River, stream, or creek camping in Deception Pass

Sleep in old-growth forests next to the state’s most epic bridge span.

95% (6392 reviews)
95% (6392 reviews)

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12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Deception Pass

99%
(324)

Grace E.’s Mini Forest Cabins

12 sites · Lodging12 acres · Arlington, WA
This property is supposedly one of the first homesteads in Jordan Road. This information is based on stories from some old timers my husband had spoken to in the past when he bought this property in 2002. The owner back in the old days sold off parcels and parcels of lands back then. The property is all fenced in, a place where your fur buddy can run free so you don't have to worry of the baby getting lost! Hopefully you'll get a visit from a deer and hear the hooting of the owl. :) You are welcome to check out our goats too if you want (they're in their enclosed space). The surroundings are peaceful and private, you will enjoy exploring the trails all around the 9 acres out of 12 we are sharing. Stroll down the hill to listen to the sounds of the creek and fish ladder. Our campground cabins are about 4.9 miles from the 'Granite Falls Fish Ladder'. Visit this beauty at Mountain Loop Highway if you fancy a little hike. Drive around 7 miles to the 'Lime Kiln Trailhead. The trail is full of amazing views and history. Our place is only about 45 minutes from Seattle. Why not pack your tent and sleeping bags then drive here after work, then leave in the morning. Leave your worries behind.. enjoy nature.
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$121.25
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98%
(314)

North Wind House: Historic Cascadia

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Everson, WA
Step back in time to 1890 on this rustic and authentic organic homestead property. We have worked to ensure that you feel the rich cultural and natural heritage of this rugged wilderness in the North Cascade foothills. Within an hour or two of Seattle, Vancouver BC, Mt Baker, The Salish Sea and so much more. We have lava tube swimming holes on the property, and glacier fed spring water, and The property is adjacent to the easily accessible and incredile Nooksack Valley Gold mine Trail.Come experience life as it once was in the Cascadia bio-region.Learn more about this land:Nestled on the first foothills of the Cascades, this 30 acre historic farm property established in 1890 has an array of beautiful and private tenting sights from grassy fields to lush rainforest. The land is rustic and charming with many species of trees and wildlife. 
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$55.80
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96%
(26)

Rowley River Resort

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Granite Falls, WA
WINTER UPDATE: Due to the Pilchuck rivers ability to rise and flood rapidly, the yurt is down for the winter. It will be set back up in the spring. The property can still be rented for RV or tent use. Should you decide to stay with us, we will monitor the river levels and if needed you will be fully reimbursed should there need to cancel. The shower will also be closed for the river. Price difference reflects effective November 1st and will resume March 1 of each year. The River Resort sits on the Pilchuck River, which is located on a dead end private gravel road. Plenty of space to pitch a tent or three. In the summer months, tents and RV's can be used as there is a long drive-way that leads to the river spot. There is power for RV hook up close by, room for additional RVs with power at additional cost but they have to stay in the drive to the river spot. There is a CLEAN custom made vault restroom for both men/women with lots of wall reading plagues for your bathroom entertainment!!! Also, an instant hot water tank for a shower for guest to use between March 1 thru November 1 of each year.. There are two picnic table, a propane grill, a propane fireplace for when there is a burn ban, bring your own propane tank or rent one from us for $15.00 a night. There is a wood fire pit by the river. A covered gazebo over another wood pit that is shared with Bruce and Lynn during rainy times. (Again Gas and wood provided for an additional fee, a wheel barrel full of good dry wood for $25.00). Owners live on property but you’ll have 100% privacy at River (unless you want to kick it with a couple cool people), a couple bikes for bike rides (kids mainly). The listing is for eight people on the property but if you choose to bring additional guest, it will be five dollars per night per guest ages 5 and above. (please do not include 5 and under in your booking to ensure you are not charged. But we do ask you do list everyone 5 and above so we know who will be on property. We are a recycle family so please use our recycle bin Coming summer of 25, we will be having an additional YURT for your use. So plan those family get togethers! We ask that you remove your shoes while in yurts. Animals are welcome and they can be inside the yurts, we ask they stay off furniture/beds. Also, we provide doggie poo bags and a shovel so pick up what they leave behind them. We have a camp box that can be rented if you want to camp but do not have typical camping supplies. We have lots of flyers for local activities and restaurants menus. But ask us, we know a lot about local activities. Wifi in on property. But come relax and let the stresses of daily life until you get back home from being on this beautiful property. Fall asleep to the river flowing!
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$100
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99%
(457)

Dick's Last Resort on the River

2 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Sequim, WA
^^NEW FOR 2024 ** SALMON FISHING Catch Coho Salmon steps from your campsite. I have a 1/4 mile of river frontage with several productive fishing holes. We’re located in Sequim Wa on the Dungeness River. 2024 Season is projected to be October16-November 30th. Please check WDFW website for the most current info in the Dungeness River. Be advise, WDFW can change the open and closing dates or temporarily suspend fishing at any time. Not to worry. The Olympic Peninsula has many productive rivers to fish. *****************************************Welcome to Dicks Last Resort on the River. Voted “ Best Campsite in Washington State Runner Up” 2022 and 2023. Our 16 acre private riverfront property is located on the Dungeness River just outside the city of Sequim in Clallam County on the Olympic Peninsula. There are just two very large campsites. Each site can accommodate two RV’s or just a bunch of tents. You will have full access to the parcel allowing you to explore or just hang out at the river. We are pet friendly. Well behaved dogs can be off leash this vacation The nearest towns are Port Angeles, Port Townsend, Victoria B.C., and Sequim where you’ll find restaurants, wineries, and more. The nearest attractions are Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge, Olympic Discovery Trail, Ferry Dock to Victoria B.C., Lake Crescent, and Hoh Rainforest where you can enjoy activities such as: boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, winter activities, hiking, biking, etc. Also, you can ride directly from the campsite to some fabulous mountain biking trails at Dungeness Trails. PLEASE NOTE, Both sites are equipped with an additional RV parking spot right on the river with 30 amp power and Wifi for an additional $45.00 per night. PLEASE ADD THIS AS AN EXTRA AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Summer annual events include the Lavender Festival and Irrigation Festival."
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$90
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98%
(622)

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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$50
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High Bluff

13 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! ATTENTION: Trail is under maintenance! 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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(17)

The Glendale Farm

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents186 acres · Chimacum, WA
At 180 acres Glendale Farm in Chimacum, in operation since 1857, is one of the largest single agricultural properties remaining in Jefferson County. The farm includes prime agricultural soils, over half a mile of East Chimacum Creek, and forested uplands. The farm continues to provide food, fiber, and habitat for future generations. The easement protects a buffer zone for salmon and wildlife habitat along the east fork of Chimacum Creek and protects the agricultural and forestry values of the property forever. Jefferson Land Trust worked with Jefferson County and Jefferson LandWorks Collaborative partners to purchase the easement with state Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program Farmland Preservation grant funds, Jefferson County Conservation Futures funds, and community funds. The Glendale Farm is 1/4 mile walk to and from FinnRiver Farms, where you can enjoy cider, beer, live music, delicious snacks each and every weekend! you can check out their seasonal events here: https://www.finnriver.com/farm-music-event-calendar if you want organic produce and locally raised meats it's just a bit further ( 200 yards) to the Chimacum corner farmstead: https://www.chimacumcorner.com If you love music on a magical summer afternoon with delightful chamber music its 6.5 miles to Concerts in the Barn. see the schedule here: https://www.concertsinthebarn.org/summer-program if you like long walks on the beach at sunset head over to Fort Flagler state park. Just 6.5 miles and easily accessible by bike or car. check it out here: https://parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/fort-flagler-historical-state-park and of course The lovely Port Townsend has all your modern amenities and myriad other events and activities https://enjoypt.com
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$31.50
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Elwha RV Park

23 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Port Angeles, WA
Our RV Park & Campground has sites for RVs, van life, and tenting alike whether full hookups, partial hook ups or just dry camping. We have our dry camping and tenting sites listed through Hipcamp. Please inquire with us directly at www. elwhadamrvpark .com for sites with hook-ups and for RVs larger than 20' long. We will need the specs of your tent or RV, your preferences as far as power, or privacy, as well as the number of people, so we can check availability easier. Our Elwha campground property has a peaceful healing vibe, with majesty all around: surrounded by forest with natural springs and the Elwha River just a walk down the trail. We have mountain peaks stand in the distance; with lakes, waterfalls, and ocean experience 5 minutes away, as well as biking and hiking trails starting right from our property. We include amenities of Wi-Fi, garden, laundry and showers, games, and more. We usually fit people to the best site available according to their preferences. You'll find this park conveniently located just off of Scenic Highway 112, by the beautiful Elwha River Canyon and the former Lower Elwha Dam site. ***PLEASE NOTE: Our site number assignments are subject to change at any time. We do not have designated RV site assignments in advance of your reservation date. WE CANNOT PROMISE SPECIFIC SITE NUMBERS, although we can guarantee that you will be accommodated in the site class you have booked and we will do our best to accommodate any request for a specific area.***
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$45
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(256)

Chuckanut Hills Farm & Camp

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · 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.
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$48.80
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Group Camping At Cedar Star Ranch

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Bellingham, WA
Welcome to Cedar Star Ranch! A destination designed for large groups and private events. We look forward to hosting you soon. The CAMPGROUND at Cedar Star Ranch is located in a private and heavily forested area of the property. Currently, the grounds are available to rent individually or in its entirety. The campground includes two covered 12’x20’ shelters, one 8'x16' cabin, and three tent sites. Each site has a fire pit, picnic tables, room for additional tents, and parking as well. Surrounding the sites is a playground, covered community cooking/dining with multiple BBQs and smoker, a pond, open fields, and a quaint dog park. All amenities are easily accessible by the road that loops through the campground. This listing is for the CAMPGROUND ONLY. The property has other homes available for rent including a large home (sleeps 16), a smaller home (sleeps 4), and an indoor event venue. Additional accommodations and access may be possible as well. Please message us with inquiries about other rental options.
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$30
 / night

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

River, stream, or creek camping in Deception Pass guide

Overview

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. 

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.

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