TL;DR:
- JBLM and the surrounding area offer great outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Shoreline Park (within JBLM) provides lake access for picnics, swimming, fishing, and relaxation.
- Fort Steilacoom Park (Lakewood) features extensive trails, a dog park, historical elements, and lake access.
- Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge (Olympia) is excellent for birdwatching and wildlife viewing along boardwalks and trails.
If you’re stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) or live nearby, you’re in luck when it comes to outdoor adventure. The surrounding area is home to some of the best parks Washington State has to offer.
Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, picnicking, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something for everyone.
This guide will help you find the best parks near JBLM for your next outdoor adventure.
1. Shoreline Park
Shoreline Park is a go-to spot for outdoor enthusiasts right within JBLM’s boundaries, just 15 minutes south of the base. Nestled along the shores of American Lake, it offers beautiful water views and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
The park features well-maintained picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a popular choice for family gatherings, BBQs, and casual get-togethers. Kids will love the playground, while adults can kick back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
If you’re into water activities, Shoreline Park won’t disappoint. With convenient access to American Lake, you can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. The lake is known for its clear, refreshing water, making it a great spot to cool off during warmer months. Anglers often visit to try their luck at catching rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and kokanee.
As one of the most convenient JBLM parks for military personnel and families, Shoreline Park offers a perfect escape without having to travel far.
2. Fort Steilacoom Park
Fort Steilacoom Park, located in Lakewood, WA, is one of the best parks near JBLM for those who love outdoor activities and exploring history.
Just a 20-minute drive from the base, this sprawling 340-acre park offers something for everyone. It’s the largest park in Lakewood and one of the most popular WA parks for hiking, jogging, and bird-watching.
The park’s extensive trail network is perfect for hikers, runners, and cyclists looking for scenic routes through forests, open meadows, and around Waughop Lake. Speaking of Waughop Lake, it’s a favorite spot for fishing and peaceful nature walks. Photographers often visit the area to capture beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Fort Steilacoom Park is also home to one of the best dog parks in Washington State, offering a large off-leash area where dogs can run and play freely.
For families, the park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and plenty of open green space for games and relaxation.
History enthusiasts will enjoy checking out the old barns and historical structures that give the park a unique charm.
3. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, located in Olympia, WA, is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. Just a 25-minute drive from JBLM, this peaceful refuge spans over 4,000 acres of preserved estuary habitat, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Washington State.
The refuge’s boardwalk trail is a highlight, stretching nearly a mile over tidal flats and salt marshes. It’s a perfect spot for birdwatching, as the area is home to over 200 bird species throughout the year. From bald eagles and great blue herons to migrating waterfowl, there’s always something amazing to see.
The combination of freshwater wetlands, saltwater estuaries, and lush forested areas makes this one of the best parks for spotting wildlife near JBLM.
Aside from birdwatching, visitors can enjoy hiking the well-maintained trails or simply taking in the natural beauty of the Nisqually River Delta. The refuge also offers educational displays and guided tours for those interested in learning more about the area’s unique ecosystem.
While the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is open year-round, it’s especially popular during spring and fall migrations. An entrance fee is required, but the experience is well worth it.
Make the Best Parks Near JBLM Part of Your New Neighborhood
Exploring these parks is a great way to make the most of your time in the Pacific Northwest. And if you’re considering making this beautiful area your permanent home, why not start your journey with us?
At Operation Red Dot, we’re here to help you find the perfect place to call home, right near all the amazing outdoor spots you love. Start your home-buying journey today and make the most of everything this stunning region has to offer.