The best camping in Saddlebag Island State Park, WA

·

Discover the serene beauty of Saddlebag Island State Park.  

The best camping in Saddlebag Island State Park, WA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Samish Island Bluff

2. Samish Island Bluff

96%
(113)
3mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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 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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$85
 / night
Evening views from behind the campsite.

3. Bayview Alpacas

100%
(65)
3.8mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 1 site · RV · Bow, WA
🗓️➡️🥳 20% off select nights! Interested in booking with Bayview Alpacas and don't see your desired dates? Please send us a message! 🦙🐐🐓🏕️ 🗓️🌞 Please check back for Upcoming 2025/26 Local Events Fun events at Christianson's Nursery: www.christiansonsnursery.com/events/ ☀️🦙🐓 We have limited availability but please reach out if you would like to inquire about specific dates. As always if you are a returning guest, please send us an email with your desired trip dates before sending your booking request for the best rates and special availability. Bayview Alpacas is located on 10 privately-gated acres across the street from Padilla Bay, a National Estuarine Research Reserve. The Reserve protects one of the largest beds of eelgrass in the contiguous United States - nearly 8,000 acres. Habitats found here support herring, smelt, salmon, flatfish, Dungeness crab, ducks, eagles, shorebirds, and peregrine falcons. Mammals found in Padilla bay include harbor seals and river otters. Located in the northern reaches of greater Puget Sound, at the saltwater edge of the large delta of the Skagit River in the Salish Sea, the reserve is eight miles long and three miles across. The Padilla Bay Reserve is one of 29 areas in the National Estuarine Research Reserve System. The 11,966 acres-site is protected for long-term research, water quality monitoring, education, and coastal stewardship.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$150
 / night
Jess Cabin

4. Guemes North Homestead

100%
(272)
4.7mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · Anacortes, WA
The Guemes North Homestead is ten acres of gorgeous tall trees, clearings, homestead buildings, pond, trails, renewable energy gear, and more, set in the middle of the north end of Guemes Island (a 7-minute ferry from downtown Anacortes), at the end of a 1/3-mile dead-end driveway. It has nature, quiet, and privacy. It includes a 30-year-old orchard, a developed garden with fine soil, a pond with rope swing and waterslide, several solar and wind energy systems, and multiple buildings. It's about a mile in two directions from the Pacific Ocean beach, and is surrounded by wooded acreage that is criss-crossed with trails and friendly neighbors, on an island with about 700 year-round residents and an active weekend/summer population. Homestead owner Ian Woofenden is an expert in renewable energy systems. He's lived off-grid at the homestead for 40-plus years, where he raised his large family and managed several small businesses. He now consults, sells, writes, and teaches about renewable energy in the U.S. and in Central America. If your idea of a great getaway is to help out and do physical work, just ask Ian. There's always something going on at the homestead, including garden and orchard work, trail building, wood cutting, construction, sawmilling, and more. Ian built this place, and has a broad knowledge of lots of homestead and sustainability topics. He loves sharing his knowledge and experience with guest, students, and interns. Quick reminders: NOT a party spot. The homestead goes silent from 9 PM to 8 AM. Not a place for lots of car trips in and out. Bikers can ask for 25% discount code (or use bike listing). Two-night minimum. No pets. One tent per site; one car per site. Book a separate tent site for friends/family who want to camp near you. We can't accommodate day visitors; if you want guests, book a site for them, or meet them at the beach, park, or Guemes mountain.. Bring your own bedding, matches, flashlights. Questions always welcome.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$35
 / night
Saltgrass Garden

5. Saltgrass Garden

100%
(136)
5.7mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 1 site · Lodging · La Conner, WA
Thank you all for 2025!!! If the ground is not frozen, reach out! I may be able to book you in. Stay in our cabin at the estuary on Turners Bay where wildlife is abundant and easy to see. The Bamboo cabin is very private and has everything you need to just hang out. Saltgrass's location allows for many fun outdoor activities such as hiking at Kukutali Preserve State Park, crabbing, fishing, birding, bicycling and playing on the beach, my kids actually found a bottle with a message inside years ago. Alternatively, you could explore the many little shops in the towns of La Conner and Anacortes. There are multiple activities available, I would suggest calling ahead in order to book kayaking, rock climbing, whale watching, or a sailing charter. You could easily take a day trip to the San Juan Islands by taking a ferry ride out of Anacortes, walk on or book ahead if you are taking your car. Also, the Swinomish Casino and golf course are within two miles. While you're here you may meet our pup Turner, we also have two cats and several chickens. On the property are your hosts Jeri and Nancy, as well as our handyman Shawn, 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! Due to potential freezing weather and vulnerable water pipes, we have changed our booking to making a reservation confirmation. It has been a wonderful summer for us here at Saltgrass, meeting new people and welcoming back our repeat guests. We thank you all for visiting our place and hope we meet your expectations. October 10 2025, A new addition to the bamboo cabin; we built gates that allow you to secure the deck as an outside space for your dog. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$130
 / night
The Chuckanut Rock

6. The Chuckanut Rock

98%
(124)
7.5mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 1 site · Lodging · 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. Camp closed during winter October/ march
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night
Hobson Meadows

7. Hobson Meadows

99%
(79)
9mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bow, WA
Sit back, unplug and Enjoy the view of wide skies and stars at night.walk on the back trails of the property and enjoy the sounds of nature and bird watching.. Enjoy a comfortable bed with clean linen . light up the mini lanterns and experience a warm beautiful ambience of the yurt . Kick back with a nice warm bonfire while you relax and gaze at the bright star lite skies.. s'mores? Yesss! Use a flush toilet and shower that has running cold water. There's an outdoor sink for washing up your dishes This is a shared bathroom to everyone staying in the other yurts and two other tent sites. We are Close to skagit casino,hiking or drive up to blanchard mountain for beautiful views of puget sound,scenic chuckanut drive,blueberry and cheese farms around, nice local restaurants. You are on vacation, relax and let us take care of the cleaning and stuff . Happy Glamping.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Part of the beaver pond in January 2021. The difference between winter and spring is striking! The birds are seemingly still quite active this time of year.

8. Bird Watching at the Beaver Pond

97%
(62)
10mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bow, WA
09/13/2024 Update: The forest clean-up project has concluded, and replanting has already been done. The property is not as it was before, and it will take time to be in a desirable state; however, if you are interested in having a safe base camp for your travels and don't mind the current status, I would be happy to discuss accommodating you. 04/20/2024 Update: We have been patiently waiting for a forest clean-up logging project to begin, and it has officially started. Our property has a large number of dying trees, so this is necessary to ensure the overall forest health. However, it will unavoidably disrupt the look of the property for many years to come. We will be replanting next February. For those who wish to use the property only as a safe base camp near mountain biking trails, I’ll happily invite you to stay, but if you’re looking for a picturesque forest setting, you’ll want to check back in with us in a couple of years. ----- This 21-acre forest with a large beaver pond is classified as a class-A wetland. In addition to this, you can find a shallow creek, beaver dams, old growth forest, and a phenomenal bird habitat. Find privacy and quiet except for the songs of many birds and woodpeckers. The property is minutes away from Blanchard Mountain Trail head. There are numerous biking and hiking trails within a short distance, and while we aren't yet at the point of building trails here at the property, that will be coming shortly. This property was once a show home, but a fire occurred over 10 years ago and the house was not rebuilt. While the remaining ruins are minimal, it sets an exciting backdrop; perhaps it can be the scene for a mysterious photo shoot. We have been actively working on cleaning up the property, but there are occasional spots where we find leftover fire debris that the previous occupant scattered throughout the property. If you find such a spot during your stay, please let us know. Within the property is a small orchard with apples, blueberries, blackberries, grapes, and plumbs. While you are welcome to graze during your stay, we ask that you not harvest a great deal to ensure enough for everyone to enjoy. There are fish in the pond, and though fishing is allowed, we can not claim what type or ease due to the nature of the plant growth. It is not stocked and is only fed by the area's waterways. I have been asked several times if the fire ban is still active. Yes, it is. There is no longer access to a hose, so being able to quickly put out a fire in case of an accident is also more concerning. Sadly, with the last several years of intense summers, our area is likely going to be at risk of drought again this summer. If you are interested in reserving the entire property for a completely secluded stay, please contact me directly. That option is $175 for a party of up to 20 individuals, but no more than 2 camper vans/RVs and four additional cars per night.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Picnic table
from 
$29
 / night
Sunrise Gazebo

12. Sunrise Gazebo

98%
(20)
11mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 5 sites · Tents · Lummi Island, WA
A short two and a half minute trail walk with two sets of stairs (see photos) brings you to this little gazebo nestled high at the water’s edge. Secluded in nature, it provides a quiet escape with sweeping views of Mt. Baker, Portage Island and Bellingham Bay. It's the perfect backdrop for deep breathing, quiet reflection, and slowing down. Welcome to Lummi Island. Lummi Island is one of many islands that make up the San Juans. Home of a little under 1000 permanent residents, it is one of the easiest assessable islands as it has a regular ferry that runs daily, on the hour every hour from roughly 6am-midnight. On the Island there is a restaurant, a convenience store, farmers markets in the summer months, farm stands, artist tours and a delicious coffee cart most Thursday-Sundays. There are multiple public beaches, and this particular spot is part of the "Scenic Estates" which offers additional amenities including a swimming lake, playground, marina and boat launch all assessable within a 3 minute drive. The gazebo is a truly unique camping experience. There is a potty tent with a portable toilet. Please pack in and out all things. There is an option to rent a propane tank with a fire pit for an additional charge, but we ask no recreational fires as there is no water access at the gazebo. This property does have neighbors, but is pretty private. Please be respectful of them as well as Mother Nature. The outdoors await!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$65
 / night
North Whidbey Retreat

14. North Whidbey Retreat

98%
(23)
11mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 4 sites · RVs · Oak Harbor, WA
Welcome to our 5 acre retreat located just minutes from Deception Pass and Ala Spit State Park. Enjoy watching the resident deer while relaxing in a zero gravity chair, or use your site as a crash pad after a day spent exploring Whidbey Island. At night, take advantage of beautiful sunsets and big sky country-like stargazing. We currently have one RV site available with 30 amp electrical and water hookups (no septic). Please enjoy the provided outdoor furniture and fire pits during your stay! Firewood is available at nearby convenience stores if you'd like to use your own fire pit. **Cell service is very spotty as we are close to the state park, but WiFi can be accessed toward the shop and house if needed. The Island Oasis site has a medium strength wifi signal.** JET NOISE DISCLAIMER: Most of north Whidbey is in the training flight path for NASWI (including our property) so you will likely hear (and see!) navy jets overhead during your stay. If you are sensitive to noise this may not be a good location for you. We live and work on the property (our house and shop are both ~100 feet from the Island Oasis site). We are very respectful of guest privacy but easy to reach if you need anything.
Electrical Hookup
Water Hookup
Pets
from 
$55
 / night
The Saloon in Summer, Sh’Bang Festival (2015)

15. Lookout Arts Quarry Campground

92%
(98)
12mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellingham, WA
Lookout Arts Quarry is a vibrant rural arts cooperative with a lovely LAKE! 🌲Nestled on 61 acres of wetland + forest, just one mile off I-5. Once a rock quarry, this dynamic land now hosts inspiring festivals, intimate concerts, WWOOFers and wetland restoration, and international artist residencies. Our proximity to Galbraith, a world-class mountain-biking destination is a key draw, and we feature the freshest private swimming hole around! (The swimming is clothing optional, but the rest of the campground does require clothing.) Follow us on social media @lookoutartsquarry 🥰 This is a campground for more self-sufficient and adventurous folks who want an alternative experience. The forests of the LAQ house myriad art installations and treasures; check out the "Saloon" stage, peep the pirate ship, and then jump into the 80-foot deep rainwater lake! Bring paddle boards and floating toys 🤿🐬 lay out in the sun on the floating wooden dock, or squirrel away reading a book in a hammock hidden in dense forest. We guarantee a lovely and unique camping experience. We are located in the Coast Salish Region on the traditional territory of the Nuwhaha and Nooksack Peoples.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$47
 / night
Camp Wildlife

17. Camp Wildlife

96%
(34)
12mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Sedro Woolley, WA
We are situated on 15 beautiful acres of open field, forested walking trails and the lovely Samish River. You’ll have your choice of 4 large perfectly dedicated sites ready for your time away from home and outdoor enjoyment. ‘Wildlife Acres Ln’ rings true to the scene; bunnies, birds and families of deer feel right at home in our field. Our trails are awesome. I’d highly recommend good shoes/hiking boots and maybe even hiking poles or a walking stick for the two steep areas. Note; the trail down to the river is steep, but so worth the venture 💦 Delicious drinking water is available on site. A large ss sink is situated right next to the garden. No hot water is available, but you can always heat some on your cook stove. I will have garden and farm fresh seasonal eggs, berries and veggies for purchase in the cooler near the sink for anything you may have forgotten or would like to enjoy for your evening meals or breakfast. Skagit Valley is such a beautiful area with so much to explore in every direction. We have a lot of visitors that just want to escape the city for a moment and relax in nature under a big beautiful starlit sky. We also have outdoor enthusiasts that come for specific destinations such as Mount Galbraith, many different hiking trails, bird watching just past the adorable little towns of Bow and Edison, Deception Pass, scenic Chuckanut drive bringing you to the fun and happening city of Bellingham. Skagit Speedway is popular for many (you’ll hear some Vroom Vrooms and fireworks my camper friends as we are just a couple miles from that kind of fun). I highly recommend trying true, LOCAL food from North 40 Farm Store which is 10 minutes down the way located off F&S Grade Road where you can find natural grass fed Black Angus beef, pork, milk, eggs, bread and more! Experience the difference. A little starter bundle of firewood will be provided for each site and more available for purchase if you won’t be bringing your own and would rather not purchase from a gas station. Doggies are most definitely welcome.😊 Very Important–We have free range ducks and other animals that must NOT be chased. Off-leash doggies are welcome on the walking trails and down at the river only. 'Close calls' are no fun for anyone and we've had them. Enjoy your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
The sun rises over the Skagit River and the camping spot on the right.

18. Peace on the Skagit

99%
(77)
14mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Mount Vernon, WA
Welcome to our little slice of heaven on the banks of the wild and scenic Skagit River! The spacious Group Camp overlooks the beautiful Skagit River and is located on five riverfront acres adjacent to our family farm of 43 years. In addition to the Group Camp, there are just 3 single campsites on this property. Get ready to watch Canadian geese fly overhead, dip your toes in the warm sand and experience Peace Like a River. Take a walk along miles of dike, launch your kayak in the river, cast your line and fish the glacial river waters, or just soak up the tranquil beauty. The Group Camp features a huge central wood fire pit with cooking grill, and 7 adirondack chairs/2 side tables that overlook the river. The large custom outdoor kitchen (cold water) is perfect for meal prep and easy clean up. There is also a 3 burner propane stove (propane provided) . Two-8' picnic tables and a 3' X 4' serving/buffet table give plenty of seating for meals. Just minutes away you can walk to the river on a private trail. During the summer months there is typically a long sandbar. You will find stunning views in every direction with partial shade under towering cottonwoods. For safety purposes, a camp fire is allowed only in the provided fire pit. This site has space for 2 recreational vehicles (20' or less) or up to 3 tents. Current COVID restrictions apply for group size/composition. Our family has great respect for the beauty and power of the river. Care for safety must be taken on the river edges as they are steep in places, the glacial water is very cold, and it has a strong tidal current and hidden undertows. Life jackets are strongly recommended for any activities on the water and we discourage swimming. We are located just 65 miles north of Seattle and minutes from I-5. This is your landing spot to explore all of the Skagit Valley, from the San Juan Islands to the Cascade Mountains. You will find epic hiking, biking, foodie destinations and endless opportunities to explore the natural beauty of nearby mountains, lakes and saltwater.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$63
 / night
Chuckanut Peak is the highest point of our farm! Through the trees you can see the corner of the solar panels on the farmhouse roof. Off to the right, behind trees and out of the picture, is the Sauna Cabin/Restrooms, and water spigot.

20. Chuckanut Hills Farm & Camp

98%
(302)
15mi from Saddlebag Island State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Sedro Woolley, WA
Retreat to relax at Chuckanut Hills Farm and Campground, a 20-acre energy-regenerative, off-grid family farm nestled at the foot of Anderson Mountain and surrounded by thousands of acres of forest. 30 minutes south of Bellingham in the Chuckanut Mountains, the only finger of the Cascade Mountain Range that reaches all the way to the Salish Sea. This wooded forest is part of the Puget Lowland Forest Eco-Region. These hills were the native home of the Saquantch people, a Salish coast tribe that fished and hunted the mountains surrounding Lake Whatcom. They lived in long lodge homes and were later pushed out by the invading Lummi Tribe. The Lummi Tribe was later pushed out by Western logging companies, and the entire mountainous region was heavily logged for a number of years. Where our farm now rests was once the second of many logging camps built by Ed English, and he cut our gravel farm road in 1900; a railroad ran through the lower part of our property, taking logs from Lake Whatcom down to the little boom town of Seattle. Our intention while being caretakers of this ancestral land is to restore native plants, raise heirloom produce and heritage animals, and provide a restful nature paradise for people looking to spend time in the outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Saddlebag Island State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Saddlebag Island State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Other options near Saddlebag Island State Park

The best camping in Saddlebag Island State Park, WA guide

Overview

About

Embark on a journey to Saddlebag Island State Park, a hidden gem nestled in Padilla Bay. Accessible only by boat, this secluded paradise offers a tranquil pebble beach, lush forests, and meadows dotted with vibrant spring wildflowers. Adventure seekers can indulge in kayaking, bird watching, and fishing, while the more contemplative visitor might enjoy the simple pleasure of beach exploration. As night falls, camp under the stars at one of the park's primitive campsites, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of nature.

When to go

The idyllic Saddlebag Island State Park is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. Summer months, from 6:30am to dusk, are perfect for warm beach days and vibrant wildflower displays. Winter visits, from 8am to dusk, provide a serene escape with fewer visitors. Be mindful of the burn ban levels and changing weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Know before you go

  • Ensure you have a recreational license for fishing and shellfish harvesting, available through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
  • There is no potable water or garbage service; be prepared to pack out what you pack in.
  • Be aware of the tides in Padilla Bay to prevent your boat from becoming stranded.
  • Watch for winds in the south bay that can create rough waters, and note the steep incline for primitive camping access.
  • Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times within the park.

Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.

Top cities near Saddlebag Island State Park