Moran State Park

Moran State Park occupies more than 5,200 acres on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands, making it the largest state park in the archipelago and one of the most visited in Washington. The park centers on Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands at 2,409 feet, and spreads outward through dense forest, around five freshwater lakes, and past several waterfalls. Getting here requires a Washington State Ferries crossing, which gives the park a sense of remove that day-trippers and campers alike find worthwhile.

Mount Constitution and Summit Views

The summit of Mount Constitution is the defining experience of the park. A stone observation tower, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936 and modeled after medieval Caucasian watchtowers, rises from the top and gives 360-degree views across the San Juan Islands, the Cascade Range, the Olympic Mountains, Vancouver Island, and on clear days, Mount Rainier and Mount Baker. Visitors can drive to the summit or hike up via multiple trail routes, the most direct being the 3.7-mile Mount Constitution Trail that climbs steadily from near the campground area. The tower is open during daylight hours and the interior stairs lead to the upper viewing platform.

Trails Through Forest, Lakes, and Waterfalls

The park contains 38 miles of trails ranging from gentle lakeside paths to steep ridgeline climbs. Cascade Falls is one of the most popular destinations, reached by a relatively short walk from the trailhead off Olga Road. The falls drop about 40 feet into a mossy gorge and are most impressive in spring and early summer. Cold Creek Trail connects several lower park areas and passes through old-growth Douglas fir and cedar. Twin Lakes, Little Summit, and the ridgeline connecting the two peaks offer quieter hiking with views and forest cover. Mountain bikers are permitted on a designated set of trails, and the park map clearly marks which routes allow bikes. Horses are welcome on specific trails as well, and riders typically access those routes from the south end of the park.

Lakes and Swimming

Cascade Lake and Mountain Lake are the two largest bodies of water in the park. Cascade Lake has a swim beach with a designated area, a boat launch, and a dock. Rowboat and paddleboat rentals are available seasonally at the Cascade Lake boathouse. Mountain Lake sits higher in the park and has a more secluded feel, with a loop trail circling its perimeter. Cascade Lake supports trout, kokanee, and largemouth bass, while Mountain Lake is managed for trout and kokanee. A Washington fishing license is required for anyone 15 and older. No gas-powered motors are allowed on park lakes, keeping the water quiet for paddlers and swimmers.

Camping

The park has 124 standard campsites and six hiker/biker sites spread across four campgrounds, with no electrical hookup sites. Moran is a year-round camping destination, though the busiest period runs from late June through Labor Day weekend. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer visits and can be made through the Washington State Parks reservation system. A group camp is also available for larger parties. Several sites are within walking distance of Cascade Lake, and the sound of the forest at night is a significant part of what brings people back repeatedly.

Pet Policy

Pets are allowed in the park but must be on a leash no longer than eight feet at all times. They are welcome on trails, at campsites, and in parking areas. Pets are not allowed on the swim beach or in designated swimming areas. Waste must be picked up and disposed of properly throughout the park.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Black bears are not resident on Orcas Island, and there are no large predators in the park. That does not mean food can be left unattended. Raccoons, crows, ravens, and other smaller wildlife can become persistent around campsites, so keep food, coolers, and scented items secured in your vehicle or a hard-sided container whenever they are not in use.

Black-tailed deer are common and largely unafraid of people, which can make them seem approachable. They are most active at dawn and dusk and frequently appear along roadsides and at campsites. Avoid feeding them or allowing them near your food. During fall rutting season, bucks can be unpredictable.

Mountain lions are not known to live in Moran State Park, and a sighting on Orcas Island would be genuinely rare. The more practical habits on backcountry trails are the same ones that serve hikers anywhere: give wildlife space, keep pets leashed, and keep children close, particularly in the early morning and evening hours.

Practical Information

Moran State Park is located on Orcas Island in San Juan County, Washington. The nearest town with services is Eastsound, roughly four miles from the park entrance. To reach the park, take Washington State Ferries from Anacortes to Orcas Island and follow Horseshoe Highway north and then east to the park entrance. Ferry reservations are recommended during summer months and can be made through the Washington State Ferries website.

A Discover Pass is required for day-use parking. A one-day pass costs $10 and an annual pass costs $45. Registered campers do not need a Discover Pass to park in the state park where they are staying. Camping fees vary by site type and are charged separately from day-use parking passes. The park is open year-round, though some facilities and services are seasonal. Reservations for camping should be made well in advance for summer weekends.