Tolmie State Park is a 105-acre marine day-use park located on the shores of Puget Sound, offering a unique blend of beach activities and forest exploration. The park features 1,800 feet of saltwater shoreline, making it ideal for swimming, clamming, crabbing, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy hiking on three miles of trails, including the Sandy Beach Trail and the 4 Cedars Trail, which wind through a forest filled with native plants and wildlife. The park is also popular for scuba diving due to its underwater park with an artificial reef. The tranquil setting and diverse wildlife make it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
The park's proximity to Olympia and Tacoma makes it a convenient day-trip destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. During summer weekends, the park is bustling with families enjoying the calm waters and shaded trails. However, it remains quiet during the week, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude.
Tolmie State Park is named after Dr. William Fraser Tolmie, a physician and botanist who spent 16 years with the Hudson Bay Company at Fort Nisqually. The park's rich history and natural beauty make it a compelling visit for anyone interested in exploring the Pacific Northwest's coastal ecosystems.