The O O Denny County Park has history, hiking, and old-growth trees all within the town of Kirkland. This beautiful park is the best spot for camping, picnic and visitors can always enjoy wildlife.
History
This 46-acre park in Kirkland is a good spot to seek out local flora and fauna without leaving town. See wildlife wandering through the trees, swimming within the creek, and flying high in the sky. The park was also once home to the now fallen “Slyvia” — the oldest cedar tree in King County.
Features
There are some trails within the park with some connecting to the nearby Big Finn Hill Park. For a loop hike of about 1.2 miles, take the Lower Loop trail for 0.6 miles then head back on the 0.7 mile-Upper Loop trail.
- BBQ
- Picnic Tables
- Playground
- Fishing
- Bike Rack
- Boat Launch – Motorized boats
- Boat Launch – Hand-carried non-motorized – Boats
- Parking Lot
- Picnic Area/Shelter – Reservable
- Restoration Area
- Restrooms (Year-round)
- Trail
- Wildlife Viewing
Hiking actually includes some stops at wildflowers, taking pictures, and exploring an old salmon ladder, trips with kids can take about 45 minutes. The trail is generally flat and there are four small stream crossings.
And speaking of water, the lakefront at O.O. Denny is divine. The beach, though rocky (again, those sturdy water sandals are available handy here) is expansive and pristine. Though there are no lifeguards, roped-off swimming areas, docks, or rafts here, parents are advised to pack some beach toys or floaties and keep an eye fixed on their kids. And it’s advisable that non-swimmers stay at water’s edge level or within arm’s reach.
At the park, visitors won’t really find playground equipment, however, visitors can skip the swings and just enjoy the scenery. They can bring a Frisbee, some picnic goodies—etc…too: O.O. Denny is pet friendly as long as your pets are on a leash.
When to go: O.O. Denny is open year-round and closes at dusk. Visitors can go anytime but know that the parking zone (located on the side of the park near the restrooms) tends to offer extra service and the park is pleasant to visit during the day.
Where to hike: The trailhead is found across the road from the automobile parking space. Though there is some construction going on.
O.O Denny is a park visitors and residents love to visit.