Pacific Beach, Griffiths-Priday, Ocean City, Westhaven, Westport Light, Twin Harbors, Grayland Beach, Leadbetter Point, Pacific Pines, Loomis Lake, and Cape Disappointment are just a few of Washingtons state parks with potential for clams. Youll be able to see a range of fascinating marine life living just offshore there, including Giant Pacific octopus that live in the boulders by the jetty. There is also an opportunity to buy a case of 12 mixed bottles from each venue for $20-$25. We found great results, but some are outside Whidbey Island. And some of the best places to whale watch from shore include: West Beach is one of the best places to whale watch as it provides a clear view for miles! Use left/right arrows to navigate the slideshow or swipe left/right if using a mobile device, Alaskan Black Cod (Portion) - Wild Caught, Alaskan Coho Salmon (Portion) - Wild Caught, Alaskan Shortraker Rockfish (Portion) - Wild Caught, Alaskan Sockeye Salmon (Portion) - Wild Caught. The Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connect the two islands, creating a . But if youre excited about seeing jets race above your head, then this is a fantastic location. Staying here gives you a chance to explore parts of World War II history by literally stepping inside fortifications, while also enjoying all the nature and coastal scenery Whidbey Island is famous for. In general, clam diggers will need a shovel and a bucket, and a permit may be required in some areas. Boating and saltwater fishing are hugely popular activities in the park too, as is exploring the beach and bird watching or simply relaxing and people watching. That means you can explore everything the park has to offer as soon as you wake up that includes hiking, walking across those massive bridges, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, canoeing and kayaking. Youll be able to visit the Admiralty Head Lighthouse, which was built in 1903. Click here for map/directions. Luxury forest yurt on a working farm (from USD 100), 2. Some popular places to dig for clams include Willapa Bay, Grays Harbor, and Puget Sound. IN A recent letter to local regulators, the agency said Island Countys long efforts paid off, but additional monitoring of the shoreline revealed the presence of Enterococcus bacteria, a genus of lactic acid bacteria, during peak summer months. I cant imagine any better customer service than what you offer. If the tide is low, you should drive around to see if there are any other clams. You could go yurt camping, rent a bubble or dome and go glamping under the stars, stay in an Airstream, or relax in a cabin by the water. Look for bays and estuaries with plenty of tidal flow. Fort Casey is prone to naval jets flying over the area for a number of hours on any given day though, so if youre concerned about the sound of jet noise, this is not a good campground for you. To catch clams, look for the larger hole next to a quarter, and the edge of the surf line. Staying at Fort Ebey State Park means youll be surrounded by the park and ocean and the range of activities that both provide. Youre also connected to ten miles of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail (PNT), which is that 1,200-mile-long scenic trail we talked above before. Thats a shame, said Eugene Thrasher, Whidbeys widely recognized clamming guru. What better way than camping! Not only do we explain why we love each place, we also detail what makes each campground unique, the facilities there, and whats close by to each. This presents a pretty exciting opportunity, she said. They will be small, however, and crops take from two to four years to cultivate. Please bear this in mind to guarantee your reservation. Anchor & Hope SF was created with the goal of providing people with accurate and reliable information about seafood. Weve posed that question to DOH and we havent gotten an answer yet, Higman said. A national credit rating service has improved its opinion of WhidbeyHealths financial future. The digging will be short lived, however. In the late 1950s, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission entered into negotiations with the University of Washington to acquire some of the trust land for use as a state park. It even includes one of my all time favorite hikes in all of Washington State. Theres even an old battery dug into the high bluffs here that you can explore as part of your adventures around Fort Ebey Park. Dispersed camping is going to be challenging on Whidbey Island due to the limited available official options. Camping is available at nearbyFort Casey and Fort Ebey state parks. So you must check if there are any burn restrictions in place before starting any type of fire on Whidbey Island. All of our products are completely traceable, ensuring your customers they are buying the safest, highest-quality seafood available. Whidbey farm talks to provide meaty discussion; Federal grant to fund Island County road . No shellfish gathering in the state of Washington is complete without digging for the geoduck, the "King of the Clams." This bivalve can grow to almost 2 pounds, and can live for well over a hundred years. We dug up cockles, horse, manila, and. The geoduck (pronounced gooey-duck) has a funny name and its appearance often elicits embarrassed laughter, but Washington's biggest clam means big money to the Department of Natural Resources and fine eating, particularly for wealthy devotees in China. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. It is located 127 feet above the Puget Sound waterway and has fantastic views. No smoking gun was ever discovered, but water quality from fresh water outlets has improved significantly, according to state Department of Health officials. berries and roots. Whidbey has around 20 campgrounds and RV parks for you to choose from spread throughout the island. Clam, mussel, and oyster seasons OPEN for harvest year-round. This yurt is surrounded by tall coniferous trees, making you feel secluded in nature. Cliffside RV Park is located on the western shoreline overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and if you peak across, youll even see Vancouver Island, Canada, looking back! Also, they are known to carry paralytic shellfish poisoning, or PSP, for longer periods of time. In addition to providing information, Anchor & Hope also provides delicious seafood recipes that are easy to follow. There are also a number of sheltered and unsheltered picnic areas with tables and barbecues for community use spread around the campground and beach area. Up on the bluffs of Fort Ebey, youll find dug out World War II gun placements and bunkers, and you can go exploring through all the rooms there to check out the history that has been left behind. That means you can spend more time exploring the island, spotting native wildlife, visiting the plethora of artisans living on Whidbey, and enjoying some of the famous Whidbey Island mussels and other fantastic seafood that this place is known for. Review Highlights . Bowman Bay Campground. North Whidbey RV Park is located right across from the Deception Pass State Park entrance, so it gives you full access to the park and everything on offer there, but in a much more comfortable environment for RVers. For the first time in years, commercial geoduck harvesting is under way in Langley. Register for this class at the Active Generations' information desk. With bistro tables and chairs, a fire pit, and a charcoal grill, this spot is also perfect for spending fun quality time outdoors with your friends or family. North Whidbey RV Park provides 100 full hookup sites, and each campsite has a concrete pad, picnic table, and fire pit. Whidbey Island is home to some seriously famous and tasty mussels. It was originally a coastal defense fort in World War II. To sit and walk beneath this canopy of ancient trees overlooking the Puget Sound is a pleasure and a privilege. One of the best things to do on Whidbey Island is to go for a hike! Luxury forest yurt on a working farm (from USD 100) Show all photos. Depending on the direction of the wind, their flight pattern may put them above the park, creating noisy conditions. Its not without hope, she said. And with a little bit of know-how, you can easily find yourself a bountiful catch of clams. There are 100 full hookup sites for large RVs and trailers, but no tents sites. Along with salmon, their diets consisted of: steelhead, rainbow trout, shellfish, 1 Other possible spelling: "Earnfelt" 2 Jimmie Jean Cook, A Particular Friend. Although if youre looking for restaurants and stores, youll need to drive out of the park for about 20 minutes to find any. If youre looking to entertain children while camping on Whidbey Island or you fancy having some fun for yourself then weve created a printable scavenger hunt game! Depending on the results, future transplants may occur. The park also has a range of athletic fields used for little league games, so the campground is the perfect spot to set up camp for tournaments and other activities in Rhododendron Park. The most common months for digging are April-September, but digging can happen at any time of year. Save. The campground provides one restroom with a vault toilet and two showers. In Washington, digging for clams is a popular sport year round. Clams are only found in saltwater, so you should avoid lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and any body of water where they are found. A permit is required, and each person can only harvest a certain number of clams per day. 2023 Glamping Hub International Inc. All rights reserved. Luckily Whidbey Island has a number of amazing campgrounds that will fit almost anybodys needs. Penn Cove Shellfish, which grows and sells millions of mussels annually, prides itself on growing mussels free of fertilizer or feed. Lone, Deer, Goss, Cranberry and Pass lakes are all stocked annually. A BEACH WATCHER with Washington State University Extension, Island County, Thrasher has taught clam digging classes on South and Central Whidbey for years. . Island County Public Health Director Keith Higman said the reopening, though limited, is welcome news and a testament to the countys long efforts. Im talking a one-fourth acre or less of the seven acres of productive habitat, she said. Ebeys Landing is a 5.5-mile hike suitable for the whole family, including the pup! This beach is known for its large number of clams and its easy digging conditions. According to Camille Speck, a state Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist based out of Port Townsend, the non-native species moved in while the fishery was closed and is pushing out native clams, particularly Manilla and butter clams. ), and very high quality sea food. This particular beach was loaded with steamers You could show up and in 20 minutes have your limit, he said. Those guided tours are not only fun, but super interesting too. During the same period, varnish clam numbers jumped from about seven- and-a-half per square foot to nearly 11.5 per square foot. You might cross the popular Deception Cross Bridge on your way. Use existing sites and amenities when available. Because salt does not appear in blue on the New World map, finding it can be difficult; only fresh water appears in blue on the map. Wonderful people, amazing service (our second order was actually delivered the same day!! The fire must be in an enclosure no bigger than 3 feet but must be at least 16 inches high. 6325 Double Bluff Rd, Freeland, Whidbey Island, WA 98249-9567. Whidbey Island has some excellent fishing beaches on its western shores, where salmon and steelhead pass within casting range. Its a fun event and crowds of 20,000 from across the country attend. Musselfest, March 4-5, Coupeville, Whidbey Island. Whidbey Island Clams Whidbey Island Clams View map Sort by: Highest Rating We found great results, but some are outside Whidbey Island. Hidden Beach is a public beach that has incredible views far out into the ocean. The park offers views of the Olympic Mountains and rare old-growth stands. In addition, a small store called Campsite Coffee sells additional food, drinks, and some pretty good coffee. Some of those reside in state parks while others are in privately owned.. To help out, we've picked our six favorite Whidbey Island camping options for you to review. Brea, California vs Whidbey Island Station, Washington Change Places A salary of $50,000 in Brea, California could decrease to $27,297 in Whidbey Island Station, Washington (assumptions include Homeowner, no Child Care, and Taxes are not considered. Youll need to make a reservation online if you want to stay at any specific site. On Whidbey & Camano Islands Challenge yourself or treat yourself with all the things to do on Whidbey and Camano Islands. It was finally transferred to State Parks in 1991. Admiralty, Mutiny and Useless bays have other good spots. What can be fresher than taking it from the ocean yourself? It was especially present in wrack, the often smelly carpet of seaweed/organic material that collects on the beach at Freeland Park. The roads and pads are concrete for easy manoeuvrability too. Its a much more peaceful campground than the more popular Deception Pass, so if youre looking for serenity away from the crowds, this is a great choice. You can also go out diving to explore everything the marine park area has to offer in terms of sealife. There is also a record player for those who are into the classic way of enjoying music. recreational fires are allowed on Whidbey Island without a permit. Theres plenty of historical sites and buildings to enjoy if camping here (as we show you below), as well as lots of coastal scenery, wildlife, and hikes to explore too. Panoramic views of the Puget Sound shoreline, the Olympic Mountains and sunsets. You can learn how to dig clams, which clams are best for which recipes, how to harvest them safely and sustainably, and . To get to Double Bluff Beach, take Highway 20 to the south end of the island. Many of the trails are short at 2-3 miles long, but are suitable for the whole family. If you choose to go dispersed camping, then make sure you do so with someone who already knows the area where youre planning on camping for your own safety. Picnic & day-use facilitiesThe park offers one group shelter without electricity, plus four sheltered and 19 unsheltered picnic tables. The campsites are spacious, the campground is quiet, and the facilities (see below) are very good. Clams can be found in many different places along the Washington coast. The perfect Whidbey Island campgrounds are only a mouse click away! A boat ramp can be found on the beachs east side, and a dock can be found on the beachs west side. The traditional bell tent gives out rustic vibes and is tucked in nature. Walk among the giants: Douglas-fir, Sitka spruce, western hemlock and western red-cedar trees, including a 500-year-old cedar. Address: 41229 State Rte 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Learn to dig for clams in the popular Digging for Dinner class. Grey whales will typically dig for ghost shrimp, while orcas will chase the seals, so both are amazing experiences to watch. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. DISCLAIMER: Below we give general advice, but we always recommend staying in an official campsite. Featured Products Alaskan Black Cod (Portion) - Wild Caught $14.53 Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window). It includes a barbecue and four picnic tables, accommodating up to 30 guests. The log group shelter may be reserved. If youre in the same water as I mentioned above, look for Flint on the beach or on the shore. The campground is closed from November 1 April 1. There are no more accommodations that exactly fit your criteria. are plentiful. Camping on Whidbey Island is a great alternative to more expensive accommodation, and it gets you much closer to nature! One big requirement to stay here though, is that you or someone youre with must be an active or retired military employee, a veteran, a reservist, or similar. Theres also a kids playground, fenced-off pets area, gazebo with a barbecue, and its close to the marina and multiple boat launches. Though dispersed camping is legal on Whidbey Island, and across the entire state of Washington. This day-use park on the west side of Whidbey Island is a scenic drive away from Anacortes or a short ferry ride from Mukilteo. She once visited a pristine island, which inspired her to travel further and tell more stories about the world. For one, its unclear what a limited condition reopening by the department means in terms of the existing protection district and whether the commissioners have the green light to dissolve it. Part of that will include removing the offending varnish clams in small areas and reseeding it with Manilla and butter clams. Its just north of Freeland on the south end of the island. As an Amazon Associate and Booking.com partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. Whidbey has around 20 campgrounds and RV parks for you to choose from spread throughout the island. Even watching the paragliders jump off and glide can be an amazing sight. Puget Sound is divided into various regions. Navy personnel conduct training missions at various times during the day and night. In 1963, State Parks purchased the park's first 85 acres on the west side of Smuggler's Cove Road. Dugualla State Park is a much quieter area and has a 5-mile loop of trails that take you to the beach, through the forest, and back. Address: 20265 SR 20, Coupeville, WA 98239. South Whidbey State Park is open for day use only. Its battery was dug into a high bluff and is great fun for kids, adult kids and World War II aficionados. Enjoy Whidbey Island camping rentals and don't miss out. To complete the experience, why not sleep under the stars? Whidbey Island Seafood Company We pride ourselves on the quality of wild-caught America seafood we source and provide to our customers. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about where to go clamming on Whidbey Island, what kind of clams you can find, and what to do with them once youve caught them. Holmes Harbor was closed to shellfish harvesting in March 2007 with the formation of the Holmes Harbor Shellfish Protection District. Fort Casey Historical State Park Campground has one restroom and several showers for campers to use. Incredible Sunset at Beachfront Glamping Cabin on Private, Herron Island with Fire Pit and Kayaking near Olympia, Washington, Olympic National Forest Glamping Village for the Ultimate Northwest Outdoor Adventure, Enchanting British Columbia Tree House near East Sooke Park, Vintage Cabin in Private 10-Acre Forest with Covered Porch on Vashon Island, Washington, Modern Luxury Elevated Cabin for Tree House-Style Experience in Seattle. diggers can catch 15 razor clams per day under state law and are required to keep 15 of them in their jars at all times. Whidbey Island is home to some of the best clamming in the state of Washington. You are a 5-star, all-around great business providing an important service in this rapidly changing world!, Always an excellent experience ordering from Whidbey Island Seafood Company! Joseph Whidbey Campground. Required under state law, it was created by county commissioners due to the presence of fecal coliform bacteria in water samples. Campfires shouldnt be more than 3 feet in diameter or 2 feet high. Clams can only be found in salt water; to dig, make sure you have a good look at the beach first. They showcase their best products with fabulous food, whilst local artists showcase their art at each venue. Rhododendron Campground is a smaller campground than most others on the island. You deserve an escape from the day to day. However, you will still be close to conveniences such as the ferry and the beautiful town of Langley. The narrow window is largely the result of an unexpected and unwelcome development the expanded presence and domination of varnish clams. One of my favorite things about Whidbey Island is our huge selection of State and local parks. Eagles may be viewed at Lake Pondilla. Our seafood is flash frozen on-board, ensuring our customers that they are purchasing the safe and quality product. Why? Picnic shelters and unsheltered tables remain open to visitors and provide excellent lunch spots for day-trippers and travelers en-route to such nearby camping state parks as Deception Pass, Fort Casey and Fort Ebey. Having lain untouched for nearly a decade, she was expecting to find a stable and healthy fishery. A Locals Guide To Hayling Island Camping: Best Campsites, Wild Camping & More! There is a park office that sells firewood, ice, snacks, and a range of other items for you to check out too. County workers and the community worked to clean up the watershed, identify problem septic systems and launched initiatives such as a campaign to pick up dog waste at Freeland Park. Get ready for a short hike to reach this secluded tent surrounded by lush greenery - just the right spot to unplug and relax amidst large cedar trees. Penn Cove is an extra special location as its filled with sea life, including ghost shrimp and seals which makes it a favorite feeding ground for whales and orcas looking for a snack! The park is actually located on two islands Fidalgo to the north and Whidbey to the south. Set on the western side of Whidbey Island, Fort Ebey was constructed as a coastal defense fort during the Second World War. Consider going glamping in Whidbey Island, Washington and explore some pretty amazing outdoor locations. And if youre up for a hike, this park has direct access to the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, which is a 1,200-mile-long track that takes you along the best hiking the Pacific Northwest has. Oak Harbor Public Schools is facing more bad news on the horizon. Active Generations offers a balance calls that will last for 6 weeks and we will focus on exercises for the lower body and exercises to increase good posture and overall mobility. Try these and enjoy nature with a bit more solitude. Founded by a former globetrotting freelance journalist (BBC, USA Today & others), now our small team is here to help you plan your next adventure! The best time to dig is between the months of October and March, when tides are highest in the morning and afternoon. Note: An additional Special Activity Permit is required for group activities and events such as wedding ceremonies, races, other sports events etc. Whether you're a freshwater or saltwater fishing enthusiast, the islands are alive with seafood! Whidbey Island, WA 6 contributions Clamming at Double Bluff can be decent on a very low tide. Wandering our World is reader supported. Located a little over 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Seattle and the biggest island in Washington state, Whidbey Island awaits you for your next big outdoor adventure. Washington's Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains an interactive map and list of the locations along with seasons and other regulations. Fort Casey Historical State Park is a go-to destination for history buffs. Deception Pass State Park spreads over 3,854 acres, a marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. Which is an incredible deal and a good souvenir to take home if you dont drink them all before! Last updated on October 5, 2022 by Wandering our World. Focusing on ingredients grown locally on Whidbey Island, as well as produce, flowers and herbs harvested from the Captain Whidbey gardens, our culinary focus is . Deception Pass State Park is one of the most popular destinations in Washington and connects Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island via two enormous bridges 180 feet above the water, which youre welcome to walk across if you dare!