Guide about

Deception Pass State Park

A mystical getaway to pristine natural beauty

41229 State Rte 20,
Oak Harbor, WA 98277, United States

360-675-3767

24 Hours

deception pass state park water waves view

Deception Pass State Park

On your next RV trip, you must stop at Deception Pass State Park in Oak Harbour, Washington, a mystical haven of unspoiled natural beauty. The most frequented state park in Washington is Deception Pass State Park, which is known for its fascinating caves and craggy cliffs. There are 3,854 acres of this state park, which is nearby Seattle, three lakes, and staggeringly high bridges. The Deception Pass Bridge connects the two serene islands of Fidalgo and Whidbey, which make up the state park.Three miles of mountain biking routes, six miles of equestrian trails, and 38 miles of hiking trails wind over picturesque bluffs and lush woodlands in Deception Pass State Park, which is accessible by RV.

With your family, you’ll love splashing about on Cranberry Lake’s coast. You can snap breath-taking pictures when you park your caravan in Kukutali Preserve, which offers breathtaking views of the islands. In addition, Deception Pass State Park provides fantastic chances for water sports like boating and white-water kayaking.By travelling to Deception Pass in your RV, you may spend time in a place with a rich history. Learn about the park’s fascinating history, which stretches back to the 1930s, at the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Interpretive Centre. Learn about the environment and natural history of the park by taking a stroll along the Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail.

Things to do

Swimming and Diving

The picturesque Cranberry Lake Swimming Area, which is situated on the park’s southern island, is a great place to go swimming. Building sandcastles on the lake’s shores and splashing in the waves will be a lot of fun for the whole family. You can go cliff diving and scuba diving in the bay when taking your RV to Deception Pass State Park, but you should use caution owing to the high winds and currents in the water. Cliff diving requires the utmost caution, even for veteran divers.

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Things to do

Visiting the CCC Interpretive center

Learning something new while on vacation is always enjoyable. The CCC Interpretive Centre, which is open from mid-May to Labour Day, is a must-see during your camping trip to Deception Pass State Park. You’ll enjoy perusing the center’s exhibits, which provide a history of the park that the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed in the 1930s. The Bowman Bay Day Area is home to the CCC Interpretive Centre.

Things to do

Guided Hikes and Ranger Talks

Deception Pass State Park provides a number of interpretive activities throughout the summer, such as ranger talks and guided walks. Through guided walks, you can explore the park’s beautiful natural paths while learning from knowledgeable rangers about the ecosystem and creatures that call it home. Going on a ranger-led walk will be fun for the whole family as you discover the natural and cultural heritage of the park. Make sure your hiking boots are in the RV before you head to the park.

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deception pass state park boating

Boating

There are several water adventures available when you go by RV to Deception Pass State Park. You can go boating, kayaking, sailing, or canoeing on the magnificent waters of Pass Lake or Cranberry Lake. On Cranberry Lake, electric-powered boats are allowed, however on Pass Lake, only non-motorized boats are allowed. Cornet Bay offers six saltwater boat launch ramps compared to Bowman Bay’s one lane ramp.

Things to do

Fishing

Make sure to load your fishing supplies and bait in the RV before leaving for the campground. You should also bring a net because you might catch some monsters here. Deception Pass State Park is a must-visit if you want to fish. Both Pass Lake and Cranberry Lake offer tranquil freshwater fishing opportunities. Fly fishing is available at Pass Lake for catch-and-release. There will be fish for you to catch, including cod, prawns and salmon.

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Things to do

Hiking

The 38 miles of hiking paths at Deception Pass State Park allow you to have a beautiful stroll after leaving your car there. You’ll appreciate the scenic Douglas fir forest and the walk to Lighthouse Point, where you may watch ducks and other wildlife at Lottie Bay. The Rosario Beach walk leads to beautiful vistas and a tranquil picnic place. Ideal for a short and simple walk is the mile-long Deception Pass Bridge and Beach Trail. Visit the 2.1-mile Goose Rock Loop Trail, which is rated as moderate due to its 531-foot elevation gain.

Things to do

Where to Camp?

With 83 RV sites and 147 tent-only sites, Cranberry Lake Campground is the largest at this state park and is open all year. The campground, which is divided into Lower Loop A, Lower Loop B, and Forest Loop, is situated on the southern island of the state park. You can book accommodations in picturesque locations with views of Cranberry Bay and easy access to the Cranberry Lake Swimming Area. Additionally, one of the neighbouring nature trails will be simple for you to reach. Each campground includes its own campfire ring, grill, and picnic table in addition to modern facilities with running water and hot showers. All RV sites provide power and water hookups.

The water is shut off throughout the winter to prevent freezing. Sites may be reserved as soon as the following day or up to a year in advance. The maximum length for RVs and trailers is 60 feet. Pets are allowed, but they must always be watched after and restrained.

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