And if you want to go crab hunting for your dinner, there are excellent spots on the beach. Each campsite also has a picnic table and an outdoor grill, whilst fresh water is available nearby. 100% 10 Reviews. If you buy something through a link on our site we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to yourself. The property offers a remote experience, having no electricity. . If its seabird poop does that constitute a health risk?, Higman said. Whidbey's numerous lakes are ideal for fishing for largemouth bass or trout. It's home to many miles of hiking trails featuring beaches, views, old growth trees and more. Go glamping in a Whidbey Island luxury lodging! Luxury forest yurt on a working farm (from USD 100), 2. Bait is a more effective fishing technique when fishing for clams in New World waters, particularly in shallow water. South Whidbey State Park Old Growth Forest is a quick 2.2-mile hike through the forest of old-growth cedar and large old Douglas fir trees. If youre an outdoor enthusiast, you can choose from hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, or swimming on the beach while here. Watch out for piles of crab shells those indicate where the octopus live! Because salt does not appear in blue on the New World map, finding it can be difficult; only fresh water appears in blue on the map. Lone, Deer, Goss, Cranberry and Pass lakes are all stocked annually. With a nautical soul and agricultural heart, this 45-mile-long island in Puget Sound feels like the West Coast's version of Nantucket. Required under state law, it was created by county commissioners due to the presence of fecal coliform bacteria in water samples. The island has a wide variety of beaches to choose from, each with its own unique benefits for clamming. One big requirement to stay here though, is that you or someone youre with must be an active or retired military employee, a veteran, a reservist, or similar. Theres even an old battery dug into the high bluffs here that you can explore as part of your adventures around Fort Ebey Park. The perfect Whidbey Island campgrounds are only a mouse click away! Washington State is the nation's leading producer of farmed bivalve shellfish (clams, geoduck, mussels and oysters) and with Whidbey Islands public beach . One of the most enjoyable aspects of living on the Washington coast is being able to soak up the tides natural rhythms. On top of that kayaks and canoes can be rented from the concession stand at Bowman Bay. And with a little bit of know-how, you can easily find yourself a bountiful catch of clams. You cant get any fresher than the mussels served on the island. Focusing on ingredients grown locally on Whidbey Island, as well as produce, flowers and herbs harvested from the Captain Whidbey gardens, our culinary focus is . They showcase their best products with fabulous food, whilst local artists showcase their art at each venue. The cozy tent can accommodate up to three persons, providing a comfortable king-sized bed and an extra cot, if needed. The park is actually located on two islands Fidalgo to the north and Whidbey to the south. The following areas have been closed for recreational harvest of butter and varnish clams only: West Whidbey Island Admiralty Bay Useless Bay If youre looking to entertain children while camping on Whidbey Island or you fancy having some fun for yourself then weve created a printable scavenger hunt game! We pride ourselves on the quality of wild-caught America seafood we source and provide to our customers. Staying here gives you a chance to explore parts of World War II history by literally stepping inside fortifications, while also enjoying all the nature and coastal scenery Whidbey Island is famous for. Ehlert argued in court that forests were not exempt from environmental rules. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window). Camp luxuriously in this insulated yurt with a king-sized bed, mini kitchen with a full fridge, and wood stove. Varnish clams are OK to eat, though they arent as tasty as steamers or Washington little necks, Thrasher said. Well we know this area well, and so want to share with you everything we know about the island. Couldnt be happier!. It was especially present in wrack, the often smelly carpet of seaweed/organic material that collects on the beach at Freeland Park. To get to Double Bluff Beach, take Highway 20 to the south end of the island. There are a limited number of pull-through RV sites that can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet. recreational fires are allowed on Whidbey Island without a permit. 1. There is no electricity, but lanterns are provided for your convenience. This yurt is not only a haven for nature lovers but for art enthusiasts as well. berries and roots. If there are no restrictions in place, then recreational fires are allowed on Whidbey Island without a permit, as long as they meet certain requirements: The best time to camp on Whidbey Island is between May and October, as the weather is pleasant for most of the time then, and the rainfall isnt as heavy. No smoking gun was ever discovered, but water quality from fresh water outlets has improved significantly, according to state Department of Health officials. . Between November and April, the rain is much higher, humidity is high, and the temperature drops significantly, ranging from 3C to 11C. The campsites are also spacious and feel very private thanks to all the forest and trees you will be surrounded by. Monofilament recovery and recycling program. I cant imagine any better customer service than what you offer. From exciting outdoor activities to laid-back strolling through the downtown or the beaches, there is something for every traveler. Picnic & day-use facilitiesThe park offers one group shelter without electricity, plus four sheltered and 19 unsheltered picnic tables. Youll need to make a reservation online if you want to stay at any specific site. Contact park staff for details. Ask Francis P about Double Bluff County Park. Clams are only found in saltwater, so you should avoid lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and any body of water where they are found. Washington state has serious problems with wildfires and often issues bans on any type of recreational fires, including campfires. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Hidden Beach is a public beach that has incredible views far out into the ocean. The host provides a S'mores kit and hot French press coffee every morning, so you can start your day right. Such as annual festivals and events youd like to take part in, or wildlife youd like to see like the incredible whales you can see off the coast of Whidbey during the migration season. To sit and walk beneath this canopy of ancient trees overlooking the Puget Sound is a pleasure and a privilege. The best time to see whales around Whidbey Island is between March and May for grey whales, and May to October for orcas. Not much is known about shellfish resources on this beach. Hiking on Whidbey Island can be done year-round, so if you love the trails but dont want to visit during the much busier summer months, then fall and winter still provide great hiking options. Picnic shelters and unsheltered tables remain open to visitors and provide excellent lunch spots for day-trippers and travelers en-route to such nearby camping state parks as Deception Pass, Fort Casey and Fort Ebey. This development has helped many to understand the life cycle of old-growth trees. Washington Department of Health (DOH) cautions that clams, oysters, and mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time. Enjoy a luxe glamping experience in the middle of the forest, on a farm. Whidbey Island is home to some of the best clamming in the state of Washington. HARVESTED VARNISH clams, invasive species or not, will be applied to a clammers catch quota, Speck said. There are just 15 campsites in total, and three can accommodate RVs but those only have a water hookup. Whether youre into kite flying, shellfish harvesting, fishing, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird-watching, frisbee throwing, softball playing, or anything else that benefits from a beautiful environment and well managed campground system, youll find a great place to do it on Whidbey Island. Dugualla State Park is a much quieter area and has a 5-mile loop of trails that take you to the beach, through the forest, and back. Our Phone Number: (360) 331-4887. Brea, California vs Whidbey Island Station, Washington Change Places A salary of $50,000 in Brea, California could decrease to $27,297 in Whidbey Island Station, Washington (assumptions include Homeowner, no Child Care, and Taxes are not considered. This park provides 52 full hookup RV campsites, and most have an ocean view. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Autumn on Whidbey Wine, Spirits, and Art Tour happens in November, and is a self-guided tour of five of the best wineries and distilleries on the island. We want to help people learn more about seafood so that they can make informed decisions about what to eat. Then we'll take a boat tour of the Penn Cove Shellfish mussel farm. To find out how to opt out of our cookies or how our cookies work, please visit our Cookies Policy. Penn Cove Shellfish, which grows and sells millions of mussels annually, prides itself on growing mussels free of fertilizer or feed. The Pacific Northwest is well known for having big rain seasons, and camping in the rain is not especially pleasant! Located a little over 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Seattle and the biggest island in Washington state, Whidbey Island awaits you for your next big outdoor adventure. There is an unsheltered picnic area with 68 picnic tables and one fire ring for community use. It will inspire you with art pieces that are intricately designed and encourage you to unleash the artist in you using the watercolors, pastels, journaling paper, and musical instruments provided. No shellfish gathering in the state of Washington is complete without digging for the geoduck, the "King of the Clams." This bivalve can grow to almost 2 pounds, and can live for well over a hundred years. If you choose to go dispersed camping, then make sure you do so with someone who already knows the area where youre planning on camping for your own safety. Youre also connected to ten miles of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail (PNT), which is that 1,200-mile-long scenic trail we talked above before. Navy personnel conduct training missions at various times during the day and night. By clicking I Agree you expressly consent our use of cookies. Having lain untouched for nearly a decade, she was expecting to find a stable and healthy fishery. Adjust your expectations to have the best, Good Fish & Chips for an Afternoon Lunch, Our New Annual Family Christmas Dinner, A rich, indulgent, foodie staycation, Hotels near Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Hotels near Callahans Firehouse Studio and Gallery, Hotels near Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum, American Restaurants for Breakfast in Whidbey Island, Asian Restaurants for Families in Whidbey Island, Chinese Restaurants for Families in Whidbey Island, Gluten Free Restaurants in Whidbey Island, Kid Friendly Restaurants in Whidbey Island, Restaurants for Special Occasions in Whidbey Island, Restaurants with Outdoor Seating in Whidbey Island, Restaurants near Best Western Plus Oak Harbor Hotel & Conference Center, Restaurants near The Coachman Inn & Suites, Restaurants near Candlewood Suites Oak Harbor, an IHG Hotel, Restaurants near Captain Whidbey Inn (Since 1907), Restaurants near Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Restaurants near Deception Pass State Park, Restaurants near Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum, Restaurants near Callahans Firehouse Studio and Gallery, Restaurants near Admiralty Head Lighthouse. 10 Thank Francis P . There is also a park store that provides camping essentials such as firewood, ice, snacks, water, and a range of other items. The narrow window is largely the result of an unexpected and unwelcome development the expanded presence and domination of varnish clams. On top of that we show you our favorite hikes on the island, share a free camping game thats perfect for camping on Whidbey, and even more. Consider going glamping in Whidbey Island, Washington and explore some pretty amazing outdoor locations. In the late 1950s, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission entered into negotiations with the University of Washington to acquire some of the trust land for use as a state park. Your seafood is packed in dry ice and shipped to your doorstep within 3 days of leaving our facility. But if youre excited about seeing jets race above your head, then this is a fantastic location. There are several heated showers and restrooms, as well as a coin-operated laundry too. Those are great areas for socializing and sharing stories about your days adventures. Anchor & Hope SF was created with the goal of providing people with accurate and reliable information about seafood. clams are plentiful on Whidbey Island's rural beaches. Mussels, clams, and oysters can be harvested from Penn Cove between July to August, but check the exact dates for the year youre going. Its close to Freeland on the south end of the island too. Here you can find Ebeys Landing National Historical Reserve, the earliest national historical reserve in the US. Region 6 - west side of north Whidbey Including Deception Pass, Region 8-1 - between Whidbey Island and the mainland/Camano Island, Region 8-2 - between Camano Island and the mainland. Catching a crab and cooking it there on the beach (or back home) is a great way to enjoy this seafood favorite. Map updates are paused. Whidbey Island is a perfect location to head on a whale-watching excursion from one of the many tour operators. Among all whidbey island parks, this is the one that caters most to bikers and hikers. And theres no better place to go clamming than Whidbey Island. Incredible Sunset at Beachfront Glamping Cabin on Private, Herron Island with Fire Pit and Kayaking near Olympia, Washington, Olympic National Forest Glamping Village for the Ultimate Northwest Outdoor Adventure, Enchanting British Columbia Tree House near East Sooke Park, Vintage Cabin in Private 10-Acre Forest with Covered Porch on Vashon Island, Washington, Modern Luxury Elevated Cabin for Tree House-Style Experience in Seattle. Note: An additional Special Activity Permit is required for group activities and events such as wedding ceremonies, races, other sports events etc. This day-use park on the west side of Whidbey Island is a scenic drive away from Anacortes or a short ferry ride from Mukilteo. Its a much more peaceful campground than the more popular Deception Pass, so if youre looking for serenity away from the crowds, this is a great choice. GEAR RENTAL Rent the gear you need and have it delivered to your door byArrive Outdoors! On top of that theres a number of cabins and yurts if you want a more comfortable Whidbey Island camping experience. Whidbey Island Seafood Company We pride ourselves on the quality of wild-caught America seafood we source and provide to our customers. Come taste world famous mussels and learn how they are grown on a farm tour. A boat ramp can be found on the beachs east side, and a dock can be found on the beachs west side. The most common months for digging are April-September, but digging can happen at any time of year. They want to know where it comes from, how it was caught and processed and whether it comes from sustainable fisheries. So read on to begin your Whidbey Island camping adventure! Whidbey Island and Deception Pass - Private Luxury Day Tour with Lunch Bus Tours from $475.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Deception Pass Bridge Island Tour from Seattle 3 Full-day Tours from $307.60 per adult PRIVATE day Trip to Deception Pass, Skagit Valley and La Conner in SUV Adventure Tours from $285.00 Portage Bay, Lummi Bay and Lummi Island Butter Clams and Varnish Clams Governor's Point south to the Skagit County line, including Larabee State Park Butter Clams and Varnish Clams . What better way than camping! Clam digging is a popular activity on many New World beaches, with the best clams being found in early summer. Youll be waking up to the sound of birds, and going to sleep with stars above your head after an activity filled day in nature. Whidbey Island Seafood Company sources the highest quality seafood caught from Pacific Northwest fisherman, and delivers your bounty directly to your front door. Public ownership of this tideland does not extend across the entire tidal range of the beach. Instead, survey digs in 2008 and again this year showed the once prevalent Manilla and butter clams to have declined from four individuals per square foot to under one and a half. Perm's Cove: A History of the Settlers. For clammers who eagerly anticipated the reopening of the once popular South Whidbey hotspot, which used to be open year-round, news of the six-week season is disappointing. Deception Pass State Park. The geoduck (pronounced gooey-duck) has a funny name and its appearance often elicits embarrassed laughter, but Washington's biggest clam means big money to the Department of Natural Resources and fine eating, particularly for wealthy devotees in China. Admiralty, Mutiny and Useless bays have other good spots. There is also a range of guided tours from park staff that you can go on, including things like morning bird-watching walks and tide pool exploration walks. Whidbey Island definitely offers a complete nature retreat. Rhododendron Campground provides vault toilets, barbecues, picnic tables, fire rings, and freshwater is available. County workers and the community worked to clean up the watershed, identify problem septic systems and launched initiatives such as a campaign to pick up dog waste at Freeland Park. The sheer size, bio-diversity, and beauty of this state park are enough to put it on this list. Musselfest, March 4-5, Coupeville, Whidbey Island. A coast artillery post features two 10-inch and two 3-inch historic guns on display. To catch clams, look for the larger hole next to a quarter, and the edge of the surf line. Our network of West Coast and Pacific Northwest fisheries use sustainable and traceable methods to guarantee quality from catch to table. 100% 3 Reviews. The roads and pads are concrete for easy manoeuvrability too. The sites are quite spacious and private, but this is a popular campground and state park, so it can get busy. One of my favorite things about Whidbey Island is our huge selection of State and local parks. Featured Products Alaskan Black Cod (Portion) - Wild Caught $14.53 Catch-and-release fly fishing at Whidbey's Pass Lake is for serious fly fisher folks who enjoy donning waders and plunking down in float tubes. Clams prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, but in general, I prefer shallower areas with a rocky bottom. Camping and then catching the sunrise over those bridges is spectacular, and an absolute must if you do choose to stay here. There are five covered pavilions for community use that have picnic tables and barbecues available too. A full clubhouse is available that gives you access to a shared kitchen, day room, and coffee lounge. DNR-142 (Whidbey Island) is accessible by boat only. The island was charted by Captain George Vancouver, a British explorer, in 1792. It's a 45-minute cruise with a tour guide that tells you more than you ever knew about . If youre looking for a permit, you can pick it up at Bucks Northwest in town. We were successful at our first try and caught enough clams for a good meal. There are plenty of public access points for beach fishing, including Deception Pass, Fort Ebey and Fort Casey. In Washington, digging for clams is a popular sport year round. There are more than 40 public clam and oyster beaches on Whidbey and Camano Islands. Please note: U.S. Navy jets from nearby Naval Air Station Whidbey Island may fly over at any time for several hours. West Whidbey Island Butter Clams and Varnish Clams Saratoga Passage and Possession Sound, including Utsalady Bay, Penn Cove and Holmes Harbor . The game encourages players to get out and discover wildlife and nature, as well as make new friends and do fun camping activities.