Camping still open at Camano Island State Park

Photo byWashington State Parks

We love to get outdoors even when the weather is less than ideal, and if your idea of fun is camping, now is a great time to do it. Parks aren’t crowded, views are magnificent, and with the right setup you can handle the rain and overnight low temperatures.

A trailer or RV is ideal for fall and winter camping, but good gear also makes tent camping on option. That, and lots of firewood.

Photo byMaria Shimizu Christensen

Camano Island State Park hugs the shores in the middle of the island and offers camping sites year-round. Only the lower loop is open after the peak season, but if you like a little privacy, this is your best option any time of the year.

Firewood and ice are available from the campsite hosts, but they’ll only be in the park through October 31^st. After that, you’re on your own, but a shopping plaza only 20 minutes away has an IGA supermarket, firewood, and an Ace Hardware Outdoor store for any camping essentials you forgot. While you’re there, stop by Camano Island Coffee for a stellar caffeinated drink. Their coffee is rich but not too dark and they have the longest flavoring list I've ever seen.

Photo byMaria Shimizu Christensen

This campground is clean, quiet and a good starting point for walks along the beaches and in the woods.

It’s located on a bluff above the water so expect steep but spectacular hikes to and from the beach. A short, easy and beautiful hike through the woods in the park is the Al Emerson Nature Trail. Named for the park’s first ranger, who started the job in 1952, it’s loaded with a huge variety of mushrooms and fungi this time of year. Watch where you step.

If camping is not your thing any time of the year, there are also 5 cabins for rent that include electricity, heat, small refrigerators and microwaves, a pull-out futon couch and bunk beds. They come with all campsite amenities, including a fire pit, and are available year-round.