Camping
James Island is an ideal retreat with 13 primitive campsites available first-come, first-served.
The "East Cove" campground (sites 1-4) has access to a pit toilet, bulletin board and a pay station. A hiking trail leads southwest to the campsites on the West Cove.
The "Saddle Area" campsites (sites 5-10) has access to a picnic shelter and two picnic sites, composting toilet facilities, a pay station and moorage dock. The park's loop trail system also starts and ends at this campground.
The West Cove campsites (sites 11-13) have a pit toilet. These sites are reserved for those arriving by human or wind-powered boats. They are part of the Cascadia Marine Trail.
Moorage
Moorage is available on both sides of the island and all docks and mooring buoys remain in place year-round.
The West Cove has a 256-foot dock (128 feet on each side).
The East Cove has four buoys with phone-in registration available. Buoys are limited to boats no larger than 45 feet. Please note: Moorage in the East Cove is exposed to wakes from boat traffic in the Rosario Strait.
Winter Schedule
Learn about seasonal closers and operational changes during the off-season on the Winter Schedule page.
Water activities and beach access
Water activities include boating, clamming, oyster harvesting, and diving and fishing in salt water. Salmon and bottom fishing is especially good in the waters adjacent to James Island State Park.
Additional Information
The nearest fuel and groceries are available in Anacortes.