Quarry Pond Campground

For Washington locals seeking an adventure that combines stunning coastal scenery with convenient amenities, Quarry Pond Campground in Oak Harbor is a destination that truly delivers. Situated within the incredibly popular Deception Pass State Park, this campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the state's most visited and celebrated natural areas. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast, a family looking for a comfortable tent site, or simply yearning for a peaceful cabin retreat, Quarry Pond provides a diverse range of options, all year long.

This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to Quarry Pond Campground, delving into its prime location, the array of services it offers, its distinct features and highlights, and why it stands out as an excellent choice for Washington residents looking to explore the beauty of Whidbey Island and the wider Puget Sound region.

Quarry Pond Campground is conveniently located at 41020 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, USA, making it part of the expansive Deception Pass State Park. This prime location places it on the southern end of the park, specifically on Whidbey Island, further from some of the main day-use areas, which can offer a slightly more secluded feel for campers.

Accessibility to Quarry Pond is straightforward, primarily via State Route 20. For Washingtonians, this means a manageable drive from major population centers like Seattle and Tacoma (often involving a ferry ride to Whidbey Island, which is an experience in itself) or a direct drive for those coming from areas north of the park. While it's noted that you might hear some road noise due to its proximity to the highway, the campground itself is generally quiet, offering a peaceful retreat once you're settled into your site. One of Quarry Pond's significant advantages is that it is the only campground within Deception Pass State Park that remains open year-round, offering camping opportunities even during the quieter, cooler months. This makes it an incredibly flexible option for locals planning off-season getaways.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Quarry Pond Campground offers a variety of camping experiences. It features 54 RV sites and 7 tent-only sites. Many sites come with utility hookups (electricity and water), accommodating RVs up to 60 feet. There are also standard (no hookup) sites, providing flexibility for different camping styles.
• Cabins Available: For those seeking more comfort, Quarry Pond Campground offers seven small cabins (C2-C8), including five standard cabins and two deluxe cabins. Standard cabins are furnished with a bunk bed (sleeps three), a futon couch (sleeps two), a table with chairs, electric heat, and lights. Deluxe cabins (C7 and C8) offer the added convenience of a restroom with a shower and a kitchen. Pets are allowed in cabin C2 for an additional fee.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground boasts modern, clean restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. Notably, some reviewers state that showers are no longer coin-operated, providing even greater convenience. However, water may be shut off in winter months to prevent freezing in some facilities, so confirm availability during off-season visits.
• Potable Water: Potable water spigots are placed regularly around the campground, ensuring easy access to drinking water.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: All campsites, including cabins, are equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit with a grate, perfect for cooking and enjoying a campfire (always check for current fire bans, especially during dry periods).
• Dump Station: While a dump station is available within Deception Pass State Park (typically at Cranberry Lake Campground), registered campers can use it without charge.
• Convenience Store Nearby: A convenience store (like the Lake Store near Cranberry Lake Campground) is within walking distance or a short drive, providing essential camping supplies, snacks, and seasonally, firewood. A 76 gas station on the edge of the campground is also noted for supplies.
• Year-Round Operation: Quarry Pond is unique as the only campground in Deception Pass State Park open all year, making it a reliable option for spontaneous trips or winter camping.

• Deception Pass State Park Access: Quarry Pond Campground's location within Deception Pass State Park is its paramount feature. This means campers have direct access to over 4,000 acres of diverse landscape, including rugged cliffs, dense forests, tranquil beaches, and the iconic Deception Pass Bridge.
• Proximity to Quarry Pond: The campground is named after and situated near a quaint, one-acre rock-rimmed pond. This peaceful pond provides opportunities for observing aquatic critters, ducks, and herons, offering a serene backdrop for relaxation.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The park boasts nearly 40 miles of hiking trails, catering to all levels of experience. From easy walks along beaches and lake shores to more challenging climbs with breathtaking vistas of the Salish Sea, Cascade Mountains, and Olympic Mountains, there's a trail for every explorer. Highlights include trails to Goose Rock, Rosario Head, Lighthouse Point, and the Sand Dune Interpretive Trail.
• Water Recreation Opportunities: Deception Pass is a paradise for water lovers. Campers can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing (Pass Lake is stocked with trout), crabbing, boating, and swimming in various locations like Bowman Bay and Cranberry Lake. Guided tours, including whale watching and jet boat tours, are also available seasonally.
• Scenic Beauty and Photography: The park offers dramatic landscapes, including the turbulent waters of Deception Pass, old-growth forests, and stunning sunsets over the water, making it a fantastic spot for photography and nature appreciation.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various bird species (including bald eagles), deer, harbor seals, porpoises, and even whales in the surrounding waters.
• Year-Round Camping: As mentioned, Quarry Pond is open year-round, a significant advantage for those who enjoy camping in the quieter, cooler seasons or simply want more flexibility in their travel plans.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a pond, proximity to beaches, and overall welcoming atmosphere make it suitable for families.

Address: 41020 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, USA (within Deception Pass State Park)

For general information about Deception Pass State Park and camping reservations at Quarry Pond, it is best to use the official Washington State Parks contact information and reservation system:

Washington State Parks Information Line: (360) 902-8844

Toll-free Reservations: (888) CAMPOUT (226-7688)

Website: Reservations are typically made through the Washington State Parks official reservation portal (e.g., parks.wa.gov or reserve.stateparks.wa.gov). It's highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for popular summer dates and cabins, as Deception Pass is Washington's most-visited state park.

For Washington locals, Quarry Pond Campground at Deception Pass State Park truly represents an ideal and highly accessible outdoor escape. Its unique combination of year-round availability, diverse camping options (from RV sites with hookups to cozy cabins), and a wealth of recreational opportunities makes it perfectly suited for a wide range of interests and seasons.

The fact that it's located within Washington's most-visited state park speaks volumes about its inherent appeal. Locals can take advantage of short drives for weekend getaways, immersing themselves in breathtaking coastal and forest landscapes. Whether you're planning a family vacation with young children, a romantic retreat in a rustic cabin, or an adventurous solo hiking trip, Quarry Pond offers the flexibility and amenities to make it happen. The presence of modern restrooms with hot showers significantly enhances comfort, allowing for a more enjoyable and refreshing camping experience.

Furthermore, the sheer volume of activities available – from miles of hiking trails with stunning vistas to various water sports on the lakes and Puget Sound – ensures that there's always something new to explore. Its proximity to charming towns like Oak Harbor and Anacortes provides convenient access to supplies, dining, and other services, striking a perfect balance between wilderness immersion and urban convenience. For Washingtonians, Quarry Pond Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a cherished local treasure, a consistent source of outdoor adventure, and a place to create lasting memories amidst the unparalleled beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Quarry Pond Campground

Oak Harbor, WA 98277, USA