There is something eerie, yet absolutely fascinating about abandoned places in Washington. These destinations give you a glimpse into the past and they tell stories of long ago. Here in the Evergreen State, there are many incredible, captivating abandoned places such as ghost towns like Govan and the former St. Ignatius Hospital in Colfax. However, one abandoned destination that truly entices us is Camp Hayden, abandoned World War II bunkers in Port Angeles, Washington.
Salt Creek Recreational Area in Port Angeles is the ultimate day trip destination. Outdoor lovers, history buffs, and those who just want to explore someplace new (like myself!) will find something to interest them here.
This incredible destination is known as one of Washington State’s premier shore-diving destinations. Here, you can see creatures like sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and wolf eels. And, if you don’t want to hop in the water, you’ll find the most incredible tidepooling opportunities at low tide. Plus, you can spend time on the beach, camp, hike, and more during your stay.
Also located in Salt Creek Recreation Area is Camp Hayden. Dating back to the 1940s, Camp Hayden was built as a coastal defense base during World War II. In 1941, multiple temporary batteries, or groups of artillery, were built near Port Angeles and Angeles Point to protect crucial areas such as the entrance to Puget Sound and the Canadian naval base at Esquimalt. However, these temporary structures were replaced by the establishment of Camp Hayden and its two fixed gun batteries: Battery 249 and Battery 131.
Camp Hayden was built using steel-shielded concrete and was designed to withstand a direct hit. It was named after Brigadier General John L. Hayden, the former commanding officer of the Puget Sound Harbor Defense.
After the War, the U.S. Coast Guard continued to use the area for training, and in the late 1950s, Clallam County purchased nearly 200 acres of the camp, which became Salt Creek Recreation Area. The bunkers remained throughout the park but were abandoned, leaving a fascinating part of history in this Washington space.
If you wish to get up close to the bunkers and gun emplacements, there are several options at Salt Creek but we recommend the Beach to Bunker Trail. This hike is not too difficult and gives you incredible views of the ocean, shore, and bunkers. You’ll feel like you are walking through a fascinating history lesson, all while enjoying some of Washington's natural beauty.
Washington has many areas that are full of history, beauty, and intrigue and Salt Creek Recreation Area certainly tops that list. Here, you’ll find pieces of the past that will certainly make you stop and wonder about years gone by.
For more information about Salt Creek Recreation Area and its history, and to place reservations for picnic shelters and campsites, visit the Clallam County website.
Have you visited this abandoned destination in Washington State? What are some other eerie and creepy places to check out? Let me know! I’m always looking for new places to explore.
If you are looking for even more places with lots of history in the Evergreen State, check out these historical landmarks. And if you are planning to spend lots of time outdoors while on your adventures, make sure to check out some of our favorite gear.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!