Saddlebag Island Marine State Park - United States

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About Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

RV quick facts for Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

DetailInformation
Road restrictionsNo road access to the island; reach by kayak or small boat from Anacortes
Full hookupsNone on the island; park RV at mainland campgrounds near Anacortes
Dump stationNone on the island; use mainland facilities in Anacortes
Potable waterNo potable water on the island; carry all water needed for the visit
Garbage serviceNone; pack out all trash
Campsites on island4 primitive tent campsites, boat-access only
Launch pointShort paddle from Anacortes launches such as Washington Park
Cell serviceVariable; expect limited coverage on the water and island

Best time to visit Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

Late June through early September offers the driest weather, calmest seas, and longest daylight for paddling to the island, which is the primary access method. July and August are peak season with warm pebble beaches and prime crabbing conditions along the shoreline. May, June, and September are good shoulder months with fewer boaters but cooler water and more variable wind. Winter visits are possible but discouraged for most RV renters due to cold rain, short days, and rough crossings in the Salish Sea.

Jan 120 mm
45°F - 36°F

Cold, wet, and windy; rough crossings common

Feb 85 mm
48°F - 36°F

Winter conditions; few paddlers attempt access

Mar 75 mm
52°F - 37°F

Cool and showery; mainland RV parks begin opening

Apr 55 mm
57°F - 41°F

Spring paddling possible on calm days

May 40 mm
63°F - 46°F

Shoulder season; fewer boaters and pleasant weather

Jun 35 mm
68°F - 52°F

Long daylight and calmer seas

Jul 20 mm
73°F - 55°F

Peak season; reserve mainland RV sites early

Aug 25 mm
73°F - 55°F

Peak season; warm pebble beaches and crabbing

Sep 40 mm
68°F - 52°F

Excellent shoulder month with stable weather

Oct 80 mm
57°F - 45°F

Rain returns; watch for wind on crossings

Nov 120 mm
50°F - 39°F

Wet and stormy; off-season conditions

Dec 130 mm
45°F - 36°F

Cold and wet; limited mainland campground options

Things to do at Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

  • Sea Kayaking from Anacortes Moderate
    RV parking available

    Sea kayaking is the primary way to reach and experience Saddlebag Island. The island is enormously popular with kayakers on the mainland. Paddlers should check tides, currents, and marine forecasts before crossing. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

  • Crabbing along the Shoreline Easy

    Saddlebag Island is one of the best spots in the area to drop a crab pot from shore or kayak. The island is located next to a National Estuarine Sanctuary, which allows for a profusion of wildlife and makes its shores excellent for crabbing. A valid Washington shellfish license is required. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

  • Island Hiking Loop Easy

    A short trail network lets visitors explore the island's forested interior and bluff viewpoints over the Salish Sea. Visitors can find 1 mile of trails and four campsites on the island. The trails are short and approachable for most fitness levels. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

  • Pebble Beach Picnicking Easy

    The south-facing beach is a classic Salish Sea picnic destination after a paddle across from Anacortes. Its warm pebble beach is an excellent place for a picnic in the water of the Salish Sea. Pack out all food waste, as there is no garbage service. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

  • Primitive Island Camping Moderate

    Saddlebag offers a quiet overnight experience for kayak campers who cross from the mainland. Visitors can find 1 mile of trails and four campsites on the island. No potable water is available on the island, nor is there garbage service, so pack out what you bring in and make sure you have enough water with you to sustain you during your visit. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

  • Wildlife and Bird Watching Easy

    The adjacent estuarine sanctuary supports a wide range of marine and shoreline wildlife visible from the island. This 26 acre island is located next to a National Estuarine Sanctuary which allows for a profusion of wildlife. Bring binoculars and a camera for the crossing. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

  • Small Boat Exploration of the San Juans Moderate

    Saddlebag makes a natural stop on a longer small-boat itinerary in the eastern San Juans. The park is managed by Washington State Parks, with amenities including a canoe/kayak/small boat launch, primitive campsites, and tent campsites. Conditions in the Salish Sea change quickly, so plan around tides and weather. nps.gov/places/saddlebag-island-marine-state-park.htm

Top Hosts near WA, United States

Ryan9 trips - Joined Jul 2024

Ryan was great. Super accommodating. Greatly appreciate him making the delivery.

Steve D. - Jan 2026

Ryan's RV was perfect for our weekend. We needed overflow space for family gathering for Thanksgiving & Ryan's RV was great! It's very spacious. Lots of space to spread out. When renting, be mindful of having enough space to open both popouts. It gives the RV a very open feel, but you cannot use the RV without opening the popouts. The full bedroom in the back with THREE beds is so great for families with kids -- lots of space for their bags & things. Lastly, definitely be mindful of closing the closet door completely when packing up the RV, as this can cause damage when opening the popouts. All in all, an excellent stay! Ryan was very responsive & super easy to deal with.

erin B. - Dec 2024

Brynna2 trips - Joined Apr 2026

Our family had such an amazing experience booking with Brynna! They will be our go in the future :)

merari A. - Aug 2026

Great RV to rent for the weekend. Brynna was great to work with and super friendly!

Connie L. - Aug 2026

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RV Rentals Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

Saddlebag Island Marine State Park, WA, United States

How to get to Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

RV travelers reach the launch area via Anacortes, Washington, about 80 miles (roughly 1.5 hours) north of Seattle on I-5 and SR-20. The island itself is a short paddle from Anacortes, typically launched from Washington Park or nearby tidelands, so renters need a kayak, canoe, or small boat to reach the park. RV-specific notes: SR-20 into Anacortes is straightforward with no tunnel or steep-grade restrictions, but check weight limits on smaller spur roads near launch points and verify trailer parking at boat ramps. The nearest major airport for fly-and-rent trips is Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), with Bellingham International (BLI) a closer alternative about 45 minutes north.

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