Lummi Island camping sites sit among the San Juan Islands archipelago in Puget Sound, where the average summer temperature hovers around 70°F. Ferry access connects the mainland to most islands in this region, with campers needing to plan transportation carefully. Many campgrounds face water on at least one side, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season.
What to Do
Hiking Mt. Constitution: At Moran State Park on Orcas Island, the trail to Mt. Constitution summit provides exceptional views. "The park has a tower with information on the natural and human history of the island," notes Matthew G., who adds the hike is "easy/moderate with excellent views."
Kayaking and paddling: Spencer Spit State Park on Lopez Island offers both rentals and launch points. "There's kayak rentals available on site. The quaint village of Lopez is also a short bike or drive away," explains Kelsey M. This park has "cool place where you can swimming or kayaking from that place," according to Jennifer H.
Wildlife watching: Campgrounds throughout the region offer chances to spot deer, raccoons, otters, and marine wildlife. "Blacktail deer abound" at Moran State Park according to Josiah P., while at Larrabee State Park, campers should "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.
What Campers Like
Lake access: Mountain Lake Campground offers peaceful freshwater alternatives to saltwater beaches. "The water is lovely and the forest is beautiful! You can chill at the lake and rent a boat or enjoy a hike up Mt. Constitution," says Kaila R. Another camper adds, "Great fishing and kayaking. Hiking trail right outside your campsite."
Beach exploration: Obstruction Pass State Park offers less crowded coastal experiences. "There were lots of trees around campsite and lots to explore along the coasts. It was full in August but still felt very secluded and wilderness," reports Kim B. Another visitor mentions "The sunsets where magical and the campground has 2 beach access points."
Ferry-based island hopping: Many campers use their campground as a base for exploring multiple islands. "I recommend going into town to explore the shops and taking a day trip to Friday Harbor!" suggests Sarah B. regarding her Moran State Park stay. For many, the journey is part of the experience: "The island has a fun vibe, and is located in the rain shadow of the Olympics so we had great weather."
What You Should Know
Train noise: Larrabee State Park has periodic train disturbances. "Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs," notes Daryl N. Multiple reviews mention this challenge: "There is however, a train that runs right by the campground and it is loud!"
Reservation requirements: Ferry and campsite reservations often need to be made months in advance. "We were lucky enough to take an afternoon ferry and snag the LAST camp spot available here on a Sunday," reports Kaysha R. about Mountain Lake Campground. At Southend Campground, one camper advised "Book super early to get these sites!"
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically across the islands. A visitor to Mountain Lake Campground mentioned "Cell service is minimal at best in the campground and if reception is a must, you may need to drive into the nearby town."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Larrabee State Park offers play areas for children. Carlyn N. notes: "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." Another visitor observed "Great newer looking playground for kids: bonus for families!"
Gentle swimming options: Several campgrounds feature calm, shallow areas suitable for children. At Birch Bay State Park, one camper 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."
Pet-friendly hiking choices: When bringing dogs, select trails with appropriate terrain and water access. "I ended a two week long sea kayaking expedition here in the fall. It's a large park with a lot of room," notes Sarah C. about Deception Pass State Park, which offers "access to the water and trails in the area was quite easy."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Some campsites require significant adjustment for RVs. At Larrabee State Park, Jason W. cautions: "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."
Road conditions: Several campgrounds have narrow access roads. "Crazy road to the park from the south," notes one RVer about Larrabee. At Washington Park, reviewers mentioned "Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!!"
Dump station locations: Note where dump stations are positioned as not all campgrounds provide them. "Dump station at the front of the park," mentions Ben C. about Birch Bay State Park. Other RVers recommend checking services available in each campground since "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."
