1 of 6
Photos Courtesy Washington State Parks
2 of 6
Photos Courtesy Washington State Parks
3 of 6
Photos Courtesy Washington State Parks
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
4 of 6
Photos Courtesy Washington State Parks
5 of 6
Photos Courtesy Washington State Parks
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
6 of 6
Photos Courtesy Washington State Parks
By Virginia Painter
For many, the camping season ended long before the leaves began to turn. But for a few stalwart tent-campers and well-outfitted RV enthusiasts, December and January are the best times for camping – a time of year known by many as the “quiet season.”
The term refers to the lack of crowds, but if you are literally looking for quiet, you’re in luck. Many Washington state parks remain open or partially open for those who delight in winter camping opportunities. Winter campers know that nature doesn’t take a break on beauty; she simply replaces her cloak with slightly different colors. You may require cold-weather clothing or rain-gear, and you may want to lay in a supply of hot chocolate and soup, but if you’re prepared, you’ll be rewarded.
Here are a few experiences you can enjoy in Washington state parks during the winter months:
Peace and quiet and nearby holiday displays: Avoid the holiday rush and appreciate the quiet of a new year. Book your December or January camping in a quiet campground near a bustling town or city. Enjoy the silent night, then take a jaunt into town for early dinner and a tour of the holiday displays. Try campgrounds at Fort Worden State Park near Port Townsend; Riverside State Park in Spokane; Millersylvania near Olympia; Wenatchee Confluence near Wenatchee; and Larrabee State Park near Bellingham. These campgrounds are open or partially open all winter.
Put on your snowshoes: There’s a good chance you’ll wake up one day to find snow on the ground at several campgrounds open in winter at Washington state parks. Pack your snowshoes or cross-country skis, your long-johns and mittens, and consider these destinations: Ike Kinswa State Park on Highway 12 toward White Pass; Mount Spokane near Spokane; Fields Spring in the Blue Mountains.
The woods are “lovely, dark and deep,” even if it’s rain rather than snow coming down: A forest camping experience in the dark of winter can be lovely and cozy at state parks, including Deception Pass, Beacon Rock, Rasar or Battle Ground Lake. Or enjoy the winter waterscapes afforded you at Bay View and Saltwater on Puget Sound, or Dosewallips and Belfair on Hood Canal.
Be on the lookout for First Day Hikes that take place in Washington state parks on Jan. 1, 2014. This will be the third year Washington State Parks has participated in the national event initiated by America’s State Parks. Once scheduled, hike information will be posted online at www.parks.wa.gov/events. Check reservation requirements online at www.parks.wa.gov.