Clark Island (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clark Island Marine State Park |
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Clark Island and Barnes Island viewed from Mount Constitution
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 Clark Island Marine State Park
Location in Washington (state)
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| Location | San Juan County, Washington, United States |
| Area | 55 acres (22 ha) |
| Elevation | 95 ft (29 m) |
| Designation | Washington marine state park |
| Established | 1964 |
| Administrator | Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission |
| Website | Clark Island Marine State Park |
Clark Island is a beautiful island located in the San Juan Islands of the Pacific Northwest. It's close to Barnes Island and not far from the northeast coast of Orcas Island. This island is part of the U.S. state of Washington.
The entire island is a special place called Clark Island Marine State Park. It covers about 55 acres (which is about 22 hectares). This park is a great spot for outdoor adventures! It has two places for picnics, 15 simple campsites for camping, and nine mooring buoys where boats can safely tie up.
How Clark Island Got Its Name
Clark Island has an interesting history behind its name. It was named by Charles Wilkes during an important journey called the United States Exploring Expedition. This expedition happened between 1838 and 1842.
The island was named to honor John Clark. He was a midshipman, which is a junior officer in the navy. Sadly, John Clark was killed during the Battle of Lake Erie. This battle was a big event during the War of 1812.
Earlier Names for the Island
Before Charles Wilkes named it, the island had a different name. In 1792, a Spanish explorer named Francisco de Eliza called it Islas de Aquays.
He named it after his patron, who was a very important person. This patron was the Viceroy of Mexico, Juan Vicente de Güemes Padilla Horcasitas y Aguayo, 2nd Count of Revillagigedo.
Becoming a State Park
Clark Island became a state park in 1964. The Washington State Parks organization bought the island that year.
They bought it from the Bureau of Land Management. The cost to acquire the island was $137.63. Since then, it has been a protected area for everyone to enjoy.
