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Top 24 Hotels Near Schafer State Park
1365 Schafer Park Rd. Elma, WA 98541
McCleary Hotel
This convenient function as a base is a central element for McCleary Hotel, as it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Guests at McCleary Hotel may encounter a no-frills reception, modest lobby seating, and on-site parking for straightforward transitions. Each guest room may highlight tasteful interiors, hardwood finishes, and rainfall showers, supporting a polished yet modest stay. Facilities often feature vending areas, breakfast rooms, and compact seating zones that allow guests to maintain consistency daily.
Accommodations often feature Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, laundry facilities, and parking, reinforcing clear routines during visits.
GuestHouse Montesano
Because GuestHouse Montesano is a sensible base, guests can easily make the easy regional drive to Schafer State Park.
GuestHouse Montesano typically features practical front-desk service, self-serve beverages, and parking options aimed at easy, reliable arrivals. Guest rooms often feature climate control, ergonomic seating, and Wi-Fi, helping ensure both comfort and productivity during visits. Shared spaces may present coin-operated laundries, vending machines, and modest lobbies that ensure practical routines for guests.
A visit may present Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundry, giving travelers consistency throughout their stays.
Little Creek Casino Resort
For a trip to the area, Little Creek Casino Resort's location as a practical base is a foundational component of the guest journey.
Guests at Little Creek Casino Resort may be greeted with cozy interiors, warm staff attention, and complimentary artisanal coffee or tea. Guest rooms often present curated décor, premium bedding, and bathrooms with boutique finishes for a polished experience. Shared spaces typically present curated cocktail bars, artisanal furnishings, and cozy lounges for a boutique-style experience.
Guests may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, artisanal breakfast, bike storage, and laundry services, ensuring balance for extended visits.
Super 8 by Wyndham Shelton
Schafer State Park is within driving reach from Super 8 by Wyndham Shelton, a feature that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Murals and refreshed décor in Super 8 lobbies add design character, producing memorable but still practical arrival experiences. Suites come with sofa beds, larger layouts, and lounge seating, giving families dependable flexibility and comfort across stays. Vending areas with packaged snacks, bottled drinks, and travel items deliver convenient options that simplify daily routines.
Meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast dining pair with laundry and parking, balancing professional priorities with everyday routines.
Best Western Plus Aberdeen
This convenient base helps Best Western Plus Aberdeen guests feel acquainted with the local Elma area without a long drive.
Best Western highlights local character—regional art, travel guides, and small retail—signaling place while maintaining a dependable rhythm. Each guest room organizes a desk, task chair, and strong Wi-Fi, keeping work tasks, maps, and confirmations moving between local plans. Breakfast areas arrange hot items, cereals, fruit, and coffee taps, giving mornings structure so departures and plans begin on clear footing.
From pools where offered, family rooms, breakfast, and pet amenities, comfort and inclusion stay visible without extra errands across town.
Shelton Inn
Schafer State Park is a simple commute from Shelton Inn, a design that offers a simple way to get there.
Arrivals at Shelton Inn may present a simple reception, complimentary parking, and vending access that emphasize day-to-day practicality. Guest rooms may include curated décor, hardwood floors, and premium bedding that create a comfortable and stylish overnight experience. Shared spaces may highlight vending corners, breakfast rooms, and guest laundries that support the daily routines of traveling guests.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, laundry access, and vending areas, ensuring straightforward balance during travel.
Motel 6 – Aberdeen WA
As a convenient base, Motel 6 – Aberdeen WA is a central feature that elevates the convenience of the stay.
Motel 6 keeps vending and ice machines near the lobby, centralizing quick conveniences so arrivals can regroup without leaving the area. All guest rooms contain private bathrooms with shower or tub combos, ensuring guests sustain predictable hygiene routines throughout stays. Vending corridors are positioned near main walkways, making grab-and-go stops fast and predictable during busy travel schedules.
From truck-friendly parking at some locations to Wi-Fi and laundry, road-trippers keep logistics clear while routines stay intact.
Travelodge by Wyndham Aberdeen
The guest's regional journey from Travelodge by Wyndham Aberdeen in Elma to Schafer State Park is an easy drive, enhancing the feeling of a well-chosen base.
Travelodge offers complimentary breakfast areas adjacent to reception, making morning routines simple and consistent for travelers. All guest rooms supply mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers, covering everyday essentials and routines with predictable ease. Pools designed with loungers, towels, and umbrellas create dependable recreation areas for both families and solo travelers daily.
Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and vending combine with laundry and parking, providing consistency and clarity for every guest experience.
Olympic Inn & Suites
In the Elma region, Olympic Inn & Suites is situated as a sensible base, a spot that gives value to the guest experience.
Olympic Inn & Suites often highlights efficient check-in, readily available parking, and a compact lobby to keep arrival steps clear and simple. Accommodations often feature compact seating areas, work surfaces, and Wi-Fi, providing convenience for both rest and daily routines. Facilities often present modest lobbies, compact breakfast counters, and vending machines that emphasize practical travel experiences.
A stay often provides Wi-Fi, guest laundry, compact breakfast corners, and parking, supporting reliable routines in budget hospitality.
Shiny Motel
This practical function as a base is a defining feature of Shiny Motel, since it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
At Shiny Motel, arrivals may present modest desk service, vending machines, and exterior entries that reinforce no-frills practicality. Guest rooms often include modest bedding, Wi-Fi, and compact seating, reinforcing reliable comfort throughout budget-friendly stays. Shared spaces typically present vending access, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that create reliable routines for budget travelers.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, exterior parking, vending access, and ice dispensers, maintaining clear and functional routines for budget guests.
Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel
For guests in Elma, Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel is a sensible base that keeps Schafer State Park an easy regional drive away.
Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel often greets guests with boutique décor, intimate seating areas, and complimentary refreshments in the lobby. Guest rooms may highlight eclectic interiors, premium bedding, and curated minibars that emphasize a stylish boutique orientation. Facilities may showcase artisanal coffee shops, intimate lounges, and curated art that emphasize a creative boutique impression.
A stay may highlight Wi-Fi, laundry service, family-friendly dining, and yoga mats, reinforcing consistency across boutique guest routines.
Extended Stay America Suites Olympia Tumwater
The benefit of using Extended Stay America Suites Olympia Tumwater as a convenient base turns it into a great starting point before the main experience.
The front desk staff at Extended Stay America can provide details on long-stay benefits like housekeeping schedules, ensuring clarity. Each guest room's private bathroom is kept spotlessly clean and is stocked with fresh towels, ensuring a comfortable hotel stay. The fitness room, where available, provides a private and secure place for guests to exercise at their own convenience and pace.
The suite of amenities, including a full kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a pool, makes the hotel a smart choice for travelers.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tumwater – Olympia by IHG
The benefit of using Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tumwater – Olympia by IHG as a sensible base turns it into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
Communal tables in Holiday Inn Express lobbies encourage casual connection, offering spaces where guests can pause or coordinate plans. All guest rooms feature in-room coffee makers, outlets, and comfortable seating, creating functional convenience during visits. Business centers with shared terminals, printers, and Wi-Fi give guests convenient access to productivity tools when needed.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly rooms align with laundry and parking, creating dependable care for longer visits.
DoubleTree by Hilton Olympia Downtown Capitol District
From DoubleTree by Hilton Olympia Downtown Capitol District, Schafer State Park is a simple commute, a detail that makes for a well-planned trip.
With mobile-focused check-in and keyless entry, DoubleTree accelerates access, turning arrival into the first step in relaxation. Alarm clocks and ironing boards appear in every room, supporting everyday routines with consistency and functional reliability. Lobby lounges feature upholstered chairs and morning newspapers, giving orientation cues and social clarity in shared arrival spaces.
Business center, meeting rooms, presentation tools, high-speed Wi-Fi, and printing deliver practical support, keeping projects on track with ease.
Spark by Hilton Tumwater
Within the region, Spark by Hilton Tumwater is a practical base, which provides a simple solution for daily travel to Schafer State Park.
Hilton greets travelers with infused water or coffee stations, hospitality gestures that show attentiveness and consistent care. Every suite presents marble finishes, rainfall showers, and plush towels, delivering consistent refreshment and comfort after long days. The outdoor pool featuring cabanas, loungers, and towel service offers reliable spaces for leisure that support family routines easily.
Amenities include pet-friendly rooms, full-service restaurants, Wi-Fi, and pools, keeping visits flexible and convenient for families.
TownePlace Suites Olympia
From TownePlace Suites Olympia, the easy regional drive to Schafer State Park is a core benefit without a long commute before the day begins.
Breakfast and coffee stations in TownePlace Suites lobbies reinforce reliable routines, supporting travelers with dependable morning flow. Suites offer refrigerators plus ergonomic work stations, encouraging productivity and refreshment to coexist smoothly in one space. Laundry facility includes hanging hooks and table outlets, helping travelers maintain appearance and planning amid extended stays.
Digital key, convenience store, and fitness center integrate stay access, provisioning, and wellness—empowering intuitive guest autonomy.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tumwater - Olympia
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tumwater - Olympia guests a direct way to manage their regional travel.
Complimentary coffee and tea at La Quinta lobbies give weary travelers refreshing care signals that soften the shift from travel. Each guest room offers sofa seating, HDTVs, and charging hubs, providing a balance of relaxation, entertainment, and connectivity. Fitness rooms containing cardio gear, weights, and stretching mats provide guests with tools to maintain health habits away from home.
Pet-friendly rooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets pair with laundry and parking, providing families convenience for longer-term trips.
Motel 6 Tumwater WA - Olympia
This convenient function as a base is a defining aspect of Motel 6 Tumwater WA - Olympia, because it facilitates a smooth and easy visit to Schafer State Park.
Reception teams at Motel 6 confirm directions to elevators, restrooms, or parking, reducing confusion in the moments after check-in. Guest rooms deliver blackout drapes, plush bedding, and quiet HVAC, helping travelers adjust conditions for restful nights across all visits. Seasonal pool decks maintain open sightlines and nearby restrooms, keeping downtime straightforward for families balancing multiple needs.
With outdoor pools, accessible features, Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry, properties blend recreation with inclusivity and daily upkeep.
Best Western Tumwater-Olympia Inn
The journey from Best Western Tumwater-Olympia Inn to Schafer State Park is a simple commute, a perk that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Best Western guides luggage flows with bell carts staged by doors and lanes kept clear, reducing friction as guests transition from curb to rooms. Every guest room places an HDTV with streaming, bedside USB power, and a channel guide, making wind-down easy while devices stay charged. Business centers supply computers, printers, and desks, allowing itineraries, forms, and tickets to update without leaving the property.
Between meeting suites, on-site catering at select hotels, Wi-Fi, and coffee breaks, agendas remain cohesive while pauses land predictably.
Glen Ayr Resort
The journey from Glen Ayr Resort to Schafer State Park is a simple commute, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
At Glen Ayr Resort, arrivals may include a modest front desk, quick parking access, and self-serve coffee for a low-friction check-in. Rooms may provide premium linens, accent décor, and in-room coffee stations that support a balanced and comfortable stay. Public areas may include guest laundries, vending stations, and seating zones that reinforce simple and consistent routines for visitors.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, vending machines, modest breakfast, and laundry support, helping sustain daily guest convenience.
Courtyard by Marriott Olympia
In the Elma region, Courtyard by Marriott Olympia boasts a well-connected location, serving as a sensible base for visiting Schafer State Park.
Guests in Courtyard lobbies notice bright finishes, polished floors, and comfortable seating, cues that create reliable first impressions. Guest rooms supply blackout drapes, pillow menus, and soft bedding, rituals that sustain restful sleep and refreshed mornings daily. The Bistro with cocktails, small plates, and casual seating serves as a reliable hub for guests to connect and relax in the evenings.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, The Bistro dining, 24/7 markets, and indoor pools provide reliable amenities that balance work and relaxation daily.
Hilton Garden Inn Olympia
For travelers with a wide-ranging itinerary, Hilton Garden Inn Olympia is a sensible base, keeping Schafer State Park an easy regional drive away.
Hilton Garden Inn décor with contemporary finishes produces polished first impressions, reinforcing reliable identity on arrival. Guest rooms come with smart TVs, streaming access, and ergonomic chairs, helping guests unwind with entertainment after work or travel. Fitness centers with treadmills, free weights, and stretching mats allow guests to maintain exercise routines and balance wellness on the road.
Complimentary breakfast, pet services, indoor pools, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi access keep stays versatile and worry-free.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Grand Mound Centralia
The journey from Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Grand Mound Centralia to Schafer State Park is a simple commute, an advantage that contributes to a well-rounded and convenient stay.
To aid accessibility, Fairfield Inn provides level routes and seating clusters at entry so guests with mobility needs can regroup easily. All guest rooms highlight flat-screen TVs, blackout shades, and lounge seating, letting travelers relax comfortably with entertainment ease. Indoor pool areas provide seating clusters, safe depth markers, and clean towels, ensuring relaxation that feels consistent and stress free.
Amenities such as self-parking, hot breakfast, Wi-Fi, and business services combine to ensure predictable balance across every property visit.
Woodspring Suites Olympia - Lacey
From Woodspring Suites Olympia - Lacey, Schafer State Park is an easy regional drive, a choice that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
With predictable counter scripts and clear next steps, WoodSpring Suites helps arrivals transition quickly from transit mode to stay. Every guest room incorporates refrigerator-freezers, cupboard storage, and prep sinks, sustaining groceries for extended residencies. Guest laundries are equipped with multiple machines and vending for detergent, making routine care easier for extended-stay travelers.
From guest laundry and cable television to kitchens and vending, travelers keep balanced routines with simple, reliable amenities.
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Schafer State Park Local Area Guide
Welcome to Schafer State Park, a hidden gem nestled along the Satsop River in Elma, Washington. This guide is designed for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to make the most of a visit to this natural retreat. You’ll find practical information on navigating the park, understanding its amenities, and planning your day for optimal enjoyment. Prepare to discover a peaceful escape perfect for recreation and relaxation.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Schafer State Park (Elma, WA)
Schafer State Park is situated in the heart of Grays Harbor County, approximately 15 miles east of Montesano and 25 miles northwest of Olympia. Its location offers a tranquil, woodsy setting, primarily accessed via local county roads that wind through rural landscapes. The main artery for reaching Elma is State Route 12, connecting it to Aberdeen to the west and Olympia to the east. Parking within the park is generally ample, with designated areas for day-use visitors and campers. The nearest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is about a 90-minute to 2-hour drive depending on traffic and time of day. Driving is the most common and practical way to reach Schafer State Park, as public transit options are extremely limited in this semi-rural area. Visitors arriving during peak times, especially on summer weekends or holidays, may encounter light congestion on local roads leading into the park, making an earlier arrival advisable.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Schafer State Park
Accommodations near Schafer State Park are primarily located in the towns of Elma and Montesano, offering a range of modest hotels and motels. These areas are a short drive from the park, making it convenient for day trips or extended stays. For those seeking more variety or amenities, the larger cities of Olympia and Aberdeen are roughly 30-45 minutes away and provide a broader selection of lodging options. Camping within Schafer State Park itself is a popular choice, with sites often booking up quickly during the warmer months and around holidays. It’s advisable to book campsites well in advance, especially if planning a visit for summer weekends or any local event. While not a bustling urban center, the surrounding communities cater to visitors with essential services and dining.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- SEA Airport is ~1.5 hrs away; plan accordingly for shuttle or rental car.
- Arrive early on summer weekends to secure preferred parking and picnic spots.
- Explore the park's riverfront trails and designated picnic areas for a relaxing afternoon.
- Pack layers and rain gear; Washington weather is unpredictable, especially near the coast.
- The park's main pavilion and spacious grounds are ideal for family reunions and group gatherings.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival at Schafer State Park, the initial focus is orienting yourself and finding your designated area. If camping, proceed to the campground entrance to check in and locate your reserved site; check-in times are typically in the afternoon. For day-use visitors, head to the main day-use parking areas near the picnic shelters and river access points. Secure your spot and begin unloading any gear needed for your activities, such as picnic baskets, games, or fishing equipment. This is also a good time to familiarize yourself with the park map, identifying restroom locations and trailheads.
Mid-Day Regroup
As the day progresses, Schafer State Park offers ample opportunities for both active recreation and relaxed downtime. Families often gather at the main picnic shelter or along the riverbanks for meals and games, taking advantage of the provided tables and open spaces. Anglers can spend time along the Satsop River, while hikers can explore the park's network of trails winding through the lush forest. If camping, this is an ideal period to set up tents, organize your campsite, and perhaps take a short walk to explore the surrounding natural beauty. Remember to stay hydrated and reapply sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your visit winds down, begin the process of packing up your belongings and ensuring your area is clean. If you were camping, break down tents and secure all gear for departure, making sure to leave your campsite as you found it, if not cleaner. Day-use visitors should gather all picnic items, trash, and personal effects. Take a final stroll to appreciate the park’s scenery before heading back to your vehicle. Remember that weekend evenings can see a steady stream of departures, so allow for potentially slow exits from the park’s parking areas.
Things to Do Near Schafer State Park
Walkable
Schafer State Park Trails
Explore the network of trails that meander through the park’s diverse landscape, offering a serene escape into nature. The paths vary in difficulty, with some providing easy, flat walks along the Satsop River and others leading through denser forest areas. These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or a refreshing jog. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the old-growth trees and lush undergrowth. The trails are well-maintained, making them accessible for most visitors looking to connect with the park's natural beauty.
On siteSatsop River Access
The park boasts significant frontage along the Satsop River, offering opportunities for fishing, wading, and simply enjoying the waterfront. The river is known for its salmon and steelhead runs, making it a popular spot for anglers, particularly during the fall and winter months. During warmer weather, the river’s edge provides a pleasant place to relax, skip stones, or let children play in the shallow areas under supervision. Access points are clearly marked, and the open banks are ideal for setting up a picnic with a scenic river view.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Elma City Park
Just a short drive from Schafer State Park, Elma City Park offers additional recreational amenities for families. This park features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, providing a different kind of outdoor experience. It’s a great option if you’re looking for more structured play areas for children or space for casual sports. The park is well-maintained and serves as a convenient spot for a picnic lunch or a break from the more natural setting of Schafer. Its proximity makes it an easy addition to a day of exploring the local area.
Elma · 4.1 miGrays Harbor Raceway
For those interested in local entertainment, the Grays Harbor Raceway in Elma hosts various racing events throughout the season, primarily focusing on dirt track racing. Check their schedule for opportunities to catch an exciting show, ranging from stock cars to sprint cars. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors looking for evening entertainment during the warmer months. The raceway provides a lively atmosphere with concessions and seating available for spectators wanting to experience local competitive racing.
Elma · 5.7 miBeyond the Event: While Schafer State Park itself offers a concentrated natural experience, the surrounding towns of Elma and Montesano provide essential services and a glimpse into local Washington life. For more extensive shopping, dining, or cultural attractions, visitors would need to travel further to larger cities like Olympia or Aberdeen, which offer more diverse options.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Schafer State Park
Inside & Adjacent
Schafer State Park Picnic Areas
Within Schafer State Park, numerous picnic areas are equipped with tables and barbecue grills, offering a perfect setting for an outdoor meal. These spots are ideal for families and groups to enjoy a self-catered lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park. While there are no formal concessions within the park itself, these designated areas allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks. They provide a convenient and scenic environment for enjoying a meal surrounded by trees and the sounds of the Satsop River.
On siteCampground Store (Seasonal)
During the main camping season, the park's campground may operate a small store offering basic necessities and snacks. This is a convenient option for campers who may have forgotten essential food items or are looking for quick refreshments. The availability and hours of the store can vary significantly, so it is best to check with park staff upon arrival for current offerings. It's a good resource for items like firewood, ice, drinks, and small convenience items.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Elma Steak House
A popular local eatery in Elma, the Elma Steak House offers a classic American dining experience with a focus on grilled meats and comfort food. It’s a go-to spot for locals seeking a hearty meal after a day of outdoor activities or for a casual family dinner. The atmosphere is typically friendly and relaxed, making it a comfortable place to unwind. Expect generous portions and a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, from steaks and seafood to burgers and salads.
Elma · 4.1 miThe Oak Grill
Located in Elma, The Oak Grill provides a casual dining experience with a diverse menu that includes sandwiches, burgers, salads, and daily specials. It’s a relaxed establishment that serves as a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area around Schafer State Park. The grill is known for its approachable atmosphere and satisfying food options, suitable for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner. They often feature local ingredients and classic American fare in a comfortable setting.
Elma · 4.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Barn Door Restaurant
While a bit of a drive, the Barn Door Restaurant in Montesano is a well-regarded establishment offering a more refined, yet still casual, dining experience. Known for its good quality food and friendly service, it’s a local favorite that draws diners from the surrounding region. The menu often features a mix of American cuisine with some regional influences. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a reliable meal a bit further afield from the park itself.
Montesano · 14.9 miValley Tavern
Valley Tavern in Montesano offers a classic tavern atmosphere with pub-style food and drinks. It’s a straightforward spot for casual dining, popular with locals for its relaxed vibe and satisfying menu, which typically includes burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. This establishment is a good option for those seeking a no-frills meal and a chance to experience a bit of local community life in Montesano.
Montesano · 15.1 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Weekends in summer can see heavy day-use traffic; weekdays offer a more serene experience.
- Fishing licenses are required for the Satsop River; check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
- Cell service can be spotty within the park, so download maps or information beforehand.
- Pack bug spray, especially during warmer months, to enhance comfort during outdoor activities.
- Be aware of park hours; gates typically close at dusk, so plan your departure accordingly.
Weather & Seasons at Schafer State Park
- Winter: Winter in Schafer State Park is cool and damp, with average temperatures ranging from the high 30s to the low 50s Fahrenheit. Expect frequent rain and occasional frost. Dressing in waterproof layers is essential, including warm base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a reliable rain jacket and pants. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is a must for navigating potentially muddy trails and riverbanks. Daylight hours are short, so plan outdoor activities accordingly.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings mild temperatures, often in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, with increasing sunshine but persistent rain showers. As you move into early summer, temperatures gradually warm into the 60s and 70s. Layers are still recommended, as mornings can be cool, especially near the river. A waterproof outer layer is advisable for unpredictable spring showers, while lighter, quick-drying clothing works well for early summer. Comfortable walking shoes are suitable for the trails.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer offers the warmest and driest weather, with temperatures typically ranging from the 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit. Days are long and sunny, ideal for extended outdoor activities like fishing and picnicking. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are highly recommended for protection against the sun. While less common, occasional cooler days or evening breezes near the river are possible, so a light jacket or sweatshirt might be useful.
- Fall season: Fall brings cooler temperatures, with daytime highs generally in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, dropping into the 40s at night. The air becomes crisp, and the park displays beautiful autumn colors. Layers are key, including sweaters or fleece, paired with a water-resistant jacket for protection against the region’s frequent autumn rain. Sturdy footwear is important for potentially damp trails. This season is excellent for hiking and enjoying the park's scenery before winter sets in.
- Rain & snow: Rain is a common occurrence year-round in this part of Washington, especially outside of mid-summer. Waterproof gear, including jackets, pants, and boots, is essential for staying comfortable in wet conditions. Snow is less frequent and usually light, typically occurring during the coldest winter months, but it rarely accumulates significantly to impede access. When snow does fall, it can make trails slippery and picturesque, requiring caution and appropriate footwear.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (State Park)
- Neighborhood: Rural Elma
- Nearest airport: SEA
- Parking: Designated lots, some overflow
- Walkable district: Park trails
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Elma/Montesano
- Pharmacy: Elma/Montesano
- Urgent care: Montesano or Olympia
- Downtime: Riverside spots, picnic tables
- Pro tip: Check park hours and campground reservations in advance.

