Kayak Camp on Posey Island

A tiny gem within the San Juan Islands, Posey Island is a perfect kayak camping spot for novices, experts, and everyone in between. While the Island only has 2 campsites, each can be reserved ahead of time if you are going May 15th - September 30th. Reservations open each year starting Jan 2nd @ 9am. To make a reservation call 360-378-2044 (Lime Kiln Point State Park). On weekends, it's limited to one campsite and a maximum of one night. On weekdays, it's limited to one campsite and a maximum of 2 nights to book a campsite. Note that reservations aren’t required but they are probably a smart idea so that you don’t arrive on the island without a place to camp. 

There are a couple of routes to the island, ranging in length/difficulty:

Route 1 (0.8 miles): At less than a mile, this route is perfect for novices looking to get their feet wet with Kayak camping. It’s also a great launching point to other islands such as Stewart or Spieden. For this route, take the ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. From there, drive 20 minutes northwest to Roche Harbor.  Once in Roche Harbor, you'll embark in your kayak, hugging San Juan Island past Pearl Island. Once you pass Pearl Island you steer directly west and the tiny island will a couple hundred yards away. 

Route 2 (10-11 miles): The longer, more difficult route. You’ll take the ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. From Friday Harbor, you'll embark on your kayak trip. Hug the eastern shores of San Juan Island as you head NW towards the northern part of the island. At a full 11 miles this can be done in 1 long day or can be split up into 2 with an overnight on Jones Island. Jones Island represent a good 1/2 way point and is a great kayak camping island itself. 

Despite its tiny footprint, this Island still offers the best of the San Juan Islands - seclusiveness, wildlife abundance and epic sunrises and sunsets.