State Parks and National Parks

Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass State Park contains some of the most beloved public lands in the Northwest. The 4,134-acre park has more than 18 miles of saltwater shoreline, nine islands in Puget Sound, two freshwater lakes and a cathedral-like old-growth forests.

There are numerous recreation areas throughout the park, with 311 scenic picnic sites, 320 campsites, an environmental learning center and several fishing piers.

With its mild winter climate and diverse geography, the park is open year-round and is a favorite spot for hiking, sea kayaking, camping, fishing and birdwatching.

There are 40 miles of hiking trails in the park, most of them short hikes through three natural forest areas. There is no overnight camping along the trails, but the large campground includes five primitive bike/walk-in sites.

The Cascadian Trail flows through the park, a favorite float for kayakers, though tidal influences can make the water rough. There are designated water trail campsites at the pass.

Cranberry and Pass Lakes are excellent for canoeing and fishing. Fly fishing for German, brown and rainbow trout at Pass Lake is catch and release, but Cranberry yields a tasty supply of rainbow and German brown trout, perch and bass year-round.

Photo credits in order: Photo courtesy of Washington