Its just north of Freeland on the south end of the island. 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. Noel rallied the community, and a group called Save the Trees was formed to support the effort. With trails, camping, beach access, and large open fields, this is a perfect Whidbey Island park for a day visit, or a weekend camping trip. It is located 127 feet above the Puget Sound waterway and has fantastic views. more. Available for a limited time only. They will be small, however, and crops take from two to four years to cultivate. Free . You need a garden hose or 2-gallon bucket of water available. Seasons, limits, and methods for catching crabs vary by season and location. No matter where you go on Whidbey Island, youll be sure to find some great hiking trails, and in most situations, your dog can come with you on a leash. With a nautical soul and agricultural heart, this 45-mile-long island in Puget Sound feels like the West Coast's version of Nantucket. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about where to go clamming on Whidbey Island, what kind of clams you can find, and what to do with them once youve caught them. 6325 Double Bluff Rd, Freeland, Whidbey Island, WA 98249-9567. Washington State is the nation's leading producer of farmed bivalve shellfish (clams, geoduck, mussels and oysters) and with Whidbey Islands public beach . A store in the park provides camping essentials like snacks, drinks, ice, and firewood. If youre looking for a calm and quiet beach with a wide beach, look no further than Mocrocks Beach. The short . The Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connect the two islands, creating a . Although if youre looking for restaurants and stores, youll need to drive out of the park for about 20 minutes to find any. The water quality story is a huge success. Whidbey Island Seafood Company We pride ourselves on the quality of wild-caught America seafood we source and provide to our customers. There are a range of other activities at the park, including 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. One of the best things to do on Whidbey Island is to go for a hike! 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. Of course its not only the weather that can decide when you want to go camping on Whidbey Island, theres other factors too. South Whidbey Island, including current-day South Whidbey State Park, lies within the traditional territory of multiple Southern Coast Salish tribes, who have inhabited the region for more than 10,000 years. By clicking I Agree you expressly consent our use of cookies. HARVESTED VARNISH clams, invasive species or not, will be applied to a clammers catch quota, Speck said. 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. Depending on the results, future transplants may occur. Shellfish are prized resources of the Puget Sound, the cool, clean waters provide some of the finest shellfish habitat in the world. South Whidbey Island State Park - All You Need to Know - Tripadvisor Last minute booking. Oak Harbor Public Schools is facing more bad news on the horizon. Some of those reside in state parks while others are in privately owned.. To help out, we've picked our six favorite Whidbey Island camping options for you to review. Please bear this in mind to guarantee your reservation. Theres also a kids playground, fenced-off pets area, gazebo with a barbecue, and its close to the marina and multiple boat launches. Its also a family friendly place and is one of the most dog friendly campgrounds in the region too they even have a big dog park! diggers can catch 15 razor clams per day under state law and are required to keep 15 of them in their jars at all times. 2023 Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism. If you want to legally harvest Dungeness or Red Rock crab from Whidbey Island, you should buy a boat. Those guided tours are not only fun, but super interesting too. WHIDBEY ISLAND has few good public beaches to dig clams, and Holmes Harbor was one of the best, she said. If its seabird poop does that constitute a health risk?, Higman said. The roads and pads are concrete for easy manoeuvrability too. Youll find a huge range of outdoor adventure activities here too, from hiking and kayaking to paragliding! The game encourages players to get out and discover wildlife and nature, as well as make new friends and do fun camping activities. Boating and saltwater fishing are hugely popular activities in the park too, as is exploring the beach and bird watching or simply relaxing and people watching. Whidbey Island Clam Chowder View map COVID-19 Restaurants taking safety measures Establishment Type Restaurants Quick Bites Dessert Coffee & Tea Show more Restaurant features Takeout Wheelchair Accessible Serves Alcohol Table Service Show more Meals Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Price Cheap Eats Mid-range Cuisine American Asian Cafe Mexican Thats a shame, said Eugene Thrasher, Whidbeys widely recognized clamming guru. No smoking gun was ever discovered, but water quality from fresh water outlets has improved significantly, according to state Department of Health officials. The park is the site of Admiralty Head Lighthouse. There is no upland access to this beach. Youll need to make a reservation online if you want to stay at any specific site. BIOLOGISTS SAID they hope to discover whats happening through studies and testing. It really is the perfect location to enjoy a relaxing camping experience with fantastic views and great amenities. Varnish clams are OK to eat, though they arent as tasty as steamers or Washington little necks, Thrasher said. A Locals Guide To Hayling Island Camping: Best Campsites, Wild Camping & More! Classes are held at Double Bluff County Park ( Getting to the Water's Edge site #44), one of Whidbey Island's best clamming beaches. 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. Dont camp within 200 feet of a water source. Penn Cove Shellfish, which grows and sells millions of mussels annually, prides itself on growing mussels free of fertilizer or feed. This development has helped many to understand the life cycle of old-growth trees. 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. And if youre up for a hike, this park has direct access to the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, which is a 1,200-mile-long track that takes you along the best hiking the Pacific Northwest has. And spending your night glamping nestled in the woods. There is also an opportunity to buy a case of 12 mixed bottles from each venue for $20-$25. The Native population was decimated by diseases brought in by European settlers in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Unfortunately, your browser is outdated. Whidbey Island is home to some of the best clamming in the state of Washington. There is a park office that sells firewood, ice, snacks, and a range of other items for you to check out too. Note: An additional Special Activity Permit is required for group activities and events such as wedding ceremonies, races, other sports events etc. Why? 1. Due to hazardous trees in the old-growth forest, the campground area is closed indefinitely. Fort Casey State Park is a 467-acre marine camping park with a lighthouse and sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Heres a few that are worth knowing about: Penn Cove Mussel Festival happens in March and has the world-famous Whidbey Island mussels showcased in a range of food, mussel eating contests, fun activities, and tours of the local farms. Whidbey Island Clams Whidbey Island Clams View map Sort by: Highest Rating We found great results, but some are outside Whidbey Island. Whidbey's numerous lakes are ideal for fishing for largemouth bass or trout. Things to Do on Whidbey and Camano Islands 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 With bistro tables and chairs, a fire pit, and a charcoal grill, this spot is also perfect for spending fun quality time outdoors with your friends or family. Of course you dont need to do the entire 1,200 miles, but you can experience a small part of it. The park is known for its breath-taking views, old-growth forests, and abundant wildlife. Double Bluff Beach is a 2-mile area where your dog can run and play in the sand without any problems or tickets issued. The park features a beach access trail and an old-growth forest with lush undergrowth. We cant deny that our customers love to eat quality seafood, and we are proud to help them with their cravings. Temperatures from May to October can range from 10C to 24C, and it only rains between 3 to 8 days out of each month. The park offers views of the Olympic Mountains and rare old-growth stands. Whidbey Island is home to some of the best clamming in the state of Washington. There are just 15 campsites in total, and three can accommodate RVs but those only have a water hookup. 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. DNR-100 (Whidbey Island) Clam, mussel, and oyster seasons OPEN for harvest year-round. Glamping Whidbey Island: Luxury Camping Vacations in Whidbey Island, Washington. Best Clam Chowder in Whidbey Island, WA - Tripadvisor Dispersed camping is legal for 14 days within a 30-day period in the same location. A limited fishery will likely be the case for many years to come, Speck said. Fort Ebey State Park | Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission Deception Pass State Park | Washington State Parks and Recreation If youre a huge hiking enthusiast looking for the best scenic hiking around Whidbey Island, weve got you covered with the hikes below. Higman said the agency may research the question with its legal department about just when it can give the county the OK. ALSO UNCLEAR is from where the Enterococcus bacteria orignated, Higman said. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. There is no electricity, but lanterns are provided for your convenience. So facilities wise, this is easily one of the best Whidbey Island camping options for RVs. A national credit rating service has improved its opinion of WhidbeyHealths financial future. The following areas have been closed for recreational harvest of butter and varnish clams only: West Whidbey Island Admiralty Bay Useless Bay 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. Puget Sound is divided into various regions. When driving from Seattle, take I-5 North to exit 230, then travel 18 miles west on State Route 20, which will take you over the bridge into Oak Harbor. And theres no better place to go clamming than Whidbey Island. Earn 4.00% APY* with our 48-month promotional certificate. 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. Address: 20265 SR 20, Coupeville, WA 98239. There is also a record player for those who are into the classic way of enjoying music. only allow same-day reservations within strict time limits. 100% 10 Reviews. Camping and then catching the sunrise over those bridges is spectacular, and an absolute must if you do choose to stay here. The accommodations indicated with the icon 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. Experts are also baffled by the seeming take over of varnish clams. That means you can explore everything the park has to offer as soon as you wake up that includes hiking, walking across those massive bridges, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, canoeing and kayaking. This presents a pretty exciting opportunity, she said. Each digger must keep his or her own container of clams in their possession. Its a showcase of local artists, including painters, musicians, dancers, and street performers. Automated pay station:This park is equipped with an automated pay station for visitors to purchase a one-day or annual Discover Pass. Enjoy a luxe glamping experience in the middle of the forest, on a farm. Fort Casey Historical State Park Campground has one restroom and several showers for campers to use. To truly appreciate the beauty of nature while here, make sure to book one of these glamping spots for your stay! Island County Public Health Director Keith Higman said the reopening, though limited, is welcome news and a testament to the countys long efforts. If you prefer to take the ferry, take I-5 North and take exit 182. To find out how to opt out of our cookies or how our cookies work, please visit our Cookies Policy. You can also go out diving to explore everything the marine park area has to offer in terms of sealife. The park offers views of the Olympic Mountains and rare old-growth stands. Save. Give your savings a boost. The best low tides in the fall and winter (between October and mid-March) and in the spring (between mid-March and mid-April) are usually found during afternoon/evening (PM) hours, when success is most likely. There are five covered pavilions for community use that have picnic tables and barbecues available too. Whidbey Island has some excellent fishing beaches on its western shores, where salmon and steelhead pass within casting range. Digging For Dinner - Sound Water Stewards of Island County, WA I created this blog because of my love for seafood and my desire to share that love with others. Couldnt be happier!. Hidden Beach is a public beach that has incredible views far out into the ocean. There is some discussion with local tribes to harvest varnish clams as crab bait, but its unclear whether that will materialize or expedite the return of local species. Sounds good right? Appearing in the 1980s, they are native to Asia. So read on to begin your Whidbey Island camping adventure! 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. You can learn how to dig clams, which clams are best for which recipes, how to harvest them safely and sustainably, and . North Whidbey RV Park is located right beside the entrance to Deception Pass State Park, which provides you with access to miles of hiking and biking trails, beaches to explore and swim at, as well as fishing and crabbing opportunities. Whidbey Island definitely offers a complete nature retreat. Panoramic views of the Puget Sound shoreline, the Olympic Mountains and sunsets. Whether you're a freshwater or saltwater fishing enthusiast, the islands are alive with seafood! Among all whidbey island parks, this is the one that caters most to bikers and hikers. A Long Weekend on Whidbey Island, the Playground of the Pacific Walk among the giants: Douglas-fir, Sitka spruce, western hemlock and western red-cedar trees, including a 500-year-old cedar. There is a sandy beach with a length of nearly two miles that is known as Mocrocks Beach. Staying at Fort Casey Historical State Park means youll be spending much of your time in the park exploring nature and experiencing all the history there. Lagoon Point has a public beach that is also known locally as a great viewing area for whales. West Whidbey Island Butter Clams and Varnish Clams Saratoga Passage and Possession Sound, including Utsalady Bay, Penn Cove and Holmes Harbor . What can be fresher than taking it from the ocean yourself? A large beach is located in the first section, which is ideal for walking and shellfishing. Look for bays and estuaries with plenty of tidal flow. Map updates are paused. Active Generations offers a balance calls that will last for 6 weeks and we will focus on exercises for the lower body and exercises to increase good posture and overall mobility. The sheer size, bio-diversity, and beauty of this state park are enough to put it on this list. Clams prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, but in general, I prefer shallower areas with a rocky bottom. Bowman Bay Campground. You can go boating and fishing in the ocean beside this campground, or in one of the three lakes in the park too. Fish and Wildlife monitors seasons and regulations, but the health department is charged with monitoring which areas are safe from marine biotoxins and vibrio. Classes are June 25 at 11 a.m., June 27 at 12:30 p.m., July 10 at 11 a.m., July 23 at 10 a.m. and July 25 at 11:30 a.m. . Luella Meaux: November 21, 1929 January 21, 2023, Claudia Anderson: October 1, 1939 January 31, 2023, Chieko Yamane Miller: July 26, 1936 February 16, 2023, Guarding the flock: Chicken farms rely on specialized dogs. North Whidbey RV Park provides 100 full hookup sites, and each campsite has a concrete pad, picnic table, and fire pit. Learn More The best time to dig is between the months of October and March, when tides are highest in the morning and afternoon. Enjoy a luxe glamping experience in the middle of the forest, on a farm. Enterococcus is part of the normal intestinal flora of humans and animals, which means the contributor could be nothing more than wildlife. If digging for clams and mussels doesnt sound like a good time to you, but eating them does, then there are a range of restaurants on Whidbey Island that will be happy to serve you up their best mussel dishes. And if you want to go crab hunting for your dinner, there are excellent spots on the beach. 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. All over the island, we find these Whidbey Island parks where you can be closer to nature, history, and enjoy the beautiful flora, fauna, and geography that Whidbey Island has to offer. There is no upland access to this beach. May 15 with a seaweed and shellfish license. On top of that theres a number of cabins and yurts if you want a more comfortable Whidbey Island camping experience. Walking through the old WWI coastal fortifications is a must for anyone visiting the island. Bowman Bay Campground has 18 tent sites and two utility sites, Quarry Pond has 7 tent sites and 49 utility sites, and Cranberry Lake has 147 tent sites and 83 utility sites. The Captain Whidbey's beautiful waterfront setting, edible gardens and Penn Cove view, provided all guests with a memorable experience. It was a little bit of a rude shock, Speck said during a telephone interview. A pleasant and short ferry ride from Mukilteo . The recreational beaches of Island County offer a wealth of shellfish for you and your family to gather and enjoy. During the same period, varnish clam numbers jumped from about seven- and-a-half per square foot to nearly 11.5 per square foot. Whidbey Island camping offers a plethora of diverse options for enjoying the outdoors. Navy personnel conduct training missions at various times during the day and night. Lone, Deer, Goss, Cranberry and Pass lakes are all stocked annually. To complete the experience, why not sleep under the stars? Although State Parks cannot be responsible for the jet noise, we do share visitor concerns with representatives of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. It helps keeps the coffee flowing! Use our interactive ADA recreation map to search for other state parks with ADA amenities and facilities. There is one downside though navy jets sometimes train at night directly above. Not much is known about shellfish resources on this beach. The sites are quite spacious and private, but this is a popular campground and state park, so it can get busy. Clams can only be found in salt water; to dig, make sure you have a good look at the beach first. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. Depending on the direction of the wind, their flight pattern may put them above the park, creating noisy conditions. Its another great spot to see orcas or grey whales passing by. Glamping Hub is designed for modern browsers. Whidbey Island - Camping on beautiful Whidbey Island - Yabsta The land that is now South Whidbey State Park was originally set aside as school trust land held by the Washington Department of Natural Resources on behalf of the University of Washington. Grey whales will typically dig for ghost shrimp, while orcas will chase the seals, so both are amazing experiences to watch. Please note: U.S. Navy jets from nearby Naval Air Station Whidbey Island may fly over at any time for several hours. Well we know this area well, and so want to share with you everything we know about the island. The property offers a remote experience, having no electricity. Fishing on Whidbey Island - Best Fishing in America If you are clamming on Whidbey Island, make sure to check the state Department of Health's website for a list of beach closures. You deserve an escape from the day to day. However, you will still be close to conveniences such as the ferry and the beautiful town of Langley. The perfect Whidbey Island campgrounds are only a mouse click away! Youre also close to a range of other activities and services on the base, including paintball, a gym, rec center, food, and a range of other things. Theres even an old battery dug into the high bluffs here that you can explore as part of your adventures around Fort Ebey Park. There is also a park store that provides camping essentials such as firewood, ice, snacks, water, and a range of other items. 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. Address: 400 Hill Valley Dr., Coupeville, WA 98239. Fort Ebey State Park boasts 645 acres of camping, mountain biking, and hiking. Showing results in neighboring cities. There are only a handful of protection districts in Washington and there isnt a lot of precedent for removing them. Clammers will hit Holmes Harbor for the first time in eight years this spring. Ehlert argued in court that forests were not exempt from environmental rules.