Tent camping in the San Juan Islands offers a unique outdoor experience with varied terrain and seasonal considerations. The archipelago near Anacortes receives less rainfall than nearby Seattle due to the rain shadow effect, with an average of 25 inches annually compared to Seattle's 37 inches. Water temperatures around Anacortes typically range from 46-54°F throughout the year, requiring careful planning for activities.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: At Mountain Lake Campground in Moran State Park, trails lead to panoramic island views. "Miles of hiking trails that lead to the highest point in the San Juans, Mt. Constitution. One of the most incredible views I have ever seen in the PNW," shares one camper at Mountain Lake Campground.
Kayaking and paddling: The protected waters around Shaw Island County Park provide excellent paddling opportunities. "The park located in Indian Cover makes a great stopping point between Odlin or Spencer's Spit and Turn Island/Friday Harbor. The beach become mud flats as the tide goes out so be careful not to get beached," notes a visitor at Shaw Island County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Clark Island Marine State Park offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. A solo kayaker reported: "I enjoyed an evening of humpback whales blowing in the channel to the east of me. Despite its location, Clark can be noisy as it is right on a major shipping channel and a nearby major railway."
What campers like
Beach access: Odlin County Park on Lopez Island features sandy beaches with excellent swimming. "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 a visitor to Odlin County Park.
Lake activities: Mountain Lake Campground offers freshwater alternatives to saltwater beaches. One reviewer mentions: "Lake Moran which is a fun lake to kayak and cliff jump. If you follow the road up to Mt. Constitution, there is a lookout tower that resembles a castle."
Primitive camping experience: For those seeking more solitude, Pine and Cedar Lakes provides a remote feel while remaining accessible. "A 15 minute drive from downtown Bellingham and you get yourself a secluded, quiet lake. Pine Lake is prettier and has fun boardwalks to explore, but the campsites at Cedar Lake are better (bigger and flatter)," states a visitor to Pine and Cedar Lakes.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most island campgrounds have basic amenities only. At Lily and Lizard Lakes, "Only 4 campsites there and all really close to each other. All the sites had a fire ring, bench and a flat area to set up your tent. The hike up is pretty easy but the only water source is from the lakes which is not the cleanest water so bring a good filter."
Seasonal weather patterns: Fort Ebey State Park remains accessible year-round but conditions vary. A visitor noted: "My daughter and I camped at Fort Ebey during Spring Break and it was a lovely time with many Scotch Broom and other seaside flowers were in bloom."
Reservations essential: The best tent camping near Anacortes, Washington requires advance planning. For Moran State Park, "We reserved our spot 6 months ahead of time (It took us weeks of early mornings in October to get a spot)," according to one camper at Fort Ebey State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Short hike options: Obstruction Pass State Park offers accessible camping for families with young hikers. A father reports: "My twelve year old wanted to try backpacking, but not hike too far. My wife didn't want us to get eaten by bears. The solution? Obstruction Pass! The hike is short, the campsites are good, and there is a pit toilet, unlike some other backpacking options."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Fort Ebey provides regular wildlife encounters. "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer. It's a good place to make memories!"
Swimming spots: When camping with children, Shaw Island County Park offers warmer water. "As the water comes back in over warn sand it heats up making for some of the warmest swimming you'll find in the San Juan Islands," notes a visitor to Obstruction Pass State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Fort Ebey, site placement matters for privacy. "The sites are bigger then expected, they are level and could accommodate 2 medium size tents. The restrooms were clean with pay showers. Ice and fire wood are available at the entrance."
Ferry logistics: RVers should plan for ferry scheduling constraints. "Odlin Park is right off the ferry landing on Lopez Island," making it convenient for larger vehicles coming off the ferry system from Anacortes.
Facility considerations: Some campgrounds offer RV-friendly sites but limited amenities. At Mountain Lake in Moran State Park, one camper noted: "The campground is easy to find from the highway and the facilities are very clean and there's a number of showers and bathrooms around the campground."
