The best camping in Deception Pass

·

Deception Pass State Park has a little bit of everything Northwesterners hold dear: rugged saltwater shoreline, freshwater lakes, old growth forest, wildlife, and views stretching across Puget Sound. The park’s centerpiece is the Deception Pass bridge, which flies high above the cliffs and links the mainland with Whidbey Island. Campsites are scattered around the park, including a boat-in cabin and forested tent spots. 

96% (14.9K) 3,950 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Deception Pass

Wandering Joy Campground

1. Wandering Joy Campground

98%
(859)
Port Angeles, WA · 12 sites
Located less than 10 minutes from Lake Crescent, directly across US-101 from Lake Sutherland, and 20 minutes west of downtown Port Angeles, Wandering Joy Campground is the perfect homebase for your Olympic National Park adventures! Wander the property trails to discover giant moss-covered boulders, aged big leaf maple, towering grand fir, and western red cedar. Heavily forested with mixed conifer species, dense alder stands, and a rich understory, you'll enjoy a vibrant habitat for wildlife, especially birds. We are committed to protecting the health and wellness of this magical forest and kindly ask that you pack out all trash, exercise extreme caution with campfires, be a respectful neighbor to fellow campers, and leave only good vibes behind! PLEASE NOTE: * We are primarily a tenting campground. Not all sites are suitable for car-camping/rooftop tents as the parking may not be level and/or large enough for your rig. Please send us a message PRIOR to booking and we’d be happy to recommend any available sites that may fit your need. *All of our sites have their own shape, size, and characteristics, no two are alike! Please refer to the site descriptions and pictures to assist you in choosing a site for your adventure. If in doubt, just send a message and we’ll help steer you in the right direction. Your experience is important to us! *We are a small, private campground. As such, our site limits are set to 2 ppl, 1 vehicle, 1 tent. You can select to add up to 2 more ppl on select sites, for an additional charge. Our sites are simply not large enough to be considered group sites. For your comfort, we recommended that you book multiple sites if you have a larger party. As always, we can help you choose the best site for your party, so don’t hesitate to reach out! * 4WD/AWD drive recommended for Sites 9-11 due to the steady uphill gravel access road. Especially recommended for vans and heavier vehicles.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Shadow Mountain RV & Campground

2. Shadow Mountain RV & Campground

77%
(580)
Port Angeles, WA · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
!~PLEASE READ EACH SITE DESCRIPTION ~ LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE~! Whether you are looking to spend some quality time with your family or enjoy a weekend away with friends, you are going to find the perfect camping at Shadow Mountain Campground! SORRY NO WIFI Enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking, or boating across the street at Lake Sutherland or Lake Cresent! Rent our newly added Kayak Rentals. We have a convenient General Store and Gas Station on-site with Firewood, beer/wine, ICE, grocery items and much more... We have beautiful campsites, entertaining activities nearby, and quality staff to ensure that your Olympic National Park camping vacation is all you need to relax and unwind! Come spend a weekend, a week, or a season and let us show you what we have to offer! Did I mention HOT SHOWERS and LAUNDRY FACILITY!!! Keep in mind we are on Hwy 101 (2 lane Hwy) at Lake Sutherlin so road noise is a factor, some seasons more than others, ear plugs available in-store if needed. The views are Amazing!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Crescent Beach & RV

3. Crescent Beach & RV

94%
(336)
Port Angeles, WA · 67 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Crescent Beach & RV! We are a privately-owned and operated campground and RV park located in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, just west of Port Angeles. With a wide range of accommodations, such as full and partial hook-up RV sites, tent sites, and rental cabins - our park is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. In addition to stunning views and access to our 1/2 mile sandy beach, we offer a variety of amenities, including a volleyball court, horse-shoe pits, camp store, and quarter-operated laundry facilities & quarter-operated hot showers (open 7am-9pm during the summer, 9am-5pm during the fall/winter). No need to limit stays to the summer, we are open year-round for overnight stays as well as day-use. Popular activities include walking on the beach, flying kites, building sandcastles, surfing and paddleboarding, birdwatching, playing with seaweed, checking out the tide pools at Tongue Point Marine Life Sanctuary, and hiking Striped Peak - to name a few. Our proximity to Olympic National Park and other local attractions make us a great base for exploring the nearby areas. Whether you're in a trailer, sprinter van, tent or even your car - we have a spot for you! Come and visit Crescent Beach and RV, where the staff feel like friends and the beach feels like home.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Deception Pass State Park

4. Deception Pass State Park

92%
(59)
State park in Washington · 326 sites
Bike, hike, swim, camp, and explore this deceptively ordinary Washington state park!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Moran State Park

5. Moran State Park

96%
(24)
State park in Washington · 145 sites
Relax by a picturesque mountain lake in the heart of the San Juan Islands.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Campground at Jefferson County Fairgrounds

6. The Campground at Jefferson County Fairgrounds

Port Townsend, WA · 50 sites
Welcome to a pet- and family-friendly campground nestled in the scenic charm of Port Townsend. Ideally located just a short walk from Fort Worden, the beach, and an extensive network of lush, forested trails, this campground offers the perfect balance of nature, relaxation, and outdoor adventure. Operated by the Jefferson County Fairgrounds Association—a dedicated non-profit organization—this campground plays an important role in supporting the local community. Every stay directly contributes to the upkeep of the fairgrounds and helps fund year-round events, including the much-loved annual Jefferson County Fair, celebrating local agriculture, arts, and culture. With over 50 thoughtfully designed campsites, guests can choose from a variety of options to suit their needs, including full hook-up, partial hook-up, and primitive sites. Open year-round, the campground provides an affordable and comfortable base for families, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Port Townsend and the breathtaking Olympic Peninsula. Recent updates to the campground layout have created more spacious and comfortable site arrangements, with expanded areas and improved spacing between select sites—enhancing both privacy and convenience for guests. Please note that cell service in the area is limited, so we recommend checking availability and reserving your site in advance. Even if a site appears vacant upon arrival, it may already be reserved for another guest. Whether you're here for a peaceful retreat, a family getaway, or a basecamp for adventure, we hope you enjoy your stay and appreciate your support in helping sustain this vibrant community space.
Pets
Full hookups
Valhalla Tree Farm

7. Valhalla Tree Farm

99%
(607)
Arlington, WA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled near Arlington, our 75-acre property spans both new and old forest, featuring a salmon-filled creek and a large beaver pond—all set against the dramatic backdrop of a 1,200-foot sheer rocky cliff crowned with old-growth trees. Since its purchase in 1958 as a family retreat, this land has grown into much more than a getaway. It has become a place for relaxation, adventure, and connection with nature—a private forest for family and friends to enjoy. Over the years, the family has adopted forest stewardship and sustainable timber harvesting practices, while also developing campsites, trails, hosting rock concerts, and even producing wine. What began as a simple escape has evolved into something extraordinary: a tree farm that successfully balances nearly every goal a forest landowner could imagine—timber production, wildlife habitat, natural beauty, recreation, and forest resilience. Valhalla embodies all of this with harmony. We think you will feel the unusual vibe.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hobson Meadows

8. Hobson Meadows

99%
(84)
Bow, WA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unplug, unwind, and take in the beauty of wide open skies and star-filled nights. Stroll along the peaceful back trails of the property, where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of nature and spot local birds in their natural habitat. Settle into a comfortable bed with fresh, clean linens, and embrace the cozy charm of your yurt. As evening falls, light the mini lanterns to create a warm, inviting ambiance that makes your stay feel truly special. End your day gathered around a glowing bonfire—relax, take in the brilliant night sky, and maybe even enjoy some classic s’mores. Guests have access to shared bathroom facilities, including flush toilets and a cold-water shower, as well as an outdoor sink for washing dishes. These amenities are shared with other yurt guests. Conveniently located near local attractions, you’ll find yourself close to Skagit Casino, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking viewpoints like Blanchard Mountain overlooking Puget Sound. Explore the beauty of Chuckanut Drive, visit nearby blueberry and cheese farms, or enjoy a meal at one of the area’s charming local restaurants. This is your time to relax and recharge—leave the cleaning to us and simply enjoy your getaway. Happy Glamping! 🌿✨
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Compass Rose Farms

9. Compass Rose Farms

96%
(356)
Port Townsend, WA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are open! This magical, 40-acre, cultivated ecosystem, will wrap around you and leave you enchanted. Enjoy this peaceful, country retreat, as a place to rest and reconnect with the earth and yourself. This is a great place to stop for the night, but one day might not be enough to meander the many paths, drink tea harvested from the herb garden, sit on a bench talking to ancient Maple trees, walk the stone labyrinth, wander the sacred Grove, and camp under the stars. There's so much to enjoy here, from the fragrant rose gardens to the orchards and sheep meadows. Spend the morning sipping tea with a book in the greenhouse, an afternoon wandering the many wooded trails, preparing dinner with vegetables grown from the garden, and enjoying the evening watching the moon and stars come up from the observatory platform. You could take a guided tour of the land and animals, or join one of the many workshops hosted here, such as learning to spin yarn from our herd of Icelandic sheep or take an introduction class to Permaculture. Bring your knitting, friends, or just a favorite book, and spend a few days in this tranquil destination, as this land has something to offer everyone. Please NOTE: This is a working farm, we have animals, dirt, sticks, bugs, poop, and lots of opportunities to "connect" with Nature. All of our amenities are shared spaces, designed to foster community. You will find signs posted around the property with clear communication. All of our lodgings are off-grid with no electricity or running water. Water, electricity, and WIFI are available in the shared kitchen, garden, cafe, and lounging areas. Please bring battery-operated lights, bedding, and a pillow, unless otherwise noted. Amenities include: shower house, bathhouse, large semi-commercial kitchen, library, cafe, fiber studio, yarn shop, plenty of outdoor seating, safe potable water, 2 regularly maintained portable toilets, hand washing station, 2 charcoal/wood barbeques Check-in is 4-8 pm Contact us to inquire about using the land for weddings, retreats, and other gatherings! Check out our on-site Airbnb rental house here: airbnb.com/h/millhouserental airbnb.com/h/millhouserental2 Follow or tag us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comp...
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Olympic National Forest

10. Olympic National Forest

95%
(56)
National forest in Washington · 417 sites
Visit the beach, the mountains and the forest—all in one day, at the most beautiful place anywhere.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fort Townsend State Park

11. Fort Townsend State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Washington · 42 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Fort Townsend State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bay View State Park

12. Bay View State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Washington · 85 sites
Discover the scenic charm of Bay View State Park and its array of outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fort Flagler State Park

13. Fort Flagler State Park

100%
(10)
State park in Washington · 126 sites
Fun times and history lessons all come together at this park right on the tip of Marrowstone Island.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
John Wayne's Waterfront Resort

14. John Wayne's Waterfront Resort

93%
(14)
Sequim, WA · 89 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We invite you to visit us for a quiet, relaxing get-away, whether you come to enjoy one of our 9 fully equipped cabins or park your RV in a spacious site with full hook-ups, cable television and Wi-Fi. Rural America at its finest, we are located in the famous dry belt of Sequim, WA near the Northeast entrance of the Olympic National Park, nestled between the majestic Olympic Mountains and the placid waters of Sequim Bay. The John Wayne Marina is only a short walk away for your boating, fishing and crabbing adventures. You might enjoy a leisurely stroll along the network of sidewalks for access to several picnic areas or simply sit on a bench at the Point to relax and watch the sailboats underway on the Bay. We are just steps away from the Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) which traverses approximately 130 miles of lowlands, bordered on the south by the Olympic Mountain Range and on the north by the Strait of Juan de Fuca ending on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The trail is a wide, paved pathway designed to multi user standards for bicyclists, hikers, and disabled users.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Ohana Farms

15. Ohana Farms

95%
(163)
BC · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Ohana farmns is a 46 Acre produce and flower farm. We are located on Pender Island in the beautiful Gulf Islands. Accomodations can be hard to find on the island, and if you do, they can often be expensive....we hope to change this by offering up the authentic experience of setting up a campsite right here on the farm!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Glamping at the Gateway

16. Glamping at the Gateway

95%
(301)
Port Angeles, WA · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
Great base camp where the mountains meet the sea on the Olympic Peninsula. So many great sights in a short distance from camp. Salt creek recreation area is a short 3 miles away, beautiful views of the Straits of Juan de Fuca. NEW SHOWER on site!!! Tide pools to explore and WW2 bunkers. Striped peak trailhead offers panoramic views. Spruce Railroad trail to Devils punchbowl is 3 miles away as well as Log Cabin Resort. The resort offers paddle boats and kayaks for rent. (Closed for winter months) A restaurant and beautiful views of Lake Crescent await you. Hurricane Ridge visitor center is 16 miles away explore the glaciers of the Olympic mountains. Check out the Joyce General store for all your needs including wood for the fire and a laundry mat within 1 mile from the property. 2 night min stay in the RV no fireworks on property. No pets allowed in the RV RV has toilet, NEW OUTDOOR SHOWER, all bedding, comfy beds, dishes, cooking and cleaning supplies. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, 1 gallon drinking water and instant oatmeal are supplied. corn hole, charcoal bbq (not during burn ban), picnic tables, small zip line, rope swing, tire swing, port a potty, and fire pit are all in the communal area. During burn bans a propane fire ( included) is supplied in the firepit communal area only. 4 people per spot with a 5.00 charge per night for each additional up to max 6 people per site. please go to extras for the charge pick a unit per person per night. 1 car per site 5.00 charge per car per night max 2. please pay thru the extras.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Lookout

17. The Lookout

98%
(217)
Clear Lake, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The Lookout is an amazing piece of property with elevations and 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 several private mountain bike flow trails (intermediate and experts only at this time). More trails coming soon! Check us out on Instagram: @___the_lookout
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chuckanut Hills Farm & Camp

18. Chuckanut Hills Farm & Camp

98%
(311)
Sedro Woolley, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

19. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

75%
(257)
Tsawwassen, BC · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat. Imagine if you will, the setting sun, orange, huge, resting atop the Gulf Islands. The breeze is blowing inland today, bringing along scents of salt air, and all is well. A bald eagle glides overhead, nearly close enough to catch you up to soaring heights. Even before the sun falls out of the sky the luminescent moon rises opposite. Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey where nature and luxury seamlessly intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is located in sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ Tsawwassen First Nation Traditional Territory. Conveniently located just minutes from the BC Ferries, easily accessible for travellers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat are Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, and Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded by 6 beaches, one of which you can windsurf. There are many other amenities nearby for your added convivence. Bordered by the Fraser River to the north; Boundary Bay, Roberts Bank and the United States border to the south; and the Salish Sea to the west. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on oceanfront property, to gather with friends, family, and groups, or a beautiful quiet getaway by yourself to recharge. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat also offers space for *Retreats *Weddings *Festivals *Birthdays* Holiday Parties* Corporate Parties* Receptions* Business Meetings* Bridal Showers *Family Events * Engagement Parties * Anniversary (inquire for more details, pricing etc.) The Glamping Tents are located on a large wooden deck, you'll find a sanctuary of opulence, wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, and carefully selected decor to create an ambience of tranquillity. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of the tent. You can unwind and reconnect with nature while indulging in the modern amenities and conveniences we've thoughtfully incorporated into every aspect of your stay. We offer luxury glamping tents, that are nestled in nature underneath an eagle’s nest, that you can view from the luxury and privacy of your own glamping tent. There is a nearby wooden boardwalk that takes you to the beautiful beachfront where you can have picnics, bike rides, paddle boarding, bird watching, nature photography, and some breathtaking sunsets. Book your stay with us today and embark on a remarkable retreat that will leave you refreshed, renewed, and forever transformed. Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat, your gateway to tranquillity and personal growth.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cowboy Camp

20. Cowboy Camp

97%
(269)
Port Townsend, WA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
full Chuckwagon dinner at Cowboy Camp on Saturday night , see full menu below, and have also added Cowboy breakfast on Sunday mornings when campers are present, consisting of scrambled eggs with/or without spinach and cheese served with grilled whole wheat toast, large fluffy pancake, choice of bacon or sausage patty, glass of orange juice and bottomless cup of coffee, ($15 per person). Allowances are made for food allergies, preferences and requests. Breakfast can be ordered the night before. Why cook and wash dishes when you don't have to? Just relax and enjoy the camping experience. CAMPSITES Here on our property, you can choose from simple walk in campsites with no special amenities, to a full campsite with picnic table, fire ring, and space for tent or trailer, up to a full size camper trailer parking area. We also have the lovely Cowboy wall tent with electricity and extra plugs for charging devices, a small electric heater, larger dorm style refrigerator, Queen size bed and all the bedding, additional oversized twin bed with bedding, 2 lamps, love seat reclining sofa and side table, Bistro style table and two chairs, 2 burner hotplate with coffee and tea, plates, cups and silverware, We provide 5 gallon containers of natural snowfall derived city water at your site. The wall tent has a separate porta potty with handwashing station. A larger portapotty is located in the center of the field for easy access from all other campsites. propane shower and shower room up and running. ACTIVITIES Other activities include local trails for hiking and biking, close proximity to Port Townsend, town beach and waterfront and a short drive to the Olympic National forest. FOOD This year, due to positive feedback, we are increasing our offering of a full course Chuckwagon dinner, two person minimum, paid for when you book your campsite. You can select from smoked pulled pork, BBQ chicken, Smoked ribs or the vegetarian selection, baked spaghetti squash stuffed with a blend of marinara, roasted zucchini, yellow squash and bell peppers, topped with parmesan cheese. Sides served with the dinner include roasted corn on the cob ( in season), potato salad, homemade Horseshoe beans, corn bread and blackberry cobbler . You provide the beverage. Guests meander over to the cook tent at about 6 pm and enjoy dinner seated around tables and chairs complete with plates, cups and silverware. Dinner is served by reservation only on Saturday nights. Dinner is $30.00 per person. 24 hour advance notice required so your food is always fresh. Breakfast ( described in intro above, is $15 per person) THE PROPERTY Just what is Cowboy Camp, you might ask. The traditional definition refers to sleeping outside under the stars with only a bedroll, a fire and the night sky for companions. But if you are a fan of the western genre and lifestyle, you might also know it as a place to go to hang out with like minded folks and experience the Cowboy lifestyle. This includes all people, men and women alike, as the term "Cowboy" is largely generic and not gender oriented. A taste of that lifestyle is what we are offering here at our Cowboy Camp. HORSES It wouldn't be Cowboy Camp without horses and they are definitely present. They can be heard whinnying at mealtimes and throughout the day as they keep in touch with each other. They are generally quiet at night. Horses are not allowed in camping areas when campers are present. No farm would be complete without chickens and ours is no exception. A few hens can generally be seen wandering around the barn searching for bugs, We do not have a rooster, so guests can sleep peacefully. We are offering camping sites ranging from simple tent sites with fire ring, picnic table and soft sandy tent sites to small cabin type tents with beds and electricity. As part of your cowboy camp experience you can sign up for a horsemanship lesson involving handling and grooming horses and time spent working with the horse in the round pen. (There is no actual riding such as a trail ride offered at this time, we are working on that). You can also sign up for a roping lesson. Learn to throw a loop and catch "Little blue", our roping dummy steer head. HIKES AND BIKES We also have games of horseshoes ( with real horseshoes) and corn hole boards. You can take a hike around the property on our trail through mature Douglas fir and majestic Western cedar forest. A 1/4 mile walk down our quiet country gravel road will take you to the 80 acre Jefferson County Land trust forest with several beautiful trails meandering through mature uncut forest. These trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. That forest further connects to the Cappy's trail system, a network of several miles of trails that will wind around and eventually lead into Port Townsend itself if you choose to venture into town. Or you can choose to travel via mountain bike or foot approximately one mile down the road to the DNR forest property that will lead you through more gorgeous wooded and open areas to access the Larry Scott trail, a 7.3 mile out and back firm surface multi-use trail that leads either out of town through the woods or to the north directly into Port Townsend along the scenic waterfront. Our beautiful piece of property is comprised of almost 11 acres situated on the northeast tip of the Olympic Peninsula just outside the quaint Victorian seaport town of Port Townsend. It lies approximately 4 miles from downtown with its many art galleries, restaurants, shops, boat harbor, farmer's market and the historic Rose theater. The farm itself is located within a section of old growth forest comprised of 100 year old Doug Firs, cedar trees and alder groves. There is an open pasture area in the center of the property, which is ringed completely by thick stands of forest, so it feels completely private. You have to look closely to see the neighboring two houses through the forest. The horses are excluded from camping areas during your visit, and will most likely be housed on neighboring property while guests are present. No need to worry about curious horses coming into your campsite to say hello. It is a wildlife paradise with frequent visits from local deer, bald eagles, ducks on the pond, owls nesting in the trees, and coyotes travelling through. The frog pond is alive all night with singing. If you are a light sleeper you might consider earplugs. We have created a walking trail through the forest around the land that is full of the sounds of life and birds. A pileated woodpecker makes its home in the back corner and two pairs of barred owls also inhabit the nearby Douglas firs. They can be heard at night calling out as they settle in for the evening. An important note for the walking explorer, please be aware that many areas of the farm are in their natural state. This means you might encounter prickly plants such as star thistle, nettles and tansy ragwort. We are happy to identify these for you if you are unfamiliar with them. Please be aware and dress in long pants and long sleeves while hiking. There are no poisonous snakes present in this region. We train horses here so there is a full size riding arena and training round pen. On any given day, you might see horses being trained and ridden. MORE ABOUT THE FOOD At the end of your day of adventures, you can opt to sign up ( when your site is booked) for a delicious feast at Cowboy Camp. Using old time traditional Dutch oven cooking techniques and slow smoking methods, meals are comprised of such items as slow cooked smoked pork shoulder or ribs, Dutch oven baked "Horseshoe Beans" ( a crowd favorite), fire roasted corn on the cob (in season) , homemade potato salad, green spinach salad, and of course dessert such as homemade blackberry cobbler or pineapple upside down cake. Vegetarian selections are also available upon request. ADVENTURES CLOSE BY Venturing out from the farm you can sign up to go on a whale watching excursion with Puget Sound Express out of Port Townsend. Seeing a whale is guaranteed or you get a free return trip. Also, the Olympic National Park is only a short one hour drive to the west and the view from Hurricane Ridge is not to be missed. Your Hosts: Property owners Karma and Rick come with a long extensive history of experience in the horse industry and western culture. Together they share over 100 years of experience with horses, both having ridden since young children. Karma loves sharing her knowledge of horses and horsemanship with others and has been a certified riding instructor for many years. Rick grew up with a horse and cattle background from a young age. As a young man he competed in the rodeo sports of bareback broncs, calf roping, bull riding and team roping. He then worked as a professional farrier, horse trainer and ranch employee in Texas. He learned the art of Texas BBQ cooking while living and working on Texas ranches. He loves to cook for others and enjoys sharing tales of the ranch life. You can choose to be as involved as you like during your visit. You can sit quietly in the forest and just enjoy peace and quiet if you so desire. We will not bother you. Our goal is simply to provide you with a beautiful place to relax, play, and enjoy during your visit. So come on out, set a spell, and enjoy a wonderful day, weekend, or week here at Cowboy Camp. Side note : Due to the presence of horses, chickens and various wildlife on the property, in addition to outdoor cooking activities, we do not allow outside dogs at this time. Thank you for your understanding.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Deception Pass camping guide

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for sunset: Bowman Bay
  • Best for paddlers: Ben Ure Island
  • Best for groups: Cranberry Lake

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve all of the park’s 172 tent sites, 134 partial-hookup sites, and five hiker/biker sites online. 
  2. Deception Pass is a popular state park. Reservations should be made in advance, especially for summer weekends. All campsites can be reserved online, up to nine months in advance of the arrival date. 
  3. The Ben Ure Cabin on Ben Ure Island is accessible only by kayak or rowboat, and guests must bring their own water.

When to go

Deception Pass State Park is open year-round. In the Coastal Northwest’s relatively mild climate, there’s never a bad time to visit. Summers, especially on weekends and holidays, are very busy here. But come in the shoulder season—in the spring or early summer, before July 4—or early fall, after Memorial Day, and you’re more likely to find seclusion. Weekdays are generally a better bet, too.

Know before you go

  • You can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at the Bowman Bay concession stand from April through September. 
  • Visitors will need to display a day-use or annual Discover Pass. The park has automated pay stations dispensing both, along with boat launch permits. 
  • The park has 1.2 miles of ADA hiking trails, in addition to three miles of bike trails, six miles of horse trails, and 38 miles of hiking trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, campfires are allowed in Deception Pass State Park, except during burn bans or restrictions. They can only be in designated fire rings or grills provided at the campgrounds. The park has three main campgrounds: Cranberry Lake, Forest, and Quarry Pond, all of which have fire rings at individual campsites. Remember to follow fire safety rules and check for any fire restrictions or burn bans that may be in place during your visit. Also, keep in mind that collecting firewood from the park is not allowed; you must bring your own firewood or purchase it from the park's concessionaire.

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to day-use areas at Deception Pass State Park. However, if you have a camping reservation, the camping fee includes one vehicle access without the need for a separate Discover Pass. Additional vehicles at the campsite will require a Discover Pass. You can purchase a Discover Pass online, at a retail location, or at a self-pay station at the park. For more information on Deception Pass camping, visit Hipcamp.

Black bears have been sighted in the general vicinity of Deception Pass State Park, but they are not commonly found within the park itself. However, it is always a good idea to follow proper food storage and safety guidelines when camping in any wilderness area to minimize the risk of attracting wildlife.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Deception Pass trips