Camping opportunities near Blakely Island, Washington concentrate in neighboring areas since Blakely Island itself has limited public access. The San Juan Islands experience a temperate maritime climate with average summer highs around 70°F and winter lows rarely below freezing. Annual rainfall reaches approximately 25 inches, with July and August typically the driest months for camping.
What to do
Beach exploration at Deception Pass: Deception Pass State Park offers extensive shoreline with tide pools and driftwood. "We went with family in two different vehicles and were able to secure two spots next to each other. Nice walking trails to the Strait of Juandefuca and Cranberry Lake. Very green and beautiful," shares visitor Briggetta B.
Kayaking and crabbing: Odlin County Park on Lopez Island provides water access for paddlers and shellfish enthusiasts. "There's a long sandy beach where locals and tourists alike come to spend their days. As someone who often paddles around the islands I prefer hike-biker sites," notes Kelsey M.
Hiking on Orcas Island: Southend Campground connects to trails leading up to Mount Constitution. "The Southend camground at Moran is definitely the way to go. Most sites have their own private beach access of you want to keep your own boat on shore or swim with kids, and it is at the trailheads that goes up the mountains to the falls or beyond to Mt. lake, Pilchuck, Consitition, etc.," says Beth E.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for deer, otters, and marine life throughout the San Juans. "We had deer in our campsite everyday," reports Neil T. about his stay at Odlin County Park on Lopez Island.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Fidalgo Bay Resort offers waterfront sites with bay views. "This campground is right on the bay, and you really cannot safely park any closer to the water than these sites," notes Dene H.
Quiet evenings: Despite daytime noise at some locations, many camps offer peaceful nights. At Deception Pass State Park, one camper notes, "It's good to note that the jets do shut off around 5 pm and there is plenty of quite time from that point on."
Fresh water swimming: Birch Bay State Park provides beach access in a protected bay. "We set up camp and had our dinner on the beach to watch an incredible sunset! Our drive-up site was great, well maintained with bathrooms nearby," writes Maggie M.
Glamping close to Blakely Island: The San Juan Islands offer upscale camping options with various comforts. Chris L. describes Birch Bay State Park as "Seaside camping at its best," making it an excellent option for luxury camping near Blakely Island, Washington.
What you should know
Ferry requirements: Advance reservations essential for vehicle ferries to islands. "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 the ferry but we were really close to not making it," explains Sarah S. about reaching Moran State Park.
Naval air traffic: Deception Pass State Park experiences noise from nearby military jets. "The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis," warns Will L.
Limited services on islands: Pack supplies before arriving. Neil T. advises, "There is a great grocery store in the village. That was important because midweek in the offseason, not many restaurants were open."
Weather variations: Coastal areas can experience rapid weather changes. At Deception Pass, Leonard H. advises: "Be prepared for rain."
Tips for camping with families
Choose lakeside sites: Cascade Lake at Moran State Park offers safe swimming for children. "The lake is also beautiful and has a great day use space for large groups," notes Christi R.
Bathroom accessibility: La Conner RV provides full facilities for family comfort. "The overall campground is nice with almost all of the sites being surrounded by trees or a view of the bay," reports Jeff M.
Kid-friendly activities: Water rentals available at many locations. At Lakedale Resort, Russel shares: "We reserved one of the RV spaces for our trailer, which are centrally located in this large resort. Our 4 year old daughter really enjoyed the activities that were offered, we made family matching tie dies, she made bird feeders, we rented a paddle boat one day and a row boat a different day."
Safety features: Some campgrounds offer more secure environments. Aletta M. praises Deception Pass: "Want to feel safe and secure? I reserved space 97 at deception state park for just myself and was just amazed of the feeling safe when I arrived. Set way back from the road the campsite was surrounded by wilderness with a cute trail to the bathroom."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping provides drive-in tent sites with vehicle access. "This is one of their drive in sites that will accommodate your vehicle next to your campsite. There are three of these sites in my area. They are very clean, they're organized and plenty spacious for your tent camping needs," describes Aaron W.
Road access considerations: Some island campgrounds have tight roads. Ben C. notes about Birch Bay State Park: "Ewuipment: 30' Travel Trailer. Stayed in South Campgrounds. Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!!"
Hookup availability: Not all sites offer full services. Jeff M. advises about La Conner RV: "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."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies throughout the islands. Regarding Moran State Park, Sarah S. reports: "I have AT&T and did not get reception at the campground, but could get it by driving a few miles."
