Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass State Park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, from kayaking to hiking its 30-plus miles (40-plus kilometers) of trails. Many visit the park independently. Tours from Seattle make it easy to visit without a car. Some tours focus on specific outdoor activities, others are ideal for travelers who want a softer adventure and include the chance to walk across the park's sprawling Deception Pass Bridge and spend time at the water.

• Deception Pass State Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and fans of boating or fishing.

• If you plan to camp, get an early reservation to secure your spot, especially for busy summer weekends.

• While you won’t need an individual ticket to visit the park, you will need to purchase a 1-day or 1-year Discover Pass (essentially a Washington State Park car pass) to enter.

The easiest way to get to Deception Pass State Park is by car, and many visitors either rent a car or come to the park on a tour that includes transportation from Seattle. You can also reach the park by bicycle or bus. Service is provided by Island County Transit.

While the park is accessible throughout the year, you’ll get the best weather from July through early September, when the temperatures are generally warm, and the chance of rain is lower. Avoid weekends if you aren’t fond of crowds. You can visit for free on select national holidays, including New Year's Day, Juneteenth, National Public Lands Day, and more.

Deception Pass State Park is a camper's delight, with more than 300 tent and RV sites. There is also a retreat center and a group site for larger groups, plus 11 boat-only sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. For something a bit more comfortable, reserve one of the park’s cabins, some of which come equipped with private showers and kitchens.