Best Tent Camping near Blakely Island, WA

The San Juan Islands surrounding Blakely Island, Washington offer numerous tent-only camping options primarily accessible by boat or kayak. James Island Marine State Park, located directly adjacent to Blakely Island, provides tent campsites with picnic tables, pit toilets, and hiking trails with views of Mount Baker. Other nearby options include Clark Island Marine State Park with its rocky beaches and tent sites, and Jones Island Marine State Park, which features both individual and group tent camping areas with composting toilets and potable water.

Most tent campgrounds in the San Juan Islands require water transportation access, with few drive-in options available. Sites typically feature level tent pads on natural surfaces, picnic tables, and fire rings (when fire bans aren't in effect). Vault or composting toilets are standard at established sites, but potable water is limited or unavailable at many locations. Campers should pack in all water and pack out all trash, as services are minimal. Seasonal considerations include summer crowds requiring advance planning, particularly for the limited walk-in tent sites at places like Obstruction Pass State Park on Orcas Island.

Primitive tent camping in this region offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper at Jones Island reported seeing "orcas 300 feet away from the fire ring" and seals gathering to feed in nearby eddies. According to reviews, James Island provides "outstanding views on either side" with "beautiful bluffs to view sunrise and sunset," making it ideal for tent campers seeking solitude. The tent sites at Obstruction Pass are "well protected from winds from just about any direction" and positioned "just above the beach," keeping tents safely out of high tide zones. Backcountry tent camping in this archipelago rewards visitors with starry skies, marine wildlife encounters, and the peaceful isolation that can only be found at boat-in tent campgrounds.

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Best Tent Sites Near Blakely Island, Washington (48)

    1. Mountain Lake Campground — Moran State Park

    12 Reviews
    Olga, WA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 376-2326

    "The way the campsites are tiered allows for a sense of seclusion even with neighbors on all sides. "

    "We were in site 22, right on the water (but also right next to the access road.) There is a lovely 3 mile hike around the lake with a fun bridge to jump off of to swim."

    2. Obstruction Pass State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Olga, WA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 902-8844

    "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!"

    "I kayaked in to this campground and though it's an awesome location it was a bit disappointing."

    3. Odlin County Park Camping - Lopez Island

    6 Reviews
    Lopez Island, WA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 378-8420

    "There are plenty of beach sites, a few are “walk-in” – which just means that you can’t park your car there. There are lots of forested sites which offer more privacy than the beach."

    "It has waterfront with beach, campsites are neat and restroom is better other campsites! This place is perfect for who goes on bikepacking or using car to camping there."

    4. Jones Island Marine State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Deer Harbor, WA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 378-2044

    $12 / night

    "I have seen orcas 300 feet away from the fire ring fishing off the eddylines. Seals often gather here to feed and play in the eddy."

    "was far away to the east from the rest of the camping area and offered amazing views of the cove and San Juan Chanel, it also had a really short gear schlep because you can pull your boat up really close to"

    5. Cypress Island Natural Resources Conservation Area

    3 Reviews
    Anacortes, WA
    7 miles
    Website

    "It's nicely wooded and has awesome areas (with picnic tables) to call home. The scenery is breathtaking and if you're lucky you might even see some orcas swimming by."

    "There are also ponds and wetlands scattered around the island and chances to view wildlife in quiet."

    6. Sucia Island Marine State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Eastsound, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 376-2073

    "Madrona trees around every corner. And your choice between perfect privacy or a few neighbors. This island is amazing!"

    "The Caves are fun to climb around in and have a fun history of hiding smugglers."

    7. Shaw Island County Park

    3 Reviews
    Lopez Island, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 378-8420

    "Just across the Channel from Lopez, the park located in Indian Cover makes a great stopping point between Odlin or Spencer's Spit and Turn Island/Friday Harbor."

    8. James Island Marine State Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Blakely Island, WA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 902-8844

    "Beautiful views of Blake Island on one side and Mt. Baker framed on the other. There are hiking trails, beautiful bluffs to view sunrise and sunset."

    9. Clark Island Marine State Park — Clark Island Marine State Park

    3 Reviews
    Lummi Island, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 376-2073

    "This is yet another Washington Sate Park in their Marine Island system. Clark Island offers a nice, large rocky beach that makes it easy to beach your boats to set up camp."

    "I recently did a solo kayak trip around Orcas Island, WA and Clark was my first stop. I've camped on this island before so was looking forward to visiting again."

    10. Turn Island State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Lopez Island, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 902-8844

    "No water or power is available at this island, however the composting toilets are kept clean, and the island is extremely cute."

    "And the raccoons as cute as they are will walk up to your campsite right in front of you and steal your food."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Blakely Island, WA

887 Reviews of 48 Blakely Island Campgrounds


  • Elise M.
    Aug. 11, 2020

    Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023

    Quiet and Lots of Space

    Great place to bring your LQ (any size rig) and camp with your horses. There are a few non-equestrians, but we need to keep this a place for equestrians because we are losing more and more campsites.  Trails are well maintained and extensive.

    No water or electric at the camp, but you can drive down to a creek and pump or collect water for your horses. You will be boondocking.

    High-line poles are available to high-tie your horses. We set up a portable corral and were fine. Picnic tables and fire rings are also available.

    No manure pile or wheel barrow. There is a vault toilet and I got cell service on my phone.

  • Ariel & John  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Heart O' the Hills Campground — Olympic National Park

    Beautiful clean primitive campgrounds

    In the Olympic NP, close to Hurricane Ridge to the south, 15 min to town of Port Ángeles to the north. Camped in loop C. Had a beautiful private site. Old growth forest and hiking trails all around. No hookups, no dump station. Each site has fire ring, picnic table. Each loop has a clean, powered, plumbed bathroom, no showers. Would camp again.

  • H
    Sep. 22, 2022

    Deception Pass State Park Campground

    Cozy campsites !

    There were SO MANY available campsites when we got there. About mid afternoon. The ranger was super friendly and welcoming! The bathrooms were nice and had showers that require tokens that you can buy with your site at check in. The sites vary in size and shape but most of them are decently private/ spaced apart. The site next to us never got booked, probably because it was small, but it was nice for us because it was only a few bushes away. Sites include a picnic table and fire ring with grill grate . There was a trail to the beach not far from us and it was super nice. Although there are plenty of signs that require dogs to be on leashes most people did not adhere to those rules, so keep an eye out if you're bringing the doggos. Very family friendly, very cozy, very nice stay!

  • Travis D.
    Aug. 6, 2017

    Deception Pass State Park Campground

    Ranger Review: Green Goo at Deception Pass State Park Hike-In Campground

    Campground Review

    My three-year-old and I backpacked in and it was amazing. Crazy crowded and crazy loud with the military jets overhead (Naval Air Base nearby) – but beautiful none the less. 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. But be prepared during the day for some ear splitting noise - I would actually advise ear plugs!

    We hiked in for the adventure, but also because all the drive-in sites were reserved. They have several secluded campsites set aside for hikers and bikers, and they were totally worth the work. We ended up in site #233 and it was perfect. Totally tucked away in the trees with soft ground and simple surroundings. If you plan to hike or bike in and use these spots, get there as early as you can. All the sites got used and several folks who showed up toward evening didn’t get spots. We walked around to see all the drive-in spots and there are some pretty nice ones, but none as secluded as the hike/bike spots. The hike in from the northern park boundary is amazingly beautiful and it sure makes you appreciate the spot once you get there.

    There are trails everywhere from the campsites, but most importantly down to the beach and Cranberry Lake. I must say it’s quite amazing to sleep amongst the tall trees of the forest and then meander down to the beach to play! Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos.

    Amazing beauty and well worth the experience!

    Product Review

    Green Goo – Multiple Products

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time – on this trip I tested the amazing variety of salve and such from Green Goo. I made sure to take the salve for Dry Skin, Foot Care, and Pain Relief – all great stuff for backpacking! One feature I really like about the salves is the tin, they are perfect for stuffing in a little side pocket of your pack and don’t add much weight at all. It was heavenly to rub the balm into sore muscles and feet after we set up camp and recovered from the hike. The foot care stuff is especially helpful for me since my heels crack so bad. This stuff has really made a difference for my heels like nothing I’ve tried before. My daughter is a pretty rough and tumble little adventure seeker and has never been without some sort of scrape, scratch, or bump from climbing everything and running everywhere – the Skin Repair tin gets multiple uses daily – and it really does help heal her up quick. Overall – this stuff rocks, I’m totally sold on it and can’t wait to try other products from the company!

  • Cary C.
    Apr. 24, 2022

    Tulalip Casino

    Quiet and clean

    Nice place to have a free spot for the night. Not sure the max number of nights. I forgot to ask. No hook ups and no water available. Clean area and pet exercise area. Security drives by regular.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2020

    Heart O' the Hills Campground — Olympic National Park

    Ranger Review: Banner & Oak At Heart O’ The Hills Campground

    CLICK HERE For FULL Video Review

    Once entering one of the most iconic areas of Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge, you are are welcomed with open arms to the Heart O’ The Hills Campground, a beautiful primitive camp nestled only a few short miles from the ridge itself. 

    The first taste of Olympic from this direction, the campground is the perfect retreat for a day or even a week for those wanting to explore the many trails and features within a short driving distance of the northern entrance. 

    I had the privilege of visiting this location on my lengthy trip to the Pacific Northwest and as a Ranger For the Dyrt was given the unique opportunity to share not only my experience but also a special product by Banner and Oak which made my adventures within the park even better. 

    **Campground Review: **

    Heart O’ The Hills is a quiet location just south of the Port Angeles area and a few miles within the entrance gate. There are no reservations available for this unique campground so early arrival is suggested on weekends, especially during peak season. 

    I visited on a weekday in late fall and noticed there were numerous spots available to choose from. Empty sites are easily located by visiting the pay kiosk near the main restrooms of camp, here there is a paper slip system of making occupied spaces, very similar to that of the ones they use by the National Seashores. 

    Pricing for this camp is very reasonable at only$20 per night, or for those with the Senior Interagency Pass only $10. Unlike many kiosks which accept only cash you can make payment at this location by check as well which allows you an additional option. However keep in mind there are no credit card payments accepted!! 

    When I explored the camp I noticed two main styles of camping were available, smaller sites which catered to single vehicles and tent campers and larger sites which could easily accommodate larger rigs or double occupancy car groups. While there is a limit of 8 people per site, these larger sites would not feel crowded with 8-12 people in most instances. 

    Sites are equipped with standard amenities of picnic tables and fire rings. Throughout camp there are bear boxes with shared access for many sites. Additionally, I found that while this is considered to be a primitive campground there are water spigots located every few sites for shared usage. There is no electrical hook ups and at the time of my visit the restrooms were closed temporarily, with port-a-pottys instead located at this area. 

    Unfortunately by the closure of the restrooms I was unable to determine if there were electrical outlets or even showers at the this campground which did weigh heavily on my mind when staying here. I really wish I would have known, because those two features could take the stay from a great one to an extraordinary stay.

     Just beyond the C loop of camp the Heart O’ The Hills Forest Trail can be found. The first of many trails you will want to explore at the park, this trail allows you a glimpse at the beautiful forest around you. Though this trail is nor ADA for those able to walk on slightly uneven ground this trail is one you will not want to miss. 

    Taking a walk down this trail it was so peaceful and I easily could have lost track of time just discovering the larger than life mushrooms, the massive ferns and the trickling streams around me, a far different setting than my native Texas home. 

    **TIPS: **

    • Firewood is available at this location only seasonably. Should you arrive at camp and wood not be available you can return to the community of Port Angeles and pick some up for a reasonable price point. 
    • If you are going to be staying in this area and are not prepared for bear country, stop at the visitor’s stop when you come into the park and ask about their bear cans. 
    • In an effort to conserve paper, the park is working toward going paperless when it comes to maps, if you happen to be visiting this area download the online maps to your smart phone before visiting or take a photo when stopping at one of the visitor centers.

    **Product Review: **

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, I am often given the unique opportunity to try products in the field which might add value to the camping and exploring experience as a whole. I was very fortunate to be able to evaluate some of the many items from the Banner& Oak Company along this adventure. 

    For this adventure I took the Pike solid back panel construction hat for a trip around the campground. I personally love hats and find them to be a travel must for men and women for a variety of reasons. On cool days they allow you to keep your body heat from escaping through your head, which is the area of our bodies which allows the most to escape. On a sunny day, a hat can keep you from getting to much glare or help with sunburn on your sensitive scalp region. A hat is a must for all travel. 

    The Pike is a hat which was named from the infamous Pike’s Peak in Colorado. It’s sturdy construction allows for comfort and coverage while allowing adjustability through a snapback. 

    On a more personal level, I found the hat to have great overall feel to it. The material used was perfect for the slight chill in the air and being able to secure the hat through adjustments came in handy as I moved from the calm of camp to the winds of the Hurricane Ridge. The olive color fit my personal style well, and while they do have other color options in the Pink including charcoal and maroon, the green tone feels very outdoorsy. 

    TIPS: 

    • Do not be afraid to shop both the mens and women’s sections for different designs. When doing so make sure you check the sizing but keep in mind some styles might suit your style more from your not standard shopping section. 
    • Hats are one of the more essential travel items so finding a hat which is comfortable in all situations is important. I suggest solid back panels for cooler months and vented or mesh backs for summer.
  • Dene H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2020

    Camano Island State Park Campground

    Busy but an amazing view

    I was a volunteer camp host for this park for a month. It’s a busy place on the weekends especially. The system in Washington is sometimes showing how overwhelmed and understaffed they are, and this park is so severely understaffed it’s sad. Many folks do not understand how to cleanup and leave no trace. As volunteers, we learned a lot about the area, the fight with the Tulalip Tribe to have the land, the desecration of indian burial grounds, the full sale of the land by a private owner to the state because of a haunting and a family curse... there’s a ton of local drama in these lands. If you’re a ghost nut, this place is for you - ask the campground staff for the history.

  • Danielle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2019

    Oostema Farmstead

    Ranger Review: Ice Mule cooler at Oostema Farmstead Inn

    Campground review: 5 out of 5 stars

    As a Ranger on the Dyrt, I sometimes receive compensation for reviews like this one.

    The Oostema Farmstead Inn is a pretty unique campground.  It is located on a working farm. There were chickens, cows, calves, a heron (I think it was nesting near the driveway), a raspberry field, a garden and even a cat wandering around.  If you are looking for a fun farm-style getaway, this is it.

    I spoke with the camp host, Lisa, who told me I could explore the Raspberry Fields and the Barn where the calves were.  I did see signs that you needed permission, so bear that in mind when you go.

    The campsites themselves are essentially located behind the Farm house, and we were able to set up wherever we wanted.  I chose a spot by two trees and Lisa brought over a picnic table for me.  Since the sites are in the backyard, and you can choose where to set up, you do see other campers.  They also allow RVs.

    They also have a cabin you can rent, and they were kind enough to let me poke around and take a few pictures.  They have a port-a-potty, which was very clean, and a sink with soap and drinking water.  No showers, though they did mention the idea of setting up a cold shower.  There is a hot tub on premises, but it is not for campers to use.  They have a fire pit with wood available, which was perfect for us.

    The Oostema Farmstead Inn Campground is located close to Lynden, just a 5 minute drive from downtown.  Because it is situated off the main road, while you could see cars in the distance (Lynden is a bit flat), they were not disturbing the quiet of the farm.  There is not hiking within walking distance, but there are some parks and a river nearby you can drive to.

    When I booked the Campground, Lisa was very responsive to the questions I had about bringing extra vehicles and very accommodating.  She gave good directions to get to the campground, as GPS doesn’t quite get you there.  They put a sign up on the road where GPS directs you, and it is a little small but visible, at least during the day.  When you get to the end of the driveway, there is a sign for the “tiny house”, I chose to ignore those directions, and continue around the house – which it turned out, was the right decision.

    All in all, this was a delightful stay and I would recommend checking it out!

    Product Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars.

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, from time to time I get to test products. At the Oostema Farmstead Inn, I tested the Ice Mule Cooler Pro.

    What I loved about camping with my Ice Mule Cooler.

    The Ice Mule Cooler Pro is a backpack cooler.  Which meant, when I was walking from my car to my campsite, and over to the fire pit, instead of lugging a bulky cooler around, I just swung this one on to my shoulders, and off I went.

     I also decided to put this cooler to the test.  Several hours before camping, I filled the cooler with ice and all things that needed to be kept cool.  Then I left it in the car, parked in the hot sun.  When I arrived at the campground, I opened the cooler to see that the ice hadn’t even really begun to melt.  By the next day, leaving it out, there was still a lot of ice.  This cooler really works.

    I also like the fact that you can roll it down, so you can compact it and it has an air valve to vent out the air.

    Some details on the one I have: It can carry 23 liters, the site says it can hold up to 18 cans plus ice, and it weighs 3.2 pounds.  It is insulated and they have MuleskinET for the exterior fabric and MuleSkinEV for in the interior layer.

    Now that I have an Ice Mule Cooler, I won’t be going back to those bulky standard coolers.

  • David J J.
    May. 4, 2023

    Upper Oak Bay Park

    OK camp spot. No showers. Lagoon that fronts the park smells at low tides.

    Upper Oak Bay CG: A nice day use play park for kids. I vault toilet. No showers. One potable water spigot. Rest are for washing.

    There is NO path down to the lagoon other than a precipitous dirt chute requiring a rope to climb back up. 

    Nice view from a few frontal sites.

    Lower Oak Bay CG is wide open, so better for RVs and Vans. Easy shoreline access for small boats.


Guide to Blakely Island

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Blakely Island, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Blakely Island, WA is Mountain Lake Campground — Moran State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Blakely Island, WA?

TheDyrt.com has all 48 tent camping locations near Blakely Island, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.