Obstruction Pass State Park

4.53

43 reviews

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Washington Primitive Camping Washington Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Washington

Quick Facts

233 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Washington State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

233 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Washington State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Obstruction Pass State Park

No fees available

Campsite Fees

A $10 parking charge is reported in visitor reviews. Specific campsite fees are not stated in the provided sources.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.53

Top-Rated

Based on 43 reviews

243 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanwaterbeach

Some mention

small

"Reviewers consistently praise Obstruction Pass for its seclusion, mossy forest walk, and a pebble beach with excellent tidepooling and clear water. Common drawbacks noted are the walk‑in access, small/uneven sites, and lack of potable water and showers."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Obstruction Pass State Park

48.6090, -122.8250

Driving directionsPark at the trailhead/parking area and follow a short forest trail (about 0.6 miles downhill) to the campground. The access road to the trailhead is a gravel road near the southeast end of Orcas Island.

Access via local Orcas Island roads; final approach is on a gravel road to a parking area, followed by a 0.6-mile walk to campsites.

Best Time to Camp at Obstruction Pass State Park

The marine climate keeps things refreshingly cool even during summer months, with morning fog often giving way to afternoon sun—or lingering all day in true Pacific Northwest fashion. Smart campers pack layers and rain gear regardless of the forecast. Time your visit around the tide tables for the best experience: low tides transform the beach into a living laboratory of intertidal wonders, while high tides bring the water nearly to your tent door. Summer weekends fill quickly, so reserve early or consider a shoulder-season visit when you might have this gem nearly to yourself.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Marine climate stays cool in summer; good kayaking, tidepooling and beach access during summer months.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall offers solitude and scenic coast but increased cloud/rain risk typical of the region.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring tidepooling and quieter trails are appealing, though weather can be cool and wet.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Accessible year-round but marine winter weather (rain, fog) and lack of facilities make it less comfortable.

Planning Tips

About Obstruction Pass State Park

Tucked into the southeast corner of Orcas Island, Obstruction Pass State Park offers an intimate walk-in camping experience where moss-draped evergreens meet the Salish Sea. Just steps from your tent, a sheltered cobble beach invites exploration at low tide, while kayakers can paddle right up to select waterfront sites. This is camping at its most elemental—no frills, no crowds, just you and the rhythm of the tides.

Hike‑in, primitive coastal campsites mostly suited to tent and kayak campers; no RV or trailer access.

Weather and SeasonsThe marine climate keeps things refreshingly cool even during summer months, with morning fog often giving way to afternoon sun—or lingering all day in true Pacific Northwest fashion. Smart campers pack layers and rain gear regardless of the forecast. Time your visit around the tide tables for the best experience: low tides transform the beach into a living laboratory of intertidal wonders, while high tides bring the water nearly to your tent door. Summer weekends fill quickly, so reserve early or consider a shoulder-season visit when you might have this gem nearly to yourself.

Natural Features and SceneryStep through a cathedral of Douglas fir and western red cedar, their trunks cushioned in emerald moss, until the forest opens dramatically onto rocky bluffs and a protected cove. At low tide, the clear waters reveal a hidden world: ochre sea stars cling to barnacle-crusted rocks, anemones pulse gently in tide pools, and hermit crabs scuttle between the stones. Across the narrow channel, forested islands rise from the water, their silhouettes shifting with the light. Campers consistently describe the atmosphere here as quietly magical—a place that invites contemplation and unhurried beach combing.

Geological RegionSan Juan Islands (Orcas Island), Puget Sound

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Small, forested coastal park with a short trail to a pebble beach; strong emphasis on tidepooling, beach exploration, kayaking, and quiet shoreline camping.

HikingShort forest trail from parking area to the campground (commonly reported as about 0.6 mile downhill one way) with loop routes along the shoreline and some stairs/rocky sections.

FishingFishing from kayaks and nearby shore reported by visitors; marine wildlife (including orcas reported by one reviewer while fishing from a kayak) may be seen.

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTrail and site hazards include stairs, steep/uneven sections, roots and rocks on the trail, and a rocky pebble beach—care is advised, especially with small children. There is no potable water at the campground (campers must bring all drinking/cooking water). Tidal changes affect shoreline access and private property boundaries along parts of the high-tide line have been noted by visitors.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Obstruction Pass State Park

Reviews

4.5

43 reviews

Top-Rated

Obstruction Pass State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviewers consistently praise Obstruction Pass for its seclusion, mossy forest walk, and a pebble beach with excellent tidepooling and clear water. Common drawbacks noted are the walk‑in access, small/uneven sites, and lack of potable water and showers.

Review Summaries

Based on 43 reviews

What Campers Love

Secluded, quiet coastal setting; short, scenic forest walk to the beach; excellent tidepooling (sea stars, anemones); several sites sit just above the water and some are kayak‑accessible; clean...

Based on 43 reviews

Common Concerns

• **No potable water:** the lack of any water source in the campground is the most consistent drawback mentioned; campers must haul all water from elsewhere.[1][4] • **Limited number of sites and...

Based on 43 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all drinking and cooking water, pack light for the ~0.6 mile hike or consider kayak access, check low tide for best tidepooling, bring sturdy shoes for the rocky beach, collect driftwood rather...

Based on 43 reviews

Camper Quotes

"One of my favorite spots on the island."; "Best tide pool on the island."; "Pack it in and pack it out please."

Based on 43 reviews

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Last updated February 2, 2026

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