Bowman Bay Campground

About

Bowman Bay Campground is a smaller, more secluded camping area within Deception Pass State Park, Washington's most-visited state park. With only 19 sites situated near the beach, it offers a quieter alternative to the larger Cranberry Lake campground. The campground consists of 18 standard sites and one partial-hookup site featuring electric and water connections. All campers have access to restrooms equipped with coin-operated showers. The Bowman Bay area is rich in history and natural beauty. The nearby CCC Interpretive Center, housed in a 1930s bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, tells the story of the CCC's work across Washington during the Great Depression and is free to visit April through September. The bay itself offers excellent tidepooling, kayaking, and crabbing opportunities. Kayak rentals are available seasonally at the bay. Due to the narrow access roads and limited maneuvering space, vehicles and trailers over 25 feet are restricted from the Bowman Bay area. The campground operates seasonally from approximately April through late September, with the upper parking lot and restroom closing October 1 through March 31 and water systems shut down by mid-November. Reservations are available through the Washington State Parks reservation system online or by calling 1-888-CAMPOUT.

Directions

From I-5, take exit 230 and head west on Highway 20 toward Anacortes. Continue on Highway 20 for approximately 12 miles, crossing the Deception Pass Bridge. After the bridge, watch for signs to Bowman Bay and turn right. Follow the narrow road to the campground. Vehicles and trailers over 25 feet are restricted due to limited maneuverability.