Bay View State Park
"Anacortes residents and visitors often stop here for a quieter waterfront experience before or after ferry travel. The park offers a scenic contrast to the busier marina and downtown areas."
A peaceful saltwater park with bay views, picnic areas, and excellent birdwatching.
Lime Kiln Point State Park
"Anacortes is a major gateway to the San Juan Islands and a common starting point for ferry travelers. Many visitors pair a park stop with a weekend island getaway."
A premier whale-watching park on San Juan Island with a historic lighthouse and sweeping views of Haro Strait.
Matilda N. Jackson State Park Heritage Site
"Anacortes visitors can add a history-focused detour before heading to the San Juan Islands or Deception Pass. The park provides a quieter inland contrast to the waterfront town."
A small heritage park honoring pioneer Matilda N. Jackson in the Skagit Valley.
Joseph Whidbey State Park
"Anacortes visitors often come for island scenery, boating, and ferry connections, and Joseph Whidbey offers a quieter coastal stop nearby. It works well as part of a scenic island loop."
A peaceful shoreline park on Whidbey Island with picnic areas, beach access, and mountain views.
Jackson House State Park Heritage Site
"Anacortes visitors often stop here on the way to or from the San Juan Islands. The heritage site provides a quiet inland history experience to balance a coastal getaway."
A small heritage site preserving the historic Jackson House and its pioneer-era story in the Skagit Valley.
Fort Casey Historical State Park
"Anacortes visitors often make the trip for a ferry-connected island getaway and historic sightseeing. The park appeals to those looking for coastal scenery and military history."
A historic coastal fort on Whidbey Island with lighthouse views, beach access, and military ruins.
Fort Ebey State Park
"Anacortes visitors often come for a scenic island outing and views of the water. The park offers a quieter natural contrast to the city’s marina and ferry activity."
A coastal park on Whidbey Island with bluffs, beaches, historic military sites, and panoramic water views.
Stretch Point State Park
"Anacortes is the mainland ferry hub for the San Juan Islands, making it a practical origin for park-bound travelers. Many visitors from Anacortes combine a ferry ride with a relaxed outdoor stop on Orcas Island."
A quiet marine park on Orcas Island with shoreline access, picnic spots, and scenic views.
Cama Beach Historical State Park
"Anacortes travelers may visit for a quieter alternative to the San Juan ferry corridor. The park offers a blend of history, beach access, and broad water views."
A restored historic beach resort on Camano Island with cabins, shoreline access, and scenic views.
Peace Arch Historical State Park
"Anacortes travelers often add the park to a North Sound road trip. It provides a memorable cultural stop before or after exploring the islands and coastal communities."
A border park featuring the Peace Arch monument, gardens, and views of the U.S.-Canada crossing.
