SCENIC BEACH STATE PARK
Scenic Beach State Park is a 88-acre camping park with 1,500 feet of saltwater beachfront on Hood Canal. The park is known for its wild, native rhododendrons and stunning, clear-day views of Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains. ADA-compliant paths lead visitors to a country garden, gazebo, rustic bridge and huge trees. A wide variety of birds and wildlife call the area home. The park is ideal for those who appreciate outstanding natural venues for outdoor activities. The park features beautiful views of Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains, flowers of wild rhododendrons in spring, and a rocky beach where oysters may be harvested in season.
Park hours/updates:
Summer: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.Winter: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Camping:Check-in time, 2:30 p.m.Check-out time, 1 p.m.Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.
Wildlife Mammal Birds Fish & Sea Life? Chipmunks? Deer or Elk? Foxes? Otters? Rabbits? Raccoons? Skunks? Squirrels? Crows or Ravens? Ducks? Eagles? Gulls? Hawks? Herons? Hummingbirds? Jays? Ospreys? Owls? Pheasants? Woodpeckers? Wrens? Clams? Crabs? Mussels? Oysters? Sea Birds? Sea Cucumbers? Seals? Shellfish? Shrimp? Starfish? Bullhead? Cod? Red Snapper? Salmon? Shark
Environmental Features Physical Features Plant Life ? Cedar? Douglas Fir? Hemlock? Yew? Alder? Maple? Foxglove? Rhododendron? Berries? Ferns? Seaweed
The park was originally developed as a homesite, then as a scenic resort owned by Joe Emel, Sr. The park was purchased by the state in three parcels over a 17-year period. Emel House was built in 1911.
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the
Discover Pass web page.
Available in the park Available in the area? Camping? Pay phone? Auto repair? Airport? Camping? Diesel? Fishing/hunting? Gasoline? Gifts? Golf? Groceries? Hardware? Hospital? Marine supplies? Overnight Accommodations? Pay phone? Postal service? Propane? Recreational equipment? White gas? Wood? Swimming
A general store is in Seabeck. All other services are available within a 15-mile radius.
The park has 52 tent spaces, one dump station, two restrooms (both ADA) and four showers. Eighteen pull-through sites accommodate 60-foot camping units. Bicycles may be ridden only on pavement, and riders must use caution in this hilly campground with blind curves. To reserve a campsite, call (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688.
Group Accommodations:
The park provides a group camp that accommodates 20 to 50 people. It is situated above Hood Canal, in a wooded, primitive setting. Facilities include a vault toilet and fire pit. Fees vary with size of the group. To reserve, call (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688.
Check-in time is 2:30 p.m., and check-out time is 1 p.m.Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.Engine-driven electric generators may be operated only between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.Length of stay: You may stay up to ten consecutive days in any one park during the summer; the stay limit is extended to 20 days between Oct. 1 and March 31.
1. Scenic Beach State Park offers a designated swimming area on the Hood Canal.
2. Lifeguards are not available, so swim at your own risk.
3. The beach is sandy and gently sloping, ideal for families with children.
4. Water temperatures can be chilly due to Pacific Northwest location; consider wearing wetsuits or rash guards for warmth.
5. Snorkeling opportunities exist but visibility varies depending on weather conditions and tides.
6. The park does not provide any equipment rentals such as snorkels or fins.
7. Tide pools near the shore offer exploration options during low tide times.
A boat ramp is half a mile east of the park and is administered by the Department of Fish and Game. A sticker is required for launching. Dock and moorage are available at Seabeck, one mile east of the park.
Enjoy fishing for salmon, steelhead trout and cutthroat in the Hood Canal. Crabbing is also popular during specific seasons.