Jones Island State Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jones Island State Park
Jones Island State Park Location in Washington (state)
Location	San Juan, Washington, United States
Area	188 acres (76 ha)
Elevation	108 ft (33 m)
Established	1983
Operator	Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
Website	Jones Island State Park

Jones Island State Park is a special place in Washington, USA. It's a state park that covers all of Jones Island. This island is one of the beautiful San Juan Islands in San Juan County.

The park is located about one mile (1.6 km) west of Orcas Island. Since it's an island, you can only reach it by boat! Jones Island is about 188 acres (76 ha) in size. No one lives on the island permanently. The island got its name in 1841 from the United States Exploring Expedition. They named it after a naval officer named Jacob Jones. The park was officially established in 1983.

Fun Things to Do at Jones Island State Park

Jones Island State Park offers many exciting activities for visitors. It's a great spot for outdoor adventures.

Hiking Trails

The park has four miles of hiking trails. These trails let you explore the island's natural beauty. You can walk through forests and enjoy views of the water. It's a perfect way to see different parts of the island.

Camping Adventures

If you love camping, Jones Island has 24 basic campsites. These are "primitive" campsites, meaning they offer a simple, natural camping experience. Two of these campsites are special. They are set aside for people traveling along the Cascadia Marine Trail. This trail is for non-motorized boats like kayaks and canoes.

Wildlife on the Island

Jones Island is home to Black-tailed deer. These deer are quite used to seeing people. Sometimes, they might come very close to visitors. It's important to remember that feeding wild animals, including these deer, is against the rules. It's best to observe them from a distance and let them find their own food.

How to Visit Jones Island

Since Jones Island is an island, you need a boat to get there. There are different ways to arrive, depending on your boat type.

Boating and Mooring

On the north side of the island, at North Cove, you'll find seven mooring buoys. These are places where you can tie up your boat safely. There's also 128 feet of dock space available. The dock is usually removed in October and put back in late March. However, the mooring buoys are available all year round.

Anchoring Your Boat

If you prefer to anchor, there are some secure spots on the south side of the island. When anchoring, it's very important to know about the tides and currents. You should also check the depth of the water. This helps make sure your boat stays safe and secure.

Kayaking Tips

Kayakers should be extra careful when visiting Jones Island. The tides can change a lot, which means water levels can rise and fall dramatically. Always check the weather conditions before you go. Also, be aware that campsites can sometimes be fully booked, especially by tour groups. Planning ahead is always a good idea!