Deception Pass State Park, Outdoor Enthusiasts Playground - Whidbey Island Washington

Washington's most spectacular state park, Deception Pass (5 star rated) is a showcase for all the elements that make the Northwest magic: sprawling saltwater beaches, jutting cliffs, deep forest, freshwater lakes and absolutely amazing views. The bridge alone is impressive, but there is so much more Deception Pass has to offer, such as boating, kayaking, salt and freshwater swimming, picnicking, camping, saltwater fishing, trout fishing, fly-fishing and miles upon miles of hiking trails.

 It's hard to imagine Deception Pass without the bridge. But until 1935, the gap between Fidalgo Island and Whidbey Island could only be crossed by boat. Whidbey Island residents had called for construction of the bridge to Fidalgo Island since the 1890's. After years of broken promises and two vetoes, a bill was finally passed and construction of the bridge began in August 1934. Construction took just under 12 months. The bridge was dedicated on July 31st, 1935. Today, roughly 15,000 cars cross the bridge each day.

Deception Pass State Park is a 4,134 acre marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline, and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. The park is outstanding for breath-taking views, old-growth forests and abundant wildlife. Deception Pass has three campgrounds to choose from, and three primitive boater-only campgrounds as well. Camping is very popular here, especially in the summer months.

Bowman Bay Campground is a more intimate campground, with only 20 sites, all located fairly close to the beach and is open seasonally. There is a large grassy field and a small playground along the south end of the bay. The trails in this area are among the most scenic in the entire park. Hikes to Lottie Bay, Lighthouse Point and Rosario Beach are short but rewarding, and offer spectacular views of Puget Sound, Deception Pass and the San Juan Islands. With sandy beaches, covered picnic shelters, a one lane boat ramp, camping and hiking trails, Bowman Bay is an ideal starting point for exploration and adventure at Deception Pass.

Cranberry Lake Campground is hidden in the old growth forest between North Beach, West Beach and Cranberry Lake on Whidbey Island. With 234 campsites, it is the largest campground at Deception Pass and is open seasonally. During the summer, Cranberry Lake is a popular location for swimming, boating and fishing. There is a sandy beach with an enclosed swimming area on the west side of the lake and water temperatures are typically between 55 and 60 degrees (much warmer than the ocean waters to the west).  A seasonally operated concession stand rents paddle boats at the west end of the lake. On the east side of the lake, there is a long wooden dock and several covered kitchen shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's.

Quarry Pond Campground is open year round. There are 61 sites, 54 hookup and 7 standard sites. There is also a kitchen shelter and gazebo in the middle of the campground. Quarry Pond, one acre in size, is a pleasant rock-rimmed pond near the campground. Goose Rock, the highest point on Whidbey Island, rises to the north of the campground.

If you plan on camping or are only on a day trip be sure and take a walk out on Deception Pass Bridge, which spans one of the most treacherous saltwater channels in the Northwest. The total length is 1,487 feet (Canoe Pass span: 511 feet, Deception Pass span: 976 feet). The height is approx. 180 feet from the water, depending on the tides. The road width is 22 feet with 3 feet of sidewalk on each side. It is a spectacular, heart pounding experience.

Camping reservations and directions contact: www.parks.wa.gov