Learn more about recent improvements at Bayshore Preserve.
Witness the transformation from golf course to nature preserve at Bayshore Preserve! Visitors are welcome to come and enjoy views of Johns Creek and Oakland Bay while witnessing Bayshore Preserve’s transformation from golf course to nature preserve. Long-term plans for the preserve include more accessible trails and viewing platforms to support environmental education programming already taking place here.
Fishing is not allowed on the property, but Capitol Land Trust does provide access via a trail to public land for fishing at the mouth of Johns Creek – see maps on kiosk for directions.
Guidelines:
Open from dawn till dusk.
Keep pets on leash and dispose of waste properly.
No hunting or fishing, boat launching, fires/fireworks, camping or biking.
No removal of vegetation or mushrooms.
Avoid walking in active restoration areas – stay on existing trails.
Location:
3800 WA-3, Shelton, WA 98584. Free parking. Alternative parking is available at the WDFW parking lot to the north of Bayshore Preserve with a Discover Pass.
Transit Options:
Mason County’s free Dial-A-Ride service. Mason County Transit Route 1. There is no marked bus stop at the preserve, so let the driver know when you plan to get off.
Bathroom Information:
There is an ADA-compliant portable toilet with hand sanitizer.
Trail Information:
Bayshore Preserve Trail Map
Self-guided interpretive Google map
Bayshore Preserve photo monitoring project
The trail system is about 1.5 miles total. The Main Loop Trail is mostly flat and a mixture of dirt and gravel. Most of this trail was used as a road in the past. The Lookout Trail goes down a gentle slope (5% or less) and across a wide bridge crossing Johns Creek. From there, it heads up a short but steeper hill to a relatively flat trail. Johns Creek Trail is a narrow dirt footpath and has several smaller hills, especially when it meets the Main Loop Trail on the south side of the trail. The Johns Creek Estuary Trail is a dirt path with a dip about halfway down. It can get muddy and wet along this trail, especially during high tide. The Shoreline Overlook Trail is a dirt trail that is relatively flat, but dips slightly towards the water. There are benches located around the entrance and near the bridge that crosses Johns Creek.