🌤 Weather at Kopachuck State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38–64 °F | 51–76 °F | 40–70 °F | 36–48 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Tacoma Narrows Airport, 6 mi away, elevation 292 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 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.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Kopachuck State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in most Washington state parks but must be under physical control on a leash at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 8 ft maximum leash required; pets must be under physical control
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on designated swim beaches
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed inside vacation houses but are permitted in designated pet-friendly cabins and yurts (e.g. Grayland Beach, Seaquest, Ike Kinswa — Cape Disappointment does NOT allow pets in its yurts), typically up to two pets, with a pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $15 per night pet fee in pet-friendly cabins/yurts
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Director-designated off-leash areas are exempt from the leash rule and are conspicuously posted
Are dogs allowed at Kopachuck State Park?
Pets are allowed in most Washington state parks but must be under physical control on a leash at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.wa.gov. More: Washington state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Kopachuck State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
