Island State Parks
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A number of the smaller islands in the San Juan archipelago are preserved as marine state parks and largely undeveloped. Access is by private boat or sea kayak. The parks have primitive campsites, no drinking water (bring plenty with you), and no garbage collection.
Sea kayaks are a popular island-hopping mode of transportation, but since some of the smaller islands are several miles out, be careful not to overestimate your ability. Sailboats and motorboats can tie up at mooring buoys in these marine parks for a fee, typically $0.50 per foot per day.
The parks listed below all have camping and are easily reachable by kayak. In addition, many other islets are open to day use, but islands within the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge are off-limits to protect nesting birds and other animals. For information on the marine parks and the wildlife refuge, talk with folks at Lime Kiln State Park on San Juan Island (360/378-2044, www.parks.wa.gov).
© Ericka Chickowski from Moon Washington, 8th edition
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