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. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. The park is outstanding for breath-taking views, old-growth forests and abundant wildlife. During his Northwest coastal explorations, Captain George Vancouver became the first European to identify the area near Whidbey Island as a passage, which he named “Deception Pass.” A 1923 act of Congress designated the property for public recreation purposes. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built roads, trails, buildings and bridges to develop the park.
Park Features
- Adirondack Shelter, Amphitheater, Boat Launch, Boat Pump-Out, Campsite(s), Classroom, Dock, Drinking Fountain, Environmental Learning Center, Group Camp, Information Panel(s), Interpretive Center/Museum, Marina, Observation Deck, Parking, Pay Station, Picnic Table(s), Ranger Station, Restroom, Retreat Center, Shelter, Store, Water (Potable), Whale Trail Park
Activities
Latest Trip Reports
Deception Pass
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 2 Trip Reports)
Deception Pass: Love to camp at Bowman Bay
September 19, 2019
Review of Deception Pass
What a classic place to camp! The Bowman Bay campground has lovely sites, tucked in among the trees. You can hike along the shore, skip stones and walk the pier.
Deception Pass: Can't beat it!
September 17, 2019
Review of Deception Pass
There’s just no way to top this park with miles of saltwater beaches, lakes, beautiful coves, islands, dramatic cliffs, oldgrowth forests and of course the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. Even when it’s crowded there are so many nooks and crannies that it’s not that hard to make it seem like you have the place to yourself!