San Juan County Park

This is a very popular spot on San Juan Island’s west side, where there is little public access to the shore. People flock here, especially during summer months, hoping to spot the whales that frequent Haro Strait. There’s much to see with constant boat traffic from Canada and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Nightime brings unique views of Vancouver Island.

 

There is a large beach near the office, and the site is up the hill to the north at the top of the other beach. It is a shared site for hikers, bikers and kayakers.

 

 

Approach: Enter Smallpox Bay and head for boat ramp. Kayak racks located across parking lot from boat ramp.
Location: West side of San Juan Island
Hazards: Strong currents and heavy vessel traffic in Haro Strait. Whale watching may bring many smaller boats to area. Do not approach within 100 yards of whales or 200 yards of seal and seal lion resting areas and bird refuges.
Sites: 1
Water: Drinking fountain
Sanitation: Flush toilets
Overflow: None, expect to share site. Large groups should reserve regular campsites, call (360) 378-1842
Fires: Fires in established fire pits only. Beach fires are not permitted. Check for burn bans
Extras: Kayak racks behind restroom. Hiking trails. Picnic area
Fees: Please check the San Juan County website
Special Considerations: San Juan Park, Odlin, and Shaw are operating at limited capacity in 2020 until further notice due to COVID. Prospective campers please call ahead to verify availability. Persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult for overnight camping privileges. Sites are bordered by private property.
Natural History: Low Island, a short distance offshore, is one of 83 San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge islands. Black oystercatchers, rhinoceros auklets, glaucous-winged gulls, cormorants, pigeon guillemots, and tufted puffins are a few of the species enjoying the protection of the Refuge. Stay 200 yards away.
Max People:
Max Nights:
Reservations: Recommended. You can make them online.
Latitude: 48.541766
Longitude: -123.15935
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