View from overlook on Cama Beach State Park Bluff Trail south towards cabins.
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Cama Beach Historical State Park

4.7
·1k reviews·Camano, United States

Step back in time at this 1930s fishing resort, featuring charming historic cabins, scenic trails, and a picturesque beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Warmest weather, cafe open

CrowdMedium
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View from overlook on Cama Beach State Park Bluff Trail south towards cabins.

Cama Beach Historical State Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Warmest weather, cafe open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at this 1930s fishing resort, featuring charming historic cabins, scenic trails, and a picturesque beach.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful, calm, and invigorating place with stunning views and a pleasant old-time feeling."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

Drive down the dirt road for closer beach access. Plenty of parking available, but a Discovery Pass is a must!

☕ Cafe Delights

Grab delicious bites at the Cama Beach Cafe on weekend mornings (8 am-2 pm) before exploring.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Cabin Camp

Historic Cabin Camp

Along the shore

Step back in time exploring the charming, decommissioned 1930s fishing resort cabins.

Cranberry Lake Trail

Cranberry Lake Trail

Uphill from the beach

Hike scenic trails to discover the serene Cranberry Lake and enjoy beautiful forest views.

Cama Beach Shoreline

Cama Beach Shoreline

Beachfront

Enjoy the picturesque beach, perfect for leisurely walks and taking in the tranquil waters.

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Planning Your Visit

Discovery Pass Required

A Washington State Discover Pass is mandatory for parking. Purchase it online or at an authorized vendor before your visit to avoid fines. This pass grants access to many state parks.

Cabin Rentals & Seasonality

While the historic cabins offer a unique stay, they are often booked far in advance, especially for summer. Check availability and book early if you plan to rent one. The cafe operates seasonally.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Warmest weather, cafe open
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Fall weekends
Why
Crisp air, beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Road trips in the area?

🚗 Park Smart

Drive down the dirt road for closer beach access. Plenty of parking available, but a Discovery Pass is a must! Reddit

☕ Cafe Delights

Grab delicious bites at the Cama Beach Cafe on weekend mornings (8 am-2 pm) before exploring. Reddit

reddit.com

advice for a b&b rental for a few days outside of town for somebody without a car

🥾 Trail Ready

Wear comfortable shoes for hiking trails to Cranberry Lake and exploring the park's vast areas. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The historic cabins offer a unique, nostalgic photo opportunity. Visit during golden hour for best light. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

Drive down the dirt road for closer beach access. Plenty of parking available, but a Discovery Pass is a must! Reddit

☕ Cafe Delights

Grab delicious bites at the Cama Beach Cafe on weekend mornings (8 am-2 pm) before exploring. Reddit

🥾 Trail Ready

Wear comfortable shoes for hiking trails to Cranberry Lake and exploring the park's vast areas. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The historic cabins offer a unique, nostalgic photo opportunity. Visit during golden hour for best light. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the park's beautiful scenery, historic charm, and peaceful atmosphere. The well-preserved cabins and scenic trails to Cranberry Lake are highlights. While the cafe is a welcome addition, some wish the cabins were still available for rent.

"Start at the Cama Beach Café Friday- Sunday, 8am - 2pm. Fantastic delicious goodness to prime your for a beautiful beach hike and visiting the old cabin camp on the shore. Then you can walk a bit up hill from the beach and explore several trails where you can find beautiful Cranberry Lake and other adventures. It was a beautiful, sunny, perfect temperature day to take it all in."

Jackie G

"The park is huge! There are numerous trails for walking & biking. Plenty of parking available. There is even a cafe in the park that is open on weekend mornings. We walked on a trail that took us down to the water. There is a large historical camp that appeared to be closed up for the winter season. The views are beautiful ❤️ There were bathrooms and a few port-a-potties along the way, plenty of places for a pick-nick. Neat place to go."

Kim Sharrah

"I visited this place for a quick drive with a few friends and was absolutely stunned by its beauty. A Discovery pass is a must, and there are plenty of places to park. We drove all the way inside, parked at the top, and walked down. The dirt road is definitely drivable, taking you closer to the beach with a stunning view. The cabins looked great, and I plan to come back during the summer with my family to check them out. The fire area near the beach was vacant but well maintained. Unlike other places, the beach here is short but very close to the water. During our visit in the first week of February, the area was pleasant, calm, and invigorating. It was not crowded at all when we went, and I'll definitely visit again."

Jacob Jees

What People Like

Historic cabin charm
Beautiful beach views
Peaceful hiking trails

What People Dislike

Cabins no longer rentable

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cama Beach Historical State Park is located on Camano Island. You can drive directly to the park. The park has ample parking, and a dirt road allows access closer to the beach. Reddit

Public transport options to Camano Island are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Cama Beach Historical State Park. Consider carpooling if traveling with friends. Reddit

From Seattle, take I-5 North to exit 208 for WA-532 West towards Stanwood. Continue on WA-532 W, which becomes Camano Island. Follow signs for Cama Beach Historical State Park.

Yes, the dirt road leading closer to the beach is generally drivable, offering convenient access. However, drive cautiously. Reddit

Yes, the area offers several nature spots. Nearby considerations include exploring Poulsbo or Everett for weekend trips. Rainier and Olympic National Parks are further afield but offer extensive nature experiences. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at Cama Beach Historical State Park. You can purchase it online or at authorized retailers. Reddit

Discovery Passes can be purchased online through the Washington State Parks website, or at many retail locations that sell outdoor recreation permits. It's recommended to get one in advance. Reddit

Cama Beach Historical State Park is typically open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, specific facilities like the cafe have limited operating hours. Reddit

The historic cabins are available for rent, but they are very popular and book up months in advance, especially during peak season. Check the official Washington State Parks website for booking information. Reddit

The Discovery Pass covers your parking fee. There are no additional entrance fees to access the park grounds and beaches. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic cabins, hike trails to Cranberry Lake, enjoy the beach, have a picnic, and rent boats during the operating season. Reddit

Yes, there are several trails, including one that leads to Cranberry Lake. These trails offer beautiful views and opportunities for walking and biking. Reddit

The beach area is suitable for enjoying the water, though swimming conditions can vary. It's a pleasant spot for wading and relaxing by the shore. Reddit

Restrooms are available within the park, and there may be additional port-a-potties along the trails or near picnic areas. Reddit

Absolutely! There are plenty of designated picnic areas throughout the park, making it a great spot for a family outing. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Cama Beach Cafe is open on weekend mornings from 8 am to 2 pm, offering delicious food options. Reddit

The cafe serves a variety of delicious food items, perfect for priming you for a day of exploring the park and beach. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own picnic is highly encouraged. There are many scenic spots perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. Reddit

While the cafe is convenient, you can also find dining options in nearby towns on Camano Island or in Stanwood if you're looking for more variety. Reddit

Alcohol policies can vary by state park. It's best to check the official Washington State Parks regulations or inquire at the park office regarding alcohol consumption. Generally, responsible consumption may be allowed in designated areas.

📸 📸 Photography

The historic cabins, the beach shoreline, and the trails leading to Cranberry Lake offer excellent photographic opportunities. The views are beautiful. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the park's natural beauty and historic structures. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in Washington State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check the park's specific regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Yes, the historic cabins are a major draw for photographers. Their nostalgic charm makes for unique and memorable shots. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive beach and forest scenes. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cama Beach Historical State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The historic cabins offer a unique glimpse into the past that can spark children's imaginations. The beach area is great for sandcastle building and gentle wading, providing safe water fun. Reddit

Exploring the trails to Cranberry Lake can be an exciting adventure for kids, offering a chance to discover nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated spots, making for a full day of family enjoyment. The park's relatively uncrowded nature on weekdays also makes it easier to manage with younger children. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Cama Beach Historical State Park offers excellent value. The primary cost is the Washington State Discovery Pass for parking, which is a one-time fee for access to numerous state parks. Reddit

Bringing your own food for picnics significantly cuts down on expenses, as the on-site cafe can add up. The park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities—hiking, beachcombing, exploring—are all free once you've paid for parking. This makes it an ideal destination for an affordable day trip or a weekend getaway. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Cama Beach Historical State Park a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The historic cabins provide a charming, nostalgic subject matter, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The beach and shoreline offer beautiful coastal landscapes, with opportunities for capturing reflections and the movement of the water. Reddit

Don't overlook the trails leading to Cranberry Lake, which offer opportunities for forest photography, capturing light filtering through trees and the serene lake itself. The park's varied scenery ensures a diverse portfolio of images, from rustic architecture to natural vistas. Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to incorporate aerial shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Cabins

Cama Beach Historical State Park is renowned for its collection of decommissioned 1930s fishing resort cabins. These charming structures offer a tangible link to the past, evoking a sense of nostalgia and a simpler time. Walking among them feels like stepping onto a movie set, with their rustic architecture and seaside setting. While you can no longer rent these specific cabins, their preservation allows visitors to appreciate their historical significance and imagine life as it once was. Reddit

Many visitors find the experience of exploring these cabins to be both pleasant and poignant. They serve as a reminder of the area's history as a popular vacation spot. The cabins are well-maintained, allowing for close-up views and excellent photographic opportunities. The atmosphere around the cabin camp is generally calm and invigorating, especially outside of peak summer weekends. Reddit

Hiking and Nature Trails

Beyond the beach, Cama Beach Historical State Park boasts a network of hiking and biking trails that cater to various fitness levels. A popular route leads uphill from the beach to Cranberry Lake, offering a serene escape into the park's forested interior. These trails are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Camano Island. Reddit

The park is described as huge, with plenty of trails for walking and biking. Along the way, you might find picnic spots and restrooms, making it convenient for longer excursions. The trails provide a different perspective of the park, showcasing its lush vegetation and the tranquility of its inland water features. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some paths can be uneven. Reddit

Beach Activities and Relaxation

The shoreline at Cama Beach is a primary attraction, offering a picturesque setting for relaxation and light activities. While the beach itself is described as short, it's very close to the water, providing an intimate connection with the Puget Sound. It's an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the coastal ambiance. Reddit

During the summer months, boat rentals are available, adding another dimension to your beach experience. The cafe's proximity means you can easily grab a bite before or after spending time by the water. Even outside of summer, the beach remains a beautiful place to visit, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views. Reddit

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