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Whatcom County Parks & Recreation adventures

Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Adventures

Whatcom County Parks & Recreation offers diverse outdoor adventures in Washington State, from lush forests to scenic coastlines.

15,856
Acres Protected
60
Miles of Trails
500,000
Annual Visitors
1961
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Whatcom County Parks & Recreation.

Entrance Requirements

No entrance fees, but state park passes required for Larrabee State Park.

Best Time to Visit

Best from late spring to early fall for hiking; winter is excellent for snow sports around Mount Baker.

Visitor Information

The Bellingham Visitor Center offers resources for park visitors.

Getting There

Accessible via I-5 with connections to local highways; some mountain roads may close in winter.

Weather & Climate

Mild, wet winters and dry, warm summers characterize the region, with temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts focus on protecting habitats for endangered species such as the marbled murrelet and addressing invasive species threats.

Camping in Whatcom County Parks & Recreation

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Silver Lake Park

Developed
Reservations Required

Located near Maple Falls, providing lakeview campsites popular for fishing and kayaking.

Larrabee State Park Campground

Developed
Reservations Required

Close to Bellingham with campsites surrounded by forest and near coastal trails.

Top Trails

Chain Lakes Loop

Moderate
8

Offers stunning views of Mount Baker, alpine lakes, and rocky ridges.

Whatcom Falls Park Loop

Easy
3.5

Features beautiful waterfalls and lush forest scenery ideal for family outings.

Fragrance Lake Trail

Moderate
5.5

A scenic trail offering climbing routes up to scenic Fragrance Lake and viewpoints.

Table Mountain Trail

Hard
3

A challenging hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding rugged mountain terrain.

Trailblazer Tips

For quieter experiences, visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.

Spring and autumn offer mild weather perfect for hiking; winters can be snowy at higher elevations.

Certain trails and areas might require passes or permits, plan ahead.

Consider bringing waterproof gear as rain is common throughout the year.

Helpful Resources