Birch Bay State Park Campground offers camping on the shore of the Salish Sea, approximately 20 miles west of Lynden. Situated at sea level with maritime climate influences, the area experiences mild temperatures year-round with summer averages of 70°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. The park's 194 acres feature diverse ecosystems including wetlands, forests, and saltwater beaches.
What to do
**Beach exploration and fishing: Birch Bay State Park Campground provides easy access to tidal flats and shellfish beds. "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!" writes Dani H., who recommends bringing proper licensing for harvesting.
**Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystems support numerous wildlife viewing opportunities. At Odlin County Park on Lopez Island, campers frequently encounter local fauna. "We had deer in our campsite everyday," reports Neil T., highlighting the park's natural setting where wildlife routinely ventures near camping areas.
**Water recreation: Many campers bring boats or kayaks to enjoy the water. At Swift Creek Campground, visitors appreciate the waterfront facilities. "This is a great spot to take your boat as there is a really nice dock. There's a small beach and swim area," explains Melinda C., noting the well-maintained waterfront infrastructure.
What campers like
**Natural privacy barriers: Campgrounds in the region often incorporate natural screening between sites. At The Cedars RV Resort, "There are trees between every camp spot to add privacy," according to Toni J., who also notes that "the restrooms are clean and the showers are free."
**Clean facilities: Maintaining sanitary facilities ranks high on camper priorities. Norwest RV Park maintains well-kept sites according to Bradee A., who notes: "Small spaces but they are level and the price is right!" This park offers an economical glamping option close to Lynden, Washington.
**Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds cater to families with children. The Lynden-Bellingham KOA creates a secure environment where "kids can ride their bikes and fish and parents don't have to worry," according to Jesse C., who describes it as a "camping oasis in town."
What you should know
**Seasonal variations: Weather patterns affect camping conditions throughout the year. At Birch Bay, one camper noted: "Bathrooms were so clean though, and it is a beautiful bay," while acknowledging that "it's far to walk to the beach and there is only one trail for hiking."
**Booking requirements: Reservations are essential during peak season at most campgrounds. For those seeking glamping close to Lynden, Washington, options may fill quickly. At Deception Pass State Park, Aletta M. recommends specific locations: "I reserved space 97 at deception state park for just myself and was just amazed of the feeling safe when I arrived. Set way back from the road the campsite was surrounded by wilderness."
**Noise considerations: Some areas experience intermittent noise from nearby infrastructure. Leonard H. reports that at Deception Pass, "Fighter jet noise on a Monday morning during our stay" can occur due to the nearby Naval Air Base, though Rose M. counters that "we only encountered a couple jets making racket so our stay was relatively quiet."
Tips for camping with families
**Safe swimming options: When camping with children, designated swimming areas provide security. At Southend Campground — Moran State Park, visitors enjoy "the lake where you can rent kayaks and paddle boards or lounge on the beach," according to Kayla R., who appreciated the "easy walking distance to the lake."
**Playground access: Recreational facilities specifically designed for children enhance family trips. At Lynden-Bellingham KOA, Kathy A. notes that "Great place for kids. Youngsters love the playground, older ones like the arcade," providing age-appropriate activities for various stages.
**Weather preparedness: Maritime climate means potential rain even in summer months. Erica G. shares from winter camping experience: "Even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," recommending waterproof gear regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
**Site dimensions: RV campers should verify site measurements before booking. Birch Bay visitor Ben C. notes: "Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!! Dump station at the front of the park," adding that despite space concerns, the 30-foot travel trailer accommodated well.
**Power options: Various campgrounds offer different hookup configurations. The reservation system at Swift Creek Campground sometimes provides inaccurate information, as Annie B. discovered: "The reservation site said site 46 could only accommodate a vehicle up to 15 feet in length, but there was plenty of room."
**Year-round accessibility: For those seeking glamping near Lynden, Washington in cooler months, check seasonal operations. At Sumas RV Park, Johnny W. confirms year-round availability: "Availability is there! Nice pull thru sites for those with larger trailers or 5th wheels, people are nice, clean quite location."
