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Washington
12

Washington State Parks

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USA Parks
Washington
The Coast Region
Capitol State Forest
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Capitol State Forest © Daniel Larsen
Browns Creek Campground
Capitol State Forest River © Daniel Larsen
Skokomish River from High Steel Bridge
Capitol State Forest Waterfall © Daniel Larsen
Water fall from High Steel Bridge
Capitol State Forest Rocks © Daniel Larsen
Rock formation and river seen from High Steel Bridge
Capitol State Forest © Daniel Larsen
Browns Creek Campground
Capitol State Forest © Daniel Larsen
Browns Creek Campground
Capitol State Forest High Steel Bridge © Daniel Larsen
High Steel Bridge
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CAPITOL STATE FOREST
CAPITOL STATE FOREST
The Capitol State Forest is a captivating natural oasis that encompasses over 100,000 acres of pristine land. Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Cascade Mountains, this forest offers a diverse range of ecosystems, including old-growth forests, lush meadows, sparkling creeks, and serene lakes. Visitors to the Capitol State Forest can indulge in a plethora of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping. With its rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery, the forest provides a tranquil and rejuvenating escape for nature enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
History of the Area
1. Pre-European Settlement:.
Before European settlers arrived, the region where the Capitol State Forest now stands was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Squaxin Island, Nisqually, and Chehalis tribes. These indigenous peoples relied on the forests for hunting, gathering, and spiritual practices.

2. Logging Era:.
During the late 19th century, European settlers and the logging industry began to have a significant impact on the area. The forest's timber resources attracted logging companies, which initiated widespread tree harvesting. The Capitol State Forest was heavily logged for more than a century, resulting in extensive clearcutting and disruption to the forest ecosystem.

3. State Acquisition:.
In the 1930s, the Washington State Capitol Committee started purchasing land to create the Capitol Forest Park. However, due to economic challenges and legal issues related to selling park land during the Great Depression, the park was never established. Instead, the state began acquiring timberlands for sustained-yield forestry practices.

4. Post-WWII Changes:.
Following World War II, the management approach shifted towards maximizing timber production. Large-scale reforestation projects were conducted, and a systematic approach to maintaining sustainable forestry practices was implemented. Logging roads were constructed, and the area saw increased recreational use by locals.

5. Creation of Capitol State Forest:.
In 1981, the state officially designated the area as the Capitol State Forest, merging the previously acquired timberlands. It became a working forest managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The forest management focuses on sustainable timber harvesting, recreational activities, and habitat restoration.

6. Wildlife and Recreation:.
The Capitol State Forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, elk, black bears, coyotes, and various bird species. It offers numerous recreational opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and camping. The forest's extensive trail network attracts outdoor enthusiasts from the surrounding communities.
Camping
1. Margaret McKenny Campground offers campsites with picnic tables, fire pits and nearby hiking trails.
2. Middle Waddell Campground is popular for horseback riding enthusiasts; it has equestrian:friendly facilities.
3. Mima Falls Trailhead provides primitive camping options near the trailhead itself.
4. Rock Candy Mountain's dispersed camping areas are ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.
5. Porter Creek Campgrounds offer a quiet retreat amidst towering trees and close to fishing spots.


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Location
Capitol State Forest is located near Centralia, Elma and Olympia

Trails
1. Mima Falls Loop Trail: A 6. 5-mile moderate trail featuring a waterfall, primarily used for hiking and mountain biking.

2. Capitol Peak Trail: This strenuous hike is approximately 11 miles long with steep inclines leading to panoramic views of the forest.

3. McLane Nature Trail: An easy one-mile loop that offers scenic river views and opportunities for bird watching; suitable for all skill levels.

4. Green Line #6 Trail: Approximately five miles in length, this multi-use trail features rolling hills perfect for hikers or horseback riders alike.

5. Wedekind Trails System - North Side Loop: It's an intermediate level route spanning about six miles through dense woodland areas ideal for off-road cycling as well as hiking.

6. Porter Creek Campground Hiking Route: About two mile round trip from campground area offering serene creek-side walks amidst lush greenery.

7. Sherman Valley Viewpoint via C-Line Road & Waddell Basin West trails: Roughly eight mile out-and-back challenging trek providing stunning valley vistas at summit point.

8. Rock Candy Mountain East-West Connector Pathway: Four-miles-long moderately difficult track traversing diverse terrains including forests, creeks , meadows etc. , popular among bikers too.

9. Fall Creek Interpretive Site Walking Track: Short half-a-mile nature walk introducing visitors to various local flora/fauna species ; wheelchair accessible path available here.

10. Margaret McKenny Campground To Marksman Range Footpath: Three mile back-n-forth pathway connecting campsite with shooting range across mixed-woodland landscapes; also allows dogs on leash.




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Area Campgrounds
Elma R.V. Park
4730 State Route 12
Elma, WA
866-211-3939
Deep Lake Resort
12405 Tilley Road South
Olympia, WA
360-352-7388
Olympia Campground
1441 83rd Avenue SW
Olympia, WA
360-352-2551

Directions
1. Start on I:5 S from Seattle.
2. Take exit 104 for US:101 N towards Aberdeen/Port Angeles.
3. Continue onto US:101 N.
4. Use the right lane to take the Black Lake Blvd SW exit toward West Olympia/Capitol Mall Drive/WA:121 W/Mima Rd SW.
5. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for WA State Capitol and merge with Black Lake Blvd SW.
6: Merge with Black Lake Blvd SW.
7: Turn left onto Mima Road Southwest after about five miles of driving down Delphi road southwest you will reach your destination which is The Capital state forest.

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Washington
12

Washington State Parks

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