Fort Worden Historical State Park

Picnic and day use facilities

Take in beautiful views of Artillery Hill’s high cliffs, Admiralty Inlet, or majestic Mount Baker while enjoying your lunch at one of the many picnic and day use areas.

The Fort Worden Boat Launch is closed indefinitely for safety reasons. Other state park boat launches are available at nearby Fort Flagler and Mystery Bay State Parks. Additional boat launches are operated by the Port of Port Townsend.

Reservable Shelter

Located near the Lower Campground is a reservable kitchen shelter that offers electrical outlets, water, a six-burner range, large charcoal grill, and a firepit area. Groups MUST contact the park in advance at (360-344-4412) for a Special Activity Permit for weddings over 20 people, amplified music, special equipment (i.e. canopies, dunk tanks, inflatable bouncer toys, climbing walls, or similar items).

Park office

Stop by the Park Office to learn more about Fort Worden, grab a park map, purchase a Discover Pass, check-in to a campsite, or buy a souvenir! Hours of operation are typically 9 a.m. - Noon, and 1- 4 p.m., but may vary depending on the time of year. When entering the park, take a right at the 4-way stop and look for the Park Office sign on the left side of the road (parking is across the street.)

Camping

The Beach Campground offers full-hookup sites with level, spacious sites, most with views of the Admiralty Inlet. The Upper Forest Campground has partial-hookup sites in a forested, more private setting. Both campgrounds have easy access to trails and restrooms with showers. Maximum site length is 75 feet with limited availability. Reservations are necessary year-round as campsites are popular and fill quickly. Camper check-in can be done at the park office or through self-registration at the campground bulletin board.

Please note that there is a prickly native ground covering plant in grassy areas around the Beach Campground. For more information, please read the Sandmat Flyer in English or the Spanish version of the Sandmat Flyer.

Winter schedule

Learn about seasonal closures and operational changes during the off-season on the Winter Schedule page.

Hiking and biking

Take a stroll along 12 miles of hiking trails. Need help deciding what trails to explore? See our suggested hikes at Fort Worden. 

Upon entering the park, continue straight to the 4-way stop. The Peace Mile trailhead is to the left, Artillery Hill, where the majority of historic structures are found, is straight through the 4-way stop, and beach trails are to the right.

Contact the park office to learn more about ADA accessible trails and access to Artillery Hill.

Cyclists can ride along 8.3 miles of biking trails. Look for trailhead signs to see which trails are appropriate for bikes. 

Interpretive Opportunities

Ranger-led programs

Ranger led programs are now being offered at Fort Worden State Park. Stop by the Park Office to learn about our Junior Ranger Program. Also be sure to keep an eye on the Upcoming Events Calendar for more information about walks, talks, and more!

Group tours

Are you planning a visit to Fort Worden State Park with your family, scout group, club, or co-workers? Add a fun, interactive, and educational experience to your trip by filling out the Group Program Request Form. View the program descriptions to learn more about the types of programs offered.

Historical buildings and museums

Commanding Officer's Quarters Museum

Get a glimpse into the life of an officer and their family during the 1900s at the Commanding Officer's Quarters (COQ) Museum. This three-story, Fort Worden State Park Museum is free to visit, though donations are greatly appreciated! Families, be sure to ask the volunteer host about a scavenger hunt. When entering the park, take a right just before the tennis courts onto Pershing Ave. The COQ Museum is the last house on the right.

There are no public restrooms in the COQ Museum. Public restrooms can be found at The Commons or along the beach day-use area.

Hours

Nov. - March: Sat., 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

April - Oct.: Fri. - Tues., 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Rothschild House

The Rothschild House in Port Townsend is co-managed by the Jefferson County Historical Society and Washington State Parks and is open from April to September for tours. Visit our blog to see a video tour of the house. The gardens around the house can be enjoyed all year, so stop by and take in the view with a picnic. Visit the Jefferson County Historical Society's website for more information on museum tour hours.

Coast Artillery Museum

Learn about the weapons and fortifications that defended the Puget Sound from the late 1800s through World War II at the Coast Artillery Museum. Call (360) 385-0373 for more information.

Point Wilson Lighthouse

Visit Point Wilson Lighthouse's website for more information about tours and rentals.

Port Townsend Marine Science Center

Fort Worden houses a natural history museum and aquarium that are part of the Port Townsend Marine Science Center.

Friends of Fort Worden

Founded in 1993, this non-profit organization provides financial and volunteer support for programs and improvements at Fort Worden. Visit their website to learn more and get involved with activities such as trail maintenance, habitat restoration and interpretive trails.