Beach Camping in San Juan Islands, Washington: Best Beach Campsites 2024

United States
—
Washington
—
San Juan Islands

94% (3168 reviews)

Popular camping styles for San Juan Islands

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

96%

(132)

Crescent Beach & RV

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Port Angeles, WA

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, quarter-operated laundry facilities, and quarter-operated hot showers. 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.

West Beach Resort

75 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Eastsound, WA

West Beach Resort is located on the sunny and pristine west side of Orcas Island, Washington. We are a private destination resort specializing in providing guests with an authentic San Juan Islands getaway. We have been an Orcas Island lodging and hotel destination since 1938. Stay in our fully-equipped beachfront cabins on our world class walk-out, west-facing, sand/pebble beach and watch the sunset as you relive the day’s adventures from your private beach fire pit. We also offer ocean view and garden cabins, RV, camping, marina, boat rentals, general store, kayak and canoe rentals, and a seasonal activities kiosk and beachfront food service. Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind Pacific Northwest experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic family summer vacation spot or that romantic retreat in the off-season, you simply won’t find a more stunning location for your escape to Washington's paradise that is Orcas Island's West Beach Resort.

98%

(75)

Samish Island Bluff

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Bow, WA

Come and experience the beauty of Samish Island at this private high bank campsite. Enjoy the amazing water and mountain views from this unique property while lounging in your van, relaxing in your tent or hanging out on the spacious decks. Convenience of a drive on island and only 20 minutes to the freeway. Single campsite is located at the front of the property perched at the bluff edge, boasting amazing sunsets, panoramic water views of Samish + Bellingham bay with Blanchard and Chuckanut in the background. Bring your toys or just enjoy the view. Located just steps from the public beach access you can enjoy clamming, kayaking, paddle boarding or just beach combing. There is also a regularly serviced Honey bucket at the park access. Bikes are a great option for exploring the island and the surrounding area including all that Edison has to offer just a few miles away. Site includes a designated parking space, two large decks with a pergola, gazebo, timber table, firepit and adirondack chairs for enjoying the view. we are best setup for tent campers w/ single vehicle, trucks w/ slide in campers, vans etc. We CANNOT accommodate travel trailers at this site! No power/water/bathroom facilities Friendly pets are welcome, please pick up after your furry friends and keep them on leash or long line *firewood/bikes/kayaks/paddle boards not provided The residence is not currently occupied and we are starting repairs and renovations on the back buildings later this year, so you may see me in/out some days as I base my construction business from the shop at the back of the property Please enjoy the private campsite area and refrain from exploring the back of the property or other buildings.

97%

(129)

Full Circle Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Coupeville, WA

Come enjoy camping amongst the tall cedars and evergreens. Take a 20 min walk, 3 min drive, or even ride your bike down to the Keystone beach. If you are lucky, you’ll get to watch the local OLF Navy fighter jets do their touch and go over head. The same ones you saw in the Top Gun movies! Play with the goats, watch the horses next door graze and gather eggs from the chickens in the garden. Once the orchard produces fruit, choose from Italian plums, apples, cherries, peaches, and pears. Hungry for local delicacies? Famous Penn Cove is just a few miles away where you can get world famous mussels. Gourmet restaurants such as Callen’s on the water, Gordon’s, and Front Street Grill are a must. Looking for pub food? Head down to Toby’s on the historic water front where Practical Magic was filmed! Grab your local coffee and fresh from scratch baked goods at Cedar & Salt Coffee House. Want to sight see or hike? Head to Ebey's bluff or Fort Casey just minutes away. End your stay with gift shops on historic front street. You won’t run out if things to do here in beautiful Coupeville! If you'd like to stay, but don't have a camper, rent from our friends at kamperage.com *Disclaimer; We are on a farm, you will hear roosters. Jets do fly, they can be noisy. We do not offer WiFi or trash service either. Cancelations made less than 24hrs notice will not be subject to a refund. All other refunds are made through Hipcamp and you should automatically see your refund within 3-5 business days.

98%

(312)

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.

12 top beach campgrounds in San Juan Islands

96%

(132)

Crescent Beach & RV

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Port Angeles, WA

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, quarter-operated laundry facilities, and quarter-operated hot showers. 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.

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.

Full Circle Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Coupeville, WA

Come enjoy camping amongst the tall cedars and evergreens. Take a 20 min walk, 3 min drive, or even ride your bike down to the Keystone beach. If you are lucky, you’ll get to watch the local OLF Navy fighter jets do their touch and go over head. The same ones you saw in the Top Gun movies! Play with the goats, watch the horses next door graze and gather eggs from the chickens in the garden. Once the orchard produces fruit, choose from Italian plums, apples, cherries, peaches, and pears. Hungry for local delicacies? Famous Penn Cove is just a few miles away where you can get world famous mussels. Gourmet restaurants such as Callen’s on the water, Gordon’s, and Front Street Grill are a must. Looking for pub food? Head down to Toby’s on the historic water front where Practical Magic was filmed! Grab your local coffee and fresh from scratch baked goods at Cedar & Salt Coffee House. Want to sight see or hike? Head to Ebey's bluff or Fort Casey just minutes away. End your stay with gift shops on historic front street. You won’t run out if things to do here in beautiful Coupeville! If you'd like to stay, but don't have a camper, rent from our friends at kamperage.com *Disclaimer; We are on a farm, you will hear roosters. Jets do fly, they can be noisy. We do not offer WiFi or trash service either. Cancelations made less than 24hrs notice will not be subject to a refund. All other refunds are made through Hipcamp and you should automatically see your refund within 3-5 business days.

West Beach Resort

75 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Eastsound, WA

West Beach Resort is located on the sunny and pristine west side of Orcas Island, Washington. We are a private destination resort specializing in providing guests with an authentic San Juan Islands getaway. We have been an Orcas Island lodging and hotel destination since 1938. Stay in our fully-equipped beachfront cabins on our world class walk-out, west-facing, sand/pebble beach and watch the sunset as you relive the day’s adventures from your private beach fire pit. We also offer ocean view and garden cabins, RV, camping, marina, boat rentals, general store, kayak and canoe rentals, and a seasonal activities kiosk and beachfront food service. Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind Pacific Northwest experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic family summer vacation spot or that romantic retreat in the off-season, you simply won’t find a more stunning location for your escape to Washington's paradise that is Orcas Island's West Beach Resort.

Samish Island Bluff

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Bow, WA

Come and experience the beauty of Samish Island at this private high bank campsite. Enjoy the amazing water and mountain views from this unique property while lounging in your van, relaxing in your tent or hanging out on the spacious decks. Convenience of a drive on island and only 20 minutes to the freeway. Single campsite is located at the front of the property perched at the bluff edge, boasting amazing sunsets, panoramic water views of Samish + Bellingham bay with Blanchard and Chuckanut in the background. Bring your toys or just enjoy the view. Located just steps from the public beach access you can enjoy clamming, kayaking, paddle boarding or just beach combing. There is also a regularly serviced Honey bucket at the park access. Bikes are a great option for exploring the island and the surrounding area including all that Edison has to offer just a few miles away. Site includes a designated parking space, two large decks with a pergola, gazebo, timber table, firepit and adirondack chairs for enjoying the view. we are best setup for tent campers w/ single vehicle, trucks w/ slide in campers, vans etc. We CANNOT accommodate travel trailers at this site! No power/water/bathroom facilities Friendly pets are welcome, please pick up after your furry friends and keep them on leash or long line *firewood/bikes/kayaks/paddle boards not provided The residence is not currently occupied and we are starting repairs and renovations on the back buildings later this year, so you may see me in/out some days as I base my construction business from the shop at the back of the property Please enjoy the private campsite area and refrain from exploring the back of the property or other buildings.

97%

(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.

Sequim Prairie Mountain View

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Sequim, WA

4.5 acres of horse boarding with round pen surrounded by hay fields, pasture and horses.

Rosario Camp & RV

16 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Anacortes, WA

Location: On Rosario Road, directly across the street from Cougar Gap Road (Rosario Beach). Property: This gorgeous piece of property is located on beautiful Fidalgo Island (Anacortes, Washington), less than one minute away from Deception Pass State Park. Yes, we are within walking distance of Deception Pass State Park and we border Pass Lake. This amazing Hipcamp is located on just under 17 gorgeous acres, with amazing water and forest views. This breathtaking location is extremely unique, because we are surrounded by Deception Pass State Park. Wildlife: When it comes to wildlife, you will wake-up to the beautiful and rejuvenating melodies of a plethora of wild birds, chipmunks, squirrels, woodpeckers,, etc. During your stay, you will cross paths with deer and various other wild animals, in this very natural and pristine setting. Vegetation: While enjoying your stay at Rosario Camp & RV, you’ll also enjoy a medley of flora, such as the Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Pacific Madrone and many other native trees. In addition, you’ll be able to taste absolutely delicious in-season wild berries, view Pacific Bleeding hearts, vine maples and many more different types of vegetation, native to Northwestern Washington. Many Fun Activities: In this location, you will have so many spots to enjoy various water sport activities , which include: Pass Lake (no motors), Bowman Bay, Lake Campbell, etc. At our beautiful Hipcamp location you’re, literally, in the middle of it all. If you’d like, you may choose to walk, bike, moped or drive across the street (Rosario Road), to Deception Pass State Park, to explore various views and go for absolutely amazing hikes. You may choose to go on long mountain bike rides, with breathtaking views of Deception Pass Bridge, Bowman Bay and more. Perhaps, you’ll choose to rent a paddle board, canoe, kayak, boat or simply bring your own. There is scuba diving and scuba diving classes available, in the area. How about going on a fly fishing adventure, for stocked cutthroat, rainbow and/or brown trout (15”-29”+), at beautiful Pass Lake. If you’re interested in yachting or fishing the “big water” that is also an option, in the area of Anacortes (A-Town). There are many different tours available, at and around Deception Pass State Park, on land and/or on one of our area lakes or in the big water. We also have numerous exciting festivals, outdoor concerts, bike and boat races, for you, your family and friends to enjoy. We are really looking forward to meeting you and sharing our very special, unique and beautiful Hipcamp, with you. Fine Dining/Restaurants; Fine Dining: Anacortes has absolutely spectacular restaurants and specialty dining spots (e.g. The Majestic, Naung Mai Thai, Anthony’s, Nonna Luisa Ristorante, 5th Street Bistro, Coconut Kenny’s, Bastion Brewing Company, Bob’s Chowder Bar, The Shrimp Shack, Bamboo Bistro and many other memorable restaurants. There are 15 campsites available, at our Anacortes Hipcamp (Rosario Camp & RV) location. So, book your beautiful campsite, today.

Guemes North Homestead

7 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Anacortes, WA

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

96%

(271)

Skagit river camping

17 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sedro Woolley, WA

End of the road. Start of an epic camping weekend. River to the side, Cascade foothill mountains surround. One flush toilet, porta potty and shower. Each site has river access. Sand and grass. Close to the north cascades. Minutes from live music, bars and quality mexican restaurant. Rails to trail for bikes and walking. Tward the end of july the river starts to recede opening up more possibilities of having interaction with the river. That being said its crucial you keep an eye out on your kids. We had a guy out here who almost killed his kids multiple times underestimating the current. Watch out!!Kinda going for the peaceful, listen to the river and birds, vibe. Would rather there be no music and if there is then super low and off by 7

98%

(112)

River Rejuvenation Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Concrete, WA

Private property as well as private beach Access nestled in the trees with the beautiful woods and an amazing view of the skagit River. Activities include fishing, swimming, river rafting, kayaking, and wild bird watching. Also, we have 3 fire pits available: 1 in ground near the gazebo overlooking on the river 2 portable. Alcohol and marijuana are okay as long as they are used responsibly.

100%

(14)

Contributaries - Riverside Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Deming, WA

Secluded river haven nestled on the west bank of the glacially fed North Fork of the Nooksack river, this peaceful property sits directly on the river bank surrounded by wildlife and nature. Big leaf maple trees provide shade throughout the day. Resident bald eagles, the occasional brown eagle, blue heron, trout, owls, beavers and all five species of native salmon are a few potential wildlife encounters. Various types of edible berries including salmonberries, thimbleberries, elderberries, mountain blackberries, huckleberries and of course blackberries. Every morning provides a symphony of song birds welcoming the rising sun with a good chance of sharing the river with bald eagles and blue herons. Beautiful sunrises overlooking the North Fork and pink alpenglow over slide mountain with the setting sun. 30 minutes from Bellingham bay, 30 minutes from Mount Baker ski area and extensive hiking trails and mountain lakes, 30 minutes from the Canadian border, 45 minutes from North Cascades National Park. The North Fork Brewery is a 2 minute drive north for great food and beer. Multiple grocery stores within 10 minutes. Activities include fishing, swimming, kayaking, rafting, photography, bird watching, sunbathing, earthing, yoga or just relaxing by the fire watching the river. Private parking and multiple campsites with direct access to North Fork of the Nooksack river. Amenities include: Clean (new) porta-potty, hand washing station, access to electricity and fresh water spigot / hose, high speed wireless internet. Available for rent are various sized tents, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, camp stove, propane, hammocks, etc. We respect and cherish privacy so you won't hear from us (unless you request someone to pick guitar or banjo around the campfire). Driveway exactly at mile marker 20 on the right if you're travelling north (river side) - see site photos for picture of driveway entrance. Shared driveway with neighbor - everything on the left hand side of the driveway as you enter is NOT our property (no trespassing). Please drive slowly, and use EXTREME caution when leaving - very limited line of sight around the corner and traffic is moving fast!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

93%

(55)

Deception Pass State Park

Whidbey Island Station, Washington

97%

(20)

Moran State Park

Friday Harbor, Washington

Spencer Spit State Park

Friday Harbor, Washington

100%

(3)

Joseph Whidbey State Park

Bellingham, Washington

100%

(9)

Fort Flagler State Park

Marrowstone, Washington

100%

(3)

Fort Townsend State Park

Port Hadlock Irondale, Washington

92%

(8)

Fort Ebey State Park

Coupeville, Washington

Our two week camp set up, first time trying it out. worked really well

90%

(12)

Birch Bay State Park

Birch Bay, Washington

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping in San Juan Islands guide

Overview

Sandwiched between the state of Washington and Vancouver Island in Canada in the Salish Sea, the San Juan Islands comprise four main islands and hundreds of smaller islands and rock formations. The San Juans are popular for getaways, particularly in the summer months, and offer all sorts of things to do, from biking and hiking trails to kayaking expeditions and whale-watching trips. The Washington State Ferry system offers service to the islands from Anacortes, Washington or from British Columbia. There’s also a passenger ferry—the Puget Sound Express—that links Friday Harbor on San Juan Island with the city of Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula.

Where to go

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is the biggest island in the San Juans, and has plenty of amenities, including restaurants, museums, shops, and camping options. It’s also home to the largest of Washington’s state parks—Moran State Park—a fantastic place for hiking, and boating. Tent and RV camping is available in the park, but campers need to secure reservations ahead of time. If you have your own boat, you can also visit nearby Sucia Island Marine State Park, an uninhabited, pristine spot directly north of Orcas Island.

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is popular among adventurers and history lovers, and the San Juan Island National Historical Park is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn about the Pig War, a boundary dispute between Britain and the U.S. that all started because of a trespassing pig. The park is for day use only, but you'll find tent and RV sites at San Juan County Park on the west side of San Juan Island, overlooking Haro Straight, and at the San Juan County Fairgrounds.

Lopez Island

The third-most populated island in the chain, Lopez Island offers 63 miles of shoreline and a mix of forests, farmlands, galleries, and boutiques. The island is popular among cyclists, with quiet, mostly flat roads, and has a few great places to camp, including Spencer Spit State Park, which has reservable and hiker/biker sites, a dump station, flush toilets, but no hookups or showers, and Odlin County Park has seven RV sites for vehicles less than 30-feet-long, but no hookups.

Shaw Island

Shaw Island is the smallest of the four main San Juan Islands that are accessible by ferry, with a year-round population of only around 200 people. You can camp at Shaw County Park, which offers 11 tent camping sites, a boat launch, picnic tables, and fire pits. Island facilities are limited, but there is a general store by the ferry landing where you can buy food and supplies.