Ft Flagler Scout Camp (GC2)

For Washington residents seeking a truly distinctive camping experience that blends rich history with breathtaking natural beauty, Fort Flagler State Park on Marrowstone Island stands as an unparalleled destination. This remarkable marine camping park, encompassing over 1,400 acres and nearly four miles of saltwater shoreline, offers more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. It's an immersive journey into the past, coupled with panoramic views of the Olympic and Cascade mountains, and the sparkling waters of Puget Sound.

Fort Flagler is not just a campground; it’s a living museum. As one of three forts that historically guarded the nautical entrance to Puget Sound, it features many original military buildings, gun emplacements, and batteries from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore these fascinating structures, gaining a unique insight into Washington's strategic military past. Beyond its historical significance, the park is a hub for diverse outdoor activities, making it an ideal choice for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're interested in exploring bunkers, hiking scenic trails, or simply relaxing by the Salish Sea, Fort Flagler offers a memorable escape.

Among its varied camping options, the Ft Flagler Scout Camp (GC2) offers a specific experience tailored for groups, providing a more communal and dedicated space for larger gatherings while still allowing access to all the park's amenities.

Fort Flagler State Park is strategically located at 172 Flagler Campground Rd, Nordland, WA 98358, USA. It occupies the northern tip of Marrowstone Island, providing it with an extraordinary geographic position surrounded by saltwater shoreline on three sides. This location offers unparalleled views across Admiralty Inlet to Whidbey Island, Port Townsend Bay, and the majestic Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.

Access to Fort Flagler is generally straightforward. From mainland Washington, visitors typically drive to the Olympic Peninsula and then take County Road 20 to Marrowstone Island. The park roads are well-maintained, ensuring easy access for all types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers. The convenience of its location, combined with the stunning drive, makes it a popular choice for Washingtonians looking for a relatively accessible yet profoundly scenic retreat.

The park is well-signed, guiding visitors to its various campgrounds, day-use areas, and historical sites. While the park maintains a peaceful atmosphere, it's also relatively close to the charming town of Port Townsend, allowing for easy day trips to explore its shops, restaurants, and Victorian architecture.

Fort Flagler State Park offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities to cater to a variety of camping preferences, including specific provisions for the Ft Flagler Scout Camp (GC2):

• Diverse Campsites: The park features 114 campsites in total, divided into distinct areas. The Lower Campground has 12 standard sites and 55 full-hookup sites (water, electricity, sewer) capable of accommodating RVs up to 50 feet. These sites offer easy access to the beach and tend to be more open. The Upper Campground consists of 47 standard sites in a more forested, private setting, suitable for tents and RVs up to 22 feet, without hookups. Two primitive campsites are available for hikers and bikers, and one marine trail site.

• Group Camping Facilities: Fort Flagler offers two reservable primitive group camping facilities, one of which is the Ft Flagler Scout Camp (GC2). This specific scout camp accommodates tents only, with a maximum capacity of 40 people. It includes a fire ring, picnic tables, a group shelter (open-sided), and a vault toilet, making it ideal for scout troops, family reunions, or large friend groups.

• Restrooms and Showers: The park provides flush toilets throughout its campgrounds and offers token-operated showers. Some restrooms are ADA accessible. These facilities contribute significantly to the comfort of campers.

• RV Dump Station: A convenient RV dump station is available for campers.

• Water Access: Drinking water is available throughout the campgrounds.

• Boat Launches and Moorage: The park features two watercraft launches and 256 feet of moorage dock, along with seven moorage buoys. These facilities are generally available seasonally (docks removed between Sept. 30 and March 15), catering to boaters and kayakers.

• Concession and Gift Shop: A Beachcomber Cafe is located near the Lower Campground, offering hot sandwiches, burgers, snacks, grocery items, camping supplies, and even ice cream during peak seasons. There is also a museum with a gift shop and park store.

• Reservations: Campsites and group camps (including Ft Flagler Scout Camp) can be reserved up to nine months in advance via the Washington State Parks reservation system (e.g., www.parks.state.wa.us or by calling 888-CAMPOUT). Given its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially for group sites and during peak season.

Fort Flagler State Park, including the Ft Flagler Scout Camp, boasts a multitude of features that make it a compelling destination:

• Rich Military History: The park is a treasure trove of early 20th-century military history. Visitors can explore numerous original gun batteries, bunkers, and military buildings, some of which are open for tours. This historical aspect provides a unique educational opportunity.

• Panoramic Views: Its strategic location on a high bluff provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Olympic Mountains to the west, and the Cascade Mountains to the east. These vistas are a consistent highlight for all visitors.

• Extensive Trail System: Fort Flagler offers miles of diverse trails, including two miles of beach trail and six miles of wooded trails. These pathways are perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the park's varied ecosystems.

• Beach Exploration: The park's 19,100 feet of saltwater shoreline, including broad sandy beaches and an inviting sand spit, are ideal for beachcombing, kite flying, clam digging (seasonal, with proper licenses), and simply relaxing by the water. Driftwood is plentiful, making it fun for "fort-builders."

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitats attract abundant wildlife, including bald eagles on the bluff and various bird species in the lagoon. Deer are common visitors within the park, providing opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Water Activities: With easy access to the water, the park is popular for boating, fishing (saltwater), crabbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving.

• Educational Opportunities: Beyond self-guided exploration, the Fort Flagler Historical Museum offers displays on the fort's history. During summer months, guided tours of gun emplacements and the historic hospital are often available, enhancing the historical experience.

• Variety of Camping Environments: The distinct upper (forested, private) and lower (beachfront, open) campgrounds, along with dedicated group sites like Ft Flagler Scout Camp, allow campers to choose the setting that best suits their preferences.

For reservations, current park conditions, and detailed information about Fort Flagler State Park and its camping facilities, including Ft Flagler Scout Camp (GC2), it is best to contact Washington State Parks directly.

Address: 172 Flagler Campground Rd, Nordland, WA 98358, USA

General Park Information: (360) 902-8844 (Washington State Parks Information Center)

Park Office / Local Information: (360) 385-1259

Reservations: For all campsites and group camps (including Ft Flagler Scout Camp), reservations can be made online via the Washington State Parks website (www.parks.state.wa.us) or by calling 1-888-CAMPOUT (1-888-226-7688). It is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for popular weekends, holidays, and group sites, as they tend to fill quickly.

For residents of Washington, Fort Flagler State Park stands as an exceptional and multi-faceted destination, perfectly suited for a variety of local outdoor enthusiasts and families:

• Unique Blend of History and Nature: Unlike many campgrounds, Fort Flagler offers a compelling combination of historical exploration and natural beauty. Locals can spend their days hiking through forests or along beaches and then delve into the intriguing past of a coastal defense fort, making for a rich and varied experience.

• Diverse Camping Options: With standard sites, full-hookup RV sites, and dedicated group camps like the Ft Flagler Scout Camp, there’s an option for almost every type of camper. This flexibility allows Washingtonians to choose a setting that best fits their group size and preferred amenities.

• Stunning Scenery Close to Home: The panoramic views of the Olympic and Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound are a constant reminder of Washington's natural grandeur. Being relatively accessible from many parts of Western Washington, it provides a dramatic escape without requiring extensive travel.

• Abundant Recreational Activities: From beachcombing and bird watching to boating, fishing, hiking, and exploring historical batteries, there's always something to do. This wide array of activities caters to all ages and interests, ensuring that families and groups will stay engaged.

• Ideal for Group Outings: Specifically, the Ft Flagler Scout Camp (GC2) is a fantastic resource for local scout troops, school groups, and large family gatherings, offering a dedicated and equipped space for communal camping experiences.

• Educational and Engaging: The museum and guided tours provide educational opportunities that enhance the visit, allowing locals to connect with the state’s heritage in a tangible way. It's a place where learning is naturally woven into the outdoor experience.

In essence, Fort Flagler State Park is more than just a place to camp; it's a quintessential Washington experience. Its unique combination of historical significance, diverse recreational opportunities, and breathtaking natural beauty makes it an outstanding choice for locals seeking a memorable and enriching outdoor adventure.