Glamping options near Lopez Island extend beyond the well-known facilities mentioned earlier. While ferry access adds approximately one hour to travel time from Anacortes, several campgrounds offer distinctive accommodations within reasonable distance. Temperatures around Lopez Island typically range from 45-70°F during camping season, with July and August being the driest months.
What to do
Water recreation access: Southend Campground at Moran State Park provides direct lake activities beyond swimming. "Cascade Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos," notes Amanda W., who recommends booking early for lakefront sites.
Beach exploration: Odlin County Park on Lopez Island offers extensive shoreline access with unique marine life viewing. "There's a long sandy beach where locals and tourists alike come to spend their days," reports Kelsey M., highlighting the park's location "just off the ferry landing on Lopez Island."
Historical sites: Fort Worden State Park provides military history exploration alongside camping. "If you like bunkers, canons, and barracks, with a view, then come here. There is a lighthouse that still functions and plenty of beach access," explains Ryan L., noting the diverse recreation options available.
What campers like
Private beach areas: Odlin County Park features secluded water access points from many sites. "Site #11, one of the best beach sites in the camp" was highlighted by Shari G., who appreciated that "there are plenty of beach sites, a few are 'walk-in' – which just means that you can't park your car there."
Serene environment: Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers peaceful accommodations with scenic views. "The cliffside yurts are amazing and the views are even better. Spent a few nights here with a book and had the best time!" shares Amanda W., who recommends the "on grid" yurts with electricity.
Well-maintained facilities: Deception Pass State Park receives praise for its upkeep. "Park is remarkably pretty with older trees. Most of RV sites looked great & we loved ours," notes Rose M., who mentions that jet noise was minimal during their October visit.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Lopez Farm Cottages requires advance planning for glamping in Lopez Island, Washington. Aaron W. emphasizes the diverse accommodation options: "There are cottages to be rented, nests, which are something between a cottage and a tent. Then you have your tent sites."
Ferry constraints: Most San Juan Island campgrounds require ferry travel, affecting arrival timing. "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 the ferry," cautions Sarah S. about access to Moran State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Birch Bay State Park offers natural animal sightings. "This is the place to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty that Nature has to offer," writes Dani H., who recommends obtaining a shellfish license to collect dinner at low tide.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Lakedale Resort provides structured recreation beyond the usual glamping in Washington's Lopez Island area. "We made family matching tie dies, she made bird feeders, we rented a paddle boat one day and a row boat a different day," shares Russel, whose 4-year-old daughter frequently asks when they can return.
Space considerations: Family sites at certain campgrounds offer extra room for groups. Isabelle K. notes that at Lakedale Resort, "The sites are large and well appointed, ours was in a nice wooded area, had two picnic tables, a nice fire pit with grill and multiple flat spots for our tent."
Budget planning: Camping costs vary significantly across the region. "For the $100+ each night - I was hoping for something a lot nicer," cautions L.W. about tent sites at Lakedale Resort, suggesting families consider value when selecting accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: La Conner RV offers diverse camping environments. "A wonderful setting with either woods or water views," notes Paula C., who warns that "not all services are available at each site" and recommends planning for limited cell reception.
Hookup availability: Finding full-service sites requires advance planning. "It was disappointing to find that the few sites that have a sewer connection were all taken and no way to know this in advance," reports Jeff M. about La Conner RV, suggesting early arrival for preferred amenities.
Campsite spacing: Cliffside RV Park provides well-separated sites. "Very nicely kept facilities with beautiful flower beds. Each site has full hookups. Open space but not a parking lot," observes Paul L., highlighting the balance between access and privacy.
