March is winding down, which means that camping season is just around the corner. If you’re planning your next camping trip and don’t want to travel too far, there might be a place you should add to your list, according to LonelyPlanet.
The travel publication released its list of the nine most scenic campgrounds in the U.S., with a spot in Washington making the list.
San Juan Islands named among most scenic campgrounds
Coming in at No. 5 on the list were the San Juan Islands, which Lonely Planet called the best place to go for “ocean serenity.” While most of the destinations on the list were specific campgrounds, Lonely Planet said you can’t go wrong with camping anywhere in the San Juans. That said, they particularly recommended backcountry camping on Jones Island, only accessible by boat , but said that camping outside of Friday Harbor will still get you beautiful views while being more accessible.
In addition to ocean serenity Lonely Planet recommended the islands for their shorelines, hiking and opportunities to see orcas and bald eagles.
Campgrounds on the San Juan Islands
There are 15 state parks in the San Juans, 13 of which offer camping, according to Washington State Parks . You can also find campsites at county parks , or private campsites. The islands’ visitor bureau maintains a list of campsites , private and public, available in the area.
How to get to the San Juan Islands
As great of a camping destination as the San Juans are, they aren’t the easiest place to get to. The Islands are accessible by ferry or plane. Washington State Ferries currently runs 15 trips a day from Anacortes to the islands, with an additional afternoon trip Thursdays through Sundays and a late night ferry on Fridays, although not every route stops at every island…