Favorite State Parks for your Summer Engagement Session
I’m pretty sure the best part of summer in Washington state is the ability to get outside and enjoy nature. My home state boasts some of the BEST spots for engagement sessions, and I’m itching to get outside to enjoy the trails. From beautiful beaches to incredible forests, Washington’s State Parks are sought after for your Summer engagement session. Below are a few of my absolute favorite parks, and a wishlist of those I’d love to visit this summer!
Favorite State Parks
Nolte State Park
My kids and I came across this park after one particularly rough day, where we just packed up and headed on an adventure. We’d originally chosen a different park, but when that one was closed, we headed out to Nolte State Park. We were shocked to find such a beautiful gem hidden off the beaten path. The main trail takes you around the lake, but small side trails offer fairytale paths with moss covered trees and natural arches. This location has become a dream spot of mine for an engagement.
Flaming Geyser State Park
A true favorite, I had two of my three maternity sessions at Flaming Geyser. It offers a unique variety depending on how far into the park you want to go. Just past the entrance is a huge field and access to the river bank, giving plenty of backdrops should you not have time to explore. Further into the park is the hiking trails, plenty of green backdrops and various areas with river access. I’ve shot family sessions here, and love it for engagement sessions as well!
Bucket List State Parks
Federation Forest
I stopped here on my way to an elopement at Crystal Mountain Resort last summer, and boy… I was enthralled. Being on a time crunch, I was unable to get out of the car and explore, but this beautiful spot is on my list to check out with my kids very soon. Photos from google boast plenty of moss covered trees, beautiful wooden walkways and stone benches that will add variety to your summer engagement session.
Iron Horse State Park
Just past the ever popular Rattlesnake Lake Recreational Area is Iron Horse State Park. The few times I’ve been up that direction, I’ve ended up stopping at Rattlesnake and never exploring further. This one is on my bucket list for adventure engagement sessions.
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
Another bucket list state park, I’ll be heading on an adventure with my kids to Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. This one has areas of river access that appear to be quieter than many of our Washington State Park rivers, making it the perfect location to put your toes in the water during your summer engagement session. I’m excited to head out and discover the goodness this state park holds for us!
No matter what state park you choose for your summer engagement session, any Washington State Park is sure to please! Check out the full list of currently open Washington State Parks.
