McMicken Island State Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids McMicken Island Marine State Park
McMicken Island Marine State Park Location in Washington (state)
Location	Mason, Washington, United States
Area	222 acres (90 ha)
Elevation	3 ft (0.91 m)
Established	Unspecified
Operator	Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
Website	McMicken Island Marine State Park

McMicken Island Marine State Park is a cool place to visit in Washington. It's a public park located on Harstine Island in the southern part of Puget Sound. This park is special because it includes a beautiful forested island and a long saltwater shoreline.

The park covers about 222 acres. This includes 11.5 acres of McMicken Island itself. It also has over 1,600 feet of shoreline. There's a calm, sheltered cove perfect for boats. A unique feature is a sandbar that connects McMicken Island to Harstine Island. You can walk across it when the tide is low!

At McMicken Island Marine State Park, you can enjoy many outdoor activities. These include hiking, boating, and even harvesting shellfish. The park is managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. It is looked after by Jarrell Cove State Park. The park is named after William C. McMicken. He was an important surveyor in Washington a long time ago.

Discover McMicken Island Marine State Park

McMicken Island Marine State Park is a fantastic spot for nature lovers. It offers a mix of forest, beach, and ocean experiences. It's a great place to explore the natural beauty of the Puget Sound area. The park's unique features make it a popular destination.

What Makes This Park Special?

This park stands out for a few key reasons. It has a small, forested island. It also boasts a long stretch of saltwater shoreline. Plus, there's a calm cove that's protected from strong winds.

The Amazing Sandbar

One of the most exciting parts of McMicken Island is its sandbar. This natural bridge connects McMicken Island to Harstine Island. It only appears when the tide is low. When the water goes out, a sandy path emerges. You can walk across it from one island to the other. It's a fun and unique way to explore the area. Always check the tide times before you go. You don't want to get stuck when the water comes back in!

Exploring the Island and Shoreline

McMicken Island itself is covered in trees. It offers a peaceful forest environment. You can walk among the trees and enjoy the quiet. The shoreline is perfect for beachcombing. You might find interesting shells or driftwood. The sheltered cove is a safe spot for boats. It's a great place to anchor and enjoy the scenery.

Fun Activities at the Park

McMicken Island Marine State Park offers many ways to have fun outdoors. Whether you like walking, boating, or looking for seafood, there's something for you.

Hiking and Nature Walks

The park has trails that let you explore the forested island. You can take a relaxing walk. Enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife. You might spot birds or other small animals. It's a great way to get some exercise.

Boating and Water Fun

Since it's a marine park, boating is a big activity here. Many people arrive by boat. The sheltered cove provides a safe place to moor. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or just cruising. The calm waters are perfect for water sports. Remember to always wear a life jacket.

Shellfish Harvesting

If you enjoy seafood, you might like shellfish harvesting. This means collecting clams, oysters, or other shellfish. You can often find them along the park's shoreline. Make sure you know the rules and regulations first. You might need a permit. Always check for any health warnings. This ensures the shellfish are safe to eat.

Who Was William C. McMicken?

The park is named after William C. McMicken. He was an important person in Washington's history. From 1873 to 1886, he served as the Washington Surveyor General. This job involved mapping out the land. He helped define boundaries and survey new areas. Naming the park after him honors his contributions.

Getting There and Park Info

McMicken Island Marine State Park is managed as a satellite of Jarrell Cove State Park. This means Jarrell Cove helps oversee its operations. You can find more information on the Washington State Parks website. It's a great resource for planning your visit. The park is accessible by boat. You can also walk across the sandbar from Harstine Island at low tide.