I was going to make this another “Closer than you think” entry, but calling a 1.5 hour drive from downtown Seattle “close” seemed a bit of a stretch so I’ll just call this a very biased, photo-heavy profile.
On the northern edge of Whidbey Island, where State Route 20 makes its dramatic leap from Fidalgo Island across the steep channel of Deception Pass, lies an incredibly picturesque campground designed to delight all levels of campers from the beginner to the jaded. The park contains beautiful beach access plus three separate lakes (Lake Campbell, Pass Lake, and Cranberry Lake) that are bound to keep fishermen busy. The pass itself has a ripping current that is famed for being one of the wildest local rides a SCUBA diver can enjoy, and it also creates large waves and fun eddies for kayakers and boaters on the surface.
Hiking trails wind across both sides of Deception Pass, with fun tidepools at Rosario Beach and a beautiful short hike at Lighthouse Point (no lighthouse, however… at least not that we could find) that gives views of the famous bridge and sharp rocks. Longer trails explore the surrounding woods and shoreline for the more adventurous, and a jet boat that leaves from the base of the bridge will give tours to those who don’t want to hike to see their scenery.
The campground itself is nestled under hundreds of large trees and underbrush, and most of the sites are fairly secluded. The group campsites feature bunk houses and many picnic tables, with plenty of room to play. Coin-operated showers are available for those wishing for the comforts of home, and fire pits are large and prone to inspire smoke-induced poetry and s’more cravings that are likely to linger for weeks.
I’d say the most difficult part of staying in the Deception Pass area is deciding which picture to take next (runner-up: having enough film and space on your memory card!). The camping is deluxe, the options are amazing, and it’s near-impossible to leave without at least a few photos that will inspire all that view them.
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:10 am
Hello, I was wondering if you could tell me a little bit about the group campsite.. I’m supposed to go there this summer with a bunch of people and I wanted to know if you could take your car to the actual group site or if you park elsewhere. Thanks!