Stuart Island Marine State Park
Stuart Island Marine State Park is a remote, boat-access-only park in the San Juan Islands known for its quiet anchorages, rocky shoreline, and sweeping views of Haro Strait. Visitors come for kayaking, beachcombing, wildlife viewing, and a peaceful island camping experience surrounded by saltwater and forest.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed on leash; keep pets under control and clean up after them. Check seasonal area restrictions before visiting.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Remote, peaceful island park loved for stunning waterfront views, kayaking, wildlife, quiet camping, and sunset scenery; visitors note limited amenities and access, but praise the natural solitude.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring your own water and supplies; services are very limited.
- Arrive by boat; there is no road access to the park.
- Check tides and weather before crossing the waters.
- Pack out all trash to protect the island environment.
- Use designated campsites and follow marine park regulations.
- Expect primitive facilities and plan for self-sufficient camping.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Stuart Island Marine State Park is late spring through early fall, when calmer seas and longer daylight make boating and camping easier. Summer offers the warmest weather and best wildlife viewing, though shoulder seasons are quieter.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Stuart Island Marine State Park:
- Reid HarborA sheltered anchorage on Stuart Island popular with boaters and kayakers for its calm waters and scenic shoreline.1 mile away
- Prevost HarborA protected harbor on Stuart Island offering moorage, wildlife viewing, and access to island trails and campsites.2 miles away
- Turn Point LighthouseA historic lighthouse area on Stuart Island known for dramatic views, marine traffic, and coastal scenery.3 miles away
Things to Do at Stuart Island Marine State Park
Camping at Stuart Island Marine State Park
Primitive marine camping only; no RVs, cabins, or hookups. Reservations required. Seasonal, boat-access only, limited amenities.
Hiking Trails
Stuart Island Marine State Park offers quiet, scenic day hiking with a remote island feel and sweeping views of the San Juan Islands, Haro Strait, and passing boats. Trails are generally easy to moderate, with forested paths, shoreline walks, and historic sites like the Turn Point Lighthouse. Hikers often praise the solitude, wildlife sightings, and peaceful atmosphere, though access is limited and services are minimal.
Rope Trail to Reid Harbor
EasyA scenic shoreline and forest walk from the dock area toward Reid Harbor, with views of the water, moored boats, and quiet island forest.
Turn Point Lighthouse Trail
EasyA popular route to the historic Turn Point Lighthouse area, offering coastal views, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a peaceful island setting.
Reid Harbor to Prevost Harbor Connector
ModerateA longer cross-island hike linking the two main harbors, with forested sections, shoreline viewpoints, and a more remote feel.
Stuart Island Loop via Turn Point and Reid Harbor
ModerateA rewarding loop combining the island’s main trail corridors, lighthouse views, forest paths, and harbor scenery.
Directions
Reach the park by private boat or floatplane only. From the San Juan Islands, navigate to Stuart Island and approach Reid Harbor or Prevost Harbor; there is no road access or ferry service to the park.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Stuart Island Marine State Park?
The park is only accessible by boat, kayak, or floatplane. Most visitors arrive by private boat or water taxi from nearby islands or mainland marinas.
Are there campsites at Stuart Island Marine State Park?
Yes. The park has primitive marine campsites, but amenities are limited. Expect a rustic experience with basic facilities and no hookups.
Is there drinking water on the island?
No reliable potable water is typically available. Visitors should bring enough drinking water for their stay and plan to pack out what they bring in.
What activities do people usually do there?
Visitors often come for kayaking, boating, beachcombing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and quiet overnight camping. Many reviews mention the peaceful setting and scenic shoreline.
Are there restrooms or other facilities?
Facilities are very limited and rustic. Expect basic vault toilets at some areas, but no full-service amenities. Bring supplies and be prepared for a remote camping experience.
What should I know before visiting Stuart Island Marine State Park?
Plan ahead for tides, weather, and limited services. Bring food, water, and camping gear, and be ready for a remote, low-impact visit. Many visitors praise the solitude and natural beauty.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →