Midway Campground

Hello, fellow Washingtonians! If your ideal getaway involves picturesque lake views, the calming absence of cell phone pings, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, then you absolutely must discover Midway Campground on Orcas Island. Nestled within the beloved Moran State Park, this campground offers a quintessential San Juan Islands camping experience, blending natural beauty with convenient access to a wealth of recreational activities.

Midway Campground is celebrated for its fantastic "island vibes" and ability to help you truly disconnect. As one delighted camper put it, it's "Forever one of my favorite car camping spots. Lake access, disconnected from cellphones, clean bathrooms, good island vibes." This isn't just a place to pitch your tent; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the serene environment of Orcas Island, with the glistening waters of Cascade Lake as your backdrop.

The campground is renowned for being "well maintained," with "clean bathrooms and showers" that are available via coin slot – a small detail that ensures cleanliness. Forget your firewood? No problem! A convenient "firewood dispenser is also available before the campground entrance," making your camping experience hassle-free. What truly sets Midway apart are the stunning views: "Campsites are either by the lake or overlooking the lake. It's a great view during sunrise and sunset," painting unforgettable memories for every visitor.

Midway Campground caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. The lakes (Cascade and Mountain Lakes are nearby) are "great for kayaking, canoeing, and for standup paddle boards," and for those who enjoy angling, "the lakes has varieties of fish to play with." Beyond water sports, "Hiking trails are everywhere as well as bike trails," ensuring that land-based adventurers have plenty to explore. However, its popularity means planning is key: "Campsite reservation is highly suggested and at the same time reserve your ferry ride to Orcas Island to get there. Both reservations fill up fast during the camping season."

This guide will provide you with all the essential, factual information about Midway Campground, helping you navigate the reservation process, understand its unique location, and discover why it's such a cherished spot for Washington locals seeking a memorable island escape.

Location and Accessibility

Midway Campground is ideally situated within Moran State Park on Orcas Island, Washington, with its address listed as Olga, WA 98279, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Cascade Lake, one of the park's most popular freshwater bodies. Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands, is renowned for its lush forests, freshwater lakes, and stunning views from Mount Constitution.

Accessing Midway Campground involves two key steps for most Washingtonians:

1. Ferry Ride to Orcas Island: Visitors must take a Washington State Ferry from Anacortes to Orcas Island. This ferry ride is a scenic journey in itself, offering views of the Puget Sound and other islands. Due to high demand, especially during peak camping season, "Ferry ride reservations to Orcas Island... fill up fast." It is highly recommended to reserve your ferry spot well in advance, sometimes months ahead, particularly if traveling with a vehicle.

2. Drive to Moran State Park: Once on Orcas Island, Midway Campground is approximately a 30-minute drive from the Orcas Island ferry terminal. The drive involves navigating island roads that can be narrow and winding but are generally well-maintained. Signs within Moran State Park will direct you to Midway Campground, which is one of several campgrounds situated along Cascade Lake, along with Northend and Southend. Midway is specifically noted for being close to the main boat launch on Cascade Lake.

The combination of a ferry journey and an island drive makes the journey to Midway Campground part of the adventure, effectively disconnecting visitors from mainland stresses and immersing them in the unique "island vibes" of Orcas.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Offers 49 campsites, including 5 tent-only sites. Many sites can accommodate small trailers and RVs (up to 40 feet, though some lakefront sites are smaller), with sites available by the lake or overlooking it.

• Campsite Reservations: Highly suggested, especially during peak season, due to high demand. Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance via the Washington State Parks reservation website. First-come, first-served sites are very limited.

• Clean Bathrooms: Features "clean bathrooms" with "flush toilets" that are well-maintained.

• Coin-Operated Showers: Hot showers are available via a coin slot (typically $0.50 for three minutes), ensuring convenience and cleanliness.

• Firewood Dispenser: A convenient dispenser is available before the campground entrance for easy purchase of firewood.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.

• Boat Launch: A concrete boat launch is available right next to Midway Campground's lakefront sites on Cascade Lake. A permit may be required for use, and only non-motorized or electric boats are allowed on Cascade Lake.

• Water Access: While individual site water hookups are not generally available, water is available within the campground (e.g., at restrooms) for refilling and washing dishes.

• Limited Cell Reception: Noted as "disconnected from cellphones" or "limited cell service," encouraging a digital detox.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available near the park's western entrance for RVs.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in campgrounds within Moran State Park (leash laws and other rules apply).

Features / Highlights

• Stunning Lakefront Views: Many campsites are directly on or overlook Cascade Lake, providing "great view during sunrise and sunset."

• Abundant Water Activities: Cascade Lake is perfect for "kayaking, canoeing, and for standup paddle boards," with rentals often available at the Cascade Lake day-use area. Fishing is also popular, with a "varieties of fish to play with."

• Extensive Trail System: Part of Moran State Park, offering "hiking trails everywhere as well as bike trails," including over 38 miles of hiking trails and 11 miles of year-round bike trails.

• Mount Constitution Proximity: Located within easy reach of Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands, offering panoramic views of the archipelago, Mount Baker, and the Olympic Mountains.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Consistently praised for "clean bathrooms and showers" and overall well-maintained grounds.

• Digital Disconnection: The limited cell reception fosters a true escape and encourages campers to fully engage with their surroundings.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Popular among families, couples, and small groups, providing a respectful and quiet environment in the evenings.

• Year-Round Camping: Midway Campground, along with Northend and Southend, is open year-round, allowing for off-season adventures with fewer crowds.

Contact Information

Midway Campground (Moran State Park)

Address: Olga, WA 98279, USA (located within Moran State Park)

General Park Information: (360) 376-2326 (This is the primary number for Moran State Park)

Reservations: (888) 226-7688 or visit the Washington State Parks reservation website (parks.state.wa.us/reservations).

Given the popularity of Midway Campground and Orcas Island, it is highly advisable for Washingtonians to make both campsite and ferry reservations well in advance, especially for visits during the peak camping season (typically May to September). Checking the official Washington State Parks website for Moran State Park is the best way to get the most current information on site availability, park conditions, fire restrictions, and any specific alerts.

Conclusion: Why Midway Campground is Suitable for Locals

For Washingtonians seeking an idyllic and truly immersive outdoor experience, Midway Campground on Orcas Island is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. It encapsulates much of what makes our state's natural beauty so appealing, offering a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and stunning scenery.

Firstly, its location within Moran State Park on Orcas Island is a massive draw. The San Juan Islands are a cherished gem of Washington, and experiencing them from a lakefront campsite offers a unique perspective. The "island vibes" and the journey via ferry immediately transport you away from the mainland hustle, providing a much-needed mental reset. For locals, this accessible escape to a world of pristine lakes and lush forests feels like a profound privilege, offering a profound sense of disconnection that is increasingly rare.

Secondly, the sheer abundance and variety of activities available directly from the campground are unparalleled. Whether you're into "kayaking, canoeing, and standup paddle boards" on the lake, or hitting the "hiking trails everywhere as well as bike trails" within Moran State Park, there's an adventure for every interest and fitness level. The proximity to Mount Constitution, offering breathtaking panoramic views, adds another layer of exploration. This allows Washingtonians to truly "take advantage of these amenities and you'll have a great outdoor time," maximizing their leisure in a single, convenient location.

Finally, the balance between natural immersion and essential comforts makes Midway highly appealing. While it offers the refreshing "disconnected from cellphones" experience, it doesn't sacrifice cleanliness or basic conveniences. The "clean bathrooms and shower" facilities are a significant highlight, ensuring a comfortable stay even in a rustic setting. This combination of rugged beauty with thoughtful maintenance perfectly caters to Washingtonians who appreciate the outdoors but also value hygiene and a well-managed environment. The forethought of a "firewood dispenser" further streamlines the camping experience.

In conclusion, Midway Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to experience the very best of Washington's island and lake camping. Its breathtaking views, myriad of activities, and commitment to providing a clean, peaceful environment make it an absolute must-visit for any local looking for an unforgettable and revitalizing escape to the heart of the San Juan Islands.

Midway Campground

Olga, WA 98279, USA