Staying at Fort Ebey State Park means youll be surrounded by the park and ocean and the range of activities that both provide. SOUTH WHIDBEY ISLAND STATE PARK 4128 Smugglers Cove Rd Freeland, Washington 98249-8702 Phone: 360-331-4559 Reservations: 888-226-7688 South Whidbey Island State Park is a 347-acre camping park with 4,500 feet of saltwater shoreline on Admiralty Inlet. The roads and pads are concrete for easy manoeuvrability too. The campground is connected to Rhododendron Park, which has three large athletic fields, full-service restrooms, a picnic area with tables including a sheltered area with a barbecue, and a playground for kids. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. To access the island, you avail of a ferry service or opt for a scenic drive from Mount Vernon. Not much is known about shellfish resources on this beach. If you want to legally harvest Dungeness or Red Rock crab from Whidbey Island, you should buy a boat. Camping in the park has been permanently closed due to tree diseases, which pose a tree-fall risk. Deception Pass State Park spreads over 3,854 acres, a marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. Anacortes Arts Festival happens in August. Between November and April, the rain is much higher, humidity is high, and the temperature drops significantly, ranging from 3C to 11C. There are five covered pavilions for community use that have picnic tables and barbecues available too. The beach is divided into two sections. Whidbey Island Clams Whidbey Island Clams View map Sort by: Highest Rating We found great results, but some are outside Whidbey Island. Its situated in a largely forested area thats well-known for the huge number of rhododendrons that bloom during spring hence the name! The following areas have been closed for recreational harvest of butter and varnish clams only: West Whidbey Island Admiralty Bay Useless Bay If you find an area where you can freedom camp, then setting up your dispersed camping site still requires you to follow certain rules and regulations so that youre not asked to leave. So read on to begin your Whidbey Island camping adventure! A limited fishery will likely be the case for many years to come, Speck said. Couldnt be happier!. The water quality story is a huge success. Join us for Penn Cove Mussel Fest on Whidbey Island! Whidbey Island camping offers a plethora of diverse options for enjoying the outdoors. Deception Pass State Park. South Whidbey State Park is open for day use only. HARVESTED VARNISH clams, invasive species or not, will be applied to a clammers catch quota, Speck said. The recreational beaches of Island County offer a wealth of shellfish for you and your family to gather and enjoy. However, you will still be close to conveniences such as the ferry and the beautiful town of Langley. We also use third party cookies for advertising and analytics purposes. This park is huge and has 38 miles of hiking trails, six miles of horseback riding trails, and three miles of bike trails! . And with all of the parks buildings, ladders, hidden rooms, forts and cannons to check out, this is an especially fun place for kids to visit and stay. Heres a few that are worth knowing about: Penn Cove Mussel Festival happens in March and has the world-famous Whidbey Island mussels showcased in a range of food, mussel eating contests, fun activities, and tours of the local farms. All over the island, we find these Whidbey Island parks where you can be closer to nature, history, and enjoy the beautiful flora, fauna, and geography that Whidbey Island has to offer. Earn 4.00% APY* with our 48-month promotional certificate. But if youre excited about seeing jets race above your head, then this is a fantastic location. Whidbey Island has some excellent fishing beaches on its western shores, where salmon and steelhead pass within casting range. Staying at Fort Casey Historical State Park means youll be spending much of your time in the park exploring nature and experiencing all the history there. Mussels, clams, and oysters can be harvested from Penn Cove between July to August, but check the exact dates for the year youre going. On top of that we show you our favorite hikes on the island, share a free camping game thats perfect for camping on Whidbey, and even more. 100% 3 Reviews. All of our products are completely traceable, ensuring your customers they are buying the safest, highest-quality seafood available. From exciting outdoor activities to laid-back strolling through the downtown or the beaches, there is something for every traveler. And with a little bit of know-how, you can easily find yourself a bountiful catch of clams. Our Phone Number: (360) 331-4887. Your seafood is packed in dry ice and shipped to your doorstep within 3 days of leaving our facility. If youre looking for a permit, you can pick it up at Bucks Northwest in town. Smooth as Rice 58 subscribers Clam digging at Double Bluff Beach on Whidbey Island in Washington State and cooking up some clam chowder afterwards. Come taste world famous mussels and learn how they are grown on a farm tour. Fort Ebey State Park boasts 645 acres of camping, mountain biking, and hiking. Camping and then catching the sunrise over those bridges is spectacular, and an absolute must if you do choose to stay here. Joseph Whidbey Campground. Limit search to Whidbey Island. The best time to dig is between the months of October and March, when tides are highest in the morning and afternoon. Shellfish are prized resources of the Puget Sound, the cool, clean waters provide some of the finest shellfish habitat in the world. Fort Casey State Park is a 467-acre marine camping park with a lighthouse and sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. more. Wandering our World is reader supported. In 1977, controversy erupted when the Department of Natural Resources announced plans to clear-cut 255 acres of trust land forest, known as the "Classic-U" tract, bordering South Whidbey State Park to the east of Smuggler's Cove Road. The United States Exploring Expedition, led by Captain Charles Wilkes, also mapped Whidbey Island after sailing into Penn Cove north of the park in 1841. Fort Casey is prone to naval jets flying over the area for a number of hours on any given day though, so if youre concerned about the sound of jet noise, this is not a good campground for you. Contact park staff for details. On top of that theres a number of cabins and yurts if you want a more comfortable Whidbey Island camping experience. Catch-and-release fly fishing at Whidbey's Pass Lake is for serious fly fisher folks who enjoy donning waders and plunking down in float tubes. Last minute booking. You can hike, or fish the many beaches, or stroll the many walking-friendly shopping venues featuring a variety of restaurants to please anyone. South Whidbey Island, including current-day South Whidbey State Park, lies within the traditional territory of multiple Southern Coast Salish tribes, who have inhabited the region for more than 10,000 years. The property offers a remote experience, having no electricity. Concrete platforms mark the gun locations. In Washington, you can purchase a permit, check toxin levels, and plan your trip online at the states Department of Fish and Wildlife. Save the image and print it out, then tick off what you find and achieve during your camping holiday. You should bring a torch or headlamp so you can explore fully. Its a fantastic Whidbey Island camping option. However, there are also two designated off-leash parks and adventure areas that your dog can enjoy: Greenbank Farms Trail is a 3-mile hike with meadows and forested areas where your dog can roam freely. South Whidbey State Park is a 381-acre day-use park with views of Admiralty Inlet and the Olympic Mountains. Close by is the Gallery Golf Course which is a challenging 18-hole course that runs along the coastline, so youve got great views while playing. Whidbey Island and Deception Pass - Private Luxury Day Tour with Lunch Bus Tours from $475.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Deception Pass Bridge Island Tour from Seattle 3 Full-day Tours from $307.60 per adult PRIVATE day Trip to Deception Pass, Skagit Valley and La Conner in SUV Adventure Tours from $285.00 The results were enough to warrant a conditional reopening of the beach for nine months of the year. You can take hot showers in the outdoor shower area. As an Amazon Associate and Booking.com partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. Its also a family friendly place and is one of the most dog friendly campgrounds in the region too they even have a big dog park! Thats a shame, said Eugene Thrasher, Whidbeys widely recognized clamming guru. The park features 2 miles of shoreline on Puget Sound, and includes Keystone Spit, a two-mile stretch of land separating Admiralty Inlet and Crocket Lake. Prices will vary each month depending on number of classes offered. Of course its not only the weather that can decide when you want to go camping on Whidbey Island, theres other factors too. It even includes one of my all time favorite hikes in all of Washington State. Our customers are keenly interested in knowing everything they can about their seafood. You deserve an escape from the day to day. Youre also close to a range of other activities and services on the base, including paintball, a gym, rec center, food, and a range of other things. Cliffside RV Park is located on the western shoreline overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and if you peak across, youll even see Vancouver Island, Canada, looking back! Weve posed that question to DOH and we havent gotten an answer yet, Higman said. Ebeys Landing is a 5.5-mile hike suitable for the whole family, including the pup! Its another great spot to see orcas or grey whales passing by. Boating and saltwater fishing are hugely popular activities in the park too, as is exploring the beach and bird watching or simply relaxing and people watching. 100% 10 Reviews. Joseph Whidbey State Park. Also, they are known to carry paralytic shellfish poisoning, or PSP, for longer periods of time. Here you can find Ebeys Landing National Historical Reserve, the earliest national historical reserve in the US. The campsites are also spacious and feel very private thanks to all the forest and trees you will be surrounded by. Dont camp within 200 feet of a water source. Our network of West Coast and Pacific Northwest fisheries use sustainable and traceable methods to guarantee quality from catch to table. If you buy something through a link on our site we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to yourself. You may also stroll through the lush garden and admire the beauty all around you. A Locals Guide To Half Moon Bay Camping: Best Campgrounds, Dispersed Camping & More! Tree branches cant be within 15 feet of the fire. The geoduck (pronounced gooey-duck) has a funny name and its appearance often elicits embarrassed laughter, but Washington's biggest clam means big money to the Department of Natural Resources and fine eating, particularly for wealthy devotees in China. You can also get lessons or join any tournaments that are running when visiting. The island is significant both historically and culturally. Whidbey Island is a perfect location to head on a whale-watching excursion from one of the many tour operators. Each digger must keep his or her own container of clams in their possession. North Whidbey RV Park is located right across from the Deception Pass State Park entrance, so it gives you full access to the park and everything on offer there, but in a much more comfortable environment for RVers. Clams prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, but in general, I prefer shallower areas with a rocky bottom. Crabbing from Cornet Bay is a viable option if that is not possible. One of my favorite things about Whidbey Island is our huge selection of State and local parks. And also fireplaces to keep warm during colder nights. You can go boating and fishing in the ocean beside this campground, or in one of the three lakes in the park too. Fishing, Clamming, Crabbing Whether you're a freshwater or saltwater fishing enthusiast, the islands are alive with seafood! There are no big chains here, just homey bed-and-breakfasts . So you must check if there are any burn restrictions in place before starting any type of fire on Whidbey Island. One big requirement to stay here though, is that you or someone youre with must be an active or retired military employee, a veteran, a reservist, or similar. Glamping Hub is designed for modern browsers. For clammers who eagerly anticipated the reopening of the once popular South Whidbey hotspot, which used to be open year-round, news of the six-week season is disappointing. The case was widely publicized, and in 1978, the court ruled in favor of Noel, forever changing the way the state manages forests. Ordering online is quick and easy and delivery goes without a hitch. There is an unsheltered picnic area with 68 picnic tables and one fire ring for community use. Penn Cove Shellfish, which grows and sells millions of mussels annually, prides itself on growing mussels free of fertilizer or feed. It is located 127 feet above the Puget Sound waterway and has fantastic views. You cant get any fresher than the mussels served on the island. Fort Casey Historical State Park Campground has one restroom and several showers for campers to use. Theres also a kids playground, fenced-off pets area, gazebo with a barbecue, and its close to the marina and multiple boat launches. Public ownership of this tideland does not extend across the entire tidal range of the beach. West Whidbey Island Butter Clams and Varnish Clams Saratoga Passage and Possession Sound, including Utsalady Bay, Penn Cove and Holmes Harbor . 1. You can learn how to dig clams, which clams are best for which recipes, how to harvest them safely and sustainably, and . Dont camp near trailheads, picnic areas, or developed public and private campgrounds. And if you get a recreational license, you can go freshwater fishing, seaweed harvesting, or shellfish harvesting, so youve even got something to cook on your campfire in the evening! Oak Harbor Public Schools is facing more bad news on the horizon. With trails, camping, beach access, and large open fields, this is a perfect Whidbey Island park for a day visit, or a weekend camping trip. Public land owned by the state or federal government are typically your best options for dispersed camping; this includes forests and areas managed by the US Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Seasons, limits, and methods for catching crabs vary by season and location. And staying at the campground in the park means you can spend as much time as you like exploring this history-filled area at a very affordable price. We recommend you to update it for security reasons and to be able to use the site. Youll almost always find that one thing youll need is a Flint bus. Scroll down to find the best glamping spots on Whidbey Island, USA, for a stay amidst nature. Perm's Cove: A History of the Settlers. Enjoy! Seawall Park is located just below Langley, and you can watch whales pass by there. Hiking on Whidbey Island can be done year-round, so if you love the trails but dont want to visit during the much busier summer months, then fall and winter still provide great hiking options. If youre looking for a calm and quiet beach with a wide beach, look no further than Mocrocks Beach. The park is known for its breath-taking views, old-growth forests, and abundant wildlife. This development has helped many to understand the life cycle of old-growth trees. That means you can explore everything the park has to offer as soon as you wake up that includes hiking, walking across those massive bridges, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, canoeing and kayaking. The Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connect the two islands, creating a . If youre looking to entertain children while camping on Whidbey Island or you fancy having some fun for yourself then weve created a printable scavenger hunt game! Clam, mussel, and oyster seasons OPEN for harvest year-round. Give your savings a boost. There are 100 full hookup sites for large RVs and trailers, but no tents sites. Youll be waking up to the sound of birds, and going to sleep with stars above your head after an activity filled day in nature. To catch clams, look for the larger hole next to a quarter, and the edge of the surf line. Penn Cove is an extra special location as its filled with sea life, including ghost shrimp and seals which makes it a favorite feeding ground for whales and orcas looking for a snack! North Whidbey RV Park provides 100 full hookup sites, and each campsite has a concrete pad, picnic table, and fire pit. Please exercise caution not to trespass on private property. The park offers views of the Olympic Mountains and rare old-growth stands. How many clams are allowed to dig in Washington state? It's a 45-minute cruise with a tour guide that tells you more than you ever knew about . Dugualla State Park is a much quieter area and has a 5-mile loop of trails that take you to the beach, through the forest, and back. Review Highlights . Set on the western side of Whidbey Island, Fort Ebey was constructed as a coastal defense fort during the Second World War. 100% 6 Reviews. Rhododendron Campground is a smaller campground than most others on the island. Save. Depending on the direction of the wind, their flight pattern may put them above the park, creating noisy conditions. Some popular places to dig for clams include Willapa Bay, Grays Harbor, and Puget Sound. The primary booker can sponsor two other campsites if there is availability though. It includes a barbecue and four picnic tables, accommodating up to 30 guests. It really is the perfect location to enjoy a relaxing camping experience with fantastic views and great amenities. Scroll down to find the best glamping spots on Whidbey Island, USA, for a stay amidst nature. Region 6 - west side of north Whidbey Including Deception Pass, Region 8-1 - between Whidbey Island and the mainland/Camano Island, Region 8-2 - between Camano Island and the mainland. The host provides a S'mores kit and hot French press coffee every morning, so you can start your day right. Lone, Deer, Goss, Cranberry and Pass lakes are all stocked annually. Try these and enjoy nature with a bit more solitude. May 15 with a seaweed and shellfish license. The perfect Whidbey Island campgrounds are only a mouse click away! We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. Due to hazardous trees in the old-growth forest, the campground area is closed indefinitely. To find out how to opt out of our cookies or how our cookies work, please visit our Cookies Policy. A large beach is located in the first section, which is ideal for walking and shellfishing. Higman said the agency may research the question with its legal department about just when it can give the county the OK. ALSO UNCLEAR is from where the Enterococcus bacteria orignated, Higman said. They want to know where it comes from, how it was caught and processed and whether it comes from sustainable fisheries. Use left/right arrows to navigate the slideshow or swipe left/right if using a mobile device, Alaskan Black Cod (Portion) - Wild Caught, Alaskan Coho Salmon (Portion) - Wild Caught, Alaskan Shortraker Rockfish (Portion) - Wild Caught, Alaskan Sockeye Salmon (Portion) - Wild Caught. To complete the experience, why not sleep under the stars? Fishing Whidbey's numerous lakes are ideal for fishing for largemouth bass or trout. Earn Up To 4.00% APY. Incredible Sunset at Beachfront Glamping Cabin on Private, Herron Island with Fire Pit and Kayaking near Olympia, Washington, Olympic National Forest Glamping Village for the Ultimate Northwest Outdoor Adventure, Enchanting British Columbia Tree House near East Sooke Park, Vintage Cabin in Private 10-Acre Forest with Covered Porch on Vashon Island, Washington, Modern Luxury Elevated Cabin for Tree House-Style Experience in Seattle. For one, its unclear what a limited condition reopening by the department means in terms of the existing protection district and whether the commissioners have the green light to dissolve it. Available for a limited time only. Its just north of Freeland on the south end of the island. It was originally a coastal defense fort in World War II. Please note: U.S. Navy jets from nearby Naval Air Station Whidbey Island may fly over at any time for several hours. Gordon's on Blueberry Hill 297 reviews Closed Now American, International $$$$ Menu Having lain untouched for nearly a decade, she was expecting to find a stable and healthy fishery. The short . If there are no restrictions in place, then recreational fires are allowed on Whidbey Island without a permit, as long as they meet certain requirements: The best time to camp on Whidbey Island is between May and October, as the weather is pleasant for most of the time then, and the rainfall isnt as heavy. What better way than camping! Fish and Wildlife monitors seasons and regulations, but the health department is charged with monitoring which areas are safe from marine biotoxins and vibrio. If the tide is low, you should drive around to see if there are any other clams. Learn More Washington's Department of Fish and Wildlife has a map of freshwater fishing opportunities on Whidbey Island here Saltwater fishing, either from the beach or by boat, is a great opportunity to catch several varieties of salmon, sturgeon, smelt, and other varieties. Although if youre looking for restaurants and stores, youll need to drive out of the park for about 20 minutes to find any. Thats because theres full hookups at this RV park, and many more amenities and facilities here than youll find in state park campgrounds. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! What can be fresher than taking it from the ocean yourself? Some of those reside in state parks while others are in privately owned.. To help out, weve picked our six favorite Whidbey Island camping options for you to review. The Pacific Northwest is well known for having big rain seasons, and camping in the rain is not especially pleasant! Luxury forest yurt on a working farm (from USD 100) Show all photos. South Whidbey State Park calls to tree-lovers everywhere. Have a few days off, or even longer, and wondering how to spend the free time? Whidbey Island Seafood Company We pride ourselves on the quality of wild-caught America seafood we source and provide to our customers. . Somebody 16 years or older must be with the fire at all times. No smoking gun was ever discovered, but water quality from fresh water outlets has improved significantly, according to state Department of Health officials. In addition, a small store called Campsite Coffee sells additional food, drinks, and some pretty good coffee. Youre also connected to ten miles of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail (PNT), which is that 1,200-mile-long scenic trail we talked above before. Anchor & Hope SF was created with the goal of providing people with accurate and reliable information about seafood. Because salt does not appear in blue on the New World map, finding it can be difficult; only fresh water appears in blue on the map. ), and very high quality sea food. There are just 15 campsites in total, and three can accommodate RVs but those only have a water hookup. By clicking I Agree you expressly consent our use of cookies. However, the host makes sure that you have enough water and that all your needs are met. For upcoming dates check . The park has three large campgrounds with 172 tent sites, 134 partial hookup sites, and five sites dedicated to hikers or bikers. There is no electricity, but lanterns are provided for your convenience. 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