PNW/Seattle Van Lifers & Camping

***NOTE THAT THIS TRIP IS ON THE FURTHEST NORTHWEST POINT OF THE OLYMPIC PENINSULA, A FAR DRIVE AND NONE OF US HAVE BEEN HERE. ATTEND ONLY IF YOU'RE ON THE ADVENTUROUS SIDE!! ***

August is a CRAZY month to find PNW camping spots, and some of our regulars have suggested we get adventurous and head to Neah Bay, WA to a place that's basically a huge field that can accommodate 200-300 campers. Hobuck Beach Resort has a place for RVs/hookups, but we are doubting that they'll have vacancies, we'll likely be in the dry camping in the north area. The area has little cell phone coverage, we'll have a bright blue 10x10 popup tent so you can find us. Vans are optional!

About Hobuck Beach Bay Resort Camping:
Hobuck Beach Resort, perched on the rugged Pacific coast of the Makah Reservation, offers ten RV sites with full hookups—including 30 A power, sewer, and water—on the south end of the beach, alongside a capacious meadow for tent and dry camping at the north end. Sites operate on a first‑come, first‑served basis, and a Makah Recreational Permit (currently $20/year per vehicle) is required. The resort features a bathhouse with free showers, picnic tables, and ocean‑view fire pits. Beyond camping, enjoy long beach walks, surfing, bird‑ and whale‑watching, and dramatic sunsets. Nearby treasures include the Cape Flattery trail—this Northwest corner’s iconic boardwalk hike—and the scenic trek to Shi Shi Beach as well as visits to the Makah Cultural & Research Center. Expect a convivial, unpretentious vibe perfect for a laid‑back summer getaway.

• Fees: $30-40 per night PLUS one $20 yearly Makah Recreational permit. First come, first served, but they have 200-300 dry/no hookup sites.
• Electricity: (likely) no hookups
• Bathrooms & showers: yes, both
• Pets: Allowed (please leash/control at ALL times)
• Hiking: Cape Flattery trail, Shi shi beach
• Activities: hiking, bird and whale watching, spectacular views/sunsets
• Reviewers say: can be loud, there may be partiers, bring earplugs
• Look for our bright blue 10x10 foot canopy tent

Hello Van/Camping Enthusiasts!

Let's van/camp at Fort Ebey State Park September 12-14, right now they only have about 6 non-utility reservable sites available, get your reservation SOON! Another meetup, We Love Camping - Seattle Area, will also be there and we plan to, um, meet up with them 🤣. Mary will be at site 32 and will send attendees her phone number so we can also, um, meet up (there's a trend here).

This park is very popular, there are many activities at the campground and nearby. As always, vans are optional, we've had folks in cars and tents, all are welcome, but you may have to listen to our "van talk"! Paragliding is of course also optional, I couldn't get the AI image generator to stop putting so many paragliders in.

Summary:
Fort Ebey State Park on Whidbey Island offers a scenic mix of coastal beauty, history, and outdoor recreation. The campground includes several amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas. Popular activities include hiking over 25 miles of forested and bluff-side trails, including the Bluff Trail with sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet and the Olympics. Lake Pondilla, nestled within the park, is ideal for fishing, wildlife watching, and easy walks. The beach is great for tide pooling and, in season, seaweed harvesting with a license. Fort Ebey’s WWII-era bunkers and gun emplacements offer a historic and adventurous element—bring a flashlight for exploring. The park also attracts surfers thanks to its windy conditions and exposed shoreline. Nearby attractions include Ebey’s Landing for prairie hikes and birdwatching, Fort Casey’s lighthouse and more bunkers, the historic town of Coupeville for dining and shopping, and Deception Pass State Park, known for its dramatic bridges and old-growth trails. Fort Ebey is a peaceful yet adventurous spot, ideal for campers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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