Banana Slug
ParkWashington, US
Twanoh State Park
Twanoh State Park, nestled along the picturesque shores of the Hood Canal, offers a captivating escape where the serene saltwater meets lush evergreen forests.
About
Twanoh State Park, nestled along the picturesque shores of the Hood Canal, offers a captivating escape where the serene saltwater meets lush evergreen forests. This 188-acre marine camping park is renowned for having some of the warmest saltwater swimming in Washington state, making it a unique aquatic playground in the Puget Sound region. Beyond its inviting waters, Twanoh is a testament to natural beauty and historical preservation, providing a tranquil yet active setting for diverse outdoor adventures.
The park's diverse landscape encompasses both marine and woodland habitats, offering a wealth of discovery for visitors. Explore the 2.5 miles of forested trails that wind along Twanoh Creek, meandering through mature second-growth and old-growth forests featuring towering Douglas firs, cedars, and vibrant rhododendron tunnels. Keep an eye out for native plant species such as Evergreen Huckleberry, Western Wild Ginger, and Pacific rhododendron, which paint the undergrowth with their seasonal colors. The shoreline provides opportunities for observing marine life like Harbor Seals and harvesting abundant shellfish, including Pacific Oysters and clams, while the forest is home to creatures such as the Douglas's Squirrel and, occasionally, an American Black Bear.
Whether you're seeking a refreshing swim in the Hood Canal's surprisingly warm waters, a peaceful hike amidst ancient trees, or the thrill of discovering local wildlife, Twanoh State Park delivers a memorable experience. Its unique blend of coastal recreation and forest exploration, complemented by historic Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, makes it a cherished destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. The opportunity to witness seasonal events like the chum salmon run in Twanoh Creek further cements its status as a dynamic and engaging natural retreat. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.
Twanoh State Park boasts a rich history, with its origins deeply rooted in the natural abundance of the Hood Canal and the enduring legacy of the Great Depression era. The park's name itself derives from the Native American Twana tribes, also known as the Skokomish, who originally inhabited this bountiful shoreline and referred to the area as a "gathering place." Their economy was largely based on the abundant salmon and shellfish found here. The physical structures that define much of Twanoh State Park today were primarily built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the classic rustic style. These well-preserved buildings, including bathhouses and picnic shelters, were designed by National Park Service architects to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, utilizing local materials like brick, stone, and logs. This architectural significance led to the park being granted National Register of Historic Places status in 2014. Before its establishment as a state park, the area also saw extensive logging in the 1890s, with "springboard" notches still visible in some old stumps, and later operated as a private resort.
What to do here
Swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the Hood Canal.
Hike the Twanoh Creek trails, observing the diverse forest ecosystem and native plants like Pacific rhododendron and Evergreen Huckleberry.
Go crabbing, fishing, or harvest oysters and clams (with a valid license and checking current regulations).
Picnic at one of the numerous picnic tables or reservable kitchen shelters.
Birdwatch along the shoreline for species such as Common Loon, Barrow's Goldeneye, and Surf Scoter, particularly in winter and spring.
Look for other wildlife like Harbor Seals, Douglas's Squirrels, and various insects including Western Tiger Swallowtails and Large Crane Flies.
Seasonal info
Summer: Peak season for swimming and watersports; can be busy.
Fall: Autumn foliage and the chum salmon run in Twanoh Creek.
Winter/Spring: Quieter atmosphere, excellent for birdwatching. Oyster harvesting is open year-round, while clam seasons typically run from August 1-31. Always check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for current regulations.
Alert: Twanoh State Park is undergoing significant restoration. The Day Use Area will be closed from July 5 to August 31, 2026, impacting access to the beach, pier, dock, boat launch, and main parking lots. Reservations for campsites are also closed from June 1, 2026, through spring 2027. Campers during the closure periods may experience construction noise.
Accessibility
The park offers accessible parking. Some trails are described as easy with gentle elevation changes. Restrooms are available in both the campground and day-use areas.
Don't miss
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Warm saltwater beach on Hood Canal, ideal for swimming and beachcombing.
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Historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) buildings and picnic shelters.
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2.5 miles of forested hiking trails along Twanoh Creek.
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Opportunities for shellfish harvesting (oysters year-round, clams seasonally).
Wildlife you might spot
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Good to know before you go
Check for Alerts
Before visiting, especially during 2026-2027, check the official Washington State Parks website for Twanoh State Park to confirm current closures and restoration project impacts.
Bring a Discover Pass
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access for day use at Twanoh State Park. You can purchase annual or one-day passes.
Pack Out Your Trash
Twanoh State Park does not have trash service in day-use areas, so be prepared to pack out all your waste, including food scraps and recyclables.
Shellfish Preparation
If planning to harvest shellfish, bring a recreational fishing license and check WDFW regulations. Remember to shuck oysters on the beach and leave shells at the same tide height.
Footwear for Trails
Wear appropriate hiking footwear for exploring the 2.5 miles of forested trails, which can have gentle elevation changes and natural surfaces.
Optimal Birdwatching
For the best birdwatching experience, particularly for waterfowl, visit during the quieter winter and spring months and bring binoculars.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes, Twanoh State Park's Day Use Area will be closed from July 5 to August 31, 2026, for shoreline and creek restoration, affecting access to the beach, pier, dock, boat launch, and main parking. Additionally, campsite reservations are closed from June 1, 2026, through spring 2027. Campers staying during these times may experience construction noise.
- Yes, shellfish harvesting is a popular activity. Pacific Oysters can be harvested year-round, while clam season typically runs from August 1-31. A recreational fishing license is required, and visitors must shuck oysters on the beach, leaving shells at the tide line. Always check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website for the most current regulations and season updates before visiting.
- The park is home to both marine and terrestrial wildlife. Along the Hood Canal, you might spot Harbor Seals and a variety of waterfowl, especially in winter and spring, including Common Loons, Barrow's Goldeneyes, and Surf Scoters. In the forested areas and along Twanoh Creek, look for Douglas's Squirrels, various insects like Western Tiger Swallowtails, and native plants such as Pacific Madrone, Pacific rhododendron, and Evergreen Huckleberry. American Black Bears are also occasionally sighted. In the fall, you can observe chum salmon in Twanoh Creek.
Recent snaps at this place
Dec 14, 2025
Sep 30, 2025
May 16, 2025
May 16, 2025
May 12, 2025
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