🏆 Official Guide: Kopachuck State Park — A scenic day-use park near Gig Harbor on Washington’s Henderson Bay — featuring over a mile of saltwater shoreline, outstanding tidepools, views of Cutts Island, kayak access to Puget Sound, and interpretive beach walks.
Kopachuck State Park sits on the shores of Henderson Bay near Gig Harbor, Washington — a saltwater beach park offering a mile of rocky shoreline that transforms into expansive sandbars at low tide. The park is a favorite destination for tidepooling, kayaking to nearby Cutts Island, and peaceful beach walks with views across Puget Sound.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Gig Harbor, WA — Henderson Bay |
| Type | Day-use only — no camping |
| Hours | 8 AM – dusk, year-round |
| Pass Required | Washington Discover Pass |
| Shoreline | 1+ mile of saltwater beach |
| Beach Access | Not ADA-compliant |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Tidepooling | Sea stars, anemones, crabs, sand dollars — low tide |
| Kayaking | Hand-carry launch — paddle to Cutts Island (~0.5 mi) |
| Beach Walking | Rocky shore becomes sand flats at low tide |
| Beachcombing | Shells, driftwood, marine finds |
| Hiking | Forest trails above beach |
| Picnicking | Forested picnic areas |
| Wildlife | Harbor seals, eagles, herons, shorebirds |
Cutts Island
Cutts Island (also known as Deadman’s Island) is a small, uninhabited island about half a mile offshore — accessible by kayak or small boat. It’s a state park property and a favorite destination for local paddlers exploring Henderson Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp at Kopachuck?
No — the campground was permanently closed in 2014 due to laminated root rot that made the trees in the camping area unsafe. Kopachuck is now a day-use-only park. For camping near Gig Harbor, consider Penrose Point State Park or Joemma Beach State Park.
Can I kayak to Cutts Island?
Yes — Cutts Island is about half a mile offshore and accessible by kayak or small boat. However, there is no formal boat ramp — you’ll need to hand-carry your kayak from the parking area down the service road to the beach. Always check tides and weather conditions before paddling in Puget Sound waters.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Cutts Island Marine State Park (a short drive away) or Penrose Point State Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Washington state parks online at washington.goingtocamp.com.
Park Location
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