For the past couple of years, Deception Pass State Park has been a stop on our camping trips to Whidbey Island. For years we only stopped on the side Cranberry Lake close to the entrance where we would fish and have a picnic. Our love for Deception Pass State Park grew even more in 2017 when we discovered the side of the lake close to the ocean!! (I have included affiliate links to products I love. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. )
Now you do need a Washington Discover Pass for day use of Deception Pass State Park. You can buy one at the park for $10 a day or a yearly one for $30. (Or online ->here) I tend to buy my mine at a local store so I know I have it right before our trips. Now I do wait till my Washington Discover Pass has expired and we are actually heading to a state park. It doesn’t happen often but sometimes I have had a couple months gap between expiring and having a trip to a state park.
What To See And Do At Deception Pass State Park:
- Freshwater fishing
- Saltwater fishing
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Swimming (there are toilets and showers)
- Beach exploring
- Hiking
Now the swimming area of Cranberry Lake is the kids favorite part. There is the perfect spot to launch off our kayaks and the paddle boards we rent. Michael and I tend to fish off of our kayaks while we are out on the lake, well he fishes I paddle. Since the swimming area is roped off it works out perfectly for grandma to keep an eye on the kids too. Plus with all the picnic tables it’s perfect for taking a sack lunch to enjoy there.
This year Kylie and I went and explored the ocean side of the park. It was fun looking at the tide pools and exploring the beach. We were able to walk around to see the bridge. Since we take the ferry from Mukilteo Ferry To Clinton Ferry to get to our campground so we don’t see the bridge most trips.
It never fails when we are at Deception Pass State Park we see bald eagles and hear the fighter jets from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island!! Now, this is amazing when you are out on the lake to get to be able to see and to hear as well. This makes a kayaking trip even better!! Just be prepared for the loud jet noises.
There is also overnight camping available at Deception Pass State Park. We camp at Cliffside RV park on Naval Air Station Whidbey Island with my parents. Since my dad is retired United States Air Force he is able to reserve spots for us there. You can head on over -> here to reserve spots at Deception Pass State Park.
Michael actually caught his first fish ever this year at the park! He was so excited, but alas he hasn’t caught one since. On our next trip, we plan to hike and explore some of the trails more. Even though we go yearly it seems like we are never able to see the whole park!
Have you been to Deception Pass State Park?? What does your family love to do there?
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