Salt Creek Recreation Area

Such a beautiful location, went on a Monday so my group was mostly alone for the time we were there. Arrived and went to the Tongue Point when the tide was going back out and this opened up lots of tide pools. Got to see some diverse wildlife like invertebrates, birds, and fish. We took my seven year old nephew and he was able to climb up and down the rocks but with help. If you have kids I would be aware it might be difficult to get down to the water if they are younger but still doable depending on the tide!! As with any tide pools be careful where you step, there were barnacles, anemone and mussels all over the rocks, I’d recommend water shoes :)

Salt Creek is honestly a PNW Paradise. It’s where the lush green forest literally tumbles right into the beautiful blue sea. You can spend hours wandering through the old WWII bunkers hidden in the woods, then head down to the fingers below the bluff to find some of the most vibrant tide pools you’ll ever see, teeming with life. It’s one of those rare spots where history and the raw beauty of the coast just perfectly collide. You have to make sure to wander out onto the sand beach at the mouth of the creek too! If you catch the tide low enough, you can actually walk all the way out to the island to explore.

Tons of parking and fee free during the winter. So many camp sites with awesome views and nice bathrooms. Nice playground and easy walkabout. You can access the rocks and the sea but it’s down stairs and hiking the rocks. Not for young kids or faint of heart. Tons of campgrounds above the sea with amazing views. There is extra parking with a few overnight.

Salt Creek was regular when I was raising my girls. The Marine Sanctuary at Tongue Point is a fantastic spot for tide pooling. Be sure to know the tides and be prepared for very slippery seaweed. I've seen Grey Whales in the bay. Camping for non-county residents is pricy but everything is well maintained. Prices fire utility sites don't change in the winter even though water is not available except at a certain few spots. It's a particularly nice CG for tents and small campers that can fit in the west section. Cell coverage is generally good. Unlike many Washington State parks, this one is not near a busy road. There is fine day hiking east of the CG.

We love this area! There's lots of parking, day use is free and there's some great hikes around the park. It's a beautiful coastal area as well. We recommend the striped peak trail which was beautiful. Great views, wonderful forest section, well kept and marked. Go have fun!