Lummi Island Campground

Within the diverse and appealing category of Campgrounds & RV Parks, Lummi Island Campground stands out as a truly unique and tranquil destination, offering a distinct experience for those who appreciate secluded natural beauty and a connection with the marine environment. Located on Lummi Island, just a short ferry ride from Bellingham, Washington, this campground provides an intimate and peaceful escape, primarily catering to water-accessed adventurers, particularly kayakers and canoers.

Lummi Island Campground is situated within the Lummi Island Natural Resources Conservation Area, a 661-acre expanse in northern Puget Sound. The environment here is characterized by stunning forested shorelines, featuring steep, rocky headlands that rise dramatically from the water. The campsites themselves offer eastern views of Bellingham Bay and the majestic Mount Baker, creating a breathtaking panorama, especially during sunrise. This location offers a sense of rustic charm, feeling more akin to a remote mountain campground despite being on an island.

The island's marine setting is a significant draw. The surrounding waters are teeming with wildlife, making it an excellent spot for observing porpoises, seals, and a wide variety of waterfowl and eagles. The rich marine ecological system, including kelp beds and marine rock formations, contributes to a vibrant ecosystem. Lummi Island also lies in the Olympic Rain Shadow, meaning it receives less rain and more sun than some neighboring areas, contributing to more favorable conditions for outdoor activities, particularly in summer. The atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful, providing a true respite from the hustle and bustle of mainland life, though visitors should be aware that the island has no streetlights, enhancing stargazing opportunities but requiring mindfulness after dark.

As a designated site along the Cascadia Marine Trail, Lummi Island Campground prioritizes essential services while maintaining its natural, low-impact character. This is a boat-access-only campground, which immediately sets it apart and contributes to its secluded feel. There are five campsites available, operating on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. This adds to the adventurous spirit of a visit, requiring a bit more flexibility in planning.

Each campsite is equipped with fire grates and picnic tables, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and traditional campfire experiences, provided burn bans are not in effect. While there is no potable water available on site, vault toilets are provided for sanitation. There are no hookups for RVs or trailers, reinforcing its focus on tent camping and small, self-sufficient setups. The maintenance of the campground is notably assisted by the Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts (WAKE), who ensure the area remains accessible, clean, and safe by cleaning outhouses, picking up trash, scouting for issues, and restoring trails, including ladders and ropes for access to certain headland campsites. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and bringing their own firewood, as gathering wood from the conservation area is prohibited. A raccoon-resistant food locker is also provided near the vault toilets to help campers store edibles safely from wildlife, promoting responsible camping practices.

The defining feature of Lummi Island Campground is its accessibility primarily by human-powered watercraft, making it an ideal destination for sea kayakers, canoers, and paddleboarders. Its inclusion in the Cascadia Marine Trail system underscores its importance as a preserved resting and camping spot for non-motorized water travelers along the Puget Sound. This fosters a community of like-minded adventurers who appreciate the self-reliance and unique perspective that water access offers.

Beyond paddling, the island offers a range of natural and cultural features. The Lummi Island Natural Resources Conservation Area itself is designed to protect diverse habitats, including old-growth Douglas-fir forests, which attract bald eagles and other birds of prey. The island has numerous beaches, some public and some private, offering opportunities for beachcombing, tide pooling, and enjoying the serene coastal views. While the campground offers direct access to the beach, the broader island has various preserves managed by the Lummi Island Heritage Trust, offering additional hiking opportunities, such as the steep Baker Preserve Trail with epic views of Rosario Strait and the San Juan Islands, and more accessible walks like the Otto Preserve. Lummi Island also has a rich cultural heritage, including the traditional reefnet fishing, one of the oldest known salmon net fisheries in the world, which can be observed during the summer months in Legoe Bay. The island's quiet roads are also suitable for biking and walking, providing additional ways to explore its peaceful charm.

Lummi Island Campground offers a distinctive camping experience that appeals to those seeking an uncrowded and nature-focused retreat. As a first-come, first-served site, planning a visit requires a bit of flexibility. It's especially popular among kayakers and other non-motorized boaters due to its boat-access-only nature. While the campground is free to use, visitors are responsible for their ferry fare to Lummi Island from Gooseberry Point, which runs multiple times hourly during the week and hourly on weekends.

For supplies, the Islander Store near the ferry dock offers basic groceries and sundries. However, visitors are advised that dining options on the island are limited and may not be open all day, so bringing adequate food and snacks is highly recommended. Despite its secluded feel, cell phone service and Wi-Fi signals are generally reliable on the island. The efforts of the Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts in maintaining the site are a testament to the community's dedication to preserving this unique camping spot. For those looking to truly disconnect, immerse themselves in the Pacific Northwest's marine environment, and experience a different pace of life, Lummi Island Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity for a peaceful and memorable outdoor adventure.