Bowman Bay Campground

Explore the small islands in the area!

1.5 hrs from Seattle. Bowman Bay was my childhood family's favorite campground, and for good reason. Set in old growth forest with water-view campsites, it's one of Washington's most pristine, tranquil parks. With only 20 campsites it always feels intimate even when full. Hot showers are in the clean bathrooms.

Relaxing trails take off on either side of the bay. One of which goes to Rosario Beach, where the picture at the top of this page was taken, not Bowman Bay. The cabins in the picture are nowhere near the campground. It's a .7 mile hike, perfect to watch the sunset and return before nightfall.
Cons: Sometimes jets from the Whidbey Island Airbase fly over at night. Locals call it the Sound of Freedom. Reservations a must.