Fort Ward State Park - United States
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About Fort Ward State Park
RV quick facts for Fort Ward State Park
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Camping | Day-use park only, no overnight RV camping on site |
| Full hookups | None, no hookups available |
| Dump station | Not available on site, use nearby Washington State Parks facilities |
| Road restrictions | Narrow, winding access roads on south Bainbridge Island, large Class A rigs should use caution |
| Parking | Small paved day-use lots, limited space for long rigs and trailers |
| Cell service | Generally reliable on major carriers across Bainbridge Island |
| Ferry access | Reachable via Washington State Ferries from Seattle, vehicle length and weight fees apply |
| Pets | Dogs allowed on leash, clean up required |
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Best time to visit Fort Ward State Park
Late spring through early fall, roughly May to September, offers the driest weather, longest daylight, and warmest beach conditions at Fort Ward. July and August bring the most reliable sunshine but also the busiest weekend crowds and tight parking. Shoulder months like April, May, and October are quieter and can be excellent for birding and tidepooling, though rain and wind are more common. Winter visits are possible year-round since the park is day-use, but expect short days, damp trails, and slick pavement.
Cool and wet, park open for day use
Frequent rain, mild temperatures
Variable spring weather
Drier shoulder season, good for hiking
Pleasant and increasingly dry
Long days and comfortable temperatures
Peak season, expect crowded parking
Peak season, warm and dry
Quieter shoulder season
Increasing rain, fall colors
Cool, wet, and windy
Rainy winter, short daylight hours
Things to do at Fort Ward State Park
- Fort Ward Multi-Use Trail EasyRV parking available
The Fort Ward multi-use trail is a paved shoreline path popular for walking, jogging, and easy cycling along Rich Passage. The route follows the old military road past historic battery sites and offers frequent water views. It is generally flat and accessible for families.
- Beach Walking and Tidepooling EasyRV parking available
The park includes a long stretch of public saltwater beach on Puget Sound. Low tide exposes rocky tidepools full of sea stars, crabs, and anemones. Visitors often spot seals, sea birds, and passing ferries from the shore.
- Scuba Diving at Fort Ward Underwater Park ModerateRV parking available
Fort Ward is one of Puget Sound's best-known shore dive sites, with designated underwater park access. Divers explore rocky reefs, kelp, and a variety of Pacific Northwest marine life. The protected waters of Rich Passage provide relatively sheltered entry points.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding ModerateRV parking available
The protected waters of Rich Passage make Fort Ward a popular launch point for sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Paddlers can explore the shoreline, watch marine traffic, and connect to other Bainbridge Island beaches. Currents through the passage can be strong, so check tide tables before heading out.
- Birdwatching EasyRV parking available
Fort Ward is part of the Great Washington State Birding Trail and attracts a wide range of species. Bald eagles, great blue herons, kingfishers, and seasonal waterfowl are commonly seen along the shoreline and forest edges. Binoculars and a field guide are recommended.
- Historic Battery Exploration EasyRV parking available
Remnants of early 20th-century coastal artillery batteries are preserved throughout the park. Interpretive signs explain Fort Ward's role in defending the Bremerton Naval Shipyard and later use as a U.S. Navy radio station. Short walking paths connect several of the historic structures.
- Picnicking at the Day-Use Area EasyRV parking available
Shaded picnic areas overlook the water and provide a quiet spot for lunch between Bainbridge Island activities. Tables and open lawn space are available near the main parking areas. Restrooms are on site during regular park hours.
Top Hosts near WA, United States
This was a clean and good RV. We enjoyed our stay with it
Antony N. - Aug 2026
Was amazing and homey! World definitely would rent again!
Alicia M. - Jun 2026
Really great experience overall - camper felt new and perfect for our group of 4. Had everything you needed. Great communication. Couldnt ask for more! I pulled it with my Tesla model y.
shahed A. - Sep 2026
Great little camper wonderful people to work with everything was spot on great experience thank you very much. Had a good week. I would definitely rent the camper again and I would definitely rent from the same people would definitely do it again.
John C. - Aug 2026
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RV Rentals Fort Ward State Park
Fort Ward State Park, WA, United States
How to get to Fort Ward State Park
Fort Ward sits on the south end of Bainbridge Island, about 6 miles from the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal and roughly a 35-minute Washington State Ferries crossing from downtown Seattle. From Tacoma or the south, drivers can reach the island via SR 16 and SR 3 across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in about 1.5 to 2 hours. RV travelers should note the Tacoma Narrows Bridge toll, narrow and winding local roads near the park entrance, limited turnaround space in the small day-use lots, and the weight and height limits enforced on Washington State Ferries. The nearest major airport for fly-and-rent trips is Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), about 25 miles away by road or via the Seattle-Bainbridge ferry.
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