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English Camp
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Historical Landmark
Park
Hiking
English Camp Description
Every Saturday during the summer, kids travel back in time to 1861 as they watch a military re-enactment at English Camp. If you're lucky, your trip will coincide with the annual Encampment, featuring bands of drums and pipers, costumed military maneuvers, the hugely popular (and delicious) Cast-Iron Cook-Off, and demonstrations of blacksmithing, spinning, and weaving. English Camp is worth a visit any time of year, though, with three easy hikes along the shoreline, past the camp's restored military barracks and an old hospital, or to the summit of Mount Young.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Take the easy, self-guided history walk (only half a mile) that starts at the main entrance trail. Guided tours can be arranged through the transportation agencies San Juan Transit or Victoria Clipper; ranger-guided tours are also available in August only -- sign up in the visitor center.
School-Age Kids: The costumed enactments are especially fun for school kids. Call ahead for details -- it's worth the extra effort to go at the right time.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Hike to the summit of Mount Young. The trail is about one mile long with a 600-foot climb to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean, islands, and mountains.
Planning Notes
- Take a picnic and a hike. Picnic tables are available in the parking area, or take a hike and nosh along the two mile shoreline trail or at the summit of Mount Young.
- Don't go swimming. The water temperature averages a bone-chilling 45 degrees, and the currents can be strong.
- Wear good walking shoes. Hiking trails may include rocky promontories, uneven terrain, and low-hanging or fallen tree branches.
Just the Facts
Hours: Park Grounds: Daily dawn-11 p.m. Visitor center open daily Memorial Day to Labor Day 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours
What's Nearby?
- Roche Harbor Village 248 Reuben Memorial Drive
Friday Harbor, 98250
360-378-5757 48.609746944444446 -123.15015277777778 - Westcott Bay Sculpture Park Roche Harbor Road
Friday Harbor, 98250
360-370-5050 48.578495 -123.08054194444445 - Sea Kayaking with San Juan Outfitters 248 Reuben Memorial Drive
Roche Harbor, 98250
360-378-1962 48.609746944444446 -123.15015277777778
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