Camping spots near Blakely Island, Washington span across several islands in the Puget Sound, with ferry access required for most locations. The region experiences mild but wet winters, with summer average temperatures around 70°F and winter lows near 40°F. Sites at most San Juan Island campgrounds require booking 6-9 months in advance for summer weekends, particularly for waterfront locations.
What to do
Hiking to panoramic viewpoints: At Moran State Park on Orcas Island, trails lead to some of the highest elevations in the San Juans. "If you follow the road up to Mt. Constitution, there is a lookout tower that resembles a castle. From here you get one of the most spectacular views of the San Juan Islands," notes Rich M. The park offers multiple trail difficulties, from the easy 3-mile lake loop to more challenging summit routes.
Watercraft activities: San Juan County Park provides excellent kayaking opportunities. "We did a sunset kayak tour and advantage was that the tour company met us at the ranger station at the park. We were very lucky as we saw whales!" reports Lee D. The western shore location makes it ideal for whale watching directly from camp.
Beach exploration: Spencer Spit State Park on Lopez Island offers extensive beach access. "The beach is littered with beautiful driftwood and shells and even clams! There are picnic tables down on the spit, so pack a lunch and spend the day down at the beach, or come down in the evening for star watching and s'mores," writes Valerie. The park includes both forest camping and beach camping options.
What campers like
Lake access sites: Southend Campground at Moran State Park features prized waterfront locations. "Most sites have their own private beach access if you want to keep your own boat on shore or swim with kids, the bathrooms are newer and much nicer, and it is at the trailheads that goes up the mountains to the falls or beyond," explains Beth E. Reservations for these premium sites often fill 6+ months in advance.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: San Juan County Park offers frequent wildlife sightings. "The views of Haro Strait are breath taking and make up for the cramped quarters. Orcas are often seen just off shore before high tide," shares Shari G. The west-facing location also provides sunset views over the water.
Island-specific experiences: Each island offers distinct camping atmospheres. "Lopez island is a slow paced beauty, and this park is a great place to camp while you explore all there is to see!" writes one camper about Spencer Spit State Park. Hitchhiking is common and accepted on Lopez Island, with rental bikes available at many locations.
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Reaching island campgrounds requires advance planning. "To get to Moran State Park or anywhere on Orcas Island, you need to take a ferry. I had read that you should get a reservation but I ignored it, thinking it would be no problem. Luckily we were the second to last car to get on," explains Sarah S. Ferry costs average $80 round-trip per vehicle during peak season.
Noise considerations: Larrabee State Park on the mainland experiences railroad noise. "Lovely area and views. We visited in the winter, so it was quiet. Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs," reports Daryl N. Similarly, Deception Pass sites experience jet noise from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Weather preparedness: Weather conditions change quickly in the San Juans. "We were soaked the entire time - granted we were fully expecting that going in February - for Valentine's Day no less. We brought all the rain gear," shares Kaysha R. about camping at Moran State Park. Summer months offer drier conditions but can still experience rain.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Northend Campground at Moran State Park provides lake swimming options. "Directly across the street from the day use area with beach, kayak/canoe/SUP rentals, fishing dock, and snack shack. Beach is great for kids - warm (enough) water, sandy bottom, and gradual depth change," notes Stephen R. Rentals typically cost $15-25 per hour.
Playground-equipped campgrounds: Washington Park in Anacortes offers play structures. "We had such a great time at this site. The bathrooms are centrally located between all sites and they have the option for firewood to be delivered to your campsite. There is a park for kids to play and covered bbq shelters," writes Marisa N. The park's 2-mile loop road is safe for beginner cyclists.
Wildlife spotting opportunities: Wildlife encounters are common at many campgrounds. "We got to see an otter at Cascade Lake," shares Josiah P. about Moran State Park. Deer sightings are particularly frequent on Orcas Island, especially around dawn and dusk.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bay View State Park campsites require leveling equipment. "The campsites themselves are lovely. The campground is very hilly, which can make for a hike to bathrooms in the night. The sites are not level, we wished we carried leveling blocks in our van when we were trying to figure out how to park," advises Chris N. Most sites have 20-30 amp electrical service.
Hookup availability: Deception Pass State Park offers full-service options. "We stayed in RV in site without hook-ups. Fighter jet noise on a Monday morning during our stay. Be prepared for rain," warns Leonard H. RV dump stations are available at most state parks for $5-10 per use, though lines can form during busy checkout periods.
Size restrictions: Island campgrounds have limited capacity for larger vehicles. "Moran State park is gorgeous! Perfect for kayaking and hiking and driving or biking four miles into town for fancy dinners. I have a small (16-ft) all-terrain trailer and Subaru. I would not want to attempt driving here with a big rig. Space is tight!" cautions Wendy about Mountain Lake Campground.
