Deception Pass State Park

Interpretive opportunities

Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center

Located in the Bowman Bay area of the park. The center was originally a bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The center’s exhibits tell the incredible story of the CCC’s work across the state of Washington during the Great Depression. The center is free-of-charge and is open April to September, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Field Trips

Deception Pass is a great outdoor classroom, and we want to support your educational efforts as best we can while also protecting the natural resources. Email DeceptionPass.Interpreter@parks.wa.gov to inquire. All school groups interested in visiting the Rosario tide pools are required to register with park staff prior to their visit. 

Park Programs

Educational opportunities and Junior Ranger programs are offered throughout the year. Check the Deception Pass calendar for a schedule of planned events. Information is also posted at the  Welcome Booth. 

Park Areas and Trails

Cornet Bay Retreat Center

Cornet Bay Retreat Center located within the iconic Deception Pass State Park offers plenty of space for large meetings and group activities. This space offers spectacular views of Mount Baker and Cornet Bay.

Kukutali Preserve

The preserve on Kiket Island is the newest state park property at Deception Pass. Co-owned and co-managed by the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community and Washington State Parks, this area welcomes visitors to bask in its old-growth forest, which ends at stunning views of Fidalgo, Hope, and Skagit islands.

Flagstaff Point beyond a neck of land is off-limits to people, to protect a rare environment called a "rocky bald," which supports fragile native plant communities. Pets are not allowed in any area of the preserve.

Maiden of Deception Pass

The Maiden of Deception Pass story pole is located in the Rosario Beach area of the park. The carving depicts the story of Ko-Kwal-alwoot, a culturally important story of the Samish Indian Nation. 

Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail

The Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail is a 0.8 mile paved ADA loop. This trail has a series of interpretive panels providing information about the seaside vegetation unique to this area and includes an observation deck. 

Pacific Northwest Scenic Trail access

The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail (PNT) is a 1,200-mile-long footpath through some of the most spectacular and scenic terrain in the United States. It stretches between the shores of the Pacific Ocean in the Olympic National Park and connects all the way to the Rocky Mountains in Montana.

At Deception Pass State Park, you can hop onto the PNT to enjoy sweeping views from the summit of Goose Rock or explore nearly ten miles of the trail system. Plan your trip by visiting the Pacific Northwest Trail website.

Water and beach activities

Boaters

Set on the dynamic shores of Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands, Deception Pass has ample water activities.

Boaters may take advantage of more than 1,100 feet of dock and 1,980 feet of moorage.  There's both freshwater and saltwater boating opportunities from five watercraft launches.

White water kayaking and sailboarding -- for the seasoned paddler and boarder, is popular around the island and under the spectacular Deception Pass Bridge.

Please note, due to unsafe conditions, the Bowman Bay pier is closed indefinitely. 

Crabbing and Fishing

Crabbing and both fresh and saltwater fishing are popular at Deception Pass. A recreational license is required for fishing and shellfish harvesting at Washington State Parks. For regulations, fishing season information, or to purchase a recreational license, visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Swimming

Go for a swim from the beach or, if you are an experienced diver, explore the wonders beyond the shore at Deception Pass. Swimming is allowed in designated areas only. 

Tide Pools

To protect the Rosario Tide Pools follow the yellow rope trail, do not touch or remove creatures. Large groups such as schools, homeschool, or summer camps should contact park staff at DeceptionPass.Interpreter@parks.wa.gov prior to their visit. 

No pets are allowed in the tide pool areas.

Park Store, Boat Tours, Espresso and Snacks

The Lake Store at Cranberry Lake

Great gifts and necessities from hoodies and tees to toothbrushes The Lake Store has firewood, ice cream and pretty much anything a camper might want.  Open Fridays and Saturdays April to mid-June then daily until Labor Day. They are located between the Cranberry Lake campgrounds and at the Bridge Kiosk or online. For more information, visit them on Instagram.

Anacortes Kayak Tours 

For some of the most beautiful scenery in Washington state, come see what all the fuss is about with Anacortes Kayak Tours. Tours are available April through September. They are located in the Bowman Bay boat launch parking lot. For additional information, visit them online or on Instagram.

Campstuff Coffee 

Campstuff Coffee brews up fresh espresso from a vintage camp trailer from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. They're located at the main camp loop entrance next to the Lake Store. Campstuff also has a second 'roaming' vehicle that will set up at North Beach and the Bridge. For more information visit them on Instagram.

Deception Pass Tours

A fun ride awaits you with Deception Pass Tours! This exciting tour takes visitors on an open-air jet boat through the waters around Deception Pass and surrounding areas. See wildlife such as bald eagles, seals, porpoises and maybe even a whale! Tours are offered daily April through September. A kiosk is located at the south end of the Deception Pass Bridge to help you with additional information and reservations, or visit them online.