Campsites near Deer Harbor, Washington offer outdoor recreation options in the island landscape across Whidbey Island, San Juan Islands, and mainland areas. Located within the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the region receives less rainfall than nearby Seattle, averaging just 25 inches annually. Water conservation restrictions affect some campgrounds during summer months when ferry traffic and campground occupancy reach peak levels.
What to do
Explore beach trails and marine life: Friday Creek Campground provides a convenient base for coastal exploration. "Creek in the backyard, nice and secluded. Do have to bring tote up to location. Great showers," notes camper Danielle M. The campground's May to November seasonal operation aligns with prime beach walking conditions.
Visit Deception Pass State Park: North Whidbey RV Park sits directly across from park entrance trails. "You are steps from the entry of Deception Pass State Park to find tons of hiking but if you venture right (directionally) out of the driveway from the RV Park, you'll find the Cornet Bay side of the state park that offers quieter, lesser crowded trails and a different view of the bridge," writes camper Kristin S.
Farm visits and local food: When staying at Thousand Trails La Conner, make time for nearby agricultural experiences. "Make sure you get to Greenbank Farms for some local cheeses and Whidbey Pies because nothing says post-hike refuel like Loganberry pie," recommends a visitor. Farm stands operate seasonally with peak harvest selection August through October.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Thousand Trails La Conner provides direct water access. "Beautiful location and campground but confusing to find your way around inside," notes Jessica H. The campground features shoreline walking paths and bay viewing areas open to all guests.
Military aircraft viewing: Whidbey Island camping includes Naval air activity as part of the experience. Near North Whidbey RV Park, one camper notes: "There is occasional noise from Naval Station Whidbey, but this camper doesn't mind the occasional sighting of a fighter jet." Flight patterns vary by season and weather conditions.
Well-maintained grounds: Cliffside RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "The grounds are maintained exceptionally well. Very friendly staff! My family and I had no complaints, if only all RV parks were like this one!" writes Christopher M. The military-only facility features landscaped common areas and waterfront walking paths.
What you should know
Campground access restrictions: Cliffside RV Park requires military credentials. "You need to be a active or retired military member to enter the base and stay at this campground," explains camper Emma A. Verification occurs at main gate entrance points.
Reservation policies vary: At some rv sites near Deer Harbor, Washington, specific spots aren't guaranteed. One visitor to Thousand Trails Birch Bay reports: "RED FLAG: First, they take reservations but do not reserve a spot for you; rv spots are first come first serve."
Seasonal facility limitations: Water and sewer systems undergo maintenance during shoulder seasons. "June 2023 dump stations and all campsite sewer hookups are down for maintenance. Nearest offsite dumps are 10 miles away," reports John M. about Thousand Trails La Conner. Call ahead to verify current system status.
Tips for camping with families
Community garden access: Elwha Dam RV Park offers unique agricultural participation. "They offer a community garden, so feel free to gather at no cost fresh veggies," notes Debra R. Children can help harvest seasonal produce with staff guidance.
Outdoor games available: Recreation equipment extends beyond standard playground features at some facilities. "They have a veggie garden to share, lots of outdoor activity areas and places to explore within walking distance," reports Ms H. about Elwha Dam RV Park.
Consider site privacy: Layout affects family comfort levels at rv campgrounds near Deer Harbor. "The sites are really close together and most don't have any privacy," notes Svea A. about one facility. Request end sites or spots near green spaces when making reservations.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service varies: Bellingham RV Park provides full utility connections. "Sites are gravel pull-throughs with full hook-ups and include picnic tables," notes Brian C. All sites include 50-amp service, unlike some nearby facilities with limited electrical capacity.
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects setup at some facilities. "The pavement on the grounds is not in great condition with lots of bumps and ditches, but we were able to finagle our trailer to a stable spot," reports a North Whidbey RV Park visitor. Bring additional leveling blocks for difficult spots.
Road conditions impact larger rigs: Interior campground roads pose navigation challenges for longer vehicles. One reviewer of Thousand Trails Mount Vernon cautions: "There are a few hills that might be a problem for larger Class A's with a trailer." Towing vehicles sometimes need disconnection before proceeding to designated campsites.
