San Juan Wilderness
Recreational Opportunities
Boating, camping, environmental education and interpretation. Matia Island is designated as wilderness except for the 5 acres designated Matia Island State Park. The park is accessed by the cove with the dock. The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages the dock, ramp, and 5-acre campground. The campground has two composting toilets and 6 campsites with cooking pedestals for use with charcoal or propane; no open flames are allowed. The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission charges $6 per night per campsite, dock moorage is $10 to $16 per night, mooring buoys are $7 per night. Senior discounts are available. The dock is in place from April to mid-October. Leashed pets are permitted in the campground only, not on the wilderness trail. No drinking water is available. Garbage must be packed out. A 1-mile hiking trail allows the public to walk through the wilderness area from the campground. Please stay on the designated trail. For State Park information, call 360-902-8844.
Climate and Special Equipment Needs
Matia Island temperatures are moderate, rarely exceeding 80 degrees in the summer or falling below 30 degrees in the winter. Ocean conditions can be challenging at any time of the year, but especially from mid-October to the end of March. Annual rainfall averages 25-28 inches. The driest months are June, July, and August.
Safety and Current Conditions
Boating safety should be foremost in visitors' minds. Check U.S. Coast Guard reports and always wear personal flotation devices. Be extra fire cautious during the dry summer months.
