Obstruction Pass State Park: Your Washington Camping Adventure

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Obstruction Pass State Park is a 76-acre primitive camping park located on the south end of Orcas Island in Washington. The park is one of the few spots on Orcas Island with access to more than one mile of publicly owned saltwater shoreline. The park is known for its pebbly beaches, splendid water views, and madrone trees.

Camping at Obstruction Pass State Park is a unique experience, as it is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out location with no potable water. However, the park offers first-come, first-serve camping, including primitive, hiker/biker, and personal watercraft use. The park also features amenities such as fire pits, restrooms, buoys, and moorage.

Obstruction Pass State Park is an excellent option if you’re looking for a secluded camping experience with access to saltwater shoreline. The park offers a range of recreational activities, including beach exploration, bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and winter camping. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer, Obstruction Pass State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Orcas Island.

Key Takeaways

  • Obstruction Pass State Park is a primitive camping park on Orcas Island with access to saltwater shoreline.
  • The park offers first-come, first-serve camping for any type of camping, including primitive, hiker/biker, and personal watercraft use.
  • Recreational activities at the park include beach exploration, bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and winter camping.

Obstruction Pass State Park Overview

This 76-acre park is located on the south end of Orcas Island, in San Juan County, Washington. The park is a primitive camping area, with no potable water, so campers must pack in and pack out their own supplies.

The park offers access to more than one mile of publicly-owned saltwater shoreline, making it one of the few spots on Orcas Island where you can enjoy a beach. The pebbly beaches and splendid water views are perfect for beach exploration, and the park also offers a variety of other activities, such as bird watching, boating, and winter camping.

The park features madrone trees, old growth, and established campsites, making it a great spot for nature lovers. The park’s half-mile trail leads visitors from the parking area to the campground and beach access, and the trail is dog-friendly, as long as your furry friend is kept on a leash.

Obstruction Pass State Park is located at 4100 Obstruction Pass Road, Olga, WA 98279. The park is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and beach-goers, so be sure to make your reservations early. With its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Obstruction Pass State Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.

Getting There

To get there, you must first travel to Orcas Island. You can do this by taking the Washington State Ferries or other means of transportation. Once you arrive, follow the main Orcas Island Road all the way around to the island’s East Side. Stay left onto Point Lawrence Road at the Catkin Cafe, then bear right onto Obstruction Pass Road following the signs.

The park is located on the south end of Orcas Island in San Juan County, south of Moran State Park. The park is one of the few spots on Orcas Island with access to more than one mile of publicly-owned saltwater shoreline. A half-mile trail leads visitors from the parking area to the campground and beach access.

If you are coming from Seattle, you can take the ferry from Anacortes to Orcas Island. The ferry ride takes approximately an hour and a half, and reservations are recommended during summer. Once you arrive on Orcas Island, it takes about 20 minutes to drive to Obstruction Pass State Park.

To ensure you don’t get lost, it’s best to bring a map of the area and familiarize yourself with the route before setting out. The park is accessible year-round, but check the weather and road conditions before you go.

Obstruction Pass State Park Camping

Obstruction Pass State Park offers primitive camping in a beautiful natural setting. The park has 30 tent spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservations for these sites, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure your spot.

The campground is situated on a bluff overlooking the water, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. The campsites are primitive, with no hookups or amenities. However, the park does provide fire pits and restrooms for campers to use.

If you’re looking to make a reservation, Obstruction Pass State Park does offer a limited number of reservable campsites. These sites can be booked up to nine months in advance. If you need to cancel your reservation, be sure to do so at least two days before your scheduled arrival to avoid any cancellation fees.

There are also a limited number of walk-in sites available for those who prefer a more secluded camping experience. These sites are located away from the main campground and can be accessed by hiking a short distance.

Park Features and Facilities

Obstruction Pass State Park is a 76-acre park on Orcas Island that offers a range of features and facilities for campers and day visitors. The park is known for its pebbly beaches, splendid water views, and madrone trees. Here are some of the park’s features and facilities:

  • Picnic Tables: Obstruction Pass State Park has several picnic tables scattered throughout the park, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a meal or snack in the great outdoors.
  • Toilets: The park has several composting toilets available for visitors to use. These toilets are environmentally friendly and help to reduce the park’s impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
  • Picnic and Day Use Facilities: In addition to picnic tables, the park also has several day use facilities, including a covered picnic shelter and a playground.
  • Running Water: The park has running water available for visitors to use. However, this water is not potable, so visitors should bring their own drinking water or be prepared to treat the water before drinking.
  • Bathrooms: In addition to composting toilets, the park also has several traditional bathrooms available for visitors to use. These bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

Recreational Activities

Obstruction Pass State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely picnic, there’s something for everyone at this public recreation area.

Hiking trails wind through the park’s 80-acre campground, providing scenic views of the surrounding forest and coastline. Take a walk along the half-mile trail that leads to the park’s beach access, or explore the secluded campgrounds nestled in the open forest.

If you’re looking for a more active adventure, Obstruction Pass State Park is an excellent place for walking, rolling, or running. The park’s open spaces and quiet roads make it easy to enjoy a brisk workout while taking in the natural beauty of the area.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, picnicking is a popular activity at the park. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal with family and friends while taking in the stunning views of the water and trees.

Water Activities

Obstruction Pass State Park is a great destination for water activities. The park boasts one of the few publicly accessible beaches on Orcas Island, which is perfect for beachcombing and swimming. The beach is pebbly, and the opal waters are calm, making it a great spot for families with children.

If you’re looking to explore the water, you can bring your own boat or rent one from a local outfitter. The park has a boat launch, and there are mooring buoys available for overnight stays. Fishing and crabbing are popular activities in the area, and there are several spots in the park where you can cast your line.

The park is also part of the Cascadia Marine Trail, which is a network of campsites and water trails along the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands. The park has a Cascadia Marine Trail campsite that is accessible by boat or kayak. The campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, and a vault toilet.

Wildlife and Nature

Obstruction Pass State Park is a haven for nature lovers, with its rich wildlife and scenic views. The park’s low forest and bluff offer a habitat for various wildlife species, including deer, raccoons, and rabbits. The forest is dominated by Madrone trees, which provide a unique and beautiful backdrop for campers.

The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with a variety of bird species to observe. The self-guided interpretive trail offers an excellent opportunity to learn about the park’s ecology and geology.

The pebbly beaches and splendid water views provide a serene environment for campers to relax and enjoy the park’s natural beauty. The park’s geology and ecology are fascinating and can be explored through the park’s interpretive trail.

Park Regulations

When camping at Obstruction Pass State Park, it is important to be aware of the park regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Fees and Recreation License

A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to the park, and camping fees apply. Moorage fees are also charged for boats using the park’s buoys. A recreational license is needed for shellfish harvesting.

Fires

Level 1 fires are allowed in designated fire pits. You may bring your own grill, but propane and gas grills are not allowed. During a burn ban, no fires are allowed. Pack out what you pack in.

Dogs and Horses

Dogs are allowed on a leash, but horses are not permitted in the park.

By following these regulations, you can enjoy a safe and memorable camping experience at Obstruction Pass State Park.

Reviews and Ratings

Obstruction Pass State Park camping has received high praise from visitors. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5, reviewers have lauded the park’s stunning views, secluded campsites, and easy access to the beach.

Many campers have commented on the peacefulness and serenity of the park, with several noting that they were able to relax and unwind while surrounded by nature. Some have even described it as a “hidden gem” and “paradise.”

One of the standout features of the park is its excellent hiking trails, with many reviewers recommending the hike to the summit of Mount Constitution for breathtaking views. The park’s beach is also a popular attraction, with visitors enjoying swimming, kayaking, and beachcombing.

Nearby Attractions

Obstruction Pass State Park is located on Orcas Island, which is part of the San Juan Islands in Washington State. The park is surrounded by natural beauty and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

One nearby attraction is Moran State Park, which is located on the east side of Orcas Island. This 5,000-plus acre state park is the crown jewel of the San Juan Islands and invites a world of exploration. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the many trails, or enjoy the beautiful Cascade Lake.

Another attraction is Olga, a small village located on the eastern side of Orcas Island. Olga is known for its art galleries and studios, and you can spend hours exploring the local art scene. You can also visit the Olga Cafe, which serves delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients.

If you’re interested in history, you can visit the Orcas Island Historical Museum, which is located in Eastsound, the largest village on Orcas Island. The museum features exhibits on the island’s Native American heritage, early settlers, and industries such as fishing and logging.

In conclusion, Obstruction Pass State Park is surrounded by natural beauty and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nearby attractions include Moran State Park, Olga, and the Orcas Island Historical Museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campsites at Moran State Park?

Moran State Park offers a variety of campsites, each with its own unique features. The best campsites are those that meet your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and privacy when choosing a campsite.

Is dispersed camping allowed on Orcas Island?

Dispersed camping is not allowed on Orcas Island. However, there are several campgrounds and parks on the island that offer camping options. Obstruction Pass State Park is one of the few spots on Orcas Island with access to more than one mile of publicly-owned saltwater shoreline.

How do I reserve a campsite at Washington State Parks?

You can reserve a campsite at Washington State Parks online or by phone. Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance. Some parks also offer first-come, first-served campsites.

What are the rules for camping at Obstruction Pass State Park?

Obstruction Pass State Park has rules in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. Some of the rules include restrictions on fires, pets, and noise. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the park’s rules before your visit.

Are there first come first serve campsites at Deception Pass State Park?

Yes, Deception Pass State Park offers both reservable and first-come, first-served campsites. However, availability of first-come, first-served sites may vary depending on the season and time of day.

What is the maximum length of stay at Washington State Parks?

The maximum length of stay at Washington State Parks is 10 consecutive nights. After 10 nights, campers must leave the park for at least 48 hours before returning.

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