Last time I visited was in the summer when the water had really receded. It was lovely, but dry. This current visit was in the winter so the tide was high. We walked down to the beach and my niece had a fun time scooping up sea life from the sand and she found things like baby crab legs and shellfish so we got to talk about what was in the water. People were kinda standing around or taking pictures since Mt. Rainier is in the distance, since there's nowhere to sit to relax. There are lots of signs telling you to respect private property, so I imagine the residents get frustrated when people wander over the line, but that's what you get if your property is right next to a state park. The path over was nice, with netting on slippery spots and there are a couple of Pokemon Gyms and Pokestops so its a pretty good place to play. Just be mindful that they require you to carry your trash out of the park with you, so there's nowhere to leave your dog poop bags if your pup does his business. We obediently took our stuff with us, but I wonder how many people don't honor the request. read more

Belted Kingfisher, Heron, Belted Kingfisher, Belted Kingfisher, Belted Kingfisher! And so my birding went when I visited Tolmie State Park the morning of the 25th of June 2020. I arrived in the 9:00 a.m. hour and parked at the upper parking lot by the entrance to the park. There is a second parking lot further down the road once inside the park that is closer to the beach. By the upper parking lot there is a restroom building, covered picnic area, and abundant picnic tables with grills interspersed in the woods. There is also an area with benches facing the water in an amphitheater-esque seating style. In my exploring this area I found some cool plants including foxglove plants with cusped blossoms. A Goldfinch flitted across my path and made a getaway before I could get a picture of it. Fun to see the state bird in a state park! Making my way down the trail to the beach was quiet, and I was pleased to see that it was high tide when I arrived at the waterfront. Walking along the waterfront I notice what looked like a Kingfisher so I decided to approach and see if it was. Indeed it was! Slowly I waded out in the water along a muddy part and realized the mud was teeming with crabs. I was careful to watch where I stepped so as not to smoosh any of them. Once I reached the Kingfisher (a Belted Kingfisher specifically) it flew off across the spit of land I came across to get to it. I watched where it landed on a tree branch and then followed the Belted Kingfisher. The Belted Kingfisher was along the creek that flows to the Puget Sound at high tide, at low tide the creek dissipates. Another Belted Kingfisher arrived and they both started diving in the water for fish and other food. Turning my head left I noticed a Heron in the water and waded back out in the water to join it. After wading around with the Heron for a while I made my way back towards where the first Belted Kingfisher had perched to watch for food in the water. The tide was going out as I was wading with the Heron and making my way to the perch. The crabs were not happy about this. The ground glistened with movement, not sunlight, and there were 100s to 1000s of tiny crabs running to take shelter under the seaweed, in the mud, and yes trying to pinch my feet and legs. As I neared some crabs they would burrow backwards into the mud, put their pinchers up, and open them... I was careful not to step there. Eventually I made it back to the Belted Kingfisher perch and what did I find?! Not one, but two Belted Kingfishers watching the water!! So very cool. After admiring them for a little bit I started making my way back to my car. The beach and the parking lot by the beach were starting to get busy, so it was my time to go. A perfect morning adventure in the Puget Sound area. read more

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We got clams! Easy to park and plenty of spread out space for people. read more

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Great park along the water! We were in the area for a long weekend but had limited time we could visit this particular park, so I wish we had had more time to explore the trails here. Based on some other reviews saying low tide is a good time to visit if you want to find sand dollars I checked the tide schedule and made sure we were there around low tide. Sure enough, there were several sand dollars, both dead & alive, on the beach (the live ones will still have brines on them). The restroom facilities near the beach were clean, too. You will need a DiscoverPass or pay the $10 day-use fee (a DiscoverPass is only $30 for a year & good at all Washington State Parks that require a fee, so well worth the price). read more

Great place to walk around take the dog for a walk, enjoy the outdoors get some fresh air

Beautiful waterfront park. Trails, rocky beach, nice views across the water. Some picnic areas and a clean restroom near the beach area. Get a Go Pass or pay the $10 day use fee. Small parking lot near the beach area. Maybe 15-20 cars can park in this spot. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. We usually go on a weekday and never been a problem. We take our dog with us which is allowed. As long as they are on leash. read more

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This is our second time visiting Tolmie, and we liked it a lot - just as much as last time. It's pretty close to the main drag in Lacey, which is great for hungry kids post-hiking and swimming. I highly recommend going early for a couple reasons: 1. The parking lots (2) fill up super fast 2. You want to be there when the tide is out at least once. When the tide goes out, you'll find yourself in sand dollar Mecca! We left with about 50...dead ones, mind you. You'll also see thousands of live ones (you can tell bc they're black and covered in spines.) I digress. The hiking trails are easy and well-marked. Kid and dog-friendly. $10 for a day pass, or do yourself a favor and just buy a yearly Discover Pass for $35 which is good at a ton of the parks. read more

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Fantastic state beach on the Puget sound! We walked to this beach from the house we were staying at everyday. Nice to hike into this location without having to pay for daily parking of $10. Very unique, quiet, and relaxing beach. Kids love it for the multitude of marine life. Perfect for fishing, clamming, oyster gathering, mussel gathering, and crab catching. This is the only beach in the south Puget Sound that has clean waters all year for safe consumption of clams, oysters, and crabs.... We ate a huge feast one night after gathering up fresh seafood from this beach. Just make sure you have a WA Shellfish or combination license on hand plus a catch record card for Puget crabs - the game warden visits quite frequently! read more

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How to get a walk on the Sound when houses make so much of the beaches private? Tolmie state park is how! This is a large day park with a wide beach near the Nisqually Delta. You can pay $10 a day to use it, or better yet - buy a $30 Discover Pass beforehand and it's good all year at all state parks with no maximum visits. From the upper parking lot, there is a very steep, but paved, trail down. From the lower parking lot is a more reasonable trail for old buggers like me and young families. There are picnic tables and bar-b-q pits on the upper levels. There also is a party building that is available to reserve and rent. The gravel beach is quite flat. At low tide, there are tide pools and lots of little crabs to look at. It's a bit "muddy" but fun. I'm told as the tide comes in, these tidelands that have been in the sun, warm the water for perfect splashing about. All-in-all, a Puget Sound gem perfect for all ages ! read more

Visiting from out of town. Beautiful, very short walk to beach. Lots of people clamming and walking along the shore. Shaded picnic benches. A great place to eat lunch and take a walk. read more

Tolmie State Park - Parks Near Me - Olympia, Washington

Great 3 mile hike. Good for kids and dogs. Not wheelchair accessible. We went on an overcast morning but fresh air was wonderful. We came across a lady with small children and her dogs off the leash. Signs stating must be on leash or a fine. Friendly dogs but not really fair for others. Other dog walkers had leashes and some even muzzles. The Twin Creeks trail does a loop to the parking area. Water faucets near bathrooms are turned off....so always pack extra water. After the trail towards the bathrooms you can walk another small trail toward more picnic table and area to walk out on the bay. read more

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This park is oddly serene. There are two parking lots, both with beach access, but the lower lot may have easier access directly to the water if you've brought a kayak or watercraft of some kind. There are water fowl like ducks and bald eagles. And you can gather oysters and other bivalves per the state restrictions posted near the water by the lower lot. There are several trails for the walkers/hikers. There is also a pavillion available for reservation with running water and grills for use. Of course the Discovery Pass is required but there are several stations to pay for day use @ $10/day. You also have to pay for mooring your watercraft. Overall I was satisfied with this park. It is a bit smaller than many other parks, but that's okay. I like that if you park in the lower lot, the water is basically right there. You don't have to walk a super far distance to the water. Also, it's very very quiet, which helps you reflect on the beauty around. I also didn't have very good cell service while I was out there, hope your service is better. But hopefully you won't need to call for an emergency or get mugged or anything. I felt really safe out there. read more

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Small park, but with nice facilities and great beach space. The biggest plus for me is that it is dog-friendly, as long as they are on a leash. There are some short walking trails in addition to the picnic and beach areas. Parking is very limited down at the beach level, but there is another lot up above with a short (but fairly steep) walk down to the beach. There are restroom facilities adjacent to both the upper and lower parking areas, as well as two covered picnic areas, one that I believe has a kitchen. Unfortunately, I spoke to a park ranger the last time I was there in July '09, and he said that this park would likely lose its state funding later this year. Hopes are that the county will take it over, so it won't be shut down, but he expects that without full-time staffing the facilities won't be as nicely kept as they are now. I really hope that the county is able to work something out so that we can keep bringing our dogs and family here year-round! It's a beautiful, quiet spot to enjoy the South Sound. read more

Tolmie State Park - Parks Near Me - Olympia, Washington

I LOVE Tolmie State Park. You can walk trails, go to the beach, dig for clams (during the season, of course!), and have a cookout. The beach access doesn't require steep wooden stairs, long trails, or slogging through mud and stumbling over rocks. It's a nice stroll from the parking lot. I wouldn't say it is wheelchair friendly, but iI have seen folks off road it a tad on a hard path and grass in order to reach the beach front picnic table. I think this park is beautiful. The trails are fun, but the waterfront is my absolute favorite. I'm getting my money's worth from the Discover Pass! DISCOVER PASS For those of you who do NOT have a Discover Pass: Definitely get one if you plan to visit our State Parks more than 3 times in a year! OR if you are not able to plan ahead for the free days. FREE THINGS Free Beach Naturalist programs are available during the summer. read more

Tolmie State Park - Low tide June 2013. Tolmie is a great place for clam digging! - Parks Near Me - Olympia, Washington

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Nice park to hike around. Beautiful scenery on a nice clear day. Need discovery pass or pay $10 for the day...they do come out and check several times a day to write tickets. To keep the kids busy you can do a "scavenger hunt". The day we went, there were lots of sand dollars. Bring sandals or water shoes...lots of algae and sand fleas. read more

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Smells terrible like a bay normally does, but it's a beautiful beach and worth the trip.

This is a very nice park and the hiking trails are well taken care of. It had plenty of tables and the bathrooms are clean. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that parking is very limited. Also they only take cash or check if you don't have a pass. Overall, my daughters loved it. read more

Tolmie State Park - Parks Near Me - Olympia, Washington

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Such a beautiful beach my dog loved it too. So many different birds and such a beautiful view. If you bring your dog bring bags for poo no trash cans that I seen. Parking is not free 10.00 for a day pass but well worth it. The only complaint was their was a woman with two huge dogs one was on a leash and the other one was running wild. Told her dog was supposed to be on the leash and she said "I know" then continued to let her dog run around without a leash, and for some strange reason she kept following me. Other than that it's a beautiful place to visit. read more

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We enjoyed our time here. I have 5 kids ages range 4-15. They did well and had a great time. I recommend water shoes to be able to go into the water and explore. And a change for after when it's time to go home. My kiddos seen plenty sand dollars and crabs. We also seen some oysters. We didn't get to walk the trails but we will do it on our next visit. The views are great and it is a fun place to go. The restrooms were clean and there are a few kitchens to rent and someone was using one. It looks like a great size to have an event at. Parking is plenty. Good to know/good tip for ya, If you don't have cash, and don't have a discovery pass. You will need to write a check $10 for the day to park there. I didn't know about needing cash or check. So, I had to drive back to lacey to get money from the ATM. I bought a discovery pass at the small house across from bathroom area. Just an FYI. So, you come prepared. They were nice and helpful as well. read more

*** Closed every Monday and Tuesday!! *** That said, if you choose to park - at your own risk - outside the gate (as many do) on Mon. or Tues. you can walk down to the water and trails from there. It is the same distance walk as you would otherwise do from the upper parking lot anyway. Since they are closed and you are parking illegally anyway, you wouldn't even need a parks pass on those days. I have no idea if they ever ticket. I would hope not, since they can't even afford the personnel to keep the gate open. This is a great day-use park. I think the other reviewers have covered it pretty well, I just wanted to add the bit about the closure. Also of note, this park contains one of the few sandy bits of beach that I know of in the Olympia area. No mud or stones, just sand...in the one spot, anyway. read more

This is by far my favorite park in the Olympia/Lacey area. It is so beautiful. The trails are amazing and some a little challenging but worth every moment. Getting down to the water is great, but the main branch is made of larger rocks. The good news is that they are not sharp. Kids can play under the bridge to the beach and there is a trail that takes you to another section of beach that has sand. You can also access it at low tide but have to wade through some water. Kids LOVE it here! We would go every day if we could. Its amazing. There is a covered area for gatherings and picnic tables around the park. Great place to stay the entire day! Pack a bag and a cooler. I can't give it 5 stars because the parking is an issue and if you dont get there early...and I mean early, you will have to park further away from the park and walk down steep hills. The other reason I cant give it 5 stars is that you now have to pay to enjoy nature. I believe it is $10 for the day, per vehicle. While some may not scoff at that, I do not like it much. When there didn't used to be a fee and I would go often, but now you have to have a pass or pay when you get here. It's a bummer, but wont leep me away all the time. We still go! read more

One of my favorite places to visit. Whether for a whole day or just to burn a few hours. My kids love exploring and seeing what all they find. read more

Beautiful beach and such a gorgeous view. We love that it is dog friendly! Can't wait to go back and hike the trails! read more

Tolmie State Park - Panoramic view of the beach area. - Parks Near Me - Olympia, Washington

Awesome park! Excited to go back and hike but the little trails around the bottom area and the beach access is great! Tons of space and a beautiful view of the water from this panoramic view! read more

Tolmie State Park - Parks Near Me - Olympia, Washington

Love! Beach, beautiful trails, picnics,family friendly, great for all ages. What a special spot and not far out of town to feel deep in the woods. read more

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Driving Directions to Tolmie State park are on the website included. The address listed is for contact information regarding the park, and will not do you any good for driving directions. We spend a nice enjoyable day at Tolmie state park, it is a little out of the way, so it was not very crowded, The beach is fairly small, and they only have 3 miles of so of trails, but it has much charm in its location, and how peaceful/non-crowded it was Will come back again read more

This is my favorite beach on the Puget Sound! There are lots of wild beach life like sand dollars, oysters, and little animals. There are huge crabs (like ones you can eat at red Lobster), however, you still have to put it back in the water. Very cool though, but they can be difficult to catch. If you want to catch one make sure to bring a net! If you want to go here, just take I-5 to exit 111, then turn right on Marvin road. Keep going straight and taking 2nd exits on the roundabouts to go straight. (There will be quite a few roundabouts). Then, when the road ends, the should be directions to the beach. When you want to go to the beach. The Rocky side is easier to get to, but should definitely visit the sand beach, its a little more walking, and there are some stairs, but it's definitely worth it. We went around noon on Sunday and is was low tide. Low tide is so cool and you can just walk from the rocky beach to the sandy beach with getting wet! read more

Love this park. We come here for hiking through old growth, and hanging on the beach. PNW gem!

My favorite place to take my dog for a run! On weekdays, it's pretty empty but on the weekends, every spot in both lots can be filled. read more

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Great park to walk through.. Hour hike with hills.. Beautiful beach.. Nice park rangers.. Pack your trash and take it with you

What can I say here...absolutely amazing hike! The path is well paved and easy to follow. Definitely not a beginners hike if you're planning on making it to the peak though. read more

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Visited during the week in the summer and had a great time exploring. The park has beach access that you can park near, several grills and picnic areas, and restrooms. I went for hiking today and traveled about 2.5 miles of moderate trail. The trails are well-kept but there are some hills to hike up and down, however there are several benches as resting points. read more

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Pretty views and decent walks. Horrible parking. If this park ever gets busy because of clamming- you'll never get to visit.

Simply beautiful area! no matter the weather it's always great to come here and enjoy nature.

It's okay. Not much hiking and little useable waterfront but for a short hike than this is good.

Great park with trails and a nice beach with great sealife at low tide. Kids love it for exploring. We have kids ranging in age from 1 year to 8 years old and they all love it. read more

Nice natural campground in an urban setting

The beach is wonderful so we always have a fun time at Tolmie. The hiking trails are beautiful and not too difficult. My kids love exploring and finding sand dollars. My only advice is if it's sunny and during the weekend, get there as early as possible or all the parking spots will be taken. We prefer to visit this park on less busy weekdays if during the summer months. read more

It's a fun place especially for little ones interested in aquatic life. Low tide is always fun! We saw crabs and clams. Very muddy, of course, so be sure to dress accordingly. Wear your Wellies and sunscreen . They have taps to wash your hands off before you leave. read more

We had a fantastic time walking around looking at sand dollars and it's a great place for kids and dogs. Highly recommended!