Set in a blue cove between Bellingham and Blaine, Birch Bay State Park feels private and secluded without being far from urban life. Stroll along the rocky beach and take in dramatic views of the North Cascades Mountains and Canadian Gulf Islands.
Low tide reveals a wide mudflat with a treasure trove of clams and other shellfish that can be harvested in season. Bring out the pails, shovels, mud boots and licenses, and start digging! If you prefer to swim, Birch Bay is known for its relatively warm water, and if you’d rather be on the water, the park offers excellent crabbing, windsurfing, sailing and paddling.
Staying overnight? The friendly campgrounds, basketball court and environmental education programs in summer ensure fun for the whole family.
Washington State Parks Birch Bay State Park Page
Park Details
A discover pass is necessary if you plan to park your vehicle and use the park. You can purchase a one-day $10 pass or a $30 annual pass. These are both available at the ranger station at the East entrance or you can purchase day passes at the mobile pay stations around the park. You can also purchase online.
Located in Whatcom County on Puget Sound, Birch Bay has one boat ramp.
Launching a boat at a state park requires one of the following:
• An annual launch permit (Natural Investment Permit; or
• An annual Discover Pass and a daily launch permit; or
• A one-day Discover Pass and a daily launch permit.
Annual permits may be purchased at State Parks Headquarters in Olympia, at region offices, online, and at parks when staff is available. Additional information can be found in the Boating Program.
Boat Launch
Latitude: 48º 54′ 13.68″ N (48.9038)
Longitude: 122º 46′ 1.55″ W (-122.7671)
The park has 147 standard sites 12-by-12-feet in the forested camping area, 20 water and electric sites, two primitive sites, a trailer dump station, eight restrooms (one ADA), and 18 showers (two ADA). Maximum site length is 60-feet (limited availability). Campsites are reservable for arrival dates from May 15 – September 15.
Group Accommodations
The park has one primitive group camp for up to 40 people. Two group camps with five standard sites each. Fees vary with size of the group.
Reservations & Fees
Reservations can be made online or by calling 888-CAMPOUT (888-226-7688). For fee information, check out our camping rates page.