An absolute favorite for good ole woods on the lake camping! Campgrounds have so much variety in shade, waterfront options, RV hookups, walk-in, and group sites. Their bathrooms and showers are well maintained, and the public use areas are always kept up as well. They staff a little snack shack where you can find limited swim gear and accessories, plus impressive snacks, coffee, ice cream, candy, etc. The lake is a non-motorized boat lake, but they rent out water toys or bring your own float islands and paddleboards. Mt. Constitution is also found within the park and is a must visit! Views into Canada and over the WA coast are to die for on a clear day. Whether you're visiting just for the day or longer, Moran State Park is an oasis worth experiencing! read more

Moran State Park - Parks Near Me - Eastsound, Washington

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This is probably the biggest highlight on Orcas Island if you're outdoorsy! Lakes, scenic views, trails a plenty even leading to an ice cream finish, water activities, and on and on and on. I had only wished we had one more day. My group did the Cascade Lake Loop, Cascade Fall's, plus give or take hopping on to another trail to widen the "loop." Day passes are $10 bucks and go off an honor system with completing a short form with vehicle and govt issue ID details and dropping them into a collection box. Plenty of places to park near multiple different trail entrances. The trails are well maintained & the trees are massive. Sugar shack offered up some delicious ice cream during our widening of said loop. There were clean bathrooms and a large playground located near this pit stop. Plenty of entrances/parking to different trailheads can be found along the outskirts. Definitely recommend for anyone taking a vacation on Orcas Island. And as always practice leave no trace! read more

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The view from Mount Constitution in Moran State Park is endless! After a long drive along the twisting, winding road leading to the tippy top of the island, visitors are greeted by a stunning vista point showcasing all of the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands. Whether you climb the tower for an elevated view, or just lean onto the stone railings surrounding the viewpoint area, you won't be disappointed. In fact, Mount Constitution is the highest point in the entire island chain, at 2,407 feet! My husband and I lucked out visiting on a sunny day, but I can imagine being engulfed by the clouds in this magical place must be a wonderful experience as well. Please drive with caution as you make your way to Mount Constitution. The two lane road is narrow and in need of development in some areas. Don't let careless drivers intimidate you into driving too quickly, take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The road passes through densely wooded stretches of forest, beside pristine lakes, and adorable farms dotting the landscape. Don't let the mountain be your only destination, enjoy all of the splendor the island has to offer. Upon reaching Mount Constitution, visitors will find adequate parking, as well as well-maintained facilities. There is a short, steep walk from the parking lot to the lookout, but it's worth any effort required to take in such a gorgeous view! read more

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Beautiful park with some easy and scenic hikes (and hard and scenic hikes). We did the Mountain Lake Trail as well as the Cascade Lake Trail. Both well maintained with not too much traffic. Mountain Lake was rainy but we were well sheltered from the rain on the trail. We also drove up to Mt. Constitution. The drive was a bit scary considering I am afraid of heights and sharp turns but the view from the top was worth it! Looks like there was lots of great camping spots all over, too. read more

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Beautiful state park on Orcas Island. Hiking up to the top of Mount Constitution was one of the highlights of my husband and I's trip to the island. The top of Mount Constitution is the highest point on the San Juan Islands. You are able to see so many other islands once at the peak. The summit also has a visitor's center where you are able to buy souvenirs and relax. To start our hike, we entered the park, and drove up to Mountain Lake. The parking fee is $10. From there, we started our hike to the peak. It is a little less than 4 miles one way, making the whole hike around 8 miles round trip. The first part of the hike is rough. There are many steep switchbacks and the incline can get pretty intense at times. However, once you are getting closer to the top, you pop out at a ridge, and are treated to so many beautiful views of the ocean and the neighboring islands. The views from the top are so worth it! On a clear day, you are able to see the ocean, islands, and mountains for miles. Make sure you bring a swimsuit if you want to take a dip in Mountain Lake at the end of your hike. Highly recommend this park just off the breathtaking views alone. read more

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One of the best places on the big island to enjoy nature, see views for miles, explore local history, and tour the surroundings by watercraft too! read more

Moran State Park - @Moran - views for miles (at the top of stone lookout - Parks Near Me - Eastsound, Washington

Me. My dog. Ice cold winter air. Days and days for exploration. Light snow in the lower elevations. Solid ice and snow up high. Rain. Clouds. Then one day, sunshine. Days and days for exploration. Someone should have been with us. Not only because the fun is only amplified when you hike with someone you care about, but also to help me keep track of the days. I went for days and days. I came into Moran from Rosario at least twice, but I think three different days. They all blend together now that the holiday break is nothing but a memory. This state park is the bigger and more bustling state park on Orcas Island, and is packed with things to do. Hiking is the big one for me, but you can also ride your bike (on certain trails, only from Sep 15-May 15), fish, do a scenic drive, paddle, camp, or just tour around for the day. It's not huge and you can see it all in a day, but it will take much longer to hike all the trails. It starts as you enter the big white circle that surrounds the road from Eastsound. You'll come upon Cascade Lake which is absolutely lovely, and despite the frigid temps in the winter when I was there, was placid and peaceful. From there, you can continue on and take the fork in the road to the right through the park and out towards Doe Bay, or hang left and see all the park has to offer. There's no fee to drive through the park, but if you're parked in the park, you have to display a recreation pass. If you went left on Mt. Constitution Road, you can head to the titular peak, by veering left again a ways up, or stay right and get to Mountain Lake. I rather like Mountain Lake and wanted to take that hike around the lake, or perhaps to the accesible-by-trail-only Twin Lakes, but time didn't permit it. Instead, I went back to Mt. Constitution Road. Earlier in the week it had been gated off at the turnoff by Mountain Lake, as it was too snowy and icy. After a week of somewhat thawing temps, it was opened until a gate further up and I was able to take an abbreviated (though still several-mile) hike to Mt. Constitution. The tower and mountain afford some incredible views, for sure. It was so windy and cold, though, that I tried to take photos but couldn't keep my eyes from watering in the wind. Read the info on the tower, go up to the top, and enjoy the views there, too. I was super disappointed to see that dogs must be leashed on trails. I did abide by the rules, but my poor pup was so confused about why a seasoned trail dog like her had to be jerked around. I understand the concerns, for sure, but know that if you bring your pup they do have to be leashed. Better than being forbidden, I suppose? There are loads of picnic tables, most are first-come first-served, and a few covered shelters, 151 campsites spread among four campgrounds; showers, an RV dump station but not electricity, and a group campsite for 56. Moran has a fun history. Robert Moran was a dreamer, in some ways. A lucky dude, and a colorful character, but a dreamer and a fighter. The park was his estate, and as a shipbuilder the island probably called to him. He was the mayor of Seattle, had plenty of money, and I'm glad his vision allowed him to give it back to the people and we have it today to enjoy. He was a fighter. He came to the island to die after being diagnosed with poor health and given one year to live, but slugged it out for 38 more years. I think he was a believer and a doer--he saw what he wanted and he went for it. I'm not sure he was always the nicest guy, but he lived a happy life with his love, and built something together on the island. Sounds perfect. read more

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Fantastic park super views ! Swimming beaches and hiking trails! Great place for families.

Moren State Park is home to lots of short hiking points (so great if you need shorter hiking places or have little ones like we do and can't do an all-day hiking trip). Mt. Constitution is the highest point on Orcas Island and you can choose to hike to that point (approximately 3 miles roundtrip) or just park and walk to the overlook point. There is also Cascade Falls, which were a bunch of small trails, each under 1 mile. Our group was excited about seeing a bunch of falls at the same time (that's what we were told), but they seemed more like little water falls and were not close together. We packed this place in on our last day at Orcas Island and were able to do both Mt. Constitution (didn't hike it though) and Cascade Falls in 3-4 hours for a group of 6.5. Would def recommend stopping here for the gorgeous views and real feel of the PNW. *Porta potty's were available at Mt. Constitution, but there was also construction going on, so I'm not sure if that was for construction or a permanent fixture read more

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It was better than Cats. I will visit again and again, I particularly enjoyed Cascade Falls. Greg the maintenance guy was super nice. Definitely ask him all your detailed questions. read more

I love Orcas Island! It is so relaxing and laid back! If you feel like getting some exercise while on the island then Moran State Park is an excellent place to go! To be quite frank sometimes I think some of the state parks can be real hit and miss experiences but definitely not the case with this park! It deserves to be a state park in every way! It is gorgeous! You can go on long or short hikes. We went on a very manageable hike to check out some gorgeous waterfalls and the drive up Mount Constitution is simply amazing! You get some spectacular views of other islands that make up the San Juan Islands up there! On the top of Mt. Constitution is a watch tower what used to be a watch tower but is now more of a place where tourists go. If you go up the stairs in the tower to the top the views are even more glorious. There are campgrounds, lakes and so much else to see in Moran State Park that makes this place an essential stop when visiting Orcas Island. read more

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Awesome place to hike or trail run! The views are amazing and you have to stop by and see the falls while you are there! I went early in the morning and saw lots of wildlife! After your hike make sure to drive to the top of the mountain. The views are breathtaking. read more

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Moran State Park is a great place to hike, run, and/or bike and explore the wilderness! There are many miles of multi-purpose trails leading to beautiful views both along the way and at the top of Mount Constitution. The trail up to Mountain Lake is my personal favorite as it's perfect for running and the lake is beautiful. If you're visiting Orcas Island and looking to get outdoors and see some beautiful sights, this is the place to go. Also, I didn't camp, but saw lots of campers utilizing the campgrounds and have heard great things about the campsites within Moran State Park. read more

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Fantastic place for hiking, views, and adventure! We especially enjoyed hiking up to Mount Constitution from Little Summit. About 5 miles round-trip with moderate elevation. The trail winds you through a magical looking forest then pops you out on a ridge with breath-taking views. Back in the forest for the last leg before you summit at an old lookout tower. Just past the tower are amazing views as far as the eye can see. Pack a lunch and take a break at one of the picnic tables before heading back down. read more

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We stayed at Moran State Park from 8/14-8/18 and we had a great time. Met a family right next to us that our kids played together really well and probably will end up being friends outside the state park. We towed our 26ft travel trailer up to Anacortes and hauled it over to Orcas Island for the 4 1/2 days and it was awesome. I would say that most people tent camp rather than haul an RV to Moran State Park which we will do next time, since it is quiet a hassle to haul one over. Lots of hiking trails, swimming, kayaking, horse back riding and the activities go on and on. The views from Mt. Constitution was just amazing! I look forward to coming back over for another visit to Moran State Park....I also have educated myself on what to do next time. Overall we loved it! read more

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So. I've never reviewed a park before. And this is going to be short. I don't hike. Or bike. I eat and drink, as you might glean from my other reviews. We drove up this baby. Yup. No physical exertion except the short walk slightly uphill to get to the lookout spot from the parking lot. Yes, that's MY KIND OF PARK. The view is absolutely breathtaking. I swear I do not exaggerate. It's as though you're a god sitting up in the heavens. Think of every single hyperbole you can and insert here. And it won't be hyperbole. This is well worth the drive up the mountain. Give yourself some time to linger and maybe pick up some goodies from Rose's Bakery (you thinking what I'm thinking?? charcuterie and cheese yeah YEAH!!) and picnic up here. It's an instant mood lifter. How can you be unhappy with life with this scene surrounding you? You'd need to be a robot. Oh. Apparently they don't let you up here in the winter. Guess this turned out longer than I thought. I'm done. Alice out. read more

Really enjoyed spending a long afternoon in the park a few weeks ago, checking out the little streams and waterfalls and massive old-growth trees, watching birds and deer, and then going up to the top of Mt. Constitution, climbing up inside the little tower, and taking in the panoramic view of the islands, Puget Sound, Strait of Georgia, and the Olympic Peninsula. Next time we'll arrive earlier and stay longer to walk some of the trails. So nice to know that this large portion of the beautiful island is preserved and cared for by the state. (And so surprising to look all around and see very little snow on the Olympics or Cascades...) read more

Moran State Park - Part of the breathtaking view from atop Mt. Constitution. - Parks Near Me - Eastsound, Washington

This place blew me away! I never knew Orcas Island would have numerous waterfalls in the mossy woods. It's a true gem, the views are insanely stunning! Definitely recommend if you're an outdoorsy adventurous type of person. There were barely any people there too so you really get to take it all in without the hustle and bustle of foot traffic disturbing the peace. If I'd known about this place I would've made plans to camp here, it's something out of a dream!!! read more

Moran State Park - Parks Near Me - Eastsound, Washington

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State park on Orcas Island with Mount Constitution and fresh water lakes. Camping, hiking, sightseeing, water activities, picnics...etc. Pretty easy drive up to the top of Mount Constitution, where you can park your car (for free now) during the day, and climb up the stone observation tower. From the top of the tower you get a 360 degree (beautiful on a clear day) view of the islands of the puget sound. There are picnic tables at the entrance to the tower. read more

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Beautiful park with lots of trail options. Deer roaming everywhere. Lots of woodpeckers. Definitely bring some water and your hiking legs if you plan to do the trail up to Mount Constitution. Thankful for the switchbacks, but there are A LOT of them to get to the top. Probably not ideal for young families, but we left the kids at home read more

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The kids had sooo much fun! You don't have to hike a lot but you can if you want too!! With 3 kids it was amazing and fun! read more

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This is a really hard review to write. There are so many things to review here. "Moran State Park" is really vague. There are so many things you could be here to do and so many different facets to review. How do you give a beautiful park like this anything less than a five star? Here's how: stay in the campground. So, my review focuses more on the campground and management by Washington, because yes the beauty of the area deserves a very high review. We gather up some friends and go on a camping trip every year. We've always stayed in Oregon State Parks in past years, so this was the first time we ventured out of that comfort zone. I know we're spoiled. I'm not bragging, I just have yet to find a state that manages its parks like Oregon does. My point is that my expectations weren't set that high, yet they still weren't met. We started by paying $40 for an extra car ($10/night) at a site that easily holds four cars (it's a double site). Due to scheduling, we had to bring up three cars for five people. What justification is there for this? We could have brought up one car for five people and not been charged this. It doesn't seem like this is anything but a revenue raiser. I balk at the $5/car Oregon charges, but at least it's half the cost. If we had to put our car in one of the extra car spaces outside of our site, fine, but we didn't. I was probably a little grumpier about it since the ranger at the booth was . . . well, let's face it . . . bad at his job. He was nice and all, but he was disorganized and made checking in a sad experience. Our site was horribly uneven. We had to put a piece of wood under one corner of the picnic table to level it out some (even though it was still leaning) no matter where we put the table. When it comes time to leave camping, we usually are eager to get to our own beds and showers, but this time we were commenting that we were looking forward to being level. We ended up on the edge of our tent at night, because the slope pushed us down there overnight. I was thinking that "it's camping" and I should expect nature to be what it is, but then I was looking around . . . of course they had to level off the sites, why couldn't they have done that right? On the first night that we were around for the firewood deliveries, we needed some. We heard the "firewood" yell and jumped up. The pickup drove by at about 20-25 mph (far faster than they should have been driving anyway in a campground) and ignored our yells to get firewood from them. I have no idea how he could have sold a single bundle like that. Here's what pushed the review down the most: the showers and bathrooms. I was frankly shocked to go into the showers and see that you were charged to use them. We paid *plenty* for our site, trust me, and we didn't expect to have to pay to shower, too. Plus, I found nothing warning us of this. We had to go beg a bank in town to sell us some quarters; this was met with some surprising indignation, by the way. We did it, though, and used the awful shower. The shower was in bad shape. It was really dirty, even right after being closed for cleaning (which was done at about 7:30 or 8 in the morning - the worse time to close for cleaning in my opinion). The bathroom ran out of soap early on and it wasn't replaced the whole time we were there. All that said, we stayed in the north end campground and the south end seemed nicer. I don't know if they are working on updating the park or not, but it's possible it will get better. I know there are budget issues, but all that money going into the park from campers should produce more options for improvements and management. I'll cut them some slack for the current conditions, but not enough to want to go back to a Washington park. Hopefully they improve, because they have some of the most beautiful parts of the world to work with. You definitely should visit the islands and take some hikes around the park, go up to the top of Mt. Constitution and spend some time down by the lake; just don't stay here if you can avoid it. read more

5 stars for the beautiful area and 1star for the lack of any Rangers to rein in the un neighborly (thumping car stereos literally all day long, audible across the lake) and unsafe (huge bonfires overflowing the fire pits!) behavior of those who are there to party rather than enjoy nature. There was nobody at the Registration cabin during the posted hours, nobody to ask questions of and nobody to purchase wood from. Didn't see a single Ranger in 4 days! Are they really that short-funded? This was our third trip and we love the park, but not sure we'll be back if the Party People take over. :-( read more

I love this park so much. I have gone camping twice on the North end sites and it has been magnificent each time! This most recent time (weekend of 8/28) we were evacuated for a few hours during the crazy wind storm to prevent injury from the falling branches and trees that eventually littered the whole camping area. Despite mother nature's demanding presence, the park was absolutely enjoyable and wonderful. The camp sites themselves are great and usually free from giant rocks that will dig into your tent. The trees help provide some privacy but not enough to become a nudist. The rangers are very kind and helpful. Mt Constitution provides some amazing views and you can hike 0.6 miles to encounter four different waterfalls. FOUR!!! It is just a camper's dream. The park also has lakes with swimming, fishing, canoeing/kayaking/paddle boating amenities. The bathrooms (at least the four different ones I encountered) are all kept up really well! (Even during rainy, muddy weekends) I was so grateful for that. This is definitely a park to enjoy with family and friends. There are plenty of hikes to take or activities to do while hanging around the park. Also, the park is very close to a beautiful, small town called Eastsound. The locals are all very friendly and are helpful with directions, too!! read more

Sweeping views, beautiful lake, lush forest, winding roads and iconic location make Moran State Park a true favorite for camping in the PNW. A quick ferry ride from Anacortes (make a reservation or get there early) will plop you down in the midst of quaint orcas island, which is fabulous as a getaway, itself. Definitely reserve campsites early- the good ones are gone almost a year out, and the latest I've been able to score a weekend site was about 4 months prior to arrival date. read more

One of the most beautiful hikes I've ever done. We took the Little Summit to Mt Constitution trail up and Twin Lakes to Mt Lake down. It's 6.9 miles but only that first mile or so up Little Summit is really rough. Beautiful views of Mt Baker along the way, and even a faint glimpse of Mt Rainier at the very top. Bring a snack or grab an ice cream cone from the air stream at the top! read more

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There is no denying the beauty of Moran State Park, Orcas Island, and the surrounding San Juan Islands. ...And I'm pretty sure they use this to their advantage when it comes to pricing for tourists! After spending nearly $70 just to get ourselves and our car onto Orcas Island, we were hoping to keep our wallets shut for the majority of our trip. Our campsite was probably the most expensive in my history of tent/car camping with the least amenties. Pit toilets in awful condition (worse than some that I've seen in South American villages) and basically nothing else, but the price was more than we have spent on much better campsites in even more beautiful and exotic places. Regardless, I would probably come back for the amazing views, perfect hikes, and miles and miles of wilderness to explore on this island. We drove up to Mt Constitution, but the clouds covered the entire view. I think I would come all the way back here just to try and see this view on a clear day! read more

Went for the day and hit up: - Cold springs: not much to see there at the time, likely they were a bit dry because it is the middle of summer and no rain, I would pass on these next time. - Mt. Constitution Observation tower: Beautiful view! Very nice little place to eat lunch and take it all in. You can drive to the top, so no worries about making the trek up there! - Twin Lakes: Oh dear god, they were beautiful but holy hell, getting back to the top of Mt. Constitution to our car was a work out! No other way to see these babies except for on foot. - Cascade Lake: Nice swimming area that is marked off, rent kayaks, etc. - Mountain Lake: Huge and beautiful, only walked a quarter or so of the loop so missed a lot on that one I'm sure. All in all, a very impressive park and they are very hospitable offering lots of free water for refills, etc. read more

This has to be one of the best state parks in all of Washington. I came here last summer for a friend's birthday and we all had a blast! It's one of those places that makes you realize there's a god. Absolutely beautiful. Of course, since it's an island, you're surrounded by water. Even if you don't get a site on the water it doesn't matter. All the spots are within reasonable walking distance. There's a small, roped off swimming area. We hung out down there, had a little snack, and the birthday girl and I decided to rent a paddle boat. It wasn't too expensive and we got a little closer look at the island surroundings. We also got sunburned so I suggest you protect yourself before you go out. It's an easy drive and walk up the tower to Mount Constitution. The view is amazing. We went before sunset and it wasn't very crowded. I can't wait to come back again this year. FYI, get to the ferry early Sunday morning on your way back. We didn't and ended up waiting 4 hours to get back to the city. Not so cool when you smell like campfire and have a hangover. read more

2400 feet to the top, and if you are on a bike, I'll convert it to French - C'est un loong-arse rue to the summit, non? We huffed, and puffed, and made it to the turn-off to the first summit, and then crossed the ridge when we reached Salamander Alley. Turns out that the road must cut right through a newt habitat, because there seemed to be a bunch of fire-belly newts that were attempting to cross the road right through traffic, and by the looks of it, many were not making it. We saved as many as we could, but we called it the highway of death. Like the road out of Kuwait in Gulf-War-One, it was. Those cold-blooded creatures do not go very fast when the temps are in the 50s. Aside from the overarching presence of newt-death, the park was lovely. If you make it there, when you reach the top of the steep bits and it levels out, do your conscience a favor and drive really, really slowly and try to save one newt. The hike around the big lake was great. The ride to the top was very much worth it. The ride down was fast and sweet, and it turns out that mountain bikes are allowed on certain trails. Check your local listings. read more

I'm totally coming back. Maybe I'll even consider coming here for my first camping trip! We came here on a dreary weekend day while we were visiting Orcas Island. Even though it was cold and a little rainy, we still ventured up to the top where we could climb the tower and check out the amazing views of the water and neighboring islands. Though it was cloudy when we first got up there, there was a break in the clouds and it was beautiful. On the way down, we visited several of the other camping spots and beaches. You do need one of those Washington Parks Discover passes technically, but for $10 a day (or $30 a year), this place is well worth the money. Check it out while you're on Orcas. read more

This is one of the most beautiful state parks I have ever been to. The scenery here is breathtaking! And, even in the middle of summer, it is so cool enough that you will feel like you have air conditioning. Waterfalls, gorgeous beaches, and great hiking. And, nature abounds. It's not that expensive. But make sure that you have reservations BEFORE you arrive! You don't want to get stuck on the island with no place to sleep! Oh, and you have to pay to use the showers, but not the bathrooms. This is also a great place of a day hike if you are staying elsewhere on the island. Be sure to go to the top of Mt. Constitution. The views are incredible! read more

A wonderful park on Orcas Island with an interesting history. You can drive all the way up Mt. Constitution and there are plenty spots to stop and get great pictures. At the base you can stop by Cascade Falls. It is a short hike to see a nice series of little falls. At the top, it seems like you are looking over the curve of the world. Being able to see the islands and the Pacific in the distance is breathtaking. read more

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Oh geez. I think I'll be dreaming of this place for years--the place where whenever I am feeling a bit restless and in need of self-reflection/respite, I'll think of Moran State Park. Le sigh. Specifically, it's one of those places that makes you feel like an outdoor enthusiast without being a hardcore one. ;) Lots of trails that have distance, but not too tough (but there are those, too). The Mountain Lake trail (~4 miles) is wonderful, and so was the more moderate Cascade Falls hike. And of course, the view from the top of Mount Constitution is as great as everyone says it is. A very special place. read more

Dominating the Eastern side of Orcas Island, Moran is an awesome Washington State Park offering a variety of outdoor activities. There are over 5,500 acres to explore here, including the summit of the highest peak in the San Juan Islands (Mount Constitution), several lakes, miles of hiking trails, and campgrounds. The views from the top of Mount Constitution are simply incredible, and the CCC-built tower at the top is an interesting and unique landmark in itself. The first time I was up there I hiked the trail to the summit, which was fantastic, but unfortunately the experience was sullied by finding a parking lot and hoards of gawking tourists who had driven up at the top. Lesson learned: on my next visit to Orcas I went hiking at Turtleback Mountain Preserve on the opposite side of the island instead (which does NOT have a road leading to the top, and consequently far fewer people), and then drove up to the top of Constitution for the view with the rest of the slack-jawed yokels :-) Be sure to book early if you're planning on staying here during the peak season, as this is a very popular destination (and one of the most affordable places for the public to stay anywhere in the San Juan Islands). The view from Mount Constitution is best on a clear day, of course, but it will probably be a lot less crowded if you go during the off season or early in the morning. read more

$10 for a day too expensive just for a short drive and park to see a tower. Won't go back

I used to love this place, until my last camping trip last weekend. We were building a fire around 10:30 and a park ranger snuck up on our site and shined a flashlight. He told us not to build the fire because it's time for bed. I wasn't aware there was a "bed time" in the park. We weren't making any noise whatsoever and had barely stacked a fire when we were told to go to sleep. I'm not a fan of bed times and I'm not a fan of park rangers breathing down my neck and telling me when to sleep. read more

I'm pretty sure when i retire i want to comeback to Washington and retire in the San Juan Islands and particularly Orcas island. Besides Vashon this is quintessential island living (boohoo those lei giving ones for the better weather). Why? Absolutely beautiful. No hustle. No bustle. But you are still connected by a short ferry ride to the rest civilization. And the people who live there just plain nice (hey southern california..learn something here). When i would come up to the island s i would inevitably ride (bike) up Mt Constitution. How high you ask? Pretty freaking high i say. But the love of quad burn, deep blue sky you can touch and fresh oxygenated air, and then the resulting great coffee at the bottom at the local coffee place taking in the water would make one wonder if they are in heaven. read more

Drive to the top of Mt. Constitution. See the one of the most spectacular views you have ever beheld. End review. read more

FISHING!!! We went to Cascade Lake on a Sunday around 7am and we busily caught 5 trout in 2 hours.!! We were right off the dock next to the beach and using power bait. Most of the trout was around 12". We had bought our fishing equipment from Orcas Outfitters. They are awesome guys and super helpful. I will remember this fishing action forever! MOUNT OBSERVATION We had driven through the park toward Mount Observation to check out the view and admired all the views from the top of the island. Incredible view!!!, WW a must see. The only bummer about it was the amount of people. There's also this scenic overlook about 1/4 mile just south of this area and it also had fantastic views, but with no one there. You'd have to hike in .1 mile on a dirt road (which is 5 minutes walk) read more