Parks and recreation in Olympia, Washington

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Parks and recreation in Olympia, Washington , which includes recreational sites and trails, is overseen by the Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation Department. Additional parks and trails within or near the city are managed under Thurston County oversight or by various Washington state agencies.

Contents

The first official public use site in the city began in 1850 and became known as Sylvester Park. Continued growth, especially in the 21st century, has allowed the city of Olympia, as of 2025, to amass a collection of 45 parks encompassing more than 1,400 acres (570 ha).

History and management

Parks and recreation areas in the city of Olympia is overseen by the Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation Department (OPARD). [1] [2] The first official park began as a land donation to the city, eventually becoming Sylvester Park, with a further purchase of a land claim in 1906 for Priest Point Park. [3] [4]

By 2001, the city was reported to have 21 parks encompassing 738 acres (299 ha). [3] During a two-year period ending in 2007, the department spent $9.8 million to acquire an additional 49 acres (20 ha) split between eight park sites; the funds were provided by a temporary 3% utility tax. [5] Several acquisitions increased the total land holdings to 1,465 acres (593 ha) in 2021. [6] The city's public works department transferred four parcels to OPARD in September 2021. The ceded properties included Black Lake Meadows, the Taylor Wetlands, and the stormwater collection areas of Indian Creek and Yauger Park. Part of the transfer also included the Kaiser Wood, LBA Woods, and West Bay Woods open space reserves. [6]

In 2019, OPARD implemented non-pesticide management practices and disallowed the use of Roundup. [2] : 36 

As of 2025, the agency manages 45 parks, provides educational classes and programs, and collaborates with artists and communities to install public artworks in the city. [1] The city contains 24 miles of trails, a dozen athletic fields and 25 sports courts, and twelve playgrounds. Over 130 community gardens and individual public artworks are extent in Olympia. [2] : 12 

List of parks in Olympia, Washington

Unless otherwise noted, information about the following Olympia parks, such as acreage, addresses, and establishment dates, is provided by the Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation Department. [7] [a]

Neighborhood parks

Olympia classifies small parks, usually containing playground areas and open spaces, as neighborhood parks. The recreation sites can contain additional amenities such as picnic areas and public art, or other recreational opportunities such as athletic courts and trails. [2] : 31,32 

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
8th Avenue Neighborhood Park20073102 8th Avenue NE4.0 acres (1.6 ha)Purchased by the city for $580,000, the grounds were originally the site of a horse stable. [5]
Bigelow Park19431220 Bigelow Ave NE1.9 acres (0.77 ha)Picnic, playground, and recreation park named after an early settler family in Olympia. [8] The grounds contain a public artwork space known as the Stone Amphitheater. [9]
Burri Park20072415 Burbank Ave NW2.32 acres (0.94 ha)Neighborhood park featuring a small trail and recreation and playground areas. The site was named after a Jim Burri, long-serving supporter of parks in Olympia. [10]
Decatur Woods Park20041015 Decatur St SW6.27 acres (2.54 ha)Once an apple orchard, the neighborhood site includes playgrounds, picnic amenities, and public art. A looped trail courses through a stand of Douglas fir. Developed into a park after the plot was first acquired from the school district in 1989 [b] in exchange for a parcel used to expand Garfield Elementary. [12] [13] [14]
Evergreen Park20071445 Evergreen Park Dr SW4.0 acres (1.6 ha)Purchased by the city for $74,000, the park is located near the Thurston County Courthouse. [5]
Harry Fain's Legion Park19871115 20th Ave SE1.3 acres (0.53 ha)Across from Watershed Park, features include a playground and nature trails in a wooded area. Gifted by its namesake to the city in 1933. [15] Fain was a known womanizer who was killed by his wife in 1937. The park honors his days as a World War I submariner. [16]
Kettle View Park20111250 Eagle Bend Dr SE4.8 acres (1.9 ha)Named after glacial kettles that surround the area, features in the park include a large open space, playground, tennis court, and a short loop trail. [17] The site was originally known as Henderson Road Park, a joint city and subdivision recreation area purchase in 2007. [5]
Lions Park1946800 Wilson St SE3.72 acres (1.51 ha)Begun by a combined effort of Olympia's Eastside neighborhood and a local Lions Club, park features include basketball, horseshoe, and tennis courts, picnic and playground areas, and a spray park. [18] [19]
Margaret McKenny Park20093111 21st Ave SE4.16 acres (1.68 ha)Site was purchased by the city in 1999 and dedicated ten years later to Margaret McKenny, a published naturalist. McKenny was a founder of Citizens for the Future, a local group that helped to save Watershed Park. Features include a basketball court, looped trail, and a playground. [20] [21]
McGrath Woods Park20092300 Cain Rd SE4.0 acres (1.6 ha)Located in Southeast Olympia, the park contains an open meadow and a looped trail. [22]
Sunrise Park1995505 Bing St NW5.74 acres (2.32 ha)First community garden within an Olympia Park, [23] the site contains a sledding hill as well as playgrounds and a basketball court. The park began under a joint cooperation of the local community and a neighborhood association in 1991. Dedicated in 1995. [24]
Woodruff Park Woodruff Park Sprayground.jpg 1892 [c] 1500 Harrison Ave NW2.46 acres (1.00 ha)Named after Sam Woodruff, early Olympian developer, who sold the land to the city for $1 in 1892. Features several athletic courts, a playground, picnic shelters, and a sprayground, the first such in the city. [25] [19]

Additional neighborhood parks, which may be undeveloped, include the 18th Avenue and Lilly Road parcels and Olympia Park. [2] : 32 

Community parks

Community parks in the city are considered to serve as larger recreational venues for a wider range of activities as well as increased numbers of the local population. Sites usually include athletic courts and fields, but can also be associated with community gardens or waterfront areas. [2] : 31,32 

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
East Bay Viewpoint WA - Olympia - East Bay - Swantown Marina.png 2005 [2] : 32 1050 East Bay Dr NE0.1 acres (0.040 ha)Scenic viewpoint and beach site. [26]
East Bay Waterfront1994313 East Bay Drive NE1.86 acres (0.75 ha)Also known as East Bay Public Plaza, it was officially opened in 2012. Situated in front of the Hands On Children's Museum, the park contains a reclaimed waterway, public art, play areas, and picnic amenities with waterfront views of Budd Inlet and the Olympic Mountains. [27] [28]
Isthmus Park2018529 4th Ave W2.34 acres (0.95 ha)Once the site of county government buildings, the structures were razed in 2015. Park contains "Oly on Ice", the city's ice skating rink, and a pump track. [29] [30] [31]
Madison Scenic Park Olympia bh aug05.jpg 19891600 10th Ave SE2.21 acres (0.89 ha)Hillside residential park created in partnership with the Eastside Neighborhood Association and the city. Picnic and walking path grounds that overlook the city. [32] [23] The city acquired the park from the school district by 2007. [5]
Park of the Seven Oars1993, 2001Olympic Way0.90 acres (0.36 ha)A pocket park featuring several artworks created by local artists, including a sculpture of 15 foot (4.6 m)-tall oars. [33] The connection of the lives of indigenous people, the city's maritime history, and early settlers in the area are symbolized in the artworks, which includes specifically designed benches and mosaics. Originally a smaller park built in 1993, it was relocated 700 feet (213.4 m) in 2001 due to an infrastructure repair project in the aftermath of the 2001 Nisqually earthquake. The park oversees Budd Inlet, the Capitol campus, and the Olympia downtown core. Features a plaza and elements from the city's original Fourth Avenue Bridge. [34] [35] [36]
Percival Landing Park WA-Olympia-2012.10.05-181610-IMG 0020.JPG 1978405 Columbia St NW3.38 acres (1.37 ha)The park is named after a commercial steamship wharf first constructed by Sam Percival in 1860. [37] Completed in three phases between 1978 and 1988, the park is located in Downtown Olympia. Percival Landing features a 0.9-mile (1.4 km) boardwalk paralleling the Budd Bay shoreline. Noted for its public art displays, [38] the park contains several picnic and play areas, and the Harbor House, a city-owned building that can be rented for various uses. [39] The annual Olympia Harbor Days festival is centered around the landing; the site is home to the historic Sand Man tugboat. [37]
Rebecca Howard Park Pacific Hotel and Restaurant (1867) (ADVERT 146).jpeg 2021911 Adams St SE0.34 acres (0.14 ha)An in-development downtown park named after Rebecca G. Howard, an African-American businesswoman and community leader who owned a popular and respected hotel in Olympia during the mid-19th century. The parcel, located behind the Olympia Timberland Regional Library, was purchased by the city in 2018 and contains a remodeled "eco-building" home originally constructed in 1931. [40] [41] [42]
Yashiro Japanese Garden Olympia - Yashiro Japanese Garden - pagoda 01.jpg 19901010 Plum St SE0.74 acres (0.30 ha)Created by the Olympia-Yashiro Sister City Association, the Japanese-styled garden features public art, an 18 foot (5.5 m)-tall granite pagoda, a sculpted garden and landscape with koi pond, and symbolic features between the two cities. The town of Yashiro donated several items, including stone lanterns and cedar entrance gates constructed without the use of nails. The gardens were part of a land sale to the Squaxin Indian Tribe in 2025; the site is planned to be razed for future development necessitating a relocation. [43] [44]

Heritage Park is also listed under the classification. [2] : 32 

Open space parks

Open spaces in Olympia are usually bereft of improvements or amenities such as athletic fields or playgrounds. The habitats, outside of bathrooms, parking, or trails, are often left in their natural state. Such spaces may include a variety of aquatic ecosystems, such as creeks, marine shorelines, rivers, or wetlands, as well as forest or prairie habitats. [2] : 31,32 

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
Bigelow Springs Park Olympia, WA - view from Bigelow Springs 01.jpg 1994 [2] : 32 930 Bigelow Ave NE1.3 acres (0.53 ha)Contains a butterfly and hummingbird garden and a natural artesian well on grounds once a homestead of the Daniel Bigelow family. Picnic area is an open space on a steep hillside, which is known as "The Place" for snow sledding. [45] [46] [47]
Cooper Crest Park20033600 20th Ave NW13.37 acres (5.41 ha)Also known as Cooper Crest Open Space, features a 0.25-mile (0.40 km) path accessed by two separate trailheads. The grounds are part of a larger aquifer recharge zone in the area. [48] [49]
Kaiser Woods20254300 Park Dr SE70.19 acres (28.40 ha)Forested site purchased by the city in 2015 along with an additional parcel in 2020. Remained undeveloped until 2025. First park in Olympia with intentional mountain biking trails. Includes approximately 5 miles (8.0 km) of hiking paths. [50] [51]
Springwood Drive Parcel20151500 Springwood Ave NE3.19 acres (1.29 ha)Park was originally formed in the 1960s as a rhododendron garden maintained by the Zabel family. Purchased as a preserved site by a local foundation in 2007, the grounds were donated to the city in 2015. [52] [53]
Trillium Parklate 1980s900 Governor Stevens Avenue SE; 901 Eskridge Blvd SE4.53 acres (1.83 ha)A wetland pond, home to Chorus frogs, borders the park. Steep trails connect two residential communities. The ravine and open space area was donated as a preserve by landowners in the late 1980s. [54] [55]
Watershed Park Watershed Park (Olympia) - sign.jpg 19552500 Henderson Blvd SE [d] 153.03 acres (61.93 ha)Part of the Moxlie Creek Springs Basin which was once the main water source of the city. The moderate to steep 1.5-mile (2.4 km) G. Eldon Marshall trail loops around the park and wetland area. [56] The site was created as a park after it was saved in the 1950s by the local community group, Citizens for the Future. [21]
West Bay Woods2016, 20171200 Hays Ave NW; 1415 West Bay Dr NW18.5 acres (7.5 ha)Began as a local conservation effort in 2014, the two-parcel site was purchased by Olympia resident Alicia Elliot that same year. The city bought the sites between 2016 and 2017. The rookery preserve surrounds Olympia's only great blue heron colony. [57] [58] [59] A nature trail in the park connects neighborhoods in West Olympia and to West Bay Park. [60] In 2020, the preserve expanded after an 7-acre (2.8 ha) parcel was acquired by the Bowen Foundation and the Olympia Coalition for Ecosystems Preservation. [61]

Additional open space parks and trails, which may be undeveloped, include the Garfield Nature Trail, the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail, the South Capitol Lots, and the Wildwood Glen and Yew Avenue parcels. [2] : 32 

Multi-classified parks

The list below includes parks that are classified under a combination of community, neighborhood, or open space areas and parks. [2] : 31,32 

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
Chambers Lake Trailhead Park20084808 Herman Road46.2 acres (18.7 ha)Park contains a forested wetland area. Closed as of 2025. [62] [63]
Friendly Grove Park20022316 Friendly Grove Road NE14.48 acres (5.86 ha)The grounds were originally part of an 1853 land claim and once owned by Daniel Bigelow. A baseball field was built in 1958. The parcel was purchased by the city in 1997 and opened as a neighborhood park in 2002 after a $1.2 million effort. Features include various fields and courts for sports activities including a beginner-to-intermediate skatepark, as well as picnic areas and a walking path. [64]
LBA Park and Woods19743333 Morse-Merryman Rd SE155.5 acres (62.9 ha)Short for Little Baseball Association, an Olympia version of Little League. LBA Park land was donated by the group and the city built up the grounds. Expanded in 2017 after the city purchased the adjoining LBA Woods properties. The park contains a variety of athletic fields and courts, paths and trails, and picnic amenities. [65] The first zip line in the city was installed at the park in 2011. [66]
Mission Creek Nature Park20071700 San Francisco Ave NE37.0 acres (15.0 ha)Accessible via multiple trailheads, the park contains a 1-mile (1.6 km) walking path. The site, first purchased by the city in 2001, is a combined effort to provide a neighborhood park and dedicated urban green space. [67] [68]
Squaxin Park Priest Point Park 04.jpg 19052600 East Bay Dr NE314.0 acres (127.1 ha)Previously known as Priest Point Park until 2022, the area was once a trading port for the indigenous Steh-Chass. [69] Park features include numerous nature trails, picnic amenities, play and sports areas, and beach access of up to 1.0-mile (1.6 km) of shoreline. [70]
Stevens Park (Steven's Field)1963300 24th Ave SE7.83 acres (3.17 ha) [e] Named after Isaac Stevens and his son, Hazard. The grounds were deeded to the Olympia School District in 1921 after being sold by the Stevens family to George Mills. Early ballfields at the park, possibly in existence since the 1890s, were the first such in the city. The park has been leased to the city since 1963 and has been the home field for Olympia High School and once hosted minor league baseball. [73] A 2,500-seat football stadium was built by the Works Progress Administration in 1934; it burned down in June 1967. [74] Ballfield lights were installed in 1934. [75] Park contains an athletic complex for baseball, basketball, and tennis. [72]
Ward Lake Parcel20072008 Yelm Hwy SE9.14 acres (3.70 ha)Mostly undeveloped, the parcel contains a dog park that was created in 2021 and as of 2025, only an upland pasture space is open for use. The grounds feature a forested hillside and a portion of shoreline at the lake. The park is a long-term effort to provide a public swimming area and beach in Olympia after the closure of water access to Capitol Lake. Issues over water quality and costs to construct the planned park has waylaid the project. [76] [5]
West Bay Park Olympiaaug05 wf.jpg 2007700 West Bay Dr NW17.04 acres (6.90 ha)A shoreline park that overlooks the ship canal at Budd Inlet, the Olympic Mountains, and the Washington State Capitol building. The grounds were once an industrial yard for the Port of Olympia. The land was acquired and developed using local taxes as well as state and federal grants. The park provides picnic amenities and a boat launch for hand-held aquatic vessels. As of 2025, the southern portion of the shore is water access restricted due to continuing issues of contamination and other conditions deemed hazardous. [5] [77]
Yauger Park Yauger Park, Olympia, Washington, August 14, 2023.jpg 1982530 Alta St SW or 3100 Capital Mall Dr SW48.99 acres (19.83 ha)Mixed-use park featuring an athletic complex, community garden, skate park, and trails. Intentionally built to flood as part of stormwater system, the grounds contain a wetland preserve. [78]

Additional parks that are multi-classified, and which may be undeveloped, include the 28th Avenue, Edison Street, Harrison Avenue, Kaiser Road, and Yelm Highway parcels. Grass Lake Nature Park is also listed under the classification. [2] : 32 

Other

The following parks in Olympia may not be uniquely classified under OPARD or may be under other jurisdictions, such as county, private, or state ownership, or oversight under the Port of Olympia. [2] : 33 

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
Artesian Commons The artesian well at Artesian Commons, Olympia, Washington.jpg 2010415 Fourth Avenue East0.2 acres (0.081 ha)Begun by the city in 2010 and opened in 2014, the small commons area contains a public artesian well that has a flow rate of 10 US gallons (38 L; 8.3 imp gal) per minute. Various local and government agencies partner to oversee the park. [79]
Black Lake Meadows20213333 21st Avenue SW45.02 acres (18.22 ha)Near Mottman Industrial Park, contains a looped wildlife trail and is part of the city's stormwater retention and filtration system. The site is known for birdwatching and the waters contain various migrating species of salmon and trout. [80] [81]
Burfoot Park Looking SW across Budd Inlet from Burfoot Park.jpg 6927 Boston Harbor Road NE, Boston Harbor 65.0 acres (26.3 ha)Under oversight of Thurston County. [82] Located on Budd Inlet, the forested site is named after the Burfoot family who once owned the land. [52] Amenities include gardens, 3.8 miles (6.1 km) of hiking trails, picnic areas, and various wildlife viewing opportunities, including cutthroat trout, gray whales, orcas, salmon, sea lions, and tidal creatures at a 1,100 foot (340 metres) saltwater beach. [83] [84]
McLane Dog Park20214421 Mud Bay Rd NW5.5 acres (2.2 ha)Originally owned by the Olympia School District, the grounds were leased to the city, constructing the park which contains areas for off-leash dogs. [85]
West Central Park2012Harrison Avenue and Division Street0.0 acres (0 ha)Once an empty lot, the land was purchased by local resident, Alicia Elliot, and converted into a park. Under oversight of the non-profit West Central Park Project. [86]

State Capitol Campus parks

Parks within the Washington State Capitol campus are owned by the State of Washington and include Capitol Lake, Heritage, Marathon, and Sylvester parks. [7] [2] : 33 

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
Capitol Lake Washington State Capitol and Capitol Lake at sunset 01.jpg 1951Deschutes Parkway260.0 acres (105.2 ha)The lake was constructed in 1951 by damming the estuary of the Deschutes River; it was meant to serve as a reflecting pool for the Capitol Building. A 1.5-mile (2.4 km) paved and gravel trail loops around the lake; the Capitol campus can be accessed from the lake via the Heritage Park Trail, a 0.5-mile (0.80 km), steep switchback pathway. [37]
Heritage Park Heritage Park, Olympia.jpg 1996330 5th Ave SW1.31 acres (0.53 ha)Adjoining Capitol Lake, [37] the main feature is a circular splash pad fountain that contains numerous waterjets. [87]
Marathon Park1970Deschutes Parkway, west side of Capitol Lake2.25 acres (0.91 ha)Originally constructed out of fill in 1970, the grounds were destroyed during the 2001 Nisqually earthquake, it was reopened in 2004. [88] [89] A dedication ceremony and plaque honored the history and namesake of the site, the first U.S. women's Olympic marathon trial held in 1984, which started and ended at the park. [90] [91] A footbridge trail crosses Capitol Lake's northern and middle basins; another pathway leads under I-5 and wetland areas to Tumwater's Interpretative Park. [37]
Sylvester Park John Rogers Statue, Sylvester Park, Olympia, Washington, June 23, 2025.jpg 1850615 Washington Street SE1.57 acres (0.64 ha)Named after Edmund Sylvester who donated the land to the city in 1850 for use as a public park. Situated across from the Old Capitol Building, the site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. [4] [92]

Natural areas and preserves

NameImageEstablishedLocationSizeDescription
Grass Lake Nature Park Grass Lake Nature Park, Olympia, WA.jpg 1980s814 Kaiser Rd NW195.71 acres (79.20 ha)Previously known as Grass Lake Refuge, [93] contains a looped trail through an intact wetland area with hundreds of various bird and plant species. Contains an artwork effort known as Grass Lake Nature Park Public Art Project. [94]
Taylor Wetlands20211300 Fones Rd SE40.88 acres (16.54 ha)Used as part of the city's stormwater system, the grounds contain a connecting portion of the city's Woodland Trail. [95]
Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area 32.jpg 1987Woodard and Chapman bays, Henderson Inlet 922.0 acres (373.1 ha)Once the location of a Weyerhaeuser timber shipment facility, converted into a natural conservation area beginning in 1987. [96] Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. [97]

County and state parks

Frye Cove, 2023 Frye Cove, Thurston County, Washington, August 14, 2023.jpg
Frye Cove, 2023

Parks under the jurisdiction of Thurston County in or near Olympia include Burfoot Park, [82] Frye Cove (County) Park on Steamboat Island [98] [99] and Kenneydell Park in Belmore on Black Lake. [100] [101] Parks under Washington state management include Tolmie State Park, [102] east of Olympia, and the Kennedy Creek Natural Area Preserve, situated to the west. [103]

Trails

Trails within or connected to Olympia include three rail trails, the Chehalis Western Trail, the Gate to Belmore Trail, and the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail. [104] A paved path known as the Ralph Munro Trail is located near Evergreen College. [105] An 8-mile (13 km) paved bike trail known as the I-5 Bike Path runs parallel to the interstate and connects to both the Chehalis Western and Karen Fraser passageways. [106] [107]

The Chehalis Western, Gate to Belmore, and Ralph Munro trails are under county oversight. [108]

The construction of bike corridors, used to "maximize safety and streamline travel" for Olympian bike riders especially near the downtown core, was first begun by 2016. The first corridor was a 2-mile (3.2 km) stretch connecting Lions and Sylvester parks. [109] Garfield Nature Trail connects West Bay and Westside neighborhoods through a 7.4-acre (3.0 ha) greenbelt that contains an unnamed ravine. [110]

The city began a commuter, "multi-modal" trail system known as the Capitol to Capitol (CTC) trail, linking existing trails throughout the city between Capitol Forest and the Washington State Capitol campus. By 2025, Grass Lake Nature Park became the first, "off-street" portion of the CTC to be completed. [111]

Undeveloped parcels

Undeveloped lands for potential future use as public parks include the Harrison Avenue Parcel, a 24-acre (9.7 ha) plot in West Olympia purchased in 2011. Planning includes the connection of the site by trail to Grass Lake Nature Park. [112]

Other undeveloped properties include the 4.89-acre (1.98 ha) Lilly Road Parcel, [113] the Log Cabin Road Parcel measured at 2.35 acres (0.95 ha), [114] and the South Capitol Lots which encompasses less than an acre. [115]

The Yelm Highway Community Park, spanning over 80 acres (32 ha), [f] was purchased by the city of Olympia in 2018 as a future park that was to also include a public school. A project plan was released in 2022 but the planned construction of an educational facility was found to no longer be needed. [116] [117] As of 2025, the city has spent $14 million at the site and is expected to receive additional funding as part of a $26 million, 30-year bond also meant to upgrade the city's National Guard Armory. The Yelm Highway Community Park is planned to begin construction in 2026 and possibly completed by 2027. [118]

Venues

Properties under OPARD management or ownership include The Olympia Center, a 56,000-square-foot (5,200 m2) community center, [2] : 53,102  and the Olympia Armory, transfered by the state to the city in 2021. [2] : 47,109-110 

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ Listed years for Olympia parks and recreation sites depend on the dates being tied to an acquisition or purchase date, or when the park was beginning to be developed, or if the park had an official dedication. Several parks have multiple addresses due to having more than one access point. See sources throughout the article for the discrepancies.
  2. ↑ The land trade for Decatur Woods Park is noted by the city to have taken place in 1988. [11]
  3. ↑ The year for Woodruff Park denotes when the land was purchased by the city.
  4. ↑ Watershed Park has multiple access points; the Henderson address is considered the main entrance, containing a parking lot. [56]
  5. ↑ Reports on the acreage of Stevens Park list up to 24 acres (9.7 ha). The discrepancy may be due to listing of the ballfields as a separate acreage from the overall park. [71] [72]
  6. ↑ The acreage for Yelm Highway Community Park varies based on the source, either as 83 acres (34 ha) or 86 acres (35 ha). See inline sources in section for the discrepancy.

References

  1. 1 2 "Parks & Recreation". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 18, 2025.
  2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 "2022-2028 Parks, Arts & Recreation Plan" (PDF). City of Olympia . February 1, 2022. Retrieved August 26, 2025.
  3. 1 2 Wood, Gail (March 25, 2001). "Growing cities work to meet demand for parks" . The Olympian. p. P23. NewsBank 0F9B3D44B9C36BB4 . Retrieved July 3, 2025– via NewsBank.
  4. 1 2 Ross, Deborah. "Sylvester Park". Olympia Historical Society & Bigelow House Museum. Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Batcheldor, Matt (December 29, 2007). "parks department just finished a two-year buying binge" . The Olympian. NewsBank 11DD8DE5B6031E30 . Retrieved July 29, 2025– via NewsBank.
  6. 1 2 Javier, Kristine (September 29, 2021). "Olympia public works transfers control of four city properties to parks department". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved August 4, 2025.
  7. 1 2 "Parks & Trails". City of Olympia . Retrieved June 17, 2025.
  8. ↑ "Bigelow Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 18, 2025.
  9. ↑ Jackson, Sarah (July 10, 2005). "Devotion to art is evident everywhere" . The Olympian. p. 60SB. NewsBank 10BEEEE6B3A26628 . Retrieved July 31, 2025– via NewsBank.
  10. ↑ "Burri Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
  11. ↑ "Decatur Woods". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 19, 2025.
  12. ↑ Tam, Katherine (September 4, 2004). "Decade's work pays off with park - Decatur Woods grand opening is Sept. 11" . The Olympian. p. 01C. NewsBank 1058B60A0B924FDF . Retrieved July 3, 2025– via NewsBank.
  13. ↑ The Olympian staff. "Our Views: Tugs churn up Budd Inlet" . The Olympian. p. 5A. NewsBank 1058B610C32EB096 . Retrieved August 8, 2025– via NewsBank.
  14. ↑ Allen, Chester (February 22, 2006). "Head to newest park on west side" . The Olympian. p. 8A. NewsBank 11007E5806D4A458 . Retrieved August 8, 2025– via NewsBank.
  15. ↑ "Harry Fains Legion Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  16. ↑ Scherer Water, David (June 19, 2025). "Too much at once: The Harry Fain story". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved June 30, 2025.
  17. ↑ "Kettle View Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  18. ↑ "Lions Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  19. 1 2 Hayes, Katie (October 7, 2020). "City of Olympia seeks input on design of future Lions Park sprayground". The Olympian. p. 3A. Retrieved August 18, 2025.
  20. ↑ "Margaret McKenny Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  21. 1 2 Hobbs, Andy (April 5, 2017). "Kids, speak up! Playground coming soon to Margaret McKenny Park in SE Olympia". The Olympian. p. 3A. Retrieved August 18, 2025.
  22. ↑ "McGrath Woods". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  23. 1 2 West, Chris (March 8, 2013). "Olympia planting the seeds for new community gardens". KOMO 4 News (Seattle) . Retrieved June 5, 2025.
  24. ↑ "Sunrise Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 24, 2025.
  25. ↑ "Woodruff Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 26, 2025.
  26. ↑ "East Bay Viewpoint". City of Olympia. Retrieved August 6, 2025.
  27. ↑ Krotzer, Chelsea (August 12, 2012). "Grunge, grit only a memory as reclaimed water flows - Public plaza opens: People can learn, play" . The Olympian. p. 3A. NewsBank 140A1A936CB05A78 . Retrieved August 8, 2025– via NewsBank.
  28. ↑ "East Bay Waterfront" . Retrieved August 6, 2025.
  29. ↑ Spegman, Abby (March 29, 2018). "City moves ahead with Isthmus Park project work starting in weeks" . The Olympian. p. 3A. NewsBank 16AF67B721D675D8 . Retrieved August 18, 2025– via NewsBank.
  30. ↑ Boone, Rolf (November 18, 2018). "Oly on Ice, downtown's new skating rink, is open" . The Olympian. p. 3A. NewsBank 16FC3854CD8282E8 . Retrieved August 18, 2025– via NewsBank.
  31. ↑ Lirio, Lorilyn (March 31, 2025). "Parks committee proposes heritage-inspired names for Olympia parks". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved August 18, 2025.
  32. ↑ "Madison Scenic Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  33. ↑ Tam, Katherine (November 29, 2003). "Park gets new life at end of new bridge" . The Olympian. p. A1. NewsBank 0FF3827A6318FE3B . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  34. ↑ Michael Burnham; The Olympian staff (May 1, 2001). "Temporary bridge on firm footing" . The Olympian. p. A1. NewsBank 0F9B3D58975F9AE6 . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  35. ↑ The Olympian staff. "Urban Outings - Enjoy the sights at redone Park of the Seven Oars" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 10122325A8189CAD . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  36. ↑ The Olympian staff (May 16, 2004). "Artists make structure a delight for the senses" . The Olympian. p. S3. NewsBank 10294A41E35106FD . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  37. 1 2 3 4 5 Pucci, Carol (May 2, 2012). "It's the wander: Enjoy outdoor walks around our state capital". The Seattle Times. Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  38. ↑ KIRO News Staff (July 11, 2025). "Help Olympia pick its next art installation". KIRO 7 News . Retrieved July 23, 2025.
  39. ↑ "Percival Landing". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 27, 2025.
  40. ↑ Padilla, Kaylee (May 16, 2025). "Rebecca Howard Park". The Cooper Point Journal . Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  41. ↑ Liriro, Lorilyn (April 5, 2024). "Olympia wants ideas for developing Rebecca Howard Park". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  42. ↑ Lirio, Lorilyn (July 27, 2024). "An expanded Rebecca Howard Park might include several new features". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  43. ↑ Severn, Jill (May 16, 2025). "Olympia's imperiled Japanese garden". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  44. ↑ Pemberton, Lisa (June 1, 2008). "Yashiro" . The Olympian. NewsBank 1210A1B44E2235B8 . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  45. ↑ "Bigelow Springs Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 18, 2025.
  46. ↑ The Olympian staff. "Urban Outings - Bigelow Springs Park" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 100E35BF9F70ACB5 . Retrieved July 30, 2025– via NewsBank.
  47. ↑ Allen, Chester (December 12, 2007). "The holiday season isn't just about parties, gifts and football on the tube" . The Olympian. NewsBank 11D7F5AFE12DCE10 . Retrieved July 31, 2025– via NewsBank.
  48. ↑ Genevieve Belmaker; Daniel Schrager. "Olympia to bask in 'sunny and 60' for a few days. Here are nearby places to take it all in" . The Olympian. p. 19. Retrieved August 8, 2025– via NewsBank.
  49. ↑ Vinson, Ty (October 3, 2022). "A developer cleared acres of trees in Olympia. This group is trying to reverse the damage". The Olympian. p. 1A. Retrieved August 8, 2025.
  50. ↑ "Kaiser Woods". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  51. ↑ Boone, Rolf (July 13, 2019). "Plan to add mountain biking trails at Kaiser Woods pleases bikers, concerns neighbors". The Olympian. pp. 1A, 10A. Retrieved August 18, 2025.
  52. 1 2 Scherer Water, David (May 29, 2025). "Parks and recreation in Olympia". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved June 4, 2025.
  53. ↑ "Springwood Parcel City Park". The Mountaineers . Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  54. ↑ The Olympian staff (February 10, 2004). "Urban Outings - Hike Trillium Park's ravine in Governor Stevens neighborhood" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 100B46A0B49B4E01 . Retrieved August 19, 2025– via NewsBank.
  55. ↑ Allen, Chester (July 25, 2007). "What: A hike through shady, cool Trillium Park" . The Olympian. NewsBank 11A9CB666D7D2828 . Retrieved August 19, 2025– via NewsBank.
  56. 1 2 "Watershed Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 27, 2025.
  57. ↑ Hobbs, Andy (August 31, 2014). "Olympia coalition spearheads effort to protect great blue herons and West Bay". The News Tribune. Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  58. ↑ Hobbs, Andy (October 16, 2014). "Land purchase to help protect blue herons". The Olympian. p. 3A. Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  59. ↑ Hobbs, Andy (August 18, 2016). "Olympia will buy 2.75 acres to protect great blue heron habitat". The Daily World. The Olympian. Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  60. ↑ "West Bay Woods". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 25, 2025.
  61. ↑ Boone, Rolf (January 26, 2020). "Olympia's West Bay Woods grows with gift from Bowen foundation". The Olympian. Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  62. ↑ Batcheldor, Matt (March 23, 2010). "Get a say in places to play - outside: Parks department taking more input on plan" . The Olympian. p. 1A. NewsBank 12EA704C06D340E0 . Retrieved July 3, 2025– via NewsBank.
  63. ↑ "Chambers Lake Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
  64. ↑ The Olympian staff (February 24, 2004). "Urban Outings - Attractions abound at Friendly Grove" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 10102F39A8E1B3AB . Retrieved August 14, 2025– via NewsBank.
  65. ↑ "LBA Park and Woods". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  66. ↑ Batcheldor, Matt (September 7, 2011). "Playgrounds get updates - Olympia parks: Exploradome, zipline new attractions available Friday at LBA Park" . The Olympian. p. 3A. NewsBank 139A0ADE50C359F0 . Retrieved July 23, 2025– via NewsBank.
  67. ↑ "Mission Creek Nature Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  68. ↑ Batcheldor, Matt (March 30, 2010). "Busy school drop-off to get makeover - Northeast neighborhood: Group pushed for change" . The Olympian. p. 1A. NewsBank 12ECBE5C66F995B8 . Retrieved August 18, 2025– via NewsBank.
  69. ↑ KING News staff (April 25, 2022). "Priest Point Park to be renamed to honor Squaxin Island Tribe". KING 5 News . Retrieved July 31, 2025.
  70. ↑ "Squaxin Park (formerly Priest Point Park)". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 27, 2025.
  71. ↑ "Stevens Field". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 24, 2025.
  72. 1 2 The Olympian staff (December 30, 2003). "Urban Outings - Visit Stevens Field" . The Olympian. p. D8. NewsBank 0FFD0FB09F16D234 . Retrieved August 19, 2025– via NewsBank.
  73. ↑ Ross, Deborah (2022). "Stevens Field". Olympia Historical Society and Bigelow House Museum. Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  74. ↑ "Fire Destroys Stadium". The Daily Chronicle . Associated Press. June 6, 1967. Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  75. ↑ "To Dedicate Lights". The Centralia Daily Chronicle . Associated Press. July 2, 1936. p. 2. Retrieved August 19, 2025.
  76. ↑ "Ward Lake Parcel". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 25, 2025.
  77. ↑ "West Bay Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 25, 2025.
  78. ↑ Susan McCleary; Jessica Sandoval; Max Lambert; Claire Kerwin (Summer 2024). "Salamanders, Stormwater, and Skateboards: The Ecological Marvel of Yauger Park". Salish Magazine . No. 24. Retrieved June 26, 2025.
  79. ↑ Hobbs, Andy (January 22, 2017). "Community focal point - Artesian Commons more than clear, tasty water" . The Olympian. p. 1A. NewsBank 16215CF3A760EEC0 . Retrieved July 23, 2025– via NewsBank.
  80. ↑ "Black Lake Meadows". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 19, 2025.
  81. ↑ The Olympian staff (January 13, 2004). "Urban Outings" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 1001BB4EA1402119 . Retrieved August 1, 2025– via NewsBank.
  82. 1 2 "Burfoot Park". Thurston County, Washington . Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  83. ↑ The Olympian staff (August 26, 2003). "Urban Outings - Burfoot Park" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 0FD3941B339D0241 . Retrieved August 4, 2025– via NewsBank.
  84. ↑ Hill, Craig (December 4, 2015). "Trail Of The Week - Burfoot County Park" . The News Tribune . p. 19G. NewsBank 15989601AB444F28 . Retrieved August 4, 2025– via NewsBank.
  85. ↑ "McLane Dog Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  86. ↑ Boone, Rolf (July 30, 2014). "They're making west Olympia a new park" . The Olympian. p. 1A. NewsBank 151D796AE636D258 . Retrieved July 28, 2025– via NewsBank.
  87. ↑ "Heritage Park Fountain". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 26, 2025.
  88. ↑ Dodge, John (December 22, 2003). "Two Capitol Lake treasures ready to reopen" . The Olympian. NewsBank 0FFAC1434050CF59 . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  89. ↑ "Marathon Park". Washington State Capitol Campus . Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  90. ↑ Allen, Chester (May 16, 2004). "Olympia, Samuelson look back on '84 trial run" . The Olympian. NewsBank 102AFF2833359290 . Retrieved August 20, 2025– via NewsBank.
  91. ↑ Spegman, Abby (March 7, 2019). "They made their mark. Now efforts are underway to rename Olympia and Tumwater sites after these women". The Olympian. p. 1A. Retrieved August 20, 2025.
  92. ↑ Shanna Stevenson; Tom Constantini (October 16, 1985). "National Register of Historic Places Inventory Form/Town Square - Sylvester Park". National Park Service . Retrieved August 21, 2025. With accompanying pictures PD-icon.svg This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain .
  93. ↑ Boone, Rolf (January 9, 2011). "Volunteers groom Grass Lake park - nature" . The Olympian. p. 3A. NewsBank 134AB24E9ECAA8F0 . Retrieved July 18, 2025– via NewsBank.
  94. ↑ "Grass Lake Nature Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  95. ↑ "Taylor Wetlands". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 25, 2025.
  96. ↑ "Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area". Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  97. ↑ Shanna Stevenson; M. Leland Stilson (August 4, 1991). "National Register of Historic Places Registration/Nomination: Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area". National Park Service . Retrieved August 21, 2025. With accompanying pictures PD-icon.svg This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain .
  98. ↑ "Frye Cove Park". Thurston County, Washington. Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  99. ↑ Allen, Chester (September 13, 2006). "Outing - Enjoy the season at Frye Cove" . The Olympian. p. 8D. NewsBank 1143F5364DE46580 . Retrieved August 21, 2025– via NewsBank.
  100. ↑ "Kenneydell Park". Thurston County, Washington. Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  101. ↑ Nisqually Valley News staff. "Thurston County Parks Reopen Wednesday". Nisqually Valley News . Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  102. ↑ Allen, Chester (August 31, 2008). "Puget Sound shoreline is good investment for governments" . The Olympian. NewsBank 122E9EDB90782FC0 . Retrieved August 21, 2025– via NewsBank.
  103. ↑ "Kennedy Creek Natural Area". Washington State Department of Natural Resources . Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  104. ↑ "Karen Fraser Woodland Trail". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 26, 2025.
  105. ↑ Gentzler, Sara (April 12, 2020). "Thurston Commissioners vote to reopen county trails; parks still closed". The Olympian. p. 3A. Retrieved August 7, 2025.
  106. ↑ Batcheldor, Matt (May 5, 2008). "Bicyclists enthused about state's idea to extend trail Plan aims to increase visibility of trailhead for Interstate 5 route" . The Olympian. NewsBank 1207BD691DD7E480 . Retrieved July 22, 2025– via NewsBank.
  107. ↑ The Olympian staff (August 12, 2003). "Urban Outings - Safety highlights eight-mile ride" . The Olympian. p. D6. NewsBank 0FCF449ADFC0F8CD . Retrieved August 19, 2025– via NewsBank.
  108. ↑ "Parks & Trails". Thurston County, Washington. Retrieved August 21, 2025.
  109. ↑ Hobbs, Andy (September 7, 2016). "Olympia pedals toward more bike-friendly future - City seeks input on plan" . The Olympian. p. 3A. NewsBank 15F435F94E42E8D0 . Retrieved July 31, 2025– via NewsBank.
  110. ↑ "Garfield Nature Trail". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  111. ↑ Vinson, Ty (July 30, 2025). "Take a look inside $2.8 million in improvements at Grass Lake Nature Park in Olympia". The Olympian. Retrieved August 6, 2025.
  112. ↑ "Harrison Ave Parcel". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  113. ↑ "Lilly Road Parcel". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  114. ↑ "Log Cabin Road Parcel". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 20, 2025.
  115. ↑ "South Capitol Lots". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  116. ↑ "Yelm Highway Community Park". City of Olympia. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
  117. ↑ Lirio, Lorilyn (June 20, 2025). "Funding for Yelm Highway park and Armory projects recommended by Olympia committee". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved June 30, 2025.
  118. ↑ JOLT News Staff (July 10, 2025). "30-year debt bond approved for Armory Arts Center and Yelm Park projects". The Journal of Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater (JOLT). Retrieved July 18, 2025.
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