Set on the shore of Rich Passage, Manchester State Park makes the perfect getaway for day-trippers or Puget Sound campers on a Kitsap Peninsula road trip.
Military and maritime buffs will find intrigue at Manchester. The park is 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. The term "torpedo" was used to describe underwater mines in the early 20th century, when the fort was built to protect the shipyards at Bremerton. Middle Point, as the fort was called, stocked an underwater mine field during World War II.
These days, the former torpedo warehouse, with its stone fireplace, weathered beamed ceiling and windowless arches, has become a coveted wedding venue, reunion site and picnic spot against a forested backdrop of maple and Douglas-fir.
Located near Port Orchard, Manchester includes 2 miles of hiking trails, but the park's main attraction is its 3,400 feet of saltwater shoreline. Kayaking, swimming and diving (bring your own gear) allow visitors to take full advantage of this classic beach park with a view of Bainbridge Island on a clear day.
PARK FEATURES
Manchester State Park is a 128-acre camping park with stunning views and an interesting military history. A volleyball court and a horseshoe pit are maintained for park visitors.
ADA AMENITIES/FACILITIES
Campsite
PICNIC & DAY-USE FACILITIES
The old brick torpedo warehouse is a large reservable picnic shelter and there are two small reservable picnic shelters available at the park. Thirty-six unsheltered picnic tables are available first come, first served. Most of the picnic sites have braziers.
ACTIVITIES
TRAILS
1.9 miles of hiking trails
WATER ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
Boating
Diving
Fishing (saltwater)
OTHER ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
Bird watching
Horseshoe pit
Mountain biking
Volleyball field
Wildlife viewing
BOATING FEATURES
Kayaks or small watercraft may be carried to the beach area for launching.
CAMPSITE INFORMATION
The park has 35 standard campsites, 15 partial-hookup sites, and two restrooms and showers. Maximum site length is 60 feet (limited availability). One dump station is located near the entrance. Reservations can be made 9 months in advance of selected date, May 15 - Sept 15. Campsites are available first come, first served between Sept. 16 - May 14. There are three hiker / biker campsites available only to hikers and bikers and two Cascadia Marine Trail sites available to those arriving by wind- and human-powered watercraft. All available only on a first-come, first-served basis. These sites include a picnic table. Braziers are not provided.
Check-in time is 2:30 p.m.
Check-out time is 1 p.m.