FORT CASEY STATE PARK
Fort Casey State Park, on Whidbey Island in Washington state, is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Originally serving as one of three fortifications safeguarding the entrance to Puget Sound during the early 20th century, this park offers visitors a glimpse into the past.
Immerse yourself in the history of Fort Casey as you explore the remnants of its old gun batteries, marvel at the iconic lighthouse, and delve into the informative exhibits at the interpretive center. Take in the breathtaking vistas of Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, which serve as a picturesque backdrop to your visit.
In addition to its historical significance, Fort Casey State Park provides a wealth of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid camper, hiker, fisherman, or wildlife enthusiast, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. History buffs will be enthralled by the rich heritage of Fort Casey, while nature lovers will appreciate the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Families can create lasting memories as they explore the park's offerings together. Fort Casey State Park is a must-visit destination, catering to a wide range of interests. Whether you seek knowledge of the past, a connection with nature, or a memorable family outing, this park promises an unforgettable experience.
MEERKERK GARDENS
Meerkerk Gardens offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of rhododendrons.
Spanning 43 acres, this natural oasis showcases a remarkable collection of both species and hybrid rhododendrons that burst into vibrant bloom from March to May. Alongside these stunning floral displays, you'll also discover a harmonious blend of complementary plants and trees, enhancing the overall landscape.
In addition to the gardens, Meerkerk offers an expansive forest preserve, encompassing the surrounding acres. Here, you'll encounter a captivating array of exotic trees and conifers, sourced from all corners of the globe. For those looking to bring a touch of this beauty home, the gardens house a specialty nursery where you can procure rare and unusual rhododendrons to cultivate in your own garden.
Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast, a passionate gardener, or simply seeking a serene and picturesque escape, Meerkerk Gardens is the perfect destination. Immerse yourself in the splendor of nature, where rhododendrons reign supreme, and tranquility abounds.
SOUTH WHIDBEY COMMUNITY PARK (CASTLE PARK)
Castle Park is truly one of a kind. This is one of the Whidbey Island parks that truly caters to sports. The sports complex boasts four baseball fields, five soccer fields, two full playgrounds with covered picnic areas, the area’s only skate and dirt bmx park, miles of trails for hiking or biking, and an outdoor basketball court.
This is a great place to take your family and enjoy the massive castle playground. Safe, clean castles with towers, ramparts, swings, slides and more await exploration. Your kids will wear off all that excess energy and have a great time doing it!
DECEPTION PASS STATE PARK
Deception Pass State Park is a 4,134-acre marine and camping park with more than 14 miles of saltwater shoreline, and 8 miles of freshwater shoreline on three different lakes just north of Oak Harbor. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. This is probably the most scenic of the Whidbey island parks. The park is known for its breath-taking views, old-growth forests, and abundant wildlife.
Enjoy freshwater and saltwater fishing, within walking distance of each other, challenging cliffside hiking trails, Canoeing and kayaking, boat tours, and more. The sheer size, bio-diversity, and beauty of this state park are enough to put it on this list.
EARTH SANCTUARY
Earth Sanctuary is a privately operated destination that offers much more than just a park experience. It is a unique journey that seamlessly blends art and nature.
With its two miles of well-maintained nature trails and a captivating sculpture garden featuring eco-art inspired by various global spiritual traditions, Earth Sanctuary is a tranquil oasis that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. Unlike other parks on Whidbey Island, Earth Sanctuary is privately owned and managed, allowing for a carefully curated experience that focuses on exemplary ecology, art, and spirituality. This harmonious combination creates a sanctuary that not only benefits birds, wildlife, and the environment but also offers a place for humans to find solace and rejuvenation.
Whether you seek personal renewal, spiritual growth, or healing, a visit to Earth Sanctuary provides a serene space where you can reconnect with nature and experience the transformative power it holds.
JOSEPH WHIDBEY STATE PARK
Joseph Whidbey State Park is a day-use park that can be found on the northern end of Whidbey Island in Washington State. Spanning over 112 acres, the park boasts an impressive 3,100 feet of shoreline along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This location offers breathtaking scenic views of both the water and the majestic Olympic Mountains.
The park was aptly named after Joseph Whidbey, a British naval officer who played a crucial role in exploring the Puget Sound region back in 1792. It was during his exploration that he made the fascinating discovery that Whidbey Island was indeed an island, contrary to popular belief that it was a peninsula. Joseph Whidbey State Park showcases a diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and fields. Additionally, visitors can also enjoy the sandy beach, which is a popular spot for beachcombing, crabbing, and observing wildlife.
The park further offers a network of hiking trails, which includes a section of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. This trail spans an impressive 1,200 miles, beginning from the Olympic Peninsula and extending all the way to Montana. Nature lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike will find Joseph Whidbey State Park to be an exceptional destination. It provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in the stunning beauty and remarkable diversity that Whidbey Island has to offer.
MAXWELTON PARK (DAVE MACKIE)
Dave Mackie is a popular public park situated on the southern tip of Whidbey Island, Washington.
It boasts a range of amenities including a sandy beach, picnic tables, restrooms, a playground, and even a baseball field. Visitors of the park can engage in various activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and kite flying, making it a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the park takes pride in hosting the annual Maxwelton Fourth of July Parade, an event that holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest parade on the island. With its captivating showcase of local bands, floats, and community groups, the parade draws in thousands of visitors each year.
Maxwelton Park truly offers a splendid opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Whidbey Island.
FORT EBEY
Fort Ebey is a vast 645-acre state park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
These activities include camping, hiking, biking, fishing, surfing, and even paragliding. Additionally, history enthusiasts will appreciate the park's fascinating historical background.
Fort Ebey was originally a coastal defense fort during World War II, designed to protect the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound. The fort was named after Isaac Neff Ebey, a prominent figure and one of the earliest settlers on Whidbey Island. For those seeking breathtaking views, the bluff trail provides a perfect vantage point to admire the water and witness picturesque sunsets. Exploring the old battery is another highlight of the park, as visitors can venture into the underground rooms and observe the concrete gun emplacements.
To ensure visitors' comfort and convenience, the park offers amenities such as picnic shelters, restrooms, showers, and even a store for any necessary supplies. Fort Ebey Whidbey Island State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its diverse range of activities and rich historical significance, it promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.
CLOUDSTONE SCULPTURE PARK
Cloudstone Sculpture Park is a 20-acre outdoor art gallery situated on the picturesque Whidbey Island in Washington. This captivating park is dedicated to showcasing the exceptional work of the late Hank Nelson, a renowned 3-D artist who sadly passed away in February 2022. Nelson's artistic legacy is comprised of an impressive collection of over 450 sculptures crafted from stone and metal, each one a testament to his deep connection with nature and boundless imagination.
Visitors to Cloudstone Sculpture Park can explore this magnificent space by making a reservation in advance. The park not only provides a visual feast for the senses but also offers a range of enriching experiences. Guided tours are available, providing in-depth insights into the art and the creative process behind it. For those seeking a more hands-on approach, workshops are offered where participants can learn various sculpting techniques and create their own unique pieces. Additionally, Cloudstone Sculpture Park provides opportunities for internships and conferences, fostering community engagement and the exchange of ideas among art enthusiasts.
As a testament to its commitment to the arts, the park is also home to the Cloudstone Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the appreciation, creation, and recognition of three-dimensional art. Through its initiatives, the foundation supports emerging artists, facilitates educational programs, and actively contributes to the growth and development of the art community. Cloudstone Sculpture Park is a haven for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Nelson's sculptures, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the inspiring atmosphere of this remarkable outdoor gallery.
BOWMAN BAY STATE PARK
Bowman Bay State Park is a popular destination for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Whidbey Island.
The park is located on the northwestern tip of the island, near Deception Pass Bridge, and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The park features a sandy beach, a boat launch, a fishing pier, picnic areas, hiking trails, and a campground. Visitors can also explore the nearby Rosario Head and Lighthouse Point, which are part of the Deception Pass State Park.
Bowman Bay State Park is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed or limited during the winter months. The park requires a Discover Pass for vehicle access, which can be purchased online or at the park entrance. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day at the beach, a scenic hike, or a fun-filled adventure on the water, Bowman Bay State Park has something for everyone.
