Canvas tent camping and yurt options are abundant near Blaine, Washington, with most sites open year-round despite the region's 45-60 inch annual rainfall. Located in Whatcom County near the Canadian border, Blaine sits at a low elevation with mild temperatures ranging from 35°F in winter to 70°F in summer, making it comfortable for outdoor recreation. Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations with access to Puget Sound or freshwater lakes.
What to Do
Shellfish harvesting and crabbing: Birch Bay State Park provides excellent access to shellfish beds during low tide. One visitor noted, "This has to be one of my all time favorite places for Shell Fishing and Crabbing! Dont forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious!"
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Rent equipment at West Beach Resort on Orcas Island. "Beach is nice and private. Boats and fishing equipment for rent," confirms one camper who enjoyed the waterfront setting.
Hiking through old-growth forest: Moran State Park offers extensive trail systems with scenic lake views. A hiker shared, "Moran State Park offers great hikes nearby including an easy trail around Cascade Lake that runs right through the campground."
Hot springs soaking: Canvas accommodation guests can enhance their stay with natural hot springs at nearby resorts. A camper at Doe Bay Resort mentioned, "The spa is lovely and I highly recommend soaking and getting a massage if you have the time."
What Campers Like
Private waterfront access: Southend Campground sites feature personal beach areas. "I like site 17 because we had a neighbor on one side of us but a lake and hilly woods area on the other side so it felt more private," reports one camper who found their ideal spot at Moran State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers chances to see local fauna. "You can camp out in the woods and see the local wildlife (lots of deer and otters!) and there are plenty of trees to hang your hammock," according to a regular visitor.
Clean facilities despite rustic settings: Campsites maintain well-serviced bathrooms. At Birch Bay State Park, a visitor remarked, "The bathrooms were so clean though, and it is a beautiful bay."
Sunset viewing spots: Waterfront campsites provide optimal viewing locations. "We set up camp and had our dinner on the beach to watch an incredible sunset!" shared an enthusiastic Moran State Park visitor.
What You Should Know
Ferry planning is essential: Reserve spots well in advance for San Juan Islands access. A camper warned, "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."
Navy jet noise: Some campgrounds experience periodic aircraft sounds. A Deception Pass State Park visitor mentioned, "Fighter jet noise on a Monday morning during our stay. Be prepared for rain."
Limited privacy at some locations: Not all sites offer seclusion from neighbors. A Birch Bay State Park review noted, "The lots are pretty close together but it has everything you need--large picnic table, fire pit with grill, parking, and a good area for your tent."
Shower token systems: Many parks require payment for shower facilities. As one camper observed, "Showers require tokens... inquiry upon entry."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Lynden-Bellingham KOA offers structured recreation options. "Great amenities through summer," noted one visitor, while another mentioned, "Swimming pool, mini golf, arcade games, paddle boats."
Enclosed campgrounds for safety: Some sites provide contained play areas. A parent appreciated that at Lynden KOA, "The lynden KOA is a small piece of camping paradise in the heart of lynden, kids can ride their bikes and fish and parents don't have to worry."
Shallow swimming areas: Look for designated kid zones with gradual entry. One visitor pointed out that at Moran State Park, "Unlike coastal beaches, it's actually warm enough the enjoy a swim in the lake."
All-weather considerations: Prepare for quick weather changes. "Don't forget you are in Wa. and it rains more often than not, so come prepared with tarps and rain gear," advised a seasoned camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations matter: At The Cedars RV Resort, hookups may require specific positioning. One RVer noted, "I love the hedges between spots so you're not eating lunch at the table, staring at your neighbors sewer hose and power box."
Level sites available: Many campgrounds offer prepared RV pads. A camper at Deception Pass mentioned, "Asphalt roads with compacted dirt pads. See website for length of level pad."
Seasonal availability varies: Yurt camping near Blaine, Washington may have reduced options in winter. "Definitely going to want to visit again in the summer," mentioned a winter camper who stayed at Deception Pass State Park.
Size restrictions apply: Check length limits before booking. "Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!!" reported an RVer with a 30-foot travel trailer at Birch Bay.
