Point Roberts camping is located on a unique geographical peninsula that requires crossing into Canada to access from mainland USA unless arriving by boat. The area sits at sea level with a moderate coastal climate where temperatures rarely exceed 75°F in summer or drop below 30°F in winter. During off-peak seasons, campgrounds often operate at 30-40% capacity compared to full occupancy during summer holiday weekends.
What to do
**Shellfish harvesting: ** At Birch Bay State Park Campground, clamming and crabbing are popular activities during low tide. "This has to be one of my all time favorite places for Shell Fishing and Crabbing! Dont forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious!" notes Dani H.
Explore China Caves: The sandstone formations at Sucia Island Marine State Park offer unique geological features. "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," explains Kelsey M.
Visit the International Boundary: Near Lighthouse Marine Park, visitors can see Monument Park with the first mile marker for the US/Canada Boundary. "It's right near Monument Park (where the first mile marker is for US/Canada Boundary Market 1)," mentions allison W.
What campers like
Beachfront sunsets: Camping near Point Roberts provides exceptional sunset views over the Strait of Georgia. A camper at Birch Bay State Park notes, "If you're the type that loves walks along the beach and breath taking sunsets... Brich Bay State Park is the place to be!"
Phosphorescence viewing: Nighttime water activities reveal bioluminescent organisms. "The absolute best phosphorescence I have ever seen in my life were in Echo Bay," shares Kelsey M. about Sucia Island State Park Campground.
Marine wildlife sightings: The waters around Point Roberts are known for orcas and marine mammals. "I loved their quirky orca decor, a testament to how frequently you can see these incredible animals passing by Point Roberts," writes allison W. about Sunny Point RV Resort.
What you should know
Naval air traffic: Some campgrounds experience periodic jet noise from nearby military operations. "Crazy crowded and crazy loud with the military jets overhead (Naval Air Base nearby) – but beautiful none the less. It's good to note that the jets do shut off around 5 pm and there is plenty of quite time from that point on," explains Travis D. about Deception Pass State Park.
Limited amenities: Most remote sites have minimal services. At Lighthouse Marine Park, "There is a bathroom and 1 shower that takes quarters," notes SpentBrassOffroad B.
Strong currents: Boaters should exercise caution when anchoring near the islands. "A little bit hard to get to, the cove on Patos boasts strong currents that require you to anchor with care if not using one of the few mooring buoys," warns Kelsey M.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water play areas: Birch Bay offers gradual water entry points ideal for children. "Ewuipment: 30' Travel Trailer. Stayed in South Campgrounds. Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!! Dump station at the from of the park. Campsites are gorgeous and relaxing!! Big trees. Lots of foilage. Hiking trails to beach!! Beach is gorgeous - rocks, driftwood, sunsets, and water is a little bit cold!" describes Ben C.
Playground options: Lighthouse Marine Park includes recreational facilities for children. "Some highlights included the beautiful coastline along the Tsawwassen Peninsula, views over the Strait of Georgia, perfect location for boat launching, orca whales, crystal clear weather, much less wind than I had expected, great shell collecting, an actual sandy beach (rare in the PNW), very kid friendly with a nice playground and plenty of open green space," shares allison W.
Off-season visits: For fewer crowds, consider spring or fall camping. "Busy on the weekend but nearly empty come Monday," notes Ana about Moran State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with adequate turning radius for larger vehicles. "Phase 1 are all straight back in and not angled. You literally butt against the rv directly behind with maybe 12 inches separating you. The slidouts were literally inches away from neighbors. Phase two was full, with no trees. Sites were big and wide," cautions J C. about Thousand Trails Birch Bay.
Utility hookups: Not all parks offer full hookups. "The lots are pretty close together but it has everything you need--large picnic table, fire pit with grill, parking, and a good area for your tent," mentions Natalie M.
Winter operations: Some campgrounds remain open year-round. "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," shares Erica G.
