Campers visiting Lummi Island, Washington access this destination via a six-minute ferry ride from Gooseberry Point on the mainland. Located in the northern Puget Sound, Lummi Island experiences a temperate maritime climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. Ferry service runs every hour during peak season but doesn't operate late at night, requiring advance planning for glamping and camping trips.
What to do
Water adventures: Kayak rentals are available at multiple locations around Cascade Lake in Moran State Park. "Spent a few nights here with a book and had the best time... highly recommend renting kayaks for the day," notes a visitor to Doe Bay Resort & Retreat.
Beach exploration: Low tide discoveries reveal diverse marine life along Lummi Island's shoreline. A visitor at Birch Bay State Park Campground shared, "This is the place to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty that Nature has to offer. Don't forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious!"
Hiking: Trail networks connect throughout the San Juan Islands with varying difficulties. "Plenty of private lakefront sites for everyone... There are water spigots and porto pottys every 100 yards or so," mentions a camper at Lakedale Resort about the accessible nature trails.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation creates separation between camping areas. At The Cedars RV Resort, a camper appreciated that "There are trees between every camp spot to add privacy. Best part is that the restrooms are clean and the showers are free."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer chances to see native animals. At Odlin County Park Camping, one reviewer noted, "We had deer in our campsite everyday. Camp host was very welcoming and helpful."
Early morning lake access: Waterfront sites provide immediate swimming access. A recent visitor to Moran State Park Hiker/Biker Campground shared, "Early mornings were especially magical, as the still water mirrored the beautiful sunrise, creating a perfect setting for a peaceful swim."
What you should know
Ferry scheduling limitations: Reservations for ferry access to the islands are essential during summer months. "Be prepared for rain," warns a camper at Deception Pass State Park Campground, also noting that "Fighter jet noise on a Monday morning during our stay" can disrupt the peace due to nearby Naval operations.
Limited cell coverage: Network connections vary widely across the San Juan Islands. A visitor at Odlin County Park reported, "Cell coverage was spotty throughout the camp. AT&T was mostly available but slow. Verizon has dead spots, but when it did connect, it seemed faster."
Off-season considerations: Visitor services reduce significantly outside summer months. "Watmough Beach on the southern end of the island is a 300 yard flat hike/walk to stunning cliff views... That was important because midweek in the offseason, not many restaurants were open," notes an Odlin County Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several resorts offer structured programs for children. A Lakedale Resort visitor shared, "Our 4 year old daughter really enjoyed the activities that were offered, we made family matching tie dies, she made bird feeders, we rented a paddle boat one day and a row boat a different day."
Shower amenities: Facilities vary widely between glamping sites near Lummi Island. "The bathrooms were so clean though, and it is a beautiful bay," mentioned a Birch Bay State Park camper, while others noted some locations have coin-operated showers requiring tokens.
Swimming safety: Designated swimming areas provide safer options for children. "Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos," noted a visitor about Deception Pass State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have specific limitations on RV size. At Birch Bay State Park, one RVer reported "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."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. "Small spaces but they are level and the price is right!" commented a visitor to Norwest RV Park regarding the full-hookup sites available for glamping near Lummi Island, Washington.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Rates can increase dramatically during peak periods. A visitor to Lakedale Resort noted, "We were told that because of a Jazz festival - the cost included admission and so higher - Surprise - it was free! and awful! Would have left but there are very few tenting campgrounds on the island."
