Camano Island State Park — Did You Know?!?

I feel so lucky to have such great recreational areas so close to me.

It is my goal to provide useful information so you too can take advantage of the beauty of Camano Island. For my first “Parks on the Island” segment, I’d like to focus on Camano Island State Park.

(click on map for larger view)

Located on the southwest shore, Camano Island State Park is a 134-acre sanctuary to woodland creatures and sea life. It contains 6,700 feet of rocky shoreline and beach, providing endless opportunities for exploration for both young and… not-exactly-young anymore… Views of the surrounding mountains and Saratoga Passage provide a relaxing and breathtaking escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Established in 1949, it took just one day for 900 volunteers to complete the initial work on the park. Their efforts provided us with what is now the Island’s premiere destination for fishing, clamming, beachcombing, scuba diving, camping, and picnicking!

The camp has 88 tent spaces, two restrooms and two showers. That’s right ladies, 88 tents and two bathrooms — now that is roughing it!

If you prefer to enjoy the outdoors with a few more of the comforts of home, rent one of the five cabins located on the property and stay a while! Each one features rustic furnishings built by local volunteers using lumber from trees cleared from the park. They don’t take reservations, but you can always call to check on availability. Up to five people per cabin.

photo courtesy of wildlifecreation.org

2011 Rental fees: $65 (plus tax) per night per cabin May 15 to Sept. 15.
$55 (plus tax) per night per cabin Sept. 16 to May 14. For more info: (360) 387-1550

Want to lend a helping hand? Volunteers can help out in many different areas, such as serving as a camp host, answering questions from the public; maintaining and restoring trails; and providing routine maintenance such as mowing lawns. If you are interested in volunteering at Camano Island State Park or any other Washington state park, please call (360) 902-8583 or email: volunteers@parks.wa.gov.

photo courtesy of ohwy.com

Driving Directions: Located fourteen miles southwest of Stanwood and about a 20-minute drive (a little longer on Sundays).

From I-5:
Take exit #212 and head west onto Hwy. 532. Three miles west of Stanwood, take left at fork (road is now East Camano Dr. and no longer SR 532). Drive approximately six miles on East Camano Dr. (At this point East Camano Dr. heads left by Windermere. Keep to main road, which is now Elger Bay Rd). At a spot marked by Elger Bay Grocery, gas station and a café, turn right onto Mountain View. Travel two miles, climb a steep hill, then turn left onto Lowell Point Rd. The road will dead-end at park entrance.

Did I leave anything out about our beautiful state park? Please leave a comment and let everyone know!

photo courtesy of whidbey.com

Interested in homes available around the park or anywhere on Camano Island? Call me today — Jan Mather, your Camano Island Expert! 360-507-4133