Leadbetter Point State Park is a natural area with beachfront hikes, gorgeous views, and access to the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.
This less-commonly visited state park is a perfect alternative for anyone hoping to spend some time on Washington's coast without contending with the crowds at Cape Disappointment or anywhere along Long Beach, Washington.
The state park is north of Long Beach and is named for Leadbetter Point, a long ocean peninsula. To the east of the point is Willapa Bay and to the west is the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
Nearby towns are:
Hines
Oysterville
Ocean Park
Klipsan Beach
Loomis
Oceanside
Getting to Leadbetter Point State Park
Use the map below to get directions to Leadbetter Point State Park in Ocean Peak, Washington.
Leadbetter Point State Park History
Leadbetter Point State Park is a 1,732-acre natural area that includes beaches, woods, and the ocean. It's very closely connected to Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.
Need to Know
Dogs are only allowed on the park's southern trails (on a leash).
Dogs are not allowed on the park's northern trails.
There are restrooms and hiking trails in the park.
The park is open from 6:30 A.M. to dusk year-round.
A Discover Pass is required to park in any of the parking lots.
Fires are not permitted at any time.
What to Do At Leadbetter Point State Park
Here are a few of the local activities you might want to explore while visiting Leadbetter Point State Park.
Boating
Boating is one of the most popular activities at Leadbetter Point State Park.
Birding
If you're an avid birdwatcher, in the state park, you may get to see shovelers, brands, buffleheads, and more.
Saltwater Fishing and Clamming
Both fishing and clamming are popular activities in the state park. But don't forget! A recreational license is required to fish in any Washington State Park. It is also required for shellfish harvesting. Learn more here.
You might also enjoy:
Hiking
Swimming
Beachcombing
Hikes in Leadbetter Point State Park
While Leadbetter State Park is not the largest state park in the state (that honor goes to Mount Spokane State Park), it does have a few good hiking trails.
Weather Beach Trail
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Weather Beach Trail. It's 4 miles long and should take you about 2 hours to finish. It's in the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, and a Discover Pass is required to park there.
During the summer, watch out for mosquitos! They can be a pretty serious issue here. Also, at times the trail does flood but usually only in sections. The blue trail specifically is often affected.
Leadbetter Point Trail
Another interesting option is the Leadbetter Point Trail. It's much longer, at 7 miles, but it is still pretty easy. It gains almost no elevation throughout the 7 miles.
It can also be impacted by a serious mosquito issue in the summer, so it's a great fall hike in the area. Sometimes, you'll also find yourself needing to cross water.
Leadbetter Point State Park Camping
Luckily, there are a wide variety of campsites near this state park that you can check out and choose from. If you don't mind a little bit of a drive, there are campsites near Cape Disappointment as well as near Long Beach, Washington.
Black Bear Beach Camp
Address: 25210 Vernon Avenue Ocean Park, WA 98640
This unique RV park also offers cabins for rent in Ocean Park, Washington. It's open 24 hours and is only 15 minutes from Leadbetter Point State Park. At the campground, you can expect very clean facilities and great customer service.
Long Beach RV and Camping Resort
Address: 2215 Willows Rd, Seaview, WA 98644
The Long Beach RV and Camping Resort is some of the best camping near Leadbetter Point State park and is a great alternative to the more popular state park campgrounds in the area.
Mermaid Inn RV Park
Address: 1910 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, WA 98631
The Mermaid Inn is a great camping area near Long Beach, Washington. It has a fish cleaning station, free wifi, is pet-friendly, and offers RV hookups. You can expect well-maintained sites, fencing, full bathrooms, laundry machines, and more.
Nearby Leadbetter Point State Park
If you're spending time in the area, there are a few more spots along this section of the Washington coast you might want to check out.
The much more popular Cape Disappointment State Park is only 30 minutes south of Leadbetter Point State Park.
One of the most popular activities along the coast is horseback riding. The best options are in the town of Long Beach. Check out West Coast Horse Rides and the Long Beach Horse Rides for more information.