The best camping near James Island Marine State Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next James Island Marine State Park adventure.
Discover the serene beauty of James Island Marine State Park.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near James Island Marine State Park
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near James Island Marine State Park
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Samish Island Bluff
1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Bow, WA
Come and experience the beauty of Samish Island at this private high bank campsite. Enjoy the amazing water and mountain views from this unique property while lounging in your van, relaxing in your tent or hanging out on the spacious decks. Convenience of a drive on island and only 20 minutes to the freeway.
Single campsite is located at the front of the property perched at the bluff edge, boasting amazing sunsets, panoramic water views of Samish + Bellingham bay with Blanchard and Chuckanut in the background.
Bring your toys or just enjoy the view. Located just steps from the public beach access you can enjoy clamming, kayaking, paddle boarding or just beach combing. There is also a regularly serviced Honey bucket at the park access. Bikes are a great option for exploring the island and the surrounding area including all that Edison has to offer just a few miles away.
Site includes a designated parking space, two large decks with a pergola, gazebo, timber table, firepit and adirondack chairs for enjoying the view. we are best setup for tent campers w/ single vehicle, trucks w/ slide in campers, vans etc. We CANNOT accommodate travel trailers at this site!
No power/water/bathroom facilities
Friendly pets are welcome, please pick up after your furry friends and keep them on leash or long line
*firewood/bikes/kayaks/paddle boards not provided
The residence is not currently occupied and we are starting repairs and renovations on the back buildings later this year, so you may see me in/out some days as I base my construction business from the shop at the back of the property
Please enjoy the private campsite area and refrain from exploring the back of the property or other buildings.
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$85
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The Lookout
2 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Clear Lake, WA
The Lookout is an amazing piece of property with elevations with expansive south facing views of Clear Lake, Rainier, Olympics, and the foothills of the Cascades. The site is perfect for sunsets, a launch pad to activities in Skagit Valley, and most importantly a private mountain bike flow trail (experts only at this time). More trails coming this fall!
Check us out on IG @___the_lookout
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$22.50
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High Bluff
12 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Bellingham, WA
High Bluff Campgrounds are situated on 13 acres of pure nature. Offering 8 camp sites suitable for tenting and campers, and 3 RV sites with water and electrical hook ups. Each camp site has a firepit with cooking grill top, and a picnic table. Enjoy a complimentary bundle of firewood upon your arrival. The camp sites have community potable water, portable toilets, and power.
Large Chuckanut boulders lie on the mountain side surrounded with large cedar and alder trees. Just minutes to Old Fairhaven and downtown Bellingham, but yet tranquil and private. Lake Samish is also 5 minutes away for swimming and boating. Galbraith and Squires Mountain are close by for the mountain bike community! Also new this year is our own private hiking trail to High Bluff. This advanced hiking trail is a challenging jaunt to magnificent views of Lake and surrounding mountains.
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$45
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Ducken Farm Camping
8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Oak Harbor, WA
The campsite is situated in the old orchard on the historical Ducken Farm. It has distant ocean views, is surrounded by hay fields, and you can see the local cows in the adjoining pasture.
It is 1/2 mile from the famous Deception Pass State Park and 1 mile from the Deception Pass Bridge and it's Spectacular Views.
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$50
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West Beach Resort
28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Eastsound, WA
West Beach Resort is located on the sunny and pristine west side of Orcas Island, Washington. We are a private destination resort specializing in providing guests with an authentic San Juan Islands getaway. We have been an Orcas Island lodging and hotel destination since 1938. Stay in our fully-equipped beachfront cabins on our world class walk-out, west-facing, sand/pebble beach and watch the sunset as you relive the day’s adventures from your private beach fire pit. We also offer ocean view and garden cabins, RV, camping, marina, boat rentals, general store, kayak and canoe rentals, and a seasonal activities kiosk and beachfront food service. Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind Pacific Northwest experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic family summer vacation spot or that romantic retreat in the off-season, you simply won’t find a more stunning location for your escape to Washington's paradise that is Orcas Island's West Beach Resort.
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$49
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The Chuckanut Rock
1 site · Lodging2 acres · Edison, WA
Watch the sunset into the world famous San Juan Islands. Our property is
located on the scenic Chuckanut Drive. It is a 15 minute walk to Taylor United's Seafood Bar that has beer and wine. You will need boots just below the knee, or hiking shoes that will get wet. The Creek crossing is a little deeper this year. You will also be crossing a muddy area for about 20 yards, you will sink about 3 inches into the mud. The hike into the campsite takes 12 minutes. You need to contact me to check the tides, as to be able to get to the campsite. We need to hike in below a 5 foot tide. Starting October, the campsite closes for winter. Again , this campsite is Tide dependent. The first question to me should be, What is the latest we can hike in? I am not Moses, I can’t part the sea.
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$75
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Rusty Ranch Tree Farm and Forest
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents110 acres · Bellingham, WA
Welcome to our tree farm and working forest.
Looking for an ideal family getaway spot? With our unique location nestled in the foothills of Stewart Mt and the peaceful Squalicum Valley, Rusty Ranch offers 110 acres and easy access to much of our local recreation options and is only 10 min east of Bellingham. Our camp area is spacious and can can easily accomidate your family and even a couple of friends. Scattered trees offer shade, the large grassy areas provide ample space to roam.
Hike the several miles of nature trails on the hillside and explore our 65 acres of certified forest. Placards on the nature trail are part of our self-guided tour and provide information about forestry and the plants and animals that call this their home. You may also request a guided informational tour for your group.
Wander through the old growth groves, walk the 50' boardwalk and see the magical Fern Ridge. There are abundant wildflowers and seasonal berries to pick, as well as a variety of fall apples and pears in the old orchard available for self harvest. You can even purchase a tree to take home and plant. We also offer a roadside farm stand with fresh seasonal fruits and veggies as well as farm fresh eggs.
We are normally closed Monday through Wednesday except holidays. Sites may be made available by special request.
We hope you will come and stay with us for your next adventure.
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$40
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Booked 6 times
Serene Lopez Island Camping
10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Lopez Island, WA
Designed with solo travelers, couples, & adults, in mind. Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping is a casual farm style inn on the north end of Lopez Island. Conveniently located between the ferry terminal and the village where the restaurants, markets, and coffee shops are.
With only 13 campsites on the property it never feels crowded. Choose from drive in, walk in, or fully furnished canvas wall tent sites and camp buildings that houses showers with hot water and flushing toilets.
Whether you're seeking a quiet getaway or an outdoor adventure, Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping provides the perfect setting. Guests can explore the island's scenic trails, cruise around the island on bike, or simply unwind on the property's grounds.
Bbq grills, microwave, instant hot water dispenser, and a bocce ball court are amenities offered with each campsite having their own picnic table.
At the Inn we have a pair of friendly cats, entertaining sheep and a couple dozen chickens. You'll get the sense of the farm, a taste of the slo-pez style, and a chance to connect with like minded folks or enjoy some peace and quiet to yourselves.
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$65
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Rosario Camp & RV
15 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Anacortes, WA
Location: This gorgeous piece of property is located on beautiful Fidalgo Island (Anacortes, Washington), less than one minute away from Deception Pass State Park. Yes, we are within walking distance of Deception Pass State Park and we border Pass Lake. This amazing Hipcamp is located on just under 17 gorgeous acres, with amazing water and forest views. This breathtaking location is extremely unique, because we are surrounded by Deception Pass State Park. Therefore, we are extremely fortunate to have the state park, so close to our Rosario Camp & RV location.
Wildlife: When it comes to wildlife, you will wake-up to the beautiful and rejuvenating melodies of a plethora of wild birds, chipmunks, squirrels, woodpeckers,, etc. During your stay, you will cross paths with deer and various other wild animals, in this very natural and pristine setting.
Vegetation: While enjoying your stay at Rosario Camp & RV, you’ll also enjoy a medley of flora, such as the Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Pacific Madrone and many other native trees. In addition, you’ll be able to taste absolutely delicious in-season wild berries, view Pacific Bleeding hearts, vine maples and many more different types of vegetation, native to Northwestern Washington.
Many Fun Activities: In this location, you will have so many spots to enjoy various water sport activities , which include: Pass Lake (no motors), Bowman Bay, Lake Campbell, etc. At our beautiful Hipcamp location you’re, literally, in the middle of it all. If you’d like, you may choose to walk, bike, moped or drive across the street (Rosario Road), to Deception Pass State Park, to explore various views and go for absolutely amazing hikes. You may choose to go on long mountain bike rides, with breathtaking views of Deception Pass Bridge, Bowman Bay and more. Perhaps, you’ll choose to rent a paddle board, canoe, kayak, boat or simply bring your own. There is scuba diving and scuba diving classes available, in the area. How about going on a fly fishing adventure, for stocked cutthroat, rainbow and/or brown trout (15”-29”+), at beautiful Pass Lake. If you’re interested in yachting or fishing the “big water”that is also an option, in the area of Anacortes (A-Town). There are many different tours available, at and around Deception Pass State Park, on land and/or on one of our area lakes or in the big water. We also have numerous exciting festivals, outdoor concerts, bike and boat races, for you, your family and friends to enjoy. We are really looking forward to meeting you and sharing our very special, unique and beautiful Hipcamp, with you.
Casual & Fine Dining: Anacortes has absolutely spectacular restaurants and specialty dining spots (e.g. The Majestic, Naung Mai Thai, Anthony’s, Nonna Luisa Ristorante, 5th Street Bistro, Coconut Kenny’s, Bastion Brewing Company, Bob’s Chowder Bar, The Shrimp Shack, Bamboo Bistro and many other memorable restaurants.
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It's a King thing
5 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Quilcene, WA
Welcome to Tranquil Acres. We have transformed our five acres in the “Pearl of the Peninsula” for the world to be your oyster during your stay with us. The Big Quilcene river is a water wonderland with private riverside access available to all campers just a short easy walk from each campsite. Here is where you can enjoy the cooling relief from the Summer heat, bask in the sun on cool Spring days, listen to the soothing sounds of the water and wildlife, interact with fellow campers, as well as fishing for Coho salmon in the Fall for a full meal deal experience. (Fishing license required). The river access “Common Area” is for all campers to enjoy with plenty of space to also have some alone time. If you are a more adventurous camper, Tranquil Acres is perfectly located to be your “home base” for extended stays, allowing you to explore the many wonders that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer as easy day trips. We are happy to answer any questions and share some of our favorite hikes, lakes, restaurants, and historical areas we have loved over these many years.
My family has lived in this area since the early 80's and after almost a decade of renting this property and becoming a part of the amazing community of Quilcene, I had the opportunity to buy this land and “pay it forward” by creating Tranquil Acres for all to enjoy. My children that grew up here, continue to help and support this endeavor as adults. “It’s a King Thing”.
Camping Etiquette: **Please read before booking**
First and foremost, the road leading down to the camping area is a steep gravel drive. Going down isn’t usually a problem…it’s getting back up again. When you get to the bottom, the rest of the roadway leading to all campsites is a natural dirt road with tree root humps that isn’t designed for low clearance cars. AWD or 4WD is recommended, but please check with us before booking to see if your vehicle can have access all the way to your campsite and make it back up the hill. If not, we do have parking available at the top of the hill safely located next to our house, and transport options available to help you pack it in and pack it out without risking damage to your vehicle or the land and still enjoy a wonderful camping experience. Please inquire before booking if you have a low clearance vehicle so we can discuss your options.
Please be respectful of the land. We are a “pack it in, pack it out” campground and wish to provide this space for folks to enjoy for many years to come. The Quilcene transfer station is located nearby and is open on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday. (hours may differ on holidays). We do offer waste disposal as an add-on at checkout. Recycling must be separated from solid waste and contained in the bags provided and will have clear instructions of what is recyclable.
Potable water is not available in the camping area. It is okay to use water from the river if you have a certified filter system (at your own risk). If you are the bold and brave that likes to bathe in cold waters, please be mindful of the eco-system and the damage that soap can do to our natural habitat. Dishwashing is not allowed in the river at any time.
Like most campgrounds, our quiet time is 10pm-8am. Please be respectful to your camp neighbors at all times. Sounds carry easily in the woods. Play, explore, have fun, and stay awake to enjoy your space for as long as you want, just be mindful to use “camping voice” after 10pm.
Communication is encouraged and appreciated! If you need anything, are having any issues with fellow campers, or just have a question… please don’t hesitate to get in touch… day or night. We love being able to share this wonderful land for folks to have a joyful camping experience in our neck of the woods with their fellow campers.
Dogs are allowed at all campsites. Cats too if you have a camping cat! Please be mindful of your neighbors and that not everyone feels comfortable around dogs or may be allergic. Off leash is allowed if your dog is not aggressive with humans or other dogs. You know your dog best, and we will trust that you will use your best judgement in any circumstance while you are staying with us. If there is an issue in this regard, we will ask you to keep your dog leashed at all times, or under extreme circumstances may be forced to ask you to leave. We would rather not do either of those things, so please be aware of where your pet is at all times.
Everyone loves a campfire! No one loves a wildfire. The lushness of the Olympic National Forest can be deceiving. Wildfires do still happen here and we expect you to extinguish your fire if no one is at the campsite, before going to sleep, and prior to departure. Firewood is provided as an add-on at checkout and will be at your site when you arrive, or you are also welcomed to bring your own. You will need to provide your own paper and flame to get your campfire going. There are many small sticks and twigs around every site to use as kindling, but please don’t use any wood you find on the land that won’t entirely fit inside of the rock ring. This is dangerous because wood holds heat and can continue to burn and ignite leaves, sticks and twigs outside of the firepit. If it is windy at any point during your stay, we respectfully request that you don’t have a fire while the winds are blowing. You can see if there is a recreational fire burn ban prior to arrival by visiting www.orcaa.org or send us a message. It is rare that recreational fires are banned in this area, but it does happen on occasion. Burning any kind of garbage in your campfire is not allowed at any time. Doing so means it is no longer a recreational fire and could permanently stop us from allowing campers to stay here.
We offer a variety of add-on features that can turn your camping adventure into a glamping experience. Need a tent? No problem, we will even set it up for you and take it down. Don’t have a stove to cook with? We have that too. When we say: “It’s a King Thing”… it means we intend to provide you with an experience that leaves you feeling like Royalty.
Thank you for taking the time to consider us for your camping adventures. We are thrilled and grateful to share our Tranquil Acres with you and look forward to seeing you soon!
Add-on descriptions (Updated)
Essentials:
Toilet Available:
2 composting toilets are conveniently located for all campers and cleaned daily. Bring your own TP and please don’t leave the roll in the Shat Shack or Poop Hut when you’re not doin ur bizness. There are instructions posted if you have never used a composting toilet.
Pets Allowed:
Off Leash
You know your dog best. Please be mindful and aware if they are aggressive towards other dogs or humans.
Fire Ban in effect: (no)
River rock ring firepits available at all sites. You are welcome to bring your own firewood, or add-on at checkout. Lots of sticks and twigs on the ground available for kindling. Bring your own paper and flame to start your fire. Please don’t use wood from the land that doesn’t fully fit inside of the firepit.
Amenities:
Kitchen Available:
Grill over firepit available upon request. Forget to pack a much needed cooking utensil? Please ask and I may have one you can borrow.
Picnic Table Available:
All sites have a picnic table.
No Potable Water:
Bring your own bottled water for drinking/cooking, or you can access river water with your own certified filtration system. We do not recommend drinking or cooking with water from the river that has not been filtered, doing so is at your own risk. We are just minutes away from 2 different stores in Quilcene.
No Showers:
Bathing in the river is allowed if you are brave enough to handle the cold water. Please be mindful of the natural eco-system and use only biodegradable soap minimally. The Big Quilcene river plays an important role in this region supporting wildlife, aquatic life, plant life and human life.
No Wifi:
But all major phone providers do get service in our campground area.
Pack it out:
Garbage/recycling is available as an add-on feature, otherwise, please pack it in/pack it out and leave it better than you found it.
Laundry Absent:
There is a laundromat in Quilcene just a short drive from our campsite.
Available offers:
Firewood $6.00/bundle
Locally sourced firewood with a range of sizes will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Bring your own paper and flame, and there are many small sticks and twigs on the ground just waiting to be useful as kindling! (Cash or Venmo is accepted if you need to order more during your stay. We are not allowed to charge your card for additional products/rentals after you book your site.)
Tiki torch fluid- citronella based $10.00
A great ambiance for the great outdoors and helps keep pesky insects out of your camp. (Tiki torches are provided at all sites.)
Garbage/Recycling $15.00
** We are offering this option on a trial basis.**
Containers will be provided for your garbage and recycling at your site during your stay. Clear instructions will be provided for what is recyclable and what is solid waste. PLEASE adhere to the instructions so we can continue offering this service to future campers.
Large tent – sleeps up to 12 - $55.00
We will set it up before you arrive and break it down after you leave. Large two room tent with 2 doors. Broom will be provided, and we just ask that you sweep the floor prior to departure. (This rental is not available for Site 4)
Small tent – sleeps 2-3 $25.00
We will set it up before you arrive and break it down after you leave. Broom will be provided, and we just ask that you sweep the floor prior to departure.
Cot $10.00
Don’t have an air mattress? Enjoy our high quality cot that also comes with a sleeping pad. Instructions are included for you to set up and place where you want it inside of your tent, and break it down prior to departure. (if you are not able to do this yourself, please message me!)
Propane Grill $15.00
Propane is included. Bring your own flame, follow the easy instructions and Bon Appetit!
Propane fire pit $40.00
Still have the campfire feel when there is a recreational burn ban by renting one of our propane fire pits. Easy peasy…turn the knob and strike a match!
Extra Car Fee $10.00
Only 1 car is allowed per site. This helps reduce the wear and tear on the land. There are exceptions to this…so please message me if you have more than one vehicle in your group, or you have a low clearance vehicle so we can discuss. Extra cars can park safely next to our house at the top of the hill.
ACTIVITIES ON THE LAND OR NEARBY
BIKING: multiple mountain biking trails for any level of rider. Check www.singletracks.com for information about trails located in Quilcene and nearby areas just a short drive away.
FISHING: The salmon start running on the Big Quilcene in September. Fishing license required. There are other options for fishing around the area depending on what you want to fish for, go ahead and message me if you want some insider information.
HIKING: There are many hikes close by with a variety of difficulty levels. I have hiked pretty much all of them and would love to share some of my favorites with you.
PADDLING: Quilcene Bay, Lake Leland as well as other options just a short drive away.
WILDLIFE WATCHING: We have deer that wander through the campground from time to time and in the mid-late summer it is a real treat to see their fawns. There is a fun assortment of birds, owls and even herons and hawks that can be spotted while hanging out at the river in our common area. If you are lucky, you can even spot a bald eagle passing by. Grey whales and Orca whales migrate north in the late Spring and Summer and there are whale watching tours available in Sequim and Port Angeles. There is also the Olympic Game Farm Park in Sequim that is a drive through wildlife preserve that is a lot of fun for the whole family just 45mins away. (Absolutely no hunting is allowed on Tranquil Acres and we respectfully request that you keep your distance from wildlife for the safety of all involved.)
NATURAL FEATURES ON OR NEAR THE LAND:
BEACH: There are several Bays and Lakes in the area that I would love to tell you about that are easy to access…please don’t hesitate to ask.
FOREST: We are located on the eastern side of the Olympic National Forest, and there is a Ranger Station just a couple minutes away. The rainforest eco system of this area is truly an adventure worth exploring, and our Tranquil Acres has all the native trees and plants of this unique region that makes it feel like you are living in the heart of a rainforest…but with less rain, and slightly warmer temperatures than the central and western side of the Olympic rainforest in the summer.
LAKES: Lake Leland Lake and Crocker Lake are the nearest most accessible lakes in the area. There are many others, please feel free to ask about any lakes you find in the area and I can let you know if it is suitable for what you are wanting from a lake experience.
RIVER, STREAM OR CREEK: Tranquil Acres is located on the Big Quilcene River. It’s beautiful and most of the time secluded (except during salmon season in September when there are fisherfolks that have public access to the river itself). There are many other rivers in the general area, but none quite as awesome as our little stretch of the Big Quilcene.
SWIMMING HOLE: Yes, various options at different times of the year…and It’s COLD! Bring a float device for a gentler experience in the hot summer sun or have a bold and brave Polar Plunge regardless of what month it is. (AT YOUR OWN RISK, please be mindful of how strong the river current is at different times of the year and do not let young children into the main current without a life jacket or without adult supervision. Highly recommended to wear water shoes at all times/all ages.) The Big Quilcene is a River that anyone could slip and fall on the rocks regardless of age and how low the water is.
WATERFALL: The Falls View loop trail just a few miles south of Quilcene is an easy 1 mile hike that has a spectacular view of the large waterfall that flows into the Big Quilcene River. I am happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have about local adventures in the area.
MOUNTAINOUS: Mt. Olympus reigns supreme over them all, but the Olympic Mountain Range has 9 other distinct Mountain peaks, and there are a variety of ways to experience this unique mountain range…just ask me how, I am happy to share the variety of ways to enjoy the Olympic Peninsula.
FARMS: We have multiple organic farms in the area where you can purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables. There are also many community activities at various times of the year to get to know this little Pearl of the Peninsula.
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(55)
Saltgrass Garden
1 site · Lodging5 acres · Anacortes, WA
Join us in our cabin overlooking the saltwater at the mouth of Turner Bay. This is a family property with the host on site in the main house. The cabin is really cozy as we have an HVAC system so you can stay warm in the winter months, and cool in the summer.
The unique property allows for many fun outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, crabbing; and fishing (seasonal), Birding, bicycling and playing on the beach, high tide twice a day brings in all sorts of wildlife as well as the occasional message in a bottle.
For small craft (kayak or canoe) boating from here the most accurate tide chart is La Conner Wash. There must be a high tide to get in or out of our little bay.
https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=9448558
We are located very close to many amenities. Some of which you need to call ahead to arrange. For instance, rock climbing, or kayak rentals. You will find the Swinomish Casino and golf course within two miles. Or spend time exploring the little shops and local entertainment in the small towns of Anacortes and La Conner. You can also take a day trip to the San Juan Islands by taking a scenic ferry ride out of Anacortes.
While you're here you may meet our pup Turner, or our cats Poly and Minnie, we also have several chickens that provide us with eggs most of the time. Also on the property are your hosts Jeri and Nancy, as well as our handyman Shawn who lives in a retro build bus at the north end. Saltgrass boasts beautiful flowers, vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and yes, the Bay. We try to live harmoniously with the land. We would love to share our space with you!
Our property has hosted many events, such as weddings, family reunions, company picnics, a music festival, and life celebrations. If you are interested, please let us know. We are always evolving our land to share with others.
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Guemes Grown Farm
2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Anacortes, WA
This is a 10 acre property on Guemes Island ( 5 minute ferry ride across the channel from downtown Anacortes), which is open pasture farm land and partly forested. Camping is available in the open horse pasture in direct sun or down in a natural occurring ancient gravel pit surrounded by trees. All the natural wonder that is Guemes Island is easily accessible from the property. Bike, hike, boat, paddle, fish, crab and have a great time!
Pets
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/ night
The best camping near James Island Marine State Park guide
Overview
About
Embark on an adventure at James Island Marine State Park, where the allure of pristine coves and forested trails awaits. This water access-only gem offers an array of activities from beach exploration to winter camping. With 13 primitive campsites, the park promises a tranquil retreat amid the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest.
Notable campgrounds
- East Cove Campground: Offers a pit toilet, bulletin board, and pay station, with easy access to the island's scenic trails.
- Saddle Area Campsites: Features a picnic shelter, composting toilets, and a moorage dock, serving as a gateway to the loop trail system.
- West Cove Campsites: Reserved for human or wind-powered boats, these sites are part of the Cascadia Marine Trail with a pit toilet.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Arrive early, as campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Visit during off-peak seasons for a higher chance of securing a spot.
- Be flexible with your dates and consider mid-week stays.
- Explore nearby camping options in case the park is full.
When to go
The best time to visit James Island Marine State Park is during the summer, from 6:30am to dusk, when the weather is warm and the days are long. Winter visits offer a unique charm, from 8am to dusk, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and limited daylight.
Know before you go
- Access to the park is by boat only, with a limit of no boats over 45-feet on buoys.
- There is no potable water or garbage services; pack out what you pack in.
- For safety, watch children closely near tall rocky banks and cliffs.
- A recreational license is required for fishing and shellfish harvesting.
- Be aware of burn bans and other alerts before planning your visit.
- James Island Marine State Park
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.