If the tide is low, you should drive around to see if there are any other clams. With trails, camping, beach access, and large open fields, this is a perfect Whidbey Island park for a day visit, or a weekend camping trip. Up on the bluffs of Fort Ebey, youll find dug out World War II gun placements and bunkers, and you can go exploring through all the rooms there to check out the history that has been left behind. Weve posed that question to DOH and we havent gotten an answer yet, Higman said. It has some of the best views in the state. How to find us: 5217 S. Honeymoon Bay Road, Freeland, WA 98249. Vancouver named the island after one of his crew members, Joseph Whidbey, who, along with Peter Puget, circumnavigated the entire island in a small vessel. And with all of the parks buildings, ladders, hidden rooms, forts and cannons to check out, this is an especially fun place for kids to visit and stay. 100% 6 Reviews. IN A recent letter to local regulators, the agency said Island Countys long efforts paid off, but additional monitoring of the shoreline revealed the presence of Enterococcus bacteria, a genus of lactic acid bacteria, during peak summer months. During the same period, varnish clam numbers jumped from about seven- and-a-half per square foot to nearly 11.5 per square foot. 100% 10 Reviews. Concrete platforms mark the gun locations. Those guided tours are not only fun, but super interesting too. But you can even whale watch from the shore and spot grey whales and orcas. Of course you dont need to do the entire 1,200 miles, but you can experience a small part of it. Youre also close to a range of other activities and services on the base, including paintball, a gym, rec center, food, and a range of other things. There are a range of other activities at the park, including 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Camping and then catching the sunrise over those bridges is spectacular, and an absolute must if you do choose to stay here. It's home to many miles of hiking trails featuring beaches, views, old growth trees and more. North Whidbey RV Park is located right across from the Deception Pass State Park entrance, so it gives you full access to the park and everything on offer there, but in a much more comfortable environment for RVers. West Whidbey Island Butter Clams and Varnish Clams Saratoga Passage and Possession Sound, including Utsalady Bay, Penn Cove and Holmes Harbor . You might cross the popular Deception Cross Bridge on your way. DNR-100 (Whidbey Island) Clam, mussel, and oyster seasons OPEN for harvest year-round. Theyre some of the best in the country, and when youre eating mussels in a restaurant in the US, theyve often come from Whidbey Island! Because salt does not appear in blue on the New World map, finding it can be difficult; only fresh water appears in blue on the map. diggers can catch 15 razor clams per day under state law and are required to keep 15 of them in their jars at all times. Join us for Penn Cove Mussel Fest on Whidbey Island! When clamming, people should check online at doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety to make sure beaches aren't closed because of biotoxins. The island is significant both historically and culturally. DNR-142 (Whidbey Island) - Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife The fish is of the highest quality, as is the customer service. In general, clam diggers will need a shovel and a bucket, and a permit may be required in some areas. Claims and Buildings of Central Whidbey Island (Coupeville, WA: Island County Historical Society, 1973), 75. Review Highlights . The park features a beach access trail and an old-growth forest with lush undergrowth. Shellfish - Island County, Washington In an August 1981 ceremony, Public Lands Commissioner Brian Boyle signed an agreement with Save the Trees and others to work together to preserve the forest. The game encourages players to get out and discover wildlife and nature, as well as make new friends and do fun camping activities. Clam digging is a popular activity on many New World beaches, with the best clams being found in early summer. Whidbey Island - Camping on beautiful Whidbey Island - Yabsta Prices will vary each month depending on number of classes offered. 2023 Cost of Living Calculator: compare Brea, California to Whidbey The beach is popular with clamming enthusiasts, and there is plenty of parking. Focusing on ingredients grown locally on Whidbey Island, as well as produce, flowers and herbs harvested from the Captain Whidbey gardens, our culinary focus is . Register for this class at the Active Generations' information desk. What better way than camping! Gordon's on Blueberry Hill 297 reviews Closed Now American, International $$$$ Menu Clams can be found in many different places along the Washington coast. by Harley Gutirrez | Jan 18, 2023 | Clams. This glamping spot is right for you if you love S'mores and good coffee! Each campsite comes with a picnic table, fire pit, and a grill, and there are showers and restrooms throughout the park, a free laundry facility, and free WiFi. Clams and mussels may be found at many of these beaches and may be collected and consumed safely throughout the year. Close by is the Gallery Golf Course which is a challenging 18-hole course that runs along the coastline, so youve got great views while playing. Campfires shouldnt be more than 3 feet in diameter or 2 feet high. Bait is a more effective fishing technique when fishing for clams in New World waters, particularly in shallow water. Theres plenty of historical sites and buildings to enjoy if camping here (as we show you below), as well as lots of coastal scenery, wildlife, and hikes to explore too. There are 100 full hookup sites for large RVs and trailers, but no tents sites. In Washington, you can purchase a permit, check toxin levels, and plan your trip online at the states Department of Fish and Wildlife. Deception Pass State Park is one of the most popular destinations in Washington and connects Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island via two enormous bridges 180 feet above the water, which youre welcome to walk across if you dare! A recreational vehicle sanitary dump station is available during regular park hours. Smooth as Rice 58 subscribers Clam digging at Double Bluff Beach on Whidbey Island in Washington State and cooking up some clam chowder afterwards. The following areas have been closed for recreational harvest of butter and varnish clams only: West Whidbey Island Admiralty Bay Useless Bay Fort Townsend Campground. South Whidbey State Park - Washington Such as annual festivals and events youd like to take part in, or wildlife youd like to see like the incredible whales you can see off the coast of Whidbey during the migration season. Here's a sample of the class taught by beach watcher Gene Thrasher. A boat ramp can be found on the beachs east side, and a dock can be found on the beachs west side. Depending on the results, future transplants may occur. WHIDBEY ISLAND has few good public beaches to dig clams, and Holmes Harbor was one of the best, she said. A full clubhouse is available that gives you access to a shared kitchen, day room, and coffee lounge. Despite the development and setback to returning to year-round harvest, Speck said shes optimistic. The host provides a S'mores kit and hot French press coffee every morning, so you can start your day right. Free . Ehlert argued in court that forests were not exempt from environmental rules. There is some discussion with local tribes to harvest varnish clams as crab bait, but its unclear whether that will materialize or expedite the return of local species. Deception Pass State Park | Washington State Parks and Recreation So whether you want to pitch a tent in a rustic nature-orientated campground, or go luxury camping in your deluxe RV, theres a spot for you here. Thats because theres full hookups at this RV park, and many more amenities and facilities here than youll find in state park campgrounds. Dont camp near trailheads, picnic areas, or developed public and private campgrounds. The island has a wide variety of beaches to choose from, each with its own unique benefits for clamming. You can also harvest mussels in the nearby Twin Lagoons year-round. The perfect Whidbey Island campgrounds are only a mouse click away! This day-use park on the west side of Whidbey Island is a scenic drive away from Anacortes or a short ferry ride from Mukilteo. Whidbey Island is home to some of the best clamming in the state of Washington. The Answer Might Surprise You, Why Oysters Are A Better Source Of Zinc Than Clams, 3 Theories On The Clams Identity On The Masked Singer, The Perfect Number Of Clams To Steam At Once. So you may have some jet noise. 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. The property offers a remote experience, having no electricity. But if youre excited about seeing jets race above your head, then this is a fantastic location. If youre an outdoor enthusiast, you can choose from hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, or swimming on the beach while here. Washington state has serious problems with wildfires and often issues bans on any type of recreational fires, including campfires. Glamping in Whidbey Island, Washington, United States of America Lone, Deer, Goss, Cranberry and Pass lakes are all stocked annually. Whidbey Island vacations in nature await. Founded by a former globetrotting freelance journalist (BBC, USA Today & others), now our small team is here to help you plan your next adventure! If youre looking for a calm and quiet beach with a wide beach, look no further than Mocrocks Beach. There is no upland access to this beach. Clam, mussel, and oyster seasons OPEN for harvest year-round. The campground provides one restroom with a vault toilet and two showers. Clam Digging at Double Bluff Beach & How to Make Clam Chowder When driving from Seattle, take I-5 North to exit 230, then travel 18 miles west on State Route 20, which will take you over the bridge into Oak Harbor. The case was widely publicized, and in 1978, the court ruled in favor of Noel, forever changing the way the state manages forests. On top of that kayaks and canoes can be rented from the concession stand at Bowman Bay. Among all whidbey island parks, this is the one that caters most to bikers and hikers. Autumn on Whidbey Wine, Spirits, and Art Tour happens in November, and is a self-guided tour of five of the best wineries and distilleries on the island. However, there are also two designated off-leash parks and adventure areas that your dog can enjoy: Greenbank Farms Trail is a 3-mile hike with meadows and forested areas where your dog can roam freely. A range of events are set up most nights so people can interact together, including beer evenings, wine tastings, painting, and a range of other activities. If its seabird poop does that constitute a health risk?, Higman said. Musselfest, March 4-5, Coupeville, Whidbey Island. You should bring a torch or headlamp so you can explore fully. It is the homeland of the Skagit, Snohomish and Swinomish people, among others. Ebeys Landing is a 5.5-mile hike suitable for the whole family, including the pup! It really is the perfect location to enjoy a relaxing camping experience with fantastic views and great amenities. There is no electricity, but lanterns are provided for your convenience. Boating and saltwater fishing are hugely popular activities in the park too, as is exploring the beach and bird watching or simply relaxing and people watching. So facilities wise, this is easily one of the best Whidbey Island camping options for RVs. The Most Recent Change Since the Last Bulletin is - Washington The primary booker can sponsor two other campsites if there is availability though. Perm's Cove: A History of the Settlers. You need a garden hose or 2-gallon bucket of water available. Not much is known about shellfish resources on this beach. And if you want to go crab hunting for your dinner, there are excellent spots on the beach. Fort Townsend State Park. Higman said the agency may research the question with its legal department about just when it can give the county the OK. ALSO UNCLEAR is from where the Enterococcus bacteria orignated, Higman said. Young visitors are encouraged to become Junior Rangers. Notable regions here are: Check here for more information from Washington's Department of Fish and Wildlife. It is located 127 feet above the Puget Sound waterway and has fantastic views. The results were enough to warrant a conditional reopening of the beach for nine months of the year. The Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connect the two islands, creating a . Note: An additional Special Activity Permit is required for group activities and events such as wedding ceremonies, races, other sports events etc. May 15 with a seaweed and shellfish license. Public land owned by the state or federal government are typically your best options for dispersed camping; this includes forests and areas managed by the US Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Clams prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, but in general, I prefer shallower areas with a rocky bottom. Acres of clams, and they're not Ivar's | Whidbey News-Times WHIDBEY ISLAND has few good public beaches to dig clams, and Holmes Harbor was one of the best, she said. Best Clam Chowder in Whidbey Island, WA - Tripadvisor With a nautical soul and agricultural heart, this 45-mile-long island in Puget Sound feels like the West Coast's version of Nantucket. It helps keeps the coffee flowing! For clammers who eagerly anticipated the reopening of the once popular South Whidbey hotspot, which used to be open year-round, news of the six-week season is disappointing. The best place to dig clams on Whidbey Island is at Double Bluff Beach. If you buy something through a link on our site we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to yourself. He contacted Charles Ehlert, a young Seattle environmental law attorney, who filed a landmark lawsuit Noel v. Cole. From exciting outdoor activities to laid-back strolling through the downtown or the beaches, there is something for every traveler. Penn Cove is an extra special location as its filled with sea life, including ghost shrimp and seals which makes it a favorite feeding ground for whales and orcas looking for a snack! According to Camille Speck, a state Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist based out of Port Townsend, the non-native species moved in while the fishery was closed and is pushing out native clams, particularly Manilla and butter clams. And with a little bit of know-how, you can easily find yourself a bountiful catch of clams. Learn to dig for clams in the popular Digging for Dinner class. Featured Products Alaskan Black Cod (Portion) - Wild Caught $14.53 Admiralty, Mutiny and Useless bays have other good spots. Have a few days off, or even longer, and wondering how to spend the free time? I cant imagine any better customer service than what you offer. There are also a number of sheltered and unsheltered picnic areas with tables and barbecues for community use spread around the campground and beach area. This includes clams, geoduck, scallops, mussels, oysters, snails and other invertebrates (not crab or shrimp - clean crab well and do not consume the guts/butter). Balance Class - Active Generations Most campgrounds on Whidbey Island also have access to good hiking trails, so you may not need to go far to find a great hike to try out. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window). Monofilament recovery and recycling program. Please exercise caution not to trespass on private property. Go glamping in a Whidbey Island luxury lodging! For the first time in years, commercial geoduck harvesting is under way in Langley. The water quality story is a huge success. Showing results in neighboring cities. Staying at Fort Casey Historical State Park means youll be spending much of your time in the park exploring nature and experiencing all the history there. You are a 5-star, all-around great business providing an important service in this rapidly changing world!, Always an excellent experience ordering from Whidbey Island Seafood Company! All of our products are completely traceable, ensuring your customers they are buying the safest, highest-quality seafood available. Penn Cove Shellfish, which grows and sells millions of mussels annually, prides itself on growing mussels free of fertilizer or feed. Clamming hotspot on South Whidbey to reopen, but dig limited to six It was a little bit of a rude shock, Speck said during a telephone interview. So if youre looking for an activity based camping vacation this is a fantastic campground to stay at. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Spread throughout the three campgrounds are one dump station, 20 restrooms, and 10 showers. No matter where you go on Whidbey Island, youll be sure to find some great hiking trails, and in most situations, your dog can come with you on a leash. For additional information and a permit, call the park at (360) 678-4519 or send an email. Panoramic views of the Puget Sound shoreline, the Olympic Mountains and sunsets. We cant deny that our customers love to eat quality seafood, and we are proud to help them with their cravings. . The park is the site of Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Enjoy a luxe glamping experience in the middle of the forest, on a farm. Whidbey Island is a perfect location to head on a whale-watching excursion from one of the many tour operators. Fish and Wildlife monitors seasons and regulations, but the health department is charged with monitoring which areas are safe from marine biotoxins and vibrio. So you get a great opportunity to watch the whales pass by for quite some time. Public ownership of this tideland does not extend across the entire tidal range of the beach. Whidbey Island has a number of festivals where you can enjoy the local flavors, art, music, and natural beauty of this place. Lagoon Point has a public beach that is also known locally as a great viewing area for whales.