Jarrell Cove State Park is located at the south end of the Puget Sound on Harstine Island, Washington. One of the main features of the park is its 3500 feet of saltwater shoreline. Though the park may be small in size at 97-acres, it is full of activities and amenities to enjoy during your visit. Beachcombers will love wandering along the shore during low tide. Birdwatchers will have the opportunity to watch herons and hawks circling the skies for food. You may even spot an eagle soaring above or nestled high in a tree. Trails and sports fields provide endless fun.
The park is named after the first pioneer woman to settle on Harstine Island, Philura Jarrell. The first section of land for the state park was acquired in 1953 with three more acquisitions during the following years. Harstine Island was only accessible by boat or ferry until 1969 following the construction of a bridge allowing vehicle access.
Jarrell Cove State Park is open year-round, though the peak season runs from April through September. The temperatures are mostly mild on Harstine Island. During the summer you can expect temperatures to be in the 70s. The winter months will bring the average temperatures into the 40s.
The park hosts 22 campsites. Of those, six campsites are reservable while the rest are first-come, first served. Reservations can be made over the phone or online. A Discover Pass is required to visit state parks in Washington. Be sure to stop to pick one up before your arrival.
Jarrell Cove State Park is located on Harstine Island, Washington. While the island was once only accessible by boat, there is now a bridge allowing vehicle access.
The state park is easy to find. From State Route 3, head north to Pickering Road. Continue on until you arrive onto Harstine Island. Once on the island, turn left at the first stop sign you come to. The road will lead you directly to the state park. The park’s GPS coordinates are 47.2844° N and 122.8834° W.
You shouldn’t encounter many hazards during your drive to the park, though the road leading into the park is narrow. Those with larger RVs and trailers will need to use caution. If visiting during the winter months, watch for slick roads from the rain. Parking is limited at the state park, though there are trails throughout leading you to wherever you may want to wander.
The state park and surrounding area are remote with limited supplies available. Be sure to pack what you need for your stay or plan to drive several miles to find a store or services.
There are 21 campsites in the state park. Two of the campsites have water and electric hookups while the remaining sites are dry. The partial hookup sites along with four standard sites are available for reservation. All other campsites are first-come, first served. The maximum site length available for RVs and trailers is 34 feet.
The campsites are surrounded by woods and some have views of the water. There are short trails leading from the camping area to the water and pier. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. After an activity-filled day, plan to relax by the campfire toasting marshmallows or simply enjoying the quietness the park provides.
Park amenities include picnic areas and restrooms with showers. There are also sports fields and an amphitheater. Bring your pet along for your stay! They’re sure to enjoy the trails and other activities with you. Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. There is no dump station located at the state park.
Anglers are known to catch salmon, steelhead, and perch. There is a boat launch located in the park for those who plan to head out onto the water. Crabbing is popular in the area with Dungeness and Rock Crab being two common catches. Licenses are required to fish or crab in Washington State, so plan accordingly before your visit.
A boat launch and pier are located at the state park. Bring your boat along to take out fishing or enjoy other water activities like water skiing and jet skiing. The water around the park is perfect for canoeing or kayaking as well. Low tide does pull the water out quite far. If out boating, keep an eye on water depths when close to shore.
The 3500 feet of shoreline at Jarrell Cove provide beachcombers with plenty of opportunity to explore during low tide. Low tide pulls the water out quite far extending the beach, leaving behind tidepools. Perhaps you’ll see small crabs scurrying about. You’re likely to find clam and oyster shells as well as plenty of seaweed. Take a stroll onto the beach at low tide to see what treasures you may find.
There is one mile of nature trails throughout the park which both those on foot and bike are welcome to use. While short, the trails lead through the woods and down to the waterfront. The trails are perfect for those who are hoping to spot wildlife during their stay.
Looking for a little fun close to the campsite? Or perhaps it is a little too chilly to be out on the water? The state park has two horseshoe pits, a badminton area, and a volleyball field providing entertainment and the opportunity for a little competition during your visit. Be sure to bring along your gear for whichever activities you plan to participate in.
While visiting Jarrell Cove State Park, you will encounter animals and sea life. Clams, oysters, and crabs are commonly seen on shore or in the shallow waters. From the water or land, several different species of birds may be spotted including, herons, hawks, and eagles. Deer and coyotes are known to the area as well.
