With Spring all but here and the weather beginning to play nice, we figured we should share some of the best places to head outdoors in our home, Kitsap County. 

Kitsap County, located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, is home to a wealth of local parks and natural areas, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From forests to beaches, there's no shortage of stunning scenery to explore here. In this blog post, we'll look at some of the best local parks and things to do in the area.

1. Manchester State Park

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, Manchester State Park is a 128-acre park that features stunning views of the Puget Sound and surrounding islands. Visitors can hike along the park's many trails, fish for salmon or trout, camp, or simply relax on the beach. The park is also known for the large brick structure that was once a torpedo warehouse and an adjacent concrete casemate that once housed firing triggers and cables to the underwater torpedoes.

2. Illahee State Park

Illahee State Park is another must-see destination for nature lovers in Kitsap County. The park is situated on the eastern shore of Illahee Bay and offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and even scuba diving in the park's waters. It also features a memorial with two large naval guns to honor the park’s founder, Earl Henry Harkins, and the young men of Bremerton who lost their lives in World War I.

3. Silverdale Waterfront Park

For a more urban park experience, Silverdale Waterfront Park is a great option. This park features a playground, picnic areas, and a beach with views of Dyes Inlet. Visitors can also take a stroll along the park's boardwalk, which offers stunning views of the water and nearby mountains.

4. Clear Creek Trail

The Clear Creek Trail is a popular destination for hikers and bikers in Kitsap County. The trail stretches for 6.5 miles and winds through forests, wetlands, and meadows. Along the way, visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including salmon, eagles, and beavers.

5. Port Gamble Heritage Park

History buffs won't want to miss a visit to Port Gamble Heritage Park. This park abuts Port Gamble townsite, a National Historical Landmark, and locals offer guided tours of its historic buildings. Visitors can also hike along the park's trails, which offer stunning views of Hood Canal. The park is larger than all but 10 Washington State Parks and boasts a diverse ecology and 65 miles of trails for use by hikers, runners, bikers, and equestrians.

In addition to these local parks, Kitsap County is home to a variety of other outdoor activities, including kayaking, sailing, hiking, and camping. Visitors can also explore the area's many small towns, which offer a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Kitsap County has something to offer everyone. So why not plan a trip to this beautiful part of the Pacific Northwest and experience all it has to offer?