The San Juan Islands near Custer, Washington provide varied camping landscapes ranging from forested inland sites to coastal marine camping. Island campsites exist at elevations from sea level to several hundred feet, creating diverse camping microclimates throughout the region. Fall visits offer reduced mosquito populations at inland lakes while maintaining moderate temperatures suitable for tent camping in Custer's surrounding areas.
What to do
Kayaking to remote sites: Clark Island Marine State Park offers accessible beaching for small watercraft. "Great, well-spaced site. Oddly, the only site in the San Juan Islands in which we ran into heavy mosquitos. Newer bath facilities, great swimming and large beach," notes George, who recommends bringing bug spray for summer visits.
Hike to mountain viewpoints: From Mountain Lake Campground at Moran State Park, trails lead to Mt. Constitution, the highest point in the San Juans. "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," writes Hilary S., recommending the 6.7-mile round-trip hike for clear-day views.
Fishing and water activities: Multiple lakes support fishing for trout species. "Lake Moran which is a fun lake to kayak and cliff jump," mentions Rich M., noting that boat rentals are available seasonally at Cascade Lake near Mountain Lake Campground, where swimming platforms exist during summer months.
What campers like
Accessible backcountry experience: Obstruction Pass State Park Campground provides entry-level backpacking. "The hike is short, the campsites are good, and there is a pit toilet, unlike some other backpacking options. The hike in is fairly flat, with just moderate ups and downs," reports Don, who brought his twelve-year-old for a first backpacking trip.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Marine mammals and birds frequent the water around island campsites. "I recently did a solo kayak trip around Orcas Island, WA and Clark was my first stop. I enjoyed an evening of humpback whales blowing in the channel to the east of me," writes Jill R., who camped at Clark Island in September when marine traffic decreases.
Secluded forest sites: Cedar Lake Campsite requires effort but rewards with solitude. "It's a high hike. Straight up. There are two sites. One north and one south of the lake. A few good level sites and some built in benches," mentions Duane and Janey D., noting the prohibition on fires at this location.
What you should know
Island logistics require planning: Ferry schedules limit access to many campgrounds. "Located on Orcas Island, you need to take the ferry from the mainland," explains Josiah P. about Mountain Lake Campground, suggesting reservations for both ferry passage and camping during summer months.
Availability challenges: First-come sites fill quickly in peak season. "We reserved our spot 6 months ahead of time (it took us weeks of early mornings in October to get a spot)," reports Trisha R. about Mountain Lake, highlighting the competitive reservation process for prime locations.
Weather and seasonal considerations: Shoulder seasons offer better camping conditions. "We spent two nights here in late July and had an awesome stay! Cell service is minimal at best in the campground and if reception is a must, you may need to drive into the nearby town," notes Gia R., who visited Mountain Lake Campground.
Limited facilities: Most island sites have minimal amenities. "No toilets, but pets allowed. Bring bug spray! Swimming is possible if you don't harm any shoreplants on your way in," advises Niki A. about Pine and Cedar Lakes, mentioning the lack of drinking water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Sucia Island Marine State Park Campground works well for family boat trips. "We kayaked from Orcas to Sucia and spent the night at the Shallow Bay campsite on the southern beach. Campsite was clean, flat, and spacious! A nice table was there along with a fire pit for convenience," shares Niki A., noting the family-friendly beach access.
Educational opportunities: Marine state parks offer learning experiences. "Sucia also boasts fun fossils in and around Fossil Bay. There are lots of fun hiking trails and roads around the island as well as interpretive signs," writes Kelsey M., describing kid-friendly fossil hunting at Sucia Island.
Safety considerations: Wildlife requires proper precautions. "Unlike other islands, wasn't destroyed by the settler loggers," explains Kelsey M. about Matia Island Marine State Park, emphasizing the wildlife refuge status requiring special care when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate facilities: Norwest RV Park in Ferndale accommodates larger vehicles with hookups. "Small spaces but they are level and the price is right!" reports Bradee A., highlighting the year-round availability and full-service sites when island camping isn't practical.
Plan for limited RV options: Most island sites restrict RV camping. "This is a large campground on Orcas Island. It sits on Lake Moran which is a fun lake to kayak and cliff jump," notes Rich M. about one of the few island locations with limited RV access, specifying that most primitive tent camping Custer, Washington-adjacent sites cannot accommodate vehicles.
Consider mainland base camps: Using mainland RV parks for day trips provides more comfort. "Located on Orcas Island, you need to take the ferry from the mainland. The interior of the island is beautiful & blacktail deer abound," explains Josiah P., suggesting day trips from mainland RV accommodations as an alternative to primitive tent camping.
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