Nisqually State Park Development
Project summary
Nisqually State Park is a day-use park currently in development near the town of Eatonville on the Nisqually River between the Mashel River and Ohop Creek.
The park represents the first time State Parks has partnered with a local Tribe to create a new full-service camping park. The Nisqually People have lived in this area since time immemorial, and the engaging details of their lives and culture will be prominent among the park’s interpretive themes.
Development of the park is being completed in phases:
- Phase 1 (complete): Design and permitting for phases 2 and 3
- Phase 2: Staff residence, admin building, interpretive plaza, Nisqually River Managed Access
- Phase 3: Park entry (roundabout), maintenance building, wastewater treatment facility, utilities, Mashel River Valley overlook and multi-use ADA trail, welcome center, campground and RV dump station
- Phase 4: Design and permitting for the construction of phases 5 and 6
- Phase 5: Trail improvements
- Phase 6: Village Center, the day-use hub of the park
See the color-coded map of the park with the different phases here.
- Location: Nisqually State Park
- Estimated start date: June 17, 2024
- Estimated end date: Current construction projects are anticipated for completion by the end of 2025
Current work
Phase 2
Phase 2 is anticipated for completion in October 2025 and includes:
- Construction of an interpretive plaza and several new operational facilities, including a staff residence and administration building
- Development of a trail system to the Nisqually River
- Construction of multiple river overlooks
The new interpretive plaza will be the starting point for a trail down to the Nisqually River. It will feature information about the Nisqually Tribe and the significance of the land, water and natural resources of the area. It will also provide examples of Nisqually language and culture, including quotes and stories from tribal elders.
The new trails and overlooks will provide public access to the Nisqually River and view access to Ohop Creek. Both of these waterways are important cultural and natural resources that support several species of salmon.
Phase 3
Phase 3 has three different construction projects currently funded:
- The roundabout is currently under construction and is anticipated for completion in September 2025
- Construction of the wastewater treatment facility, completion of the maintenance building, and the main utility infrastructure for the park will begin in Summer 2025 and be completed by the Fall of 2026.
- The Mashel River Valley overlook and multi-use ADA trail, and the welcome center construction will begin in late Summer 2025 and is anticipated for completion in Fall of 2026.
Phase 4
Phase 4, which includes the park's trail system and Village Center, is currently in design.
Community participation
Community meeting: Oct. 23
The future trail system at Nisqually State Park is taking shape and the community is invited to join Washington State Parks for a public meeting to get a first-hand look at what’s to come.
The Nisqually State Park Trails Plan was designed in partnership with the Nisqually Indian Tribe and shaped by community and partner voices. When complete, the park will offer approximately 13.2 miles of trails, with a mix of trail types that allow different types of trail users to enjoy the park in their own unique ways. Most trails will be graveled, but there will be two paved trails for accessible and family-friendly access. The trails will also feature interpretive opportunities and scenic overlooks. A new trailhead for both equestrian trailers and vehicles is also proposed.
The plan’s trails include:
- Hiker only
- Hiker/biker
- Hiker/equestrian
- Hiker/biker/equestrian (multi-use)
Community meeting information
The Trail Plan Public Meeting will be an opportunity for the community to hear the latest updates on the plan’s development, ask questions and learn more about the development of Nisqually State Park.
What: Nisqually State Park Trail Plan Public Meeting
When: Thursday, Oct. 23.
Where: Eatonville Community Center, 305 Center Street W., Eatonville, WA 98328
Agenda: Meet and greet begins at 5:30 p.m., then State Parks staff will give a presentation from 6-7:30 p.m.