Glamping accommodations near Anacortes range from waterfront cabins to forest yurts. The area sits at the northern edge of Puget Sound where Fidalgo Island connects to Whidbey Island via the Deception Pass Bridge. Winter temperatures typically stay between 35-45°F with summer averages around 65-75°F, making year-round camping possible despite the Pacific Northwest's seasonal rainfall patterns.
What to do
Beach exploration: Deception Pass State Park offers extensive shoreline access with varied marine habitats. "The whole area feels magical. Plus Anacortes is a fun town just a few minutes away. The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis," notes Will L. about Deception Pass State Park.
Marine wildlife viewing: Low tide reveals diverse tidepool ecosystems along protected beaches. "There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep the dogs and kiddos entertained," reports Melissa C. at La Conner RV, which offers both wooded and waterfront camping options with views of Skagit Bay.
Military history tours: Explore decommissioned coastal defense installations within a short drive. "The guns and lighthouse give many hours of exploration. The expansive grass fields allow a place to run our dog and fly kites. We spent many hours exploring the beach and observing sea life," explains Jerry about Fort Casey State Park.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Rent equipment to explore protected bays with minimal current. "Great beach and views with historic fort and bunkers. View of boats and cruise ships coming and going," reports Colleen T. about the waterfront camping opportunities.
What campers like
Proximity to ferry routes: Many campgrounds provide convenient staging for island hopping. "Odlin Park is just off the ferry landing on Lopez Island. There's a long sandy beach where locals and tourists alike come to spend their days," explains Kelsey M. about Odlin County Park.
Trail connectivity: Paved and unpaved routes connect natural areas to towns. "Deception Pass provides a wonderful journey to the past. The guns and lighthouse give many hours of exploration," shares Jerry, highlighting the recreational opportunities beyond beach activities.
Diverse camping environments: Options range from open waterfront to dense forest settings. "We stayed in site 16 - close to bathrooms and trash, but not right next to them. Roomy site with massive trees," describes Neil T. about his Lopez Island experience, noting the balance between amenities and natural surroundings.
Group facilities: Designated areas accommodate family reunions and gatherings. "Was rented for a rustic wedding. Has industrial kitchen. Amazing views. Impressive outdoor fireplace. Lots of bunk space in cabins," shares Lauren H. about Cornet Bay Retreat Center at Deception Pass.
What you should know
Military aircraft noise: Naval operations affect the sound environment at several campgrounds. "For over two hours, we were treated to intermittent but frequent LOUD jets flying close to the ground. We both had headaches and our dogs were upset," reports Judy T. from Fort Casey Campground.
Ferry reservations: Summer travel requires advance planning for vehicle transport. "Do remember before booking a site that there is an hour long ferry ride to Orcas from Anacortes. You will need reservations in the summer. The camp ground is about 40 minutes drive time from the ferry," advises Courtney P.
Limited full hookup availability: Many sites offer partial or no hookups. "It was disappointing to find that the few sites that have a sewer connection were all taken and no way to know this in advance," notes Jeff M. about his experience at La Conner RV.
Industrial views: Some waterfront locations face development across the bay. "This campground is PERFECT...until you realize there's a Tesoro refinery not all that far away in the distance across the bay. My asthma bugged me non-stop here because of the refinery fumes," warns Dene H.
Tips for camping with families
Off-season opportunities: Quieter experiences with similar amenities in spring and fall. "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," reports Erica G. about Deception Pass State Park.
Multi-day itineraries: Plan day trips to nearby islands via ferry. "We were able to secure two spots next to each other. Busy place, but the spots are partitioned off by natural trees and shrubs. Nice walking trails to the Strait of Juandefuca and Cranberry Lake," explains Briggetta B. about camping with extended family.
Water safety considerations: Many beaches have rapidly changing tides. "Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos," describes Travis D., highlighting family-friendly water access at Deception Pass.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer best animal sighting chances. "We had deer in our campsite everyday," reports Neil T. about the natural encounters at Lopez Island campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Research satellite views before booking specific spots. "Equipment: 30' Travel Trailer. Stayed in South Campgrounds. Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!! Dump station at the front of the park," reports Ben C. about Birch Bay State Park.
Partial hookup management: Plan water usage with limited sewer connections. "Nice views, nice camping spots," Shawn P. succinctly describes the La Conner area, which offers limited full-hookup sites despite beautiful waterfront views.
Winter camping preparation: Year-round facilities operate with seasonal limitations. "We stayed in January in our RV! We're able to get a spot with a water view and full power/water. Sewer sites are limited, no internet at the site and cell service is decent but not great," explains Lindsay K. about winter glamping close to Anacortes, Washington.
Cell reception variability: Coverage differs significantly between carriers. "Cell reception is bad but there are businesses and the library in La Conner where cell reception is good," advises Paula C., providing practical connectivity information for remote workers.
