At 340 acres, Ft. Steilacoom Park is the largest park in Lakewood providing a diverse mix of active and passive recreation. It features an expansive trail system, baseball, softball and soccer fields, state-of-the-art playground, permanent orienteering course, a radio controlled aircraft area for hobbyists, 22 acre off-leash dog park, two picnic shelters and year-round restrooms. We even have a dedicated 5k route through our trails and walkers can follow the Discovery Trail markers around our nearly 1-mile long paved Waughop Lake Trail loop.
Fort Steilacoom Park brings in more than 1 million visitors yearly. This is due to its many amenities and rich history. The park, and surrounding land that is now developed, was used by the Nisqually and Steilacoom Indian tribes as a food source. It was also a gathering place before settlers and fur traders moved into the region.
During the Civil War, Fort Steilacoom hosted Army lieutenants and Captains who played major roles in the war. In more recent history, the property was used as a farm maintained by patients at Western State Hospital.
Fort Steilacoom Park was previously owned by the State of Washington. However, in 2018, the State Legislature transferred ownership to Lakewood. This was to continue Lakewood’s longstanding tradition of maintaining and improving the beloved park.
Landscaped with bushes, trees and logs, this area is the perfect playground for dogs of all sizes. There are also water fountains and benches for you and your dog to stay cool. It even includes a separate fenced area for small dogs.
Amenities
Fort Steilacoom Park amenities include:
- Expansive trail system
- Sports fields (baseball, softball, and soccer)
- Permanent orienteering course
- Drone/RC flight area
- Off-leash dog parks
- Picnic shelters
- Year-round bathrooms
Trail System:
The trail system at Fort Steilacoom Park is perfect for any activity or skill level. More experienced runners can use the dedicated 5k route, while those looking for a relaxing walk can use the 1-mile long paved Waughop Lake Trail.
The Fort Steilacoom Dog Park opened in 2006 and draws visitors from throughout South Puget Sound. Since its opening, it has received numerous accolades. This includes being named “Best Dog Park” in Western Washington in 2017 by King 5’s Evening Magazine and Best Dog Park in the South Sound by South Sound Magazine.
In addition to the fenced off-leash area, Fort Steilacoom Park has a paved trail around Waughop Lake and a diverse terrain trail system for those looking to switch up their normal dog walking routines. Leashes are required outside of the dog park. Before visiting please read the dog park rules and regulations.
Volunteer or Donate
Volunteer:
Lakewood is always looking for Dog Park Monitors. If you want to spend time outdoors surrounded by dogs, volunteer to be a dog park monitor today!
Volunteer to be a Dog Park Monitor
Donate:
The City would like to thank the tireless volunteers from Protect Our Pets. They helped build the off-leash dog park and provide regular monitoring and maintenance. If you would like to support this nonprofit through a donation, you can send a check to Protect Our Pets, P.O. Box 97111, Lakewood, WA 98497