Camping options span multiple islands near Friday Harbor, where temperatures typically range from 40-70°F year-round. The San Juan Islands receive less rainfall than mainland Washington due to the Olympic Mountain rain shadow, averaging only 29 inches annually. This creates favorable conditions for outdoor recreation with minimal mosquito activity compared to inland campgrounds.
What to Do
Wildlife viewing from shore: At San Juan County Park, campers regularly spot marine wildlife without leaving land. "Great place to launch your kayak. I adventured into the campground area to check it out. Some spots were right on the water from where we put in at... Great views and can spot orcas from here when they pass through," notes Taylor C.
Kayaking multi-day trips: Jones Island Marine State Park provides excellent stopping points for paddlers exploring multiple islands. "Jones Island is about a mile west of the south shore of Orcas Island. It is a very popular island to camp on because it can facilitate large groups, so there are often kayaking companies out with their clients," explains Shari G., who recommends site 16 for its views and proximity to water access.
Lake activities: Fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities exist beyond saltwater. "The park features a lake with boat rentals and a swimming area. There is a big bathroom in the middle of the campground with three free showers for each gender," shares Delaney M. about facilities at Lakedale Resort.
What Campers Like
Island solitude: Shaw Island County Park offers a quieter experience than busier islands. "Shaw Island itself is the smallest of the ferry served islands in the area which makes it much quieter than neighboring bigger islands," notes Kelsey M., who also mentions "the beach become mud flats as the tide goes out so be careful not to get beached."
Waterfront access: Pet-friendly camping with water views ranks high among visitor priorities. "We had a spot right on the water with a very shallow area for about 20 yards out. My 2 year old spent the entire weekend wading around the shallows," reports C.M. about Southend Campground at Moran State Park, which features sites with private water access.
Variety of accommodations: Options range from basic tent sites to upscale glamping experiences. "Lakedale resort is my favorite campground by far. There are plenty of private lakefront sites for everyone. They are really good about accommodating large groups as well," writes Delaney M., highlighting the diverse camping options available beyond standard sites.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill extremely quickly, especially during summer. "The only issue I have ever had with this campground is that because it's popular they instituted a rule that if you are an Island Country Resident you get first dibs. If you are not you have to wait until 90 days before your trip to book which can sometimes back fire," explains Emily S. about San Juan County Park.
Ferry planning: Allow ample time for ferry travel and make reservations when possible. "To get to Moran State Park or anywhere on Orcas Island, you need to take a ferry. 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," warns Sarah S.
Limited facilities: Odlin County Park and other dog-friendly campgrounds near Friday Harbor often have basic amenities. "Boat launch, water, clean pit-toilets, great recycling and trash are all available here, but no showers or electric outlets. However, Lopez Village has some of the best showers which you can use for the suggested donation of $2," advises Shari G.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for multiple activity options: Sites with varied recreation possibilities keep children engaged. "We rented a paddle boat one day and a row boat a different day. We had an amazing time and would do it again, in fact my daughter asks frequently when we will go to Lakedale next," shares Russel about their family visit to Lakedale Resort.
Consider wildlife encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound but require proper preparation. "Always a great time! There's lots of beaches to walk and trails to hike. The little store right outside the camp has amazing salmon," notes Kaila R. about Deception Pass State Park, though park-specific wildlife varies across the islands.
Choose protected swim areas: Several pet-friendly camping areas near Friday Harbor feature shallow swimming zones. "There is a great kayaking launch and many companies use this area to start their trips. The views of Haro Strait are breath taking and make up for the cramped quarters. Orcas are often seen just off shore before high tide," explains Shari G. about San Juan County Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most island campgrounds offer minimal RV services. "We stayed in our RV in site without hook-ups. Fighter jet noise on a Monday morning during our stay. Be prepared for rain," advises Leonard H. about facilities at Deception Pass State Park Campground, highlighting the need to plan for self-sufficiency.
Size restrictions: Many island roads and campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. "Most of RV sites looked great & we loved ours. Read reviews that complain about low flying jets causing a racket. Happy to say we only encountered a couple jet making racket so our stay was relatively quiet," shares Rose M., noting that October weekdays tend to be quieter for RV camping.
Consider all-season options: "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," reports Erica G., pointing out that some pet-friendly campgrounds operate year-round despite seasonal limitations.
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