Campers visiting Lummi Island in Washington can find a range of established campgrounds on nearby islands and the mainland. The San Juan Islands provide island camping experiences with ferry access, while mainland options offer easier road access. Temperatures in the region typically range from 45-75°F during camping season, with July and August being the driest months averaging less than 2 inches of rainfall.
What to do
Hike to mountain viewpoints: At Moran State Park Campground on Orcas Island, trails lead to spectacular vistas. "We camped on a lake that had easy trailhead access to the peak of Mt. Constitution, an easy/moderate hike with excellent views. At the summit there is a tower with information on the natural and human history of the island," notes Matthew G.
Paddle the waterways: Sucia Island Marine State Park Campground offers excellent kayaking opportunities. "I often bring small groups of kids to Sucia when I lead trips. The northern beach of Shallow Bay is sandy, warm water and home to the China Caves. The Caves are fun to climb around in and have a fun history of hiding smugglers," shares Kelsey M.
Beach exploration: Birch Bay State Park has extensive shorelines for shell collecting. "This has to be one of my all time favorite places for Shell Fishing and Crabbing! Don't forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious!" advises Dani H.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Many campsites at Southend Campground — Moran State Park offer direct lake access. "Most sites have their own private beach access if you want to keep your own boat on shore or swim with kids, the bathrooms are newer and much nicer, and it is at the trailheads that goes up the mountains to the falls or beyond," explains Beth E.
Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds surrounding Lummi Island host diverse wildlife. At Larrabee State Park, "Nice campground with great views of the water. Just be aware that it has some nosy raccoon residents who feel very comfortable coming right up to camp to investigate your food situation," warns wisepig.
Swimming opportunities: Freshwater options exist close to some campgrounds. "Perfect park for PNW sunsets, though you won't get this view from your campsite," says Kim B. about Larrabee State Park, while at Moran State Park, "There is a lovely 3 mile hike around the lake with a fun bridge to jump off of to swim," according to Jessica B.
What you should know
Ferry planning required: For island camping, reservations and timing matter. "The ferry ride over and back is gonna run you $80 per car," notes Matthew G. about accessing Moran State Park, and "the camp ground is about 40 minutes drive time from the ferry," adds Courtney P.
Train noise: Larrabee State Park Campground sits near railroad tracks. "Lovely area and views. We visited in the winter, so it was quiet. Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs," reports Daryl N.
Military jet noise: Some mainland campgrounds experience flyovers. At Deception Pass State Park, "You'll hear the sound of fighter jets from the nearby naval station on Whidbey Island (but not as loud as in Deception Pass State Park) and we heard them as loud as 9 pm," explains Lee D.
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-friendly sites: Washington Park Campground offers amenities for children. "We had such a great time at this site. There is a park for kids to play and covered bbq shelters that are first come-first served and bonfire pits on the beach. We also were able to see lots of fun sea life and captured, then released, some larger crabs," shares Marisa N.
Look for playground areas: Some parks include play equipment. "With young children we loved that Larrabee had a playground area and easy access to the beach. We also took advantage of the hiking trails nearby," recommends Carlyn N.
Find shallow swimming spots: Safer water access points help with younger children. At Birch Bay State Park, "Beach is great for kids - warm (enough) water, sandy bottom, and gradual depth change," notes Stephen R., adding, "Sites are on a hillside so not a great spot for kids to ride bikes."
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness: Birch Bay State Park Campground offers hookups but site features vary. "Ewuipment: 30' Travel Trailer. Stayed in South Campgrounds. Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!! Dump station at the front of the park. Campsites are gorgeous and relaxing!!" shares Ben C.
Avoid larger rigs at some parks: Space limitations affect certain campgrounds. "I have a small (16-ft) all-terrain trailer and Subaru. I would not want to attempt driving here with a big rig. Space is tight!" warns Wendy about Moran State Park.
Consider site slope: Unlevel sites can cause problems. "We had site T6 which is full hook up pull through. The site was extremely unlevel front to back so much so my rear stabilizers barely touched the ground. When I went to leave and dump our trailer at our site I had to pull the trailer forward so the waste would flow because the site is so unlevel," cautions Jason W. about Larrabee State Park.
