We’ll be the first to admit that some of Washington’s more popular cities and tourist attractions are a bit crowded, especially during the summer and on weekends (or always and forever if you live in Seattle). If you’re someone who simply can’t deal with crowds, deciding where to spend your leisure time can pose quite a dilemma. Luckily, there are definitely some spots in our state where you can go to escape massive herds of people. These spots are spacious and sparsely populated, so visit away - just don’t all show up at once. Check out these 12 things to do away from crowds in Washington.
1. Dosewallips State Park
This 1,011-acre year-round camping park has 5 miles of shoreline on Hood Canal at the Dosewallips River. It’s known for its scenic, secluded camping areas, some of which require quite a hike to reach. It’s a popular place, but because it’s so spread out, you’re highly unlikely to find a crowd here.
Address: 306996 US-101, Brinnon, WA 98320
2. South Whidbey State Park
Lush, secluded forests, breathtaking mountain and sound views, and 4,500 feet of saltwater shoreline await you at South Whidbey State Park. This unique outdoor experience is available for day use, but the campground is currently closed.
Address: 4128 S Smugglers Cove Rd, Freeland, WA 98249
3. Uniontown
Sometimes you need a peaceful escape but still desire all the amenities of a town. Uniontown in located in Whitman County in Eastern Washington, and though it’s close to all the major attractions the Palouse has to offer, it’s a very quiet and uncrowded place (its population is 313). Have breakfast at the Sage Baking Company and sip the afternoon away at the beautiful Wawawai Canyon Winery.
4. Rialto Beach, Forks
Rialto Beach might be one of the more popular beaches on the Olympic Peninsula, but it’s roomy enough for everyone to have their space. It’s an easy hike from the small town of La Push, starting at the mouth of the Quillayute River and extending four miles.
Address: Mora Rd, Forks, WA 98331
5. Harmony Lodge, Gold Bar
The Harmony Lodge cabin offers completely secluded lodging on the banks of Index Creek, which flows into the Skykomish River. You can relax in your own private hot tub overlooking the water, knowing that the rest of the world’s population is miles away.
Address: Baring, WA 98224
6. Teanaway Guard Station, Cle Elum
Looking for the ultimate escape? The Teanaway Guard Station in Cle Elum is a cabin so far removed from civilization that you have to ski, snowboard or showshoe your way there in the winter because the road is only cleared to 2 miles away from it. You’ll enjoy some serious peace and quiet, and you and a guest can enjoy a good night’s rest on a set of bunk beds. There’s a propane lantern inside as well as a propane cook stove, but you’ll have to take the stove outside since it can’t be used in the cabin.
Address: Wenatchee, WA 98807
7. Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, Coulee City
This park’s dramatic landscape was formed by Ice Age floods over 15,000 years ago. Today you’ll find hiking trails, a golf course, camping areas, 74,640 feet of freshwater shoreline and Dry Falls, one of the great geological wonders of North America. Because of its sheer vastness, this park is rarely crowded.
Address: 34875 Park Lake Rd NE, Coulee City, WA 99115
8. Port Gamble
This little community is in a quiet part of the Kitsap Peninsula, and it’s a small but beautiful town. You’ll find shopping, great dining options and even a guided paranormal tour await you here.
9. Nishinomiya Japanese Garden, Spokane
Spokane’s Manito Park is often bustling with guests, but the Nishinomiya garden is a quiet little oasis. It was created in honor of Nishinomiya, Japan, which is Spokane’s sister city.
Address: 2024 S Bernard St, Spokane, WA 99203
10. Diablo Lake
Quite frankly, Diablo Lake is uncrowded because the trail that leads to it is not for beginning hikers or people who are out of shape. It’s 6.8 miles long and not for the faint of heart. But your reward is a gorgeous view of Washington’s most visually stunning lake.
Address: Rockport, WA 98283
11. Westhaven State Park, Westport
This park has panoramic views of the beach and 1,215 feet of shoreline on the ocean and Half Moon Bay. It’s just a few minutes from the city of Westport, but you’d never know it.
Address: Westport, WA 98595
12. Stehekin
Stehekin was named America’s most isolated community by AmericanProfile.com, and for good reason: The only way to get there is to hike several days through the mountains or take a boat up Lake Chelan from the nearest town, which is 55 miles away. It’s a great spot for hikers and bikers who really want to get away from it all.
Sometimes a temporary escape just isn't enough. If you're ready to permanently ditch the crowds, move to one of these small Washington towns.
Have you tried any of these isolated spots before? Are there other things to do away from crowds in Washington that you'd like to recommend? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section!
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