Junior Ranger programs, guided hikes, history and ecology walks and talks highlight the area’s rich diversity
OLYMPIA – May 30, 2019 – Washington State Parks and staff at Deception Pass State Park invite the public to enjoy a variety of fun, active, educational summer programs at Washington’s most visited state park.
Deception Pass State Park, 41229 State Route 20, Oak Harbor is located on Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands and connected by two high bridges. (Driving directions) This 3,854-acre destination park has forested trails, wetlands, saltwater beaches and headlands, freshwater lakes, sheltered bays and islands, which allow for unique camping, hiking, watersports and learning opportunities.
The 2019 summer programs are as follows:
Deception Pass Guest Speaker Series
Saturdays, June 8 – 29
7 p.m.
West Beach Amphitheater
Attendees will hear from experts on marine wildlife, bats, birds and more. Programs last an hour. Bench seating is available, though attendees may bring folding chairs. Blankets and insect repellent are recommended.
Beyond the Bridge
Saturdays, June 22 to Sept. 1
11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
North Beach Parking Lot
Park staff present a 30-minute interpretive program about the Deception Pass and Canoe Pass bridges. Beyond a discussion of the bridges’ architecture and history, visitors will discover the cultural significance of these iconic spans and their connection to the park’s natural resources. People of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Guided Hikes
June 22 to Aug. 10
Wednesdays and Thursdays, 1 p.m.,
Saturdays, 11 a.m.
West Beach Amphitheater
Park staff will lead a family friendly, hour-long, .9-mile hike along the North Beach Trail, during which hikers will learn about the Deception Pass forests. This one-way hike leaves from the West Beach Amphitheater and ends at the North Beach parking lot. Visitors may leave a car to shuttle or hike round trip. People of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Junior Ranger Programs
Wednesdays and Thursdays, June 22 to Aug. 10
3 p.m.
Saturdays, June 22 to Sept. 1
1 and 3:30 p.m.
West Beach Amphitheater
Children will learn about park wildlife and discover unique forest and marine habitats during 30 to 45-minute programs designed for kids ages four to 12. Children attending Junior Ranger Programs must be accompanied by an adult.
Evening Programs
Wednesday and Thursday, June 22 to Aug. 10
7:30 p.m.,
West Beach
Join park staff for family-friendly evening programs. Discover how nocturnal animals thrive in a world without light. Programs are 30-minutes long, and visitors of all ages are welcome.
Junior Ranger Ceremonies
Sundays, June 22 to Sept. 1
10 a.m.
West Beach
Children ages four and up may turn in their completed Junior Ranger booklets and become Washington State Parks Junior Rangers during a special Junior Ranger ceremony. Park staff will host activities at 10 a.m. Ceremonies start at 10:30 a.m.
The self-guided Junior Ranger program encourages families to discover the natural and cultural wonders of Washington through exploration, games, volunteerism and creative activities. Junior Ranger booklets can be picked up at any Deception Pass program or in the park office.
Volunteer: Park Cleanup
12:30 - 2 p.m.
Sundays, June 22 to Aug. 10
Various locations
Park staff will host weekly stewardship events for volunteers. Activities include beach cleanup, invasive species removal and more. Please check in at the Welcome Booth or on the Deception Pass Park Foundation’s website for location. Bring gloves, water and snacks.
Discovery Center
Saturdays and Sundays, June 22 to Sept. 1
Noon to 4 p.m.,
Rosario Beach
The Discovery Center offers hands-on activities. Located in a historic Civilian Conservation Corps bathhouse, the center plays host to tidepool specimens, microscopes and more. The Discovery Center is sponsored by the Deception Pass Park Foundation.
American Roots Music Series
Saturdays, July 6 to Aug. 24
7 p.m.
Concerts will be held in the West Beach Amphitheater during the American Roots Music Series in July and most of August. Check the Folk and Traditional Arts page on the Washington State Parks website for details.
News media contacts:
Joy Kacoroski, Interpretive Specialist, Deception Pass State Park (360) 675-3767 ext. 231
Meryl Lassen, Communications Consultant (360) 902-8557
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 19-035