Camping

With 178 campsites, Deception Pass State Park [1] (360/675-2417) offers some of the finest camping in this part of Washington, with tall Douglas fir trees and a gorgeous lakeside setting. Unfortunately, the park’s popularity means that you’ll be accompanied by a multitude of fellow visitors.

The primary campground along Cranberry Lake has year-round sites, and a second campground (open summers only) is just north of the bridge at Bowman Bay. The cost for both is $14 for tents, $20 for RVs, or $6 for bikes, including hot showers and disposal stations. Make reservations ($7 extra) at 888/226-7688 or www.parks.wa.gov [2].

Head to the park’s outdoor amphitheater on weekend evenings in the summer for natural history lectures and slide shows.