James Island Campground

For Washington locals with a spirit of adventure and a love for the water, James Island Campground offers a truly distinctive camping experience. Unlike most drive-in sites, this "gem" is part of James Island Marine State Park, located just off the coast of Anacortes in the stunning San Juan Islands. It presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of an island accessible only by boat, promising a quieter, more intimate connection with the Pacific Northwest's marine environment.

James Island Campground is a destination for those seeking a primitive yet rewarding escape. While it requires boat access and careful navigation of strong currents, the effort is well worth it for the serene atmosphere, short trail networks, and the greeting from local wildlife. This article will provide Washington residents with a comprehensive guide to James Island Campground, detailing its unique access requirements, the amenities available, and what to expect from its enchanting island environment. Get ready to plan an unforgettable marine camping adventure that truly showcases the wild beauty of Washington's islands.

James Island Campground is nestled on James Island, a pristine marine state park located near Anacortes, WA 98222, USA. This places it strategically within the world-renowned San Juan Islands archipelago, specifically in Rosario Strait, just off the eastern shore of Decatur Island. For Washington residents, its location offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse marine ecosystems and stunning island landscapes that our state is famous for.

Crucially, James Island is a "boat-in only" access campground. This means that direct vehicle access is not possible; visitors must arrive by private boat, kayak, or other watercraft. This unique accessibility contributes significantly to the island's secluded and tranquil atmosphere, filtering out casual visitors and preserving its natural charm. For those approaching by powerboat, strong currents, especially at "full swing," can make for challenging docking, requiring skilled navigation. Mooring is available on both sides of the island, with docks and mooring buoys accessible year-round. The West Cove features a 128-foot dock, while the East Cove has four buoys, though mooring in the East Cove is exposed to wakes from Rosario Strait boat traffic. Buoys are limited to boats no larger than 45 feet.

For human or wind-powered boats, James Island is also a part of the Cascadia Marine Trail, making specific campsites (sites 11-13 in West Cove) reserved for paddlers and sailors. While remote, the nearest fuel and groceries are available on the mainland in Anacortes, allowing for resupply before or after an island adventure. The journey to James Island is as much a part of the experience as the stay itself, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and islands, making it a truly immersive Washington marine park experience.

• Primitive Campsites: James Island offers 13 primitive campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. These are spread across three different camping areas: "East Cove" (sites 1-4), "Saddle Area" (sites 5-10), and "West Cove" (sites 11-13).

• Dedicated Sites for Human/Wind-Powered Boats: Sites 11-13 in the West Cove are specifically reserved for those arriving by human or wind-powered boats as part of the Cascadia Marine Trail.

• Toilets: Each camping area on the island is equipped with at least one pit toilet or composting toilet facility, providing essential sanitation services. It's important to note that reviewers mention basic bathroom conditions, reflecting the primitive nature of the park.

• Moorage Facilities: Moorage is available year-round on both sides of the island, including docks and mooring buoys. Nightly moorage fees apply ($23 for a buoy, $1 per vessel foot for a dock).

• Self-Registration and Payment: All boaters must self-register and pay required fees upon arrival, including fees for boats rafted to another boat.

• Picnic Shelter: The "Saddle Area" campsites (sites 5-10) have access to a picnic shelter and two picnic sites.

• Bulletin Board and Pay Station: The East Cove campground (sites 1-4) includes access to a bulletin board for information and a pay station for fees.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to understand that there is no potable (drinkable) water available on the island. Campers must bring all their own water supplies.

• No Garbage Services: James Island operates under "Leave No Trace" principles, meaning there are no garbage services on the island. Campers are responsible for packing out all their trash.

• Limited Public Access: Much of James Island is designated a Natural Forest Area and is closed to public access, ensuring the preservation of its fragile ecosystem. Public access is limited to designated recreational areas and trails.

• Dogs Allowed on Leash: Pets are permitted within the park and campground areas, but they must remain on a leash at all times.

• Boat-In Exclusivity: The primary highlight is its "boat-in only" access, which contributes to a more remote and less crowded experience than typical drive-in campgrounds. This feature appeals to seasoned boaters and paddlers seeking genuine island solitude.

• Stunning Island Scenery: James Island offers beautiful emerald coves, two white sand beaches (accessible via an isthmus), and high bluffs with spectacular western views of the San Juan Islands and Rosario Strait.

• Short Trail Network: The island features a loop trail system that connects the three camping areas and offers approximately 1.5 miles of hiking. These trails lead through evergreen forests and to various scenic viewpoints, making for pleasant short hikes.

• Abundant Wildlife: Visitors can expect to be greeted by local wildlife, including a healthy deer population. The surrounding waters are also rich in marine life, offering opportunities for bird and potentially whale watching.

• Excellent for Crabbing, Fishing, and Oyster Harvesting: The waters adjacent to James Island State Park are known for good salmon and bottom fishing. Dungeness crab is abundant, and clamming and oyster harvesting are also popular activities (ensure you have the necessary permits and check regulations).

• Primitive and Authentic Camping: With no potable water and basic toilet facilities, James Island provides a genuinely primitive camping experience. This is a highlight for those who prefer rustic outdoor adventures and are prepared to be self-sufficient.

• Unique Island Vibe: Being an entire island designated as a Marine State Park creates a distinct and immersive atmosphere. It feels private and spacious despite having only 13 campsites, offering a true escape from the mainland.

• Year-Round Accessibility: The park and its moorage facilities are open year-round, allowing adventurous campers to experience the island's beauty in different seasons, though services may be more limited in the off-season.

Address: Anacortes, WA 98222, USA

*Please note: No phone numbers were specifically provided for James Island Campground in the given information. For general inquiries about James Island Marine State Park, you may contact Washington State Parks. Relevant contact information is often associated with nearby park offices, such as Sucia Island State Park at (360) 376-2073, or the main Washington State Parks Information Line at (360) 902-8844.*

For Washington residents, James Island Campground offers a truly unique and quintessentially Pacific Northwest camping experience that stands apart from typical car-accessible sites. Its boat-in only access, while requiring more planning and nautical skill, is precisely what makes it so appealing to those seeking genuine island solitude and a deeper connection with our state's stunning marine environment.

This campground is ideally suited for local adventurers who own or have access to boats, kayaks, or other human/wind-powered watercraft. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a more primitive camping setting. The reward for the effort of reaching the island is immense: beautiful emerald coves, white sand beaches, tranquil forested trails, and the chance to observe local wildlife, including deer and abundant marine species. The strong currents around the island, while a challenge, are part of the authentic San Juan Islands experience, fostering a sense of accomplishment for those who navigate them successfully.

Furthermore, James Island caters to specific local interests, particularly fishing, crabbing, and oyster harvesting, making it a prime destination for Washingtonians who enjoy harvesting their own seafood. While facilities are basic (pit toilets, no potable water, pack-it-out garbage policy), this aligns with a "Leave No Trace" ethos and appeals to campers who are prepared for self-sufficiency and prefer a more rugged, less commercialized outdoor experience. For any Washington local seeking a memorable, boat-accessed island camping adventure that embodies the raw beauty and maritime spirit of our state, James Island Campground is an undeniable gem waiting to be explored.

James Island Campground

Anacortes, WA 98222, USA