New State Park on Washington's North Coast

The next time you are heading up to Lake Ozette or Neah Bay to do some hiking, be sure to check out the Cowan Ranch Heritage Areas, centerpiece to a new 600-acre plus Hoko River State Park. You can currently hike up the old woods road along the Little Hoko River or along beautiful sandy beaches near the mouth of the Hoko River on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

This region has been hit hard when it comes to economic downturns. The timber industry and commercial and sports fishing industries are a fraction of what they once were. Hopefully a new destination state park in the region will help stimulate the local economy. The state needs to act fast however in developing the park's facilities. Washington State is notorious for moving like a tortoise when it comes to adding infrastructure. Hopefully we can move a little faster this time. In any case the state needs to be commended for pursuing this worthy project.

In the meantime, if you need a place to stay in the area, consider Curley's Resort in Sekiu. Great rates, clean and nice hosts.