We're updating our camping and moorage fees to continue providing great experiences for visitors amid inflation and rising costs. You will see a rate increase for camping stays booked for May 15 and beyond. Moorage fees will increase Jan. 1. Learn more here.
Burn Ban Level 2
Wood fires restricted to fire pits in designated areas. Gas and propane allowed. Charcoal may be restricted.
General
No drinking water will be available on James Island State Park until further notice.
James Island Marine State Park
Blakely Island, WA 98222
While much of James Island Marine State Park is designated a Natural Forest Area and is closed to public access, there is plenty of open territory to explore on this water access-only island. Enjoy the emerald coves, forested trails, spectacular views and an isthmus with two white sand beaches.
Rules
- Dogs Allowed on Leash
- Boat-in Only
There is no potable water or garbage on the island. Be prepared to pack out what you pack in.
Only accessible by boat
No boats more than 45-feet are permitted on buoys. Please observe rafting limits posted on each buoy.
All boaters must self-register and pay required fees upon arrival. Boaters must pay for boats rafted to another boat and observe rafting length limits posted on each buoy. Dinghies cannot be used to reserve moorage space on the dock or at buoys.
Trail safety
When hiking with children, please be aware of fall hazards around tall rocky banks and cliffs. Be aware that the surrounding waters are deep and swift.
Fishing and shellfish harvesting
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.
Activities
Beach Exploration
Boating
Camping
Crabbing
Fishing
Hiking, Walking, Rolling and Running
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Scuba Diving
Shellfishing
Winter Camping
Amenities
Restrooms
Buoys
Dock
Moorage
Picnic Shelters
Picnic Tables
Hiking Trails
Park features
Forest
Island
Ocean Beach
Rocky Beach
Saltwater
Sandy Beach
Viewpoint
Wildlife Viewing
Rules
- Dogs Allowed on Leash
- Boat-in Only
There is no potable water or garbage on the island. Be prepared to pack out what you pack in.
Only accessible by boat
No boats more than 45-feet are permitted on buoys. Please observe rafting limits posted on each buoy.
All boaters must self-register and pay required fees upon arrival. Boaters must pay for boats rafted to another boat and observe rafting length limits posted on each buoy. Dinghies cannot be used to reserve moorage space on the dock or at buoys.
Trail safety
When hiking with children, please be aware of fall hazards around tall rocky banks and cliffs. Be aware that the surrounding waters are deep and swift.
Fishing and shellfish harvesting
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.
Map & visitor guide
48.51224518, -122.7751312
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.