
Burfoot Park Olympia
A 50-acre beachfront park in Olympia offering forest trails, a playground, picnic areas, and stunning city & mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Burfoot Park Olympia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 50-acre beachfront park in Olympia offering forest trails, a playground, picnic areas, and stunning city & mountain views.
"This park has it all: playground, forest trails, beach, rock hounding, flowers, and wildlife!"

👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be muddy; waterproof boots are best. Watch for poison oak off-trail.
🐶 Pet-friendly exploration
Dogs are welcome, but keep them on a leash and be mindful of other visitors.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Beach Access
Beachfront
Enjoy a wide, sandy beach perfect for rock hounding, picnicking, and soaking in the salty air.
Wooded Forest Trails
Forest trails
Explore a 3-mile out-and-back trail through towering cedars and firs, offering a peaceful nature walk.
Playground and Picnic Areas
Upper park
Family-friendly amenities include a well-maintained playground, picnic shelters, and grills for gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Trail Conditions and What to Wear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be muddy; waterproof boots are best. Watch for poison oak off-trail.
🐶 Pet-friendly exploration
Dogs are welcome, but keep them on a leash and be mindful of other visitors.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Plenty of picnic tables and grills available for a delightful outdoor meal.
📸 Capture the views
Stunning city and mountain vistas make for great photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be muddy; waterproof boots are best. Watch for poison oak off-trail.
🐶 Pet-friendly exploration
Dogs are welcome, but keep them on a leash and be mindful of other visitors.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Plenty of picnic tables and grills available for a delightful outdoor meal.
📸 Capture the views
Stunning city and mountain vistas make for great photo opportunities.
🦀 Beachcombing fun
Great spot for skipping rocks, finding shells, and exploring tide pools.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Burfoot Park for its diverse offerings, from its scenic beach and forest trails to its family-friendly playground and picnic facilities. Many appreciate the ample space and clean amenities, making it a beloved spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Some note the muddy trails and the presence of poison oak as minor drawbacks to be aware of.
"Nice shelter, clean bathrooms, pet bags and ample parking. There's a lot of space to spread out here, with trails to the beach. There's some poison oak patches off the side of the trail near the beach but otherwise should be clear. There are a fair amount of picnic tables, grills (for when there's no burn ban in effect) and drinking water fountains. The playground area has fresh cedar chips and the structures were in good repair. There's ample space to spread out. I noticed an electrical outlet in the corner of the shelter, with a shelf - would be perfect for crockpots to keep food warm during a party, if those are allowed."
Jessica Carvalho
"I could not ask for a better park. It has it all. Playground, forest trails, beach, rock hounding, flowers, wildlife. This park holds a special place in my heart. I drive from Olympia just to visit as often as possible. Always worth it."
Momo Hansen
"The wide beach gives room for groups to gatjer and/or individuals to enjoy a little more privacy if you prefer. The beach is great for skipping rocks, enjoying the smell of salt water, or picnicking. A tall cliff space is the backdrop to the beach and provides the adventurous some options for more technical play.
Burfoot Park's trails to the beach aren't technical, but involve plenty of stairs and uneven ground. 0.5 miles is what my watch reported on arrival to the beach. There are multiple routes to the water.
We didn't spend time today in the upper park but there are bathrooms, shelters, a couple playgrounds, and a large field for open play - frisbee, ball play, etc."
John Aubry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burfoot Park is located in Olympia, Washington, towards Boston Harbor. It's accessible by car and offers ample parking. Many visitors drive from Olympia to reach the park.
Yes, Burfoot Park is a well-known local spot. Follow signs towards Boston Harbor, and you'll find the park entrance. It's a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
The park offers ample parking, which is convenient for visitors, especially during busier times.
Public transportation options to Burfoot Park might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access.
Multiple routes lead to the beach from the upper park area. The trails involve stairs and uneven ground, with the walk to the beach being approximately 0.5 miles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Burfoot Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access. Enjoying the trails, beach, and playground is free.
While specific hours aren't always posted, public parks like Burfoot are typically open from dawn until dusk. It's best to check local park advisories if you plan a very early or late visit.
It's advisable to book picnic shelters in advance, especially for larger gatherings or during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Contact the local parks department for reservation details.
For larger events or parties, it's recommended to check with the Olympia Parks Department regarding permits or specific regulations.
The park provides grills, but check for any burn ban information before planning to use them. Bringing your own portable grill might be subject to park rules.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on forest trails, exploring the beach, rock hounding, picnicking, playing at the playground, and observing wildlife. It's a versatile park for various outdoor activities.
The main trails are manageable but can be muddy and involve stairs. The playground area is excellent for younger children.
Visitors can spot various plants and animals. Informational signage helps educate about the local flora and fauna.
With its diverse habitats including forest and beach, Burfoot Park offers potential for birdwatching.
Amenities include clean restrooms, picnic shelters, grills, drinking water fountains, a playground, and pet waste stations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Burfoot Park is more of a natural escape, you can find dining options in nearby Olympia, especially after your visit.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics. There are picnic tables and grills available.
Yes, drinking water fountains are available within the park.
There are no on-site concessions at Burfoot Park. It's best to bring all your food and beverages with you.
One review mentioned an electrical outlet in a shelter, which could be useful for crockpots, but it's best to confirm park policies on this.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach with its backdrop of cliffs, the towering trees along the forest trails, and the scenic vistas of the city and mountains offer excellent photography opportunities.
The western-facing beach and open views can provide beautiful light for sunset photography.
Yes, the park's natural setting makes it a good location for wildlife photography, though patience and a good zoom lens might be helpful.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography might require permits, so it's wise to check with park authorities.
Morning and late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful, casting a warm glow on the landscape. Midday can be harsher, but the forest trails offer diffused light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Burfoot Park
While the trails are generally not considered technically difficult, they can be muddy, especially after rainfall. Visitors are strongly advised to wear appropriate footwear, such as waterproof boots or shoes you don't mind getting dirty. It's also important to be aware of poison oak patches that can grow off the sides of the trails, particularly closer to the beach. Sticking to the marked paths will help ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
There are multiple routes to access the beach, offering different perspectives and levels of exertion. Some paths involve more stairs and uneven terrain, adding a bit of a challenge for those seeking it. The journey through the woods is a highlight for many, providing a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature.
Beachcombing and Coastal Enjoyment
Many visitors enjoy skipping rocks across the water, a classic beach activity that brings simple joy. The beach also provides ample space for individuals to find a quiet spot for personal reflection or for groups to gather for a picnic. The backdrop of a tall cliff adds a dramatic element to the coastal scenery, making it visually appealing.
During low tide, you might discover small tide pools, offering a glimpse into the marine life of Puget Sound. While not a swimming beach, its appeal lies in its natural beauty and the opportunities for gentle exploration and relaxation by the water.
Family Fun and Amenities
Beyond the playground, the park provides several picnic shelters and grills, making it an excellent location for birthday parties, family reunions, or casual gatherings. There are also large open fields perfect for games like frisbee or ball play. The availability of clean restrooms and drinking water fountains adds to the convenience for families spending a day outdoors.
With its combination of forest trails, beach access, and dedicated play areas, Burfoot Park offers a well-rounded experience for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit