Fort Casey State Park is a must-visit destination in Washington for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located near Camano Island, Mount Vernon, and Oak Harbor, this 467-acre marine camping park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and fascinating history. From camping to hiking and exploring historical sites, Fort Casey State Park has something for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
- Fort Casey State Park is a 467-acre marine camping park in Washington.
- The park offers a mix of outdoor activities and historical sites.
- Camping, hiking, and exploring gun batteries and a lighthouse are popular activities.
- There are nearby parks, accommodation options, and picnic areas to explore.
- Services and facilities include an interpretive center, restrooms, campgrounds, and picnic tables.
Contents
Essential Information
Fort Casey State Park is a hidden gem located on Whidbey Island in the beautiful Puget Sound. Its address is 1280 Engle Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239, USA. This prime location makes it easily accessible from Camano Island, Mount Vernon, and Oak Harbor. As part of a trio of forts, including Fort Worden and Fort Flagler, that once defended the entrance to the Puget Sound, Fort Casey State Park holds historical significance.
To experience the wonders of this park, visitors can gain admission for just $10 a day or make use of a Discover Pass. For those who prefer a planned approach, a park map can be downloaded for easy navigation.
| Location | Nearby Parks | Admission | Park Map |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whidbey Island, Puget Sound | Camano Island State Park Deception Pass State Park Ebey’s Landing National Reserve |
$10 a day or Discover Pass | Park Map |
Park Highlights
Fort Casey State Park offers several captivating highlights that showcase its rich history and natural beauty.
Admiralty Head Lighthouse
The Admiralty Head Lighthouse, built in 1903, is a prominent attraction within the park. This historic lighthouse offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its fascinating architecture and learn about its role in guiding ships along the rugged coastline.
Historic Gun Batteries
“The gun batteries at Fort Casey State Park are a testament to the nation’s maritime defense effort.”
The park is home to well-preserved gun batteries that played a significant role in protecting the Puget Sound during World War II. Visitors can delve into the history of these gun batteries, gaining insight into their strategic importance and the craftsmanship behind their construction.
Saltwater Shoreline and Keystone Spit
The park boasts a breathtaking 10,810 feet of saltwater shoreline along the picturesque Puget Sound. Visitors can stroll along the pristine beach, enjoying panoramic views of the water and surrounding natural landscapes. A particular highlight is the scenic Keystone Spit, a narrow stretch of land that extends into the Sound, providing a tranquil escape and a unique perspective of the park.
Activities
Fort Casey State Park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking through scenic trails, boating on the water, camping under the stars, diving into underwater wonders, or bird watching in diverse habitats, this park has something for everyone.
Hiking Trails: Explore the natural beauty of Fort Casey State Park through its 1.8 miles of well-maintained hiking trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, these trails offer a range of options suitable for all skill levels.
Boating: Venture onto the saltwater shoreline and indulge in the joy of boating. Whether you prefer fishing or simply cruising along the water, you’ll find ample opportunities to enjoy your favorite water activities.
Camping: Immerse yourself in the great outdoors by camping in Fort Casey State Park. With 22 standard campsites and 13 partial hookup sites offering water and electricity, you can experience the tranquility of nature while still enjoying essential amenities.
Diving: Dive into the surrounding underwater park of Fort Casey State Park and discover the mesmerizing world beneath the waves. Known for its kelp forests and diverse marine life, this underwater park provides a unique diving experience.
Bird Watching: Bird watchers will delight in the varied species that call Fort Casey State Park home. With its diverse habitats, the park provides an ideal environment for spotting a wide range of birds in their natural habitat.
Exploring the Area
When visiting Fort Casey State Park, don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding area and discover other parks and attractions that offer unique experiences and natural beauty. Here are some nearby parks, hotels, picnic areas, and nature programs that you should consider:
Nearby Parks
- Camano Island State Park
- Deception Pass State Park
- Ebey’s Landing National Reserve
Nearby Hotels
For those looking for accommodation near Fort Casey State Park, there are various options available. Some nearby hotels include:
- The Coachman Inn & Suites
- Coupeville Inn
- Best Western Plus Oak Harbor Hotel & Conference Center
Picnic Areas
Fort Casey State Park provides numerous picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by the park’s natural beauty. Whether you prefer a waterfront spot or a shaded area under the trees, you’ll find the perfect picnic area to unwind and recharge.
Nature Programs
To enhance your visit to Fort Casey State Park, consider participating in nature programs that provide deeper insights into the park’s history, wildlife, and natural wonders. Some nature programs offered at the park include:
- Guided tours of the historic gun batteries
- Tours of the Admiralty Head Lighthouse
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Fort Casey State Park and its surrounding area, explore nearby parks, relax at picnic areas, and join nature programs to create memorable experiences during your visit.
Services and Facilities
Fort Casey State Park is committed to providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors by offering a range of services and facilities. At the park’s interpretive center, located within the historic lighthouse, you can dive deeper into the rich history and attractions of Fort Casey. Learn about the fascinating stories behind the gun batteries and the significance of this maritime defense site.
For your convenience, restrooms are available throughout the park, including ADA-compliant facilities to ensure accessibility for all visitors. Whether you’re exploring the trails, picnicking, or camping, you can count on clean and well-maintained restroom facilities.
If you’re planning a picnic, Fort Casey State Park has you covered with 68 unsheltered picnic tables. Enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal while taking in the picturesque views of the park’s natural surroundings. These picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure to arrive early to secure a spot.
For overnight stays, the park offers both standard and partial hookup campgrounds. Whether you prefer a traditional camping experience or the convenience of water and electricity hookups, Fort Casey State Park provides a range of camping options. Immerse yourself in nature and make lasting memories by spending the night under the stars at this beautiful park.
FAQ
Where is Fort Casey State Park located?
Fort Casey State Park is located at 1280 Engle Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239, USA on Whidbey Island in Puget Sound. It is near Camano Island, Mount Vernon, and Oak Harbor.
How much is the admission fee to the park?
The admission fee to Fort Casey State Park is $10 per day. Alternatively, visitors can use a Discover Pass for entry.
Are there guided tours of the Admiralty Head Lighthouse?
Yes, guided tours of the Admiralty Head Lighthouse are available. The lighthouse was built in 1903 and offers fascinating insights into its history.
Can visitors explore the historic gun batteries?
Yes, visitors are welcome to explore the historic gun batteries at Fort Casey State Park. These batteries played a significant role in the nation’s maritime defense efforts.
How much saltwater shoreline does the park have?
Fort Casey State Park boasts 10,810 feet of saltwater shoreline on Puget Sound. This includes the scenic Keystone Spit.
What activities can be enjoyed at Fort Casey State Park?
The park offers 1.8 miles of hiking trails, boating and fishing opportunities on the saltwater shoreline, camping options, diving in the surrounding underwater park, and bird watching in diverse habitats.
What are some nearby parks and attractions?
Nearby parks include Camano Island State Park, Deception Pass State Park, and Ebey’s Landing National Reserve. Visitors can also find various accommodations, including hotels and campgrounds, in the area.
Are there any picnic areas available?
Yes, Fort Casey State Park offers numerous picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. These picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What services and facilities does the park provide?
The park features an interpretive center in the lighthouse that provides additional information, restrooms with ADA-compliant facilities, and campgrounds with standard and partial hookup sites. There are 68 unsheltered picnic tables available for picnicking.
