Olmstead Place State Park

In 1875, the pioneering Olmstead family homesteaded the land claim at the site of the current state park. They originally raised grain and beef cattle. The family switched from beef to dairy in 1892, producing butter for the Seattle market. Three generations of the family farmed this land over many decades. The property was donated to State Parks in 1968. Olmstead Place reflects farming history, with historic equipment, a 1908 hay barn and smaller barns, sheds and coops that date from the late-19th century on into recent times. A tour of the original cottonwood log cabin reveals fascinating historic furniture and artifacts. Visitors can also take a stroll through the heritage gardens or meander down the Altapes Interpretive Trail, which lies along Coleman Creek. You can preschedule a tour or just come on your own. There are 17 unsheltered picnic tables in the park, along with a restroom.