The sun sets on the American Camp parade grounds
Photo: NPS Photo/Gary Tarleton
About
San Juan Island is well known for its splendid vistas, saltwater shores, quiet woodlands, orca whales and one of the last remaining native prairies in the Puget Sound/Northern Straits region. But it was also here in 1859 that the United States and Great Britain nearly went to war over possession of the island, the crisis ignited by the death of a pig.
Activities
Arts and CultureCultural DemonstrationsBikingFoodPicnickingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingHikingHunting and GatheringGathering and ForagingLiving HistoryReenactmentsHistoric Weapons DemonstrationFirst Person InterpretationPaddlingKayakingJunior Ranger ProgramSwimmingSaltwater SwimmingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingShoppingBookstore and Park StoreGift Shop and Souvenirs
Directions
San Juan Island is served by Washington State Ferries, several private cruise and shuttle craft and two air carriers (one of which has both land and seaplane service). The Washington State Ferries terminal is 85 miles north of Seattle and 90 miles south of Vancouver, BC in Anacortes, WA.
Get directions →Weather
Spring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 60 F. Wildflowers are at their peak around May. Summer: Temperatures usually range from 45 F to 70 F. On very sunny days, be prepared with water-heat exhaustion is a common complaint among park visitors who are unprepared. Fall: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 65 F. Rain is common. Winter: Temperatures range from 35 F to 50 F. Be prepared with cold and wet weather gear and numerous layers if you intend to be outside. Rain and wind are common.
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