Dispersed camping near Lopez Island provides primitive, remote sites primarily accessible by water. The San Juan Islands offer several free and permit-required camping options with minimal facilities. At Point Doughty, campers must navigate challenging terrain to reach the campsites. The steep path from the shoreline requires careful planning, especially when transporting gear from kayaks or small watercraft. During low tide, rocky beaches create additional access difficulties for those arriving by boat.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Point Doughty offers exceptional marine wildlife encounters. Campers report seeing "2 orca whales cavorted just 100' off and a stellar sea lion, harbor seals and many sea bird varieties provided fantastic entertainment" according to Jill R. who camped along the beach.
Island exploration: Most dispersed camping islands feature walking trails with coastal views. At Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County, a trail circles the small island, allowing campers to fully explore. "We had the place to ourselves," reports one visitor who appreciated the solitude despite rough waters during their kayak approach.
Overnight kayaking: Many free camping areas near Lopez Island serve as destination points for kayakers exploring the San Juan Islands. Planning around tides and weather conditions is essential for safe passage. Lake Angeles, though further from Lopez, offers a different backcountry experience with "about 4 miles from the trailhead with ~2,500ft of elevation gain" according to camper reviews.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many dispersed sites near Lopez Island offer rare opportunities for complete isolation. At Top of the Hill camping, visitors note "this is actually a really secluded, private location with a beautiful view!" The limited space means you rarely have neighbors.
Unique camping settings: Island camping creates distinctive experiences unlike typical campgrounds. One camper at Hope Island describes it as "Very different, primitive camping. Small island with only 2 sites that I could find. Nice trail to walk with beautiful views. Very romantic setting!"
Free camping options: Several locations around Lopez Island offer no-cost camping with basic amenities. Pine Lake Campground provides free sites with toilet facilities and allows pets. "Cute sites," notes one reviewer, though they mention frequent foot traffic through the camping area.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer minimal amenities. Point Doughty has "a vault toilet that lacked toilet paper and was quite unsavory." One helpful camper notes they "grabbed some rolls from Sucia to restock it for people."
Access challenges: Water approaches can be difficult depending on conditions. A Hope Island camper advises "I would recommend for anyone planning to stay here to look into the waters, tide and wind report the day of. Or if you have the option of using a motorized boat!"
Required permits: Many free camping sites near Lopez Island still require permits despite no fee. Lake Angeles — Olympic National Park requires reservations and permits but offers a completely different mountainous camping experience for those willing to hike in.
Gear transportation: The terrain between landing areas and campsites can be challenging. At Point Doughty, one camper notes "The path up to the sites is steep and slippery with loose dirt but there's a rope to help out... Not recommended for hauling myriad items up from kayaks."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Families camping on islands should prepare for wildlife encounters. One Hope Island camper mentions "there were raccoons on the island with us but other than that we had the place to ourselves." Parents should store food securely and teach children appropriate wildlife safety.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential for comfortable island camping. At Lake Angeles, one camper warns "Lots of bugs so make sure to bring bug repellant."
Water transportation: For family kayaking trips to camping islands, consider skill levels and equipment needs. As one Hope Island visitor notes, "Rough paddle to this island!" Families might prefer motorized transportation options or choose days with calmer water conditions.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: The dispersed camping areas near Lopez Island generally don't accommodate RVs due to boat-in or hike-in access requirements. RVers seeking free camping should look to mainland options with road access like forest service roads.
Alternative parking: Some RVers park at mainland launch points and use small boats to access island camping. This creates a base camp while allowing island exploration, though overnight parking regulations vary by location and season.
