Anacortes sits on the northern edge of Fidalgo Island at 67 feet elevation, offering access to both the San Juan Islands and mainland Washington. The area experiences moderate rainfall of 25-30 inches annually with temperatures ranging from 30-75°F depending on season. Winter camping near Anacortes remains viable with several campgrounds operating year-round despite occasional shower facility limitations during colder months.
What to Do
Wildlife viewing along shorelines: Deception Pass State Park Campground provides excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "Friends did join me which added company to the breathtaking sunset at the bay to the right and the following day companions at the lake to the left," reports Aletta M., who appreciated the natural setting.
Hiking scenic trails: The numerous trails around Anacortes range from easy beach walks to more challenging forest paths. One camper at Deception Pass noted, "There are lots of beaches to walk and trails to hike" making it ideal for day adventures without traveling far from camp.
Tidepooling during low tides: Marine exploration is popular along the rocky shorelines. "The beach area is about a 10 minute walk from the campground. The beach is littered with beautiful driftwood and shells and even clams!" mentions a visitor to Spencer Spit State Park Campground, highlighting the accessible marine environment.
Kayaking protected waters: Rentals are available at multiple locations. "We launched our trip from here. Nice wide beach for kayaks to enter the water. Fresh water to fill our Drom bags too," notes Joel T. about Spencer Spit, which serves as an excellent paddle launch point.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities despite high usage: Most campgrounds maintain their restrooms and common areas well. "Clean rest rooms in our area. Showers require tokens... inquiry upon entry," reports Leonard H. about Deception Pass State Park.
Privacy between campsites: North Whidbey RV Park receives praise for site separation. "Nice grass around all the campsites, 50 Amp electricity, water and sewer. Picnic table at every site," writes Jeanie S., appreciating the well-organized layout.
Convenient ferry access: Location relative to the Anacortes ferry terminal factors into many camping decisions. "We chose this campground for its close location to the ferry terminal to take us to San Juan Island," explains Lee D. about Washington Park Campground.
Year-round availability: Several campgrounds remain open throughout winter. "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," shares Erica G.
What You Should Know
Military jet noise: Naval Air Station Whidbey Island creates periodic loud overflights. "You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis," warns Will L. about Deception Pass State Park, though many note the noise typically stops in early evening.
Shower limitations: Facility issues occur periodically at several campgrounds. "One of two showers in the women's room in the C-loop broken," reported Kim G. about Washington Park, while others mentioned token-operated showers at different locations.
Advance booking essential: Summer reservations fill extremely quickly. "Book ahead of time cause it fills up pretty fast!" advises Marcia L. about Bay View State Park Campground.
Variable cell service: Coverage differs dramatically between campgrounds. "Cell reception is bad but there are businesses and the library in La Conner where cell reception is good," notes a camper at La Conner RV.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Larrabee State Park Campground offers kid-friendly play areas. "With young children we loved that Larrabee had a playground area and easy access to the beach," shares Carlyn N.
Shallow swimming areas: Safe water play spots exist at several locations. "My 2 year old spent the entire weekend wading around the shallows," mentions a parent who stayed at Midway Campground on Orcas Island.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Anacortes: Most area campgrounds welcome pets with reasonable restrictions. "We have two Shelties & think of others so we're not the Culprits…" notes a responsible pet owner at La Conner Marina RV Resort, referencing the importance of cleaning up after pets.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs and nature exhibits enhance family camping. "At the summit there is a tower with information on the natural and human history of the island," describes Matthew G. regarding Mount Constitution in Moran State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "The site was extremely unlevel front to back so much so my rear stabilizers barely touched the ground," warns Jason W. about Larrabee State Park.
Electrical hookup variability: Not all sites offer equal power options. "There are about 5 or 6 newer pull through that are good size. The remainder of the sites are small," notes a reviewer about La Conner Marina RV Resort.
Pet-friendly cabin alternatives: Several campgrounds offer cabin options for those with dogs. "We actually stayed at the cabins rather than in a tent. The views of the bay from the cabin were great," reports Jen D. about the dog-friendly accommodations at Bay View State Park.
Waterfront RV parking: Premium sites with water views command higher prices but offer better experiences. "We were able to secure a spot with a water view and full power/water. Sewer sites are limited," mentions Lindsay K. about La Conner RV.
