Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground offers spacious sites with beach access at 150 feet above sea level on Marrowstone Island. Upper campground sites provide more privacy among trees while lower campground spots face Port Townsend Bay with views of passing ferries. Winter camping options expand as several campgrounds transition to first-come, first-served status after October, allowing for more spontaneous trips without reservations.
What to do
Beach exploration: Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground combines forest and shoreline access for varied outdoor activities. "I absolutely love it here. You can walk the beach or walk the beautiful forest. Well maintained, great camphosts and a cool snack shack," notes Linda M. The park features trails connecting both wooded and beachfront areas.
Historic site tours: Beach Campground — Fort Worden Historical State Park provides access to military history with preserved artillery installations. A camper shares, "Fun and safe campground. Near the beach with a small aquarium open on the weekend. The family had a blast." The site includes historic bunkers, a lighthouse, and educational displays about coastal defenses.
Mountain biking: Fort Ebey State Park Campground offers dedicated trails through forest terrain. "There are great hiking and mountain biking trails through forest, ocean views and beach access, and it's also fun to explore the old WWII facilities. Bring flashlights," recommends one visitor. The trail network connects to bluffs overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highest, particularly at Lower Oak Bay Park where the beach section provides direct water access. "We camped along the spit, and had an amazing time. And even in the final days of summer, it was a lovely temperature to hang out for the week and we even got to see the Northern Lights one night!" reports Shari G.
Winter accessibility: Fort Casey Campground remains open during colder months when many other sites close. "We visited Fort Casey in early November, 2020. We used the AC power and water hookups for our 25ft trailer. The site is located near the beach, so naturally there isn't much privacy and you are constantly exposed to the elements. However, the beautiful water and mountain scenery more than compensate," notes Jerry.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report regular deer sightings, seal watching from shorelines, and tidepools with marine life. "Ive never seen more starfish, and seals. I was here visiting an uncle who lives in the area. We went kayaking on the bay, and enjoyed the weather," reports Anthony S. about Sequim Bay State Park Campground.
What you should know
Military jet noise: Deception Pass State Park Campground sits near Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, causing periodic noise disruptions. "Definitely worth a stay with its proximity to the beach, stargazing, hiking. The whole area feels magical. Plus Anacortes is a fun town just a few minutes away. The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis," writes Will L.
Shower token system: Most state parks require purchasing tokens for shower facilities, typically $0.50 for 3 minutes of water. "The showers were very well maintained, and had hand soap available in the sink area. There also showers in the bathroom. Shower tokens, fire wood and ice, are for sale at the state park office at the main entrance of the park," explains Christopher D.
Campsite privacy varies: While upper campground areas typically provide more separation between sites, lower beachfront areas offer minimal privacy. "The campsite was very well maintained and raked when we arrived. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground has only one bathroom located near the center of the campground, so keep that in mind when you're choosing your campsite," advises one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Cranberry Lake at Deception Pass provides shallow-water swimming areas perfect for children. "The hike in from the northern park boundary is amazingly beautiful and it sure makes you appreciate the spot once you get there. Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos," notes Travis D.
Junior Ranger programs: Fort Townsend Historical State Park Campground offers educational activities for children. "Lots to do there...beach, crabbing, clamming, playground, sport courts, trails, and the most fun is exploring all the gun batteries. We did the tour and it was very informative. Lots of history and there are even a few geocaches," shares Jill T. about a similar program at Fort Flagler.
Group site options: Camano Island State Park Campground offers designated group camping for families traveling together. "Stayed in the group site with my daughter's American Heritage Girls troop. We had 22 girls and there was plenty of room. This is a huge group site. Has running water, a couple fire pits and a bunch of picnic tables," reports Bridget S.
Tips from RVers
Winter utilities: Some parks maintain water access during winter months despite official closures. "Website said water was turned off at the sites but all sites still had water.. nice hosts that left us alone. Docks are pulled out of the water during winter months. Upper campground is closed during winter," shares Mike K. about Fort Flagler.
Site selection: For larger rigs, confirm specific site dimensions rather than general campground classifications. "We stayed in RV in site without hook-ups. Fighter jet noise on a Monday morning during our stay. Be prepared for rain. See website for length of level pad," recommends Leonard H. at Deception Pass.
Day-use strategy: Multiple RVers recommend camping in upper campground areas with hookups while utilizing beachfront areas for daytime activities. "Avoid the crowds. Awesome fall and winter camping. First come first serve after Oct 31st. Spent a long weekend there last week. No problem finding 2 sites side by side for 40 ft rigs," advises an experienced visitor about seasonal approaches.
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