Turn Island State Park
A secluded boat-in state park offering primitive camping, kayaking, and wildlife viewing on the west side of San Juan Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, best wildlife viewing
Turn Island State Park
Best Time
Calm waters, best wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded boat-in state park offering primitive camping, kayaking, and wildlife viewing on the west side of San Juan Island.
"Awesome little state park tucked right next to San Juan Island, only accessible by boat. "
🛶 Kayak Camping is Free/Cheap
Camp for free or a small fee on Turn Island if you have a kayak. A great budget option near Friday Harbor!
🦝 Secure Your Food!
Raccoons are very active and can be aggressive. Keep all food and scented items in bear-proof containers or your boat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secluded Beach Camping
West side of the island
Experience serene camping with stunning views. Perfect for a quiet getaway accessible only by water.
Kayaking & Marine Life
Surrounding waters
Paddle around the island and discover diverse marine life. A dream for water enthusiasts.
Island Hiking Trails
Throughout the island
Explore short, scenic trails offering varied views and beach access. A gentle way to see the island's beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Access is Key
Wildlife Encounters & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Kayak Camping is Free/Cheap
Camp for free or a small fee on Turn Island if you have a kayak. A great budget option near Friday Harbor!
🦝 Secure Your Food!
Raccoons are very active and can be aggressive. Keep all food and scented items in bear-proof containers or your boat.
🔥 Fire Restrictions
Fires are often forbidden. Check current regulations before planning a campfire.
🛥️ Boat Access Only
Plan your trip via kayak, canoe, or small boat. No vehicle access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Kayak Camping is Free/Cheap
Camp for free or a small fee on Turn Island if you have a kayak. A great budget option near Friday Harbor!
🦝 Secure Your Food!
Raccoons are very active and can be aggressive. Keep all food and scented items in bear-proof containers or your boat.
🔥 Fire Restrictions
Fires are often forbidden. Check current regulations before planning a campfire.
🛥️ Boat Access Only
Plan your trip via kayak, canoe, or small boat. No vehicle access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Turn Island State Park is lauded for its beautiful, secluded boat-in camping and opportunities for marine wildlife viewing. Visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere and scenic trails. However, some campers have reported intense and negative encounters with raccoons, highlighting the need for strict food security.
"Turn Island is an awesome little state park tucked right next to San Juan Island. The access is only via boat and is a nice little get away spot. It has the feel of a hike/bike camp ground with a handful of spots along the west side of the island. The camping is CO-OPed by the fish and wildlife service and the WA state Parks and Rec commission.
We stayed for two nights and had a very lovely time with a short hike around the island and all the beach you could explore. We also took our Kayaks around and saw many different sea life along the way."
Shane Merritt
"The decision to camp here was nearly the last mistake I ever made. During the night I was awoken to no less than 50 racoons circling my tent. They were snarling and growling. One of them ripped through my tent with some sort of bone sword. They tied me up and carried me off into the forest. A large raccoon wearing human skulls forced me to drink some thick and fowl liquid. I lost consciousness, and woke up in my ruined tent the next morning.. 9 months later I had a child who turns into a monsterous half human half beast during the new moon..
I'd rate it 0 stars if I could."
Alex L-K
"Raccoons are so cute! One of my favorite places in the San Juans."
Fred Sayre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turn Island State Park is only accessible by boat. Kayakers and small boaters can launch from nearby San Juan Island, with Friday Harbor being a common starting point. Consider tide charts for easier access.
No, Turn Island State Park is a boat-in only destination. Vehicle access is not possible.
Kayakers often launch from Friday Harbor or other points on San Juan Island. The distance is manageable for experienced kayakers, but always check weather and tide conditions.
There are no direct ferry services to Turn Island State Park. It is intended for private boaters and kayakers.
Yes, Turn Island is located very close to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, making it a popular destination for those visiting the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Discover Pass is required for parking at the launch site on San Juan Island if you are driving to a launch point. The camping on Turn Island itself is often free for kayakers.
Camping on Turn Island is often free or has a small fee for kayakers and boaters, especially compared to hotels in Friday Harbor.
Campsites are typically first-come, first-served and are co-managed by the fish and wildlife service and WA State Parks. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season.
As a state park, it is generally open year-round during daylight hours for day use, with camping available. Specific access may depend on weather and tides.
Day use is generally free, but if you are driving to a launch point on San Juan Island, you will need a Discover Pass for your vehicle.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spot various marine life from the water, including seals and potentially whales. On the island, be aware of raccoons, birds, and other small mammals.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms can be limited. It's best to be prepared for primitive camping conditions and pack out all trash.
Signs often indicate that fires are forbidden at Turn Island State Park. Always check current fire restrictions before your visit.
Camping is available in a handful of spots along the west side of the island, offering a secluded, hike-in/bike-in experience. It's a peaceful place to spend the night.
While beautiful, the boat-access-only nature and potential for aggressive wildlife like raccoons might make it less ideal for very young children or families seeking easy amenities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🛶 Kayakers & Boaters
Consider packing light but smart, as you'll be carrying everything from your vessel. The cooperative management between fish and wildlife and state parks means it's a well-maintained, albeit primitive, camping experience. It's an ideal spot for a quiet overnight trip, offering a peaceful escape from the mainland hustle.
🏕️ Primitive Campers
The island offers short trails for exploration, and the beaches are perfect for beachcombing. The main challenge, and part of the adventure, is managing wildlife, particularly raccoons. Secure your food meticulously to ensure a peaceful night's sleep and a successful camping trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Turn Island
Consider the distance and your paddling experience when choosing a launch point. While Friday Harbor is close, other locations on San Juan Island might also be suitable. If you're not bringing your own vessel, exploring options for kayak rentals or guided tours from Friday Harbor could be a great way to experience Turn Island. Remember that this is a primitive camping experience, so pack accordingly for self-sufficiency.
SEO Keyword Integration: When searching for information on reaching Turn Island, terms like 'kayak to Turn Island,' 'boat access San Juan Islands,' and 'Friday Harbor kayak camping' are highly relevant. Understanding these access methods is crucial for planning a successful trip to this secluded park.
Wildlife Encounters: The Raccoon Factor
To ensure a safe and pleasant experience, it's crucial to practice strict food storage protocols. Never leave food, trash, or any scented items unattended or unsecured. Use bear-resistant containers if possible, or store everything inside your boat, well away from the shoreline. This vigilance is key to preventing unwanted attention from these resourceful creatures and preserving the natural environment for both visitors and wildlife.
SEO Keyword Integration: For travelers researching Turn Island, keywords like 'Turn Island raccoons,' 'wildlife safety San Juan Islands,' and 'secure camping gear' are important. Being prepared for these encounters is a vital part of the Turn Island experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit