Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass State Park spreads over 3,854 acres, a marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. The park is actually located on two islands — Fidalgo to the north and Whidbey to the south. The Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connect the two islands, creating a gateway for exploration.

Kukutali Preserve

This 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.

Trails

Deception Pass features 1.2 miles of ADA hiking trails, 3 miles of bike trails, 6 miles of horse trails and 38 miles of hiking trails.

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 the Rocky Mountains in Montana.

At Deception Pass State Park, you hop onto 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

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, and 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 spectacular Deception Pass Bridge.

Crabbing and both fresh and saltwater fishing are popular at Deception Pass, as is exploring the tidepools at Rosario Beach. Go for a swim from the beach or, if you are an experienced diver, explore the wonders beyond the shore at Deception Pass.

Concessions

Blue Otter Kayaks 

Located in the day use area on the shore of Cranberry Lake. Kayak, SUP and canoe rentals are available weekends only May through mid-June and daily mid-June through Labor Day. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit them online or on Instagram.

Anacortes Kayak Tours 

For some of the most beautiful scenery in Washington State, come see what all the fuse is about with Anacortes Kayak Tours. Available April - Sept. They are located in the Bowman Bay boat launch parking lot. For additional information, visit them online or on Instagram.

Campstuff Coffee 

Brewing up fresh espresso from a vintage camp trailer from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. They're located at the camp loop entrance across from Cranberry Lake. For more information visit them on Instagram.

Sister Sister Kettle Corn 

Serving fresh kettle corn, a variety of beverages and ice cream near the West Beach parking lot. They are open weekends, mid-May through mid-Sept. 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 - Sept. A kiosk is located at the south end of the Deception Pass Bridge. For more information and reservations, visit them online.

Interpretive opportunities

The Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center is 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.

The Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail at West Beach includes an observation deck and signage that explains local vegetation and ecosystems. 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 legend of the Samish Indian Nation.

Junior Ranger and other educational programs are offered mid-May through Labor Day at the park’s amphitheater. A schedule of planned events is posted at the ranger contact station.

Retreat Center

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