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| Washingtonxl » State Parks in Washington » Fort Ward State Park |
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Fort Ward State Park |
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At Washington's State Parks, you will discover the natural beauty of beaches, sheltered Puget Sound islands, old-growth forests, desert and Columbia River Gorge landscapes. State Parks of Washington are an excellent source for enjoyment and learning. You can take a break for camping, hiking, biking, boating, windsurfing and rock climbing. In winter, venture out for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. One of the most popular State Parks of Washington is the Fort Ward State Park.
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Fort Ward State Park, a 137-acre marine park with 4,300 feet of saltwater shoreline, is located on Rich Passage. Many of the structures in the park reflect the historic military significance of the area, but the park is well developed for day use. There is an underwater park for scuba divers, a two-lane boat ramp and a long, beautiful beach along Rich Passage.
In 1903, Fort Ward was officially commissioned as a seacoast fort with the primary objective of protecting the Bremerton Naval Shipyard. Two gun batteries are located in the Fort Ward State Park. During World War II, the navy used the fort as a radio station and training school for communication personnel and installed a submarine net across Rich Passage. In 1958, the navy decommissioned the fort, and State Parks purchased Fort Ward in 1960.
Fort Ward State Park has one water trail campsite available only to those arriving by human-powered watercraft. There are 16 unsheltered picnic tables, available on first-come, first-serve basis. There are two picnic areas located in the park. The upper picnic area is accessible by automobile. The lower picnic area is accessible by foot only. Impressive views of Rich Passage, the Olympic Mountains and varied marine wildlife can be seen at the park. Common activities include boating, fishing, jogging, walking and bicycling.
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