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Saddlebag Island State Park facts for kids

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Saddlebag Island Marine State Park
Saddlebag Island Marine State Park is located in Washington (state)
Saddlebag Island Marine State Park
Saddlebag Island Marine State Park
Location in Washington (state)
Location Skagit County, Washington, United States
Area 26 acres (11 ha)
Elevation 49 ft (15 m)
Designation Washington marine state park
Established 1974
Administrator Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
Website Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

Saddlebag Island Marine State Park is a fun outdoor spot in Washington. It's a public park that includes all of Saddlebag Island, which is about 26 acres big. This island is part of the beautiful San Juan Islands.

You can find Saddlebag Island in Skagit County. It's located in Padilla Bay, about 4 miles northeast of a town called Anacortes, Washington. Other small islands, like Dot Island and Huckleberry Island, are close by. Saddlebag Island used to be owned by a private person. But in 1974, the state of Washington bought it. They turned it into a state park so everyone could enjoy it!

Fun Things to Do at Saddlebag Island

Saddlebag Island Marine State Park offers many exciting activities for visitors. It's a great place to explore the outdoors and enjoy nature.

Island Adventures

  • Hiking: Explore the island's trails and discover its hidden corners.
  • Boating: Arrive by boat and enjoy the waters around the island.
  • Crabbing and Fishing: Try your luck catching crabs or fish in the saltwater.
  • Diving: Discover the underwater world around the island.
  • Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the bay.
  • Water Skiing: Enjoy some thrilling water sports.

Wildlife and Nature

  • Birdwatching: Look for different kinds of birds that live on or visit the island.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for other animals in their natural home.

Camping on the Island

Saddlebag Island has four simple campsites where you can stay overnight. These are called "primitive campsites" because they have basic facilities. One of these campsites is special. It's set aside for people who arrive by human-powered boats, like kayaks, or wind-powered boats, like sailboats. This special spot is part of the Cascadia Marine Trail.

Important Info for Boaters

The island does not have any special buoys for boats to tie up to. There are also no docks for boats to pull right up to. Boaters need to be prepared to anchor their boats or use small dinghies to get to shore.

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