Best Campgrounds near Eastsound, WA
Camping options near Eastsound on Orcas Island include several state park campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Moran State Park offers multiple campground areas including Northend, Midway, Southend, and Mountain Lake, each providing different experiences from lakefront sites to forested settings. The park accommodates tent camping, RVs, and some glamping options. Additionally, West Beach Resort provides tent sites, water/electric hookups, and cabin rentals for those seeking more developed facilities. Marine access camping is available at Sucia Island Marine State Park, which is boat-access only.
Ferry service significantly impacts camping logistics, requiring advance planning especially during summer months. "The ferry ride over and back is gonna run you $80 per car," noted one camper, highlighting the transportation considerations unique to island camping. Reservations are essential for both ferry transportation and campsites, with bookings opening months in advance for peak season. Most campgrounds are open seasonally from spring through fall, though some remain accessible year-round with limited facilities. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the island, with Verizon coverage particularly limited in Moran State Park. Weather remains moderate compared to mainland Washington, but wind and rain can affect camping conditions, particularly for those in exposed lakefront sites.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at Moran State Park's lake-adjacent sites. A visitor described Cascade Lake as having "crystal clear water, making it inviting at any time of the day." The park's multiple lakes offer swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities directly from campgrounds. Hiking trails connect the various campground areas to scenic viewpoints, including the popular Mount Constitution summit trail offering panoramic views of the San Juan archipelago. Campsite privacy varies significantly, with Southend campground generally rated higher for site separation and lake access, while Midway sites often feature less privacy despite lake proximity. Wildlife encounters, including deer, owls, and raccoons, are common throughout the island's camping areas. The proximity to Eastsound town (approximately 3-4 miles from most campgrounds) allows campers to easily access restaurants, shops, and additional services.
