Are you looking for the perfect family activity? Located Less than 10 miles south of the state capital, Millersylvania State Park is the perfect balance of secluded yet easily accessible. Originally Designated in 1924, this camp park is a perfect family destination for a day or weekend camping trip. Millersylvania state park provides family activities such as hiking, swimming, camping, horseshoe pits, small craft boating, RV camping, fishing, and kitchen shelters for barbecues and picnics. The location is ideal for small families as well as large groups that love the outdoors. Plan to stay for awhile and bring the s’mores and horseshoes. Although this beach is on a small lake it provides all the classic elements of a fun beach day.
Even if you forgot to pack a lunch you can still find refreshments at the seasonally open Lakeside Taphouse. The park also has kid friendly options such as hotdogs and ice cream at the parks concession stand. Since Millersylvania is a state park, there is a fee to park there. Fortunately, a state park pass is only $30 annually. $30 is well worth the investment into your well-being in addition to preserving natural areas such as this one.
Water activities
As far as the water of Deep Lake, it is relatively clean and calm due to the fact that there are no motorboats on the lake. I saw quite a few people on canoes and paddle boats and there was even a tent where you could rent a paddle boat for the day. There are 2 swimming areas with plenty of shallow water for inexperienced swimmers to play in. Deep lake is Great for recreational fisherman as well. Various species of fish including pumpkinseed, bluegill, yellow perch, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout reside in the lake.
Camping and Hiking at Millersylvania State Park
The park boast 8.6 miles of hiking trails as well as 7.6 miles of biking trails. The trails are in a heavily forested area that keeps you cool even on some of the hottest days. The camping area provides 93 traditional campsites and 45 utility site that can accommodate RV’s up to 60 feet long. In addition to the camp sites there is a lakeside cottage that provides all the comforts of home and can house up to 6 guests. There is a group camp for parties of 20-40 people which includes a kitchen shelter with a wood stove, sinks and electrical outlets. Lastly there is a year round retreat center that can house up to 150 guests and includes; 16 heated cabins and an additional 3 staff cabins; bathrooms and showers; sheltered outdoor classrooms; an amphitheater; and a lodge for cooking and eating meals.
Important information
Address: Millersylvania State Park, 12245 Tiley Road S. Olympia, Wa 98512
Reservations: www.parks.state.wa.us or call (888) CAMPOUT (888) 226-7688
Park Hours: April 1 to September 30, 6:30 am to dusk. October 1 to March 31, 8:00 am to dusk.