97% (20 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Moran State Park adventure.
Relax by a picturesque mountain lake in the heart of the San Juan Islands.
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Stay at a public campground in Moran State Park
Top-rated campgrounds near Moran State Park
100%
(31)
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.
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$85
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(487)
High Bluff
12 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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87%
(102)
Ravensong Refuge
7 sites · Tents10 acres · Eastsound, WA
10 acres of meadows, forest, garden, pond and seasonal stream on Orcas Island, WA! Camp in a grove of cedars or in a meadow by the pond. Orcas Island at large is a special place to connect with nature and healthy ecosystems.Moran State Park on the east side of the island is a fabulous evergreen rainforest sanctuary with old growth trees and amazing lakes to explore. Turtleback mountain is on the west side (close to us) and is a sacred mountain full of oak trees and splendid views of the surrounding islands, including Vancouver island in the distance. Some other features not to miss are whale watching, kayaking, and the excellent restaurants around the island. Our homestead is a great place to rest, recharge and sink in.There is no longer an outdoor kitchen for use and due to fire hazard/liability the sauna is not for use either.
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$50
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(2)
Rosario Camp & RV
15 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Anacortes, WA
Location: 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. Therefore, we are extremely fortunate to have the state park, so close to our Rosario Camp & RV location.
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.
Casual & 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.
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$65
/ night
97%
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West Beach Resort
28 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.
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$49
/ night
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(60)
The Lookout
3 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Clear Lake, WA
The Lookout is an amazing piece of property with elevations with 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 a private mountain bike flow trail (experts only at this time). More trails coming this fall!
Check us out on IG @___the_lookout
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$45
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(57)
Saltgrass Garden
1 site · Lodging5 acres · La Conner, WA
Join us in our cabin overlooking the saltwater at the mouth of Turner Bay. This is a family property with the host on site in the main house. The cabin is really cozy as we have an HVAC system so you can stay warm in the winter months, and cool in the summer.
The unique property allows for many fun outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, crabbing; and fishing (seasonal), Birding, bicycling and playing on the beach, high tide twice a day brings in all sorts of wildlife as well as the occasional message in a bottle.
For small craft (kayak or canoe) boating from here the most accurate tide chart is La Conner Wash. There must be a high tide to get in or out of our little bay.
https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=9448558
We are located very close to many amenities. Some of which you need to call ahead to arrange. For instance, rock climbing, or kayak rentals. You will find the Swinomish Casino and golf course within two miles. Or spend time exploring the little shops and local entertainment in the small towns of Anacortes and La Conner. You can also take a day trip to the San Juan Islands by taking a scenic ferry ride out of Anacortes.
While you're here you may meet our pup Turner, or our cats Poly and Minnie, we also have several chickens that provide us with eggs most of the time. Also on the property are your hosts Jeri and Nancy, as well as our handyman Shawn who lives in a retro build bus at the north end. Saltgrass boasts beautiful flowers, vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and yes, the Bay. We try to live harmoniously with the land. We would love to share our space with you!
Our property has hosted many events, such as weddings, family reunions, company picnics, a music festival, and life celebrations. If you are interested, please let us know. We are always evolving our land to share with others.
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$130
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Lookout Arts Quarry Campground
8 sites · RVs, Tents61 acres · WA
The Lookout Arts Quarry is a rural forested arts center community, event venue, WWOOF host and permaculture playground dedicated to wetland restoration. We host international artist residencies, festivals, and, important for campers: the best fresh swimming hole around.
This is a campground for more self-sufficient and adventurous folks who want an alternative experience. The forests of the LAQ house myriad art installations and treasures; check out the "Saloon" stage, the pirate ship, and then jump into the 80-foot deep rainwater lake! Bring paddle boards and floating toys 🤿🐬 lay out in the sun on the floating wooden dock, or squirrel away reading a book in a hammock hidden in dense forest. We guarantee a lovely and unique camping experience.
We are located in the Coast Salish Region on the traditional territory of the Nuwhaha and Nooksack Peoples.
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$44.44
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96%
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Coyote Camp
2 sites · Tents5 acres · Blaine, WA
Whether you're just passing through, wanting to hanging out, on your way somewhere or on your way back to your nesting grounds, Coyote Camp can provide a true "rest stop" along your journey! Our property is surrounded by a ton of recreational sites such as hiking, biking, swimming and so much more!
After a long day of the activity of your choice you can come back and recharge in a quiet, peaceful forest. Or if you are on your way to the recreational destination this land will be sure to nourish your body and spirit before heading off to your adventure!
You're in for a sweet serenading lullaby of coyote songs, your dreams will be held by the cedar boughs and you won't have to worry about missing your alarm clock, the birds around here got your back! Their dawn chorus will be the best ring tone you've ever heard.
We hope you choose us for your adventure and that you enjoy your stay!
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$30
/ night
Squalicum Mountain Base Camp
2 sites · Lodging7 acres · Bellingham, WA
7 lush acres of rolling hills, forest, field and farm for your quiet basecamp to adventures!
- 1/2 mile above 2 lakes to paddle, swim or fish. *can add board or boat $
-1 mile to Whatcom Falls park and Bloedel Donovan
- 7 min. to N. Galbraith/15 min. to South for EPIC riding (beta given as needed!)
can add *tour $
-15 minutes to Squalicum Beach for wing boards and sunsets
- 10 minutes to downtown Bellingham! or 1/2 mile downhill to Lakeline, Silver Beach market, or Westside pizza.
-6 min. from infamous "Britton Rd. meetup" and Mt. Baker Highway
These little cabins in the woods provide a natural setting with views of animals, great stars and peaceful mornings. Gill Hill has 2 private cabins, gardens, trail, pond, stable, sauna, firepit, play barn and all completely seperate from the main house.
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$75
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98%
(104)
The Chuckanut Rock
1 site · Lodging2 acres · Edison, WA
Watch the sunset into the world famous San Juan Islands. Our property is
located on the scenic Chuckanut Drive. It is a 15 minute walk to Taylor United's Seafood Bar that has beer and wine. You will need boots just below the knee, or hiking shoes that will get wet. The Creek crossing is a little deeper this year. You will also be crossing a muddy area for about 20 yards, you will sink about 3 inches into the mud. The hike into the campsite takes 12 minutes. You need to contact me to check the tides, as to be able to get to the campsite. We need to hike in below a 5 foot tide. Starting October, the campsite closes for winter. Again , this campsite is Tide dependent. The first question to me should be, What is the latest we can hike in? I am not Moses, I can’t part the sea.
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$75
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97%
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Waterfront Robins Nest
1 site · RV1 acre · Ferndale, WA
This serene waterfront setting provides views of the San Juan Islands yet only minutes away from downtown Bellingham. Enjoy the best views from your private campsite complete with a picnic table and relaxing adirondack chairs to end the day watching the sunset.Easy access to the water for your kayak or canoe! Enjoy some of the most amazing birdwatching the state has to offer. Eagles and Herron, Redwing black birds, ducks and Canadian Geese making several daily appearances. Spend Hours exploring around this little gem area of the Pacific NW. Golf, swimming and casino all close by. Easy on/off from I-5Guests love it here: "We can not say enough about Robin and her place. It’s private and quiet. She welcomed us warmly with a print out of tides, things to do and general information about the area. We had one day of sun and one day of a storm with 50 mile an hour winds. The storm was amazing to watch tucked into our side of the property. Close to parks, hikes and Bellingham. For people with small children there is a playground just a few houses away. Bring boots or old shoes for low tide. This is by far one of the best places, and hosts, we have had while hip camping. We will be back often this fall and winter."
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$70
/ night
The best camping near Moran State Park guide
Overview
About
In the middle of verdant Orcas Island, Moran State Park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, from boating across Cascade Lake or Mountain Lake to climbing the 1930s-era watchtower at the top of 2,398-foot Mount Constitution (with front-row views of Mount Baker on the mainland) to forays out to the Salish Sea for low-tide exploration. Locals know that getting here is half the fun—watch for orcas in the summer months as you take the ferry from Anacortes to the island. After you’ve pitched your tent, take a hike to look for blacktail deer, river otters, and bald eagles, or kick back to fish for coastal cutthroat trout, kokanee, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for RVs: Northend Campground has multiple spaces that will fit even the longest campers.
- Best for boaters: Midway Campground has a boat ramp for easy accessibility.
- Best for views: Southend Campground has views across the lake and up to Mount Constitution.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Campsite reservations can be made up to nine months in advance.
- The Midway and Mountain Lake campgrounds are open November 1 to April 1 on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Twelve hiker-biker sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis year-round.
- A site in the Southend Campground is reserved for ADA-permitted users (the campground also has an ADA-accessible bathroom).
- A vacation house (for groups up to 8) can be reserved through the Washington State Park Reservation System.
When to go
Moran State Park is open year-round. Summer weekends are typically the most popular--anyone wanting to visit during these times are strongly encouraged to make reservations in advance. Forty-foot Cascade Falls is at its peak in the late spring (as is the fishing for the lake of the same name), while the mild autumns and winters of the San Juans offer plenty of rewards for campers seeking solitude. Mountain bikers should plan to visit between September 15 and May 15, when 25 miles of trails are open for that purpose.
Know before you go
- Orcas Island is only accessible via ferry from Anacortes (80 miles north of Seattle), which fills up fast during the summer. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for RVs over 22 feet in length.
- A snack bar and boat rentals (paddle boats and rowboats) are available Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
- Two-pole fishing is allowed in the park with a permit.
- While four of the park’s bathrooms have coin-operated showers, there are no electrical hookups available for RVs.
- Moran State Park
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