Dash Point State Park sits on the eastern shore of Puget Sound in the city of Federal Way, Washington, roughly 20 miles southwest of Seattle and 15 miles north of Tacoma. The park spans approximately 398 acres of second-growth forest and includes nearly 3,300 feet of saltwater shoreline — a combination that makes it one of the more accessible coastal parks in the greater Seattle–Tacoma corridor.
The beach is the park's centerpiece. At low tide the tidal flats extend a considerable distance, revealing sand dollars, small crabs, and other intertidal life. The forest above the bluff is threaded with hiking trails that connect to the adjacent King County Dash Point Park, effectively doubling the trail network available to visitors.
Because it is a state park rather than a city park, Washington's Discover Pass is required for day-use parking. Visitors should verify current pass requirements and fees on the Washington State Parks website before arriving, as these are subject to change.
Before You Go
Entry Requirements
Dash Point State Park is a public state park open to all visitors. No visa beyond standard US entry requirements applies; international travelers should check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official US Customs and Border Protection website for current entry guidance.
Discover Pass
A Washington State Discover Pass is required for day-use vehicle parking at state parks. Passes can be purchased online through Washington State Parks, at many sporting-goods retailers, or at self-pay stations at the park. Annual and one-day options are available — verify current pricing on the official site.
Camping Reservations
The park has both standard and utility campsites. Reservations are strongly recommended from Memorial Day through Labor Day and can be made through the Washington State Parks reservation system. Walk-in availability in summer is limited.
What to Bring
- Layers: Puget Sound weather can shift quickly even in summer
- Rain gear year-round
- Sturdy footwear for slippery tidal rocks and rooted forest trails
- Sunscreen and a hat during summer low tides when the flats offer little shade
- Firewood if you plan to use a campfire ring (check current burn restrictions)
Getting There
By Car
The park is located at SW Dash Point Road in Federal Way. From I-5, take Exit 143 (Federal Way/SW 320th Street) and follow signs toward Dash Point. GPS navigation is reliable in this area. Parking fills quickly on summer weekends, so an early arrival — before 10 a.m. — is advisable.
By Public Transit
Pierce Transit and King County Metro serve the Federal Way area. From the Federal Way Transit Center, bus routes connect to stops within reasonable walking distance of the park entrance, though the walk includes a notable hill. Verify current route numbers and schedules on the respective agency websites before traveling, as routes change periodically.
By Bicycle
The park can be reached by bicycle via city streets and the Interurban Trail network. The approach along Dash Point Road includes steep sections; confident cyclists will find it manageable but it is not suitable for casual riders.
Nearest Major Airport
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is approximately 12–15 miles north, making rental car or rideshare access from the airport practical.
Getting Around
The park is compact and best explored on foot. The beach and picnic areas are accessible from the main parking area via a short path down the bluff. Hiking trails loop through the forest and connect to Dash Point County Park next door, offering several miles of combined trail.
There is no shuttle or internal transit within the park. Cyclists should note that bikes are not permitted on hiking trails; stick to the paved or gravel access roads for cycling within the park boundary. Strollers and wheelchairs can access the beach via a paved path to the picnic and fire pit area near the waterfront, though the sand and tidal flats themselves are uneven.
Things to See & Do
Beach and Tidal Exploration
The long tidal flats are ideal for walking at low tide. Visitors regularly find sand dollars, moon snails, small crabs, and sea lettuce. Check a local tide chart (NOAA provides free, accurate tide predictions) before your visit to time your beach walk.
Fishing and Crabbing
The Puget Sound shoreline here is a popular spot for fishing from the beach and pier area, with Dungeness crab and various bottomfish among local species. A Washington State fishing license is required; check WDFW (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife) for current regulations, seasons, and gear limits.
Hiking
Several miles of forested trails wind through the park and into the adjacent county park. Trails range from easy beach-level walks to moderately steep bluff routes. The forest is Pacific Northwest second-growth, with ferns, red alder, and occasional views of Puget Sound through the canopy.
Camping and Picnicking
Campsites are set within the forested upland, and group picnic areas are available near the beach. The park has restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings at designated sites. Amenities at campsites vary — some have utility hookups, others are standard tent sites.
Wildlife Watching
Bald eagles are commonly spotted along the shoreline. Harbor seals occasionally appear offshore. Great blue herons are a near-constant presence along the tideline.
Food & Drink
There are no food concessions within the park itself. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and water or stock up before arrival. Coolers, picnic supplies, and firewood are available at grocery and hardware stores in Federal Way along Pacific Highway South (SR-99).
The city of Federal Way, roughly 3–5 miles from the park, has a wide range of restaurants, fast food, and grocery stores including major chains. The Steel Lake and town center areas have sit-down dining options ranging from casual American to Asian cuisine reflecting the area's diverse community — verify hours locally as restaurant turnover in suburban areas can be frequent.
No alcohol is permitted in Washington State Parks unless in designated campground areas. Verify current rules on the park's official page.
Practical Information
Restrooms and Facilities
Flush restrooms and vault toilets are available in the park during the main operating season. Facilities may be reduced or closed in the off-season. A small camp store or ranger station may be on-site seasonally — verify locally.
Cell Service
Cell coverage is generally adequate in the parking and beach areas for major US carriers, but can be spotty on forested trails. Download offline maps before your visit if you plan to hike.
Leave No Trace
The park sees heavy summer use. Pack out all trash, do not disturb intertidal life beyond observation, and stick to established trails to protect the fragile bluff vegetation.
Pets
Dogs are permitted in the park and on trails but must be on a leash of 8 feet or shorter at all times. Dogs are not permitted on designated swimming beaches. Verify current pet rules on the Washington State Parks website.
Emergency Contacts
For emergencies, call 911. Washington State Parks law enforcement can also be reached through the general park line — verify the current contact number on the official Washington State Parks website.
Safety
The tidal flats require attention: tides on Puget Sound can rise faster than visitors expect, particularly in inlets. Always check a tide chart before walking far out on the flats and keep an eye on water conditions.
The bluff trails involve some elevation change and can be slippery when wet — appropriate footwear is important year-round. Stinging nettles grow along some trail edges; long pants are advisable when hiking off the main beach path.
The park is a popular local destination and is generally safe, but as with any public park, secure valuables in your vehicle or take them with you. Vehicle break-ins occur periodically in busy state park lots throughout Washington; do not leave bags or electronics visible.
