Best Camping near Anacortes, WA
Camping near Anacortes, Washington
Anacortes, Washington, is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the Pacific Northwest. Nestled between the mainland and the San Juan Islands, this area offers a variety of camping experiences, from forested state parks to scenic waterfront sites. Whether you're an RV traveler, a tent camper, or someone looking for a cozy cabin, Anacortes has something for everyone.
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife, camping near Anacortes provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, like any camping destination, it's essential to know what to expect. This guide will help you navigate the best campgrounds, activities, and tips for a memorable camping trip near Anacortes.
What to do
Camping near Anacortes offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and kayaking to exploring historical sites, there's something for everyone.
One of the top spots is Deception Pass State Park Campground. This park is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. "The hike to see Deception Pass Bridge is awesome," says Evergreen Adventures P. in their review.
Another great location is Fort Worden Historical State Park. This park offers a mix of history and natural beauty, with plenty of trails and historical buildings to explore. "The trade-off is the endless opportunity for walking, hiking, and learning the history of the area," notes Kelly H. in their review.
For those who enjoy water activities, Larrabee State Park Campground is a fantastic choice. The park is surrounded by forests and a beautiful beach, making it perfect for kayaking and swimming. "The hike to the beach is well worth it, especially walking under train tracks," says Evergreen Adventures P. in their review.
What campers like
Campers have a lot to love about the campgrounds near Anacortes. The natural beauty, clean facilities, and friendly staff are frequently mentioned in reviews.
At Deception Pass State Park Campground, campers appreciate the spacious sites and clean facilities. "The campsites are open and surrounded by forests, with clean facilities, fire pits, and picnic tables," says Evergreen Adventures P. in their review.
Fort Casey Campground is another favorite, especially for its historical significance and scenic views. "The view is great, and the old military fort is fun to explore," notes Justin B. in their review.
Campers also enjoy the amenities at Burlington-Anacortes KOA. "This KOA was clean and well maintained. It had several amenities and the large sites had Mountain View," says Lindsay in their review.
What you should know
While camping near Anacortes is generally a positive experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth trip.
Noise can be an issue at some campgrounds. For example, Larrabee State Park Campground is known for its train noise. "The trains passing by at night are quite a unique experience," says Evergreen Adventures P. in their review.
Privacy can also be a concern. At Fort Worden Historical State Park, Kelly H. mentions, "The only negative is the lack of any privacy. To be fair, there is quite a bit of space between campsites, so it didn't feel too bad," in their review.
Additionally, some campgrounds can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Trisha R. notes in their review of Mountain Lake Campground, "While there are only 12 spots, everybody is on top of each other and you can hear and see everything everybody is doing."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Anacortes. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable.
Choose a campground with family-friendly amenities. Burlington-Anacortes KOA offers a variety of activities for kids, including a playground and rental recumbent bikes. "The kids did love the rental recumbent bikes!" says Lisa C. in their review.
Look for campgrounds with easy access to trails and beaches. Fort Casey Campground is a great option, with its proximity to the beach and historical sites. "It's right on the water and next to the ferry, and it's super cool to see the ferry and lights at night," says Kellsie T. in their review.
Consider the season and weather. Some campgrounds, like Bay View State Park Campground, are quieter during off-peak seasons. "We stayed here in February, so the whole park was not open. It was quiet and obviously close to Padilla Bay, which was a nice walk," says Sue G. in their review.
Tips from RVers
RVers have specific needs and preferences when it comes to camping. Here are some tips from RVers who have camped near Anacortes.
Check for amenities like electric hookups and sanitary dumps. Washington Park Campground offers electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. "Despite details on this site, RV sites do have electric hook up as well," says Stephanie R. in their review.
Be prepared for the cost. Some campgrounds can be pricey. Greg S. mentions in their review of Burlington-Anacortes KOA, "$74.00 for one night in my own RV."
Consider the size of your RV. Not all campgrounds are big-rig friendly. Fort Ebey State Park Campground offers good privacy and spacious sites. "The campsites are generally large and well separated by foliage, even in winter," says Don in their review.
Camping near Anacortes, Washington, offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites to scenic beaches. By knowing what to expect and planning accordingly, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable camping trip.
