BIRCH BAY STATE PARK
Birch Bay State Park is a 664-acre camping park with 8,255 feet of saltwater shoreline on Birch Bay and 14,923 feet of freshwater shoreline on Terrell Creek. The park is rich in archeological significance and offers panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and Canadian Gulf Islands. The Terrell Creek Marsh is one of the few remaining saltwater/freshwater estuaries in north Puget Sound. The park features nearly two miles of beach and great views of the Canadian Gulf Islands and the Cascade Mountains. A natural game sanctuary is at the park's north end.
Birch Bay was named by botanist Archibald Menzies for its abundance of black birch trees. Menzies was on the 1792 Vancouver expedition. Archeological evidence indicates that the bay was inhabited by Semiahmoo, Lummi and Nooksack tribes since prehistoric times. At the turn of the 20th century, the huge fir trees of the area were logged with oxen and horse teams. Large old-growth stumps, with spring-board marks, remain as evidence.
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the
Discover Pass web page.
The park has tent spaces 12' x 12' in the forested camping area, plus utility spaces, an RV dump station, eight restrooms, and showers two ADA. Camping areas are subject to availability, and reservations are accepted for summer camping.
1. Birch Bay State Park offers a 8, 255-foot saltwater shoreline for swimming.
2. The beach is sandy and gradually slopes into the water making it safe for swimmers of all levels.
3. Lifeguards are not always on duty; swim at your own risk.
4. Check local tide tables to ensure optimal swimming conditions during low tides as high tides can limit space available.
5. Water temperatures vary throughout the year so be prepared with appropriate gear if needed.
Enjoy saltwater fishing for salmon, flounder and Dungeness crab. Freshwater options include trout in Terrell Creek during specific seasons.
Birch Bay State Park is located near Bellingham, Blaine and Ferndale
There is one kitchen shelter with electricity and water call to reserve. The park has six sheltered and 120 unsheltered picnic tables.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the 8.5-mile paved road that loops around a scenic area, ideal for family bike rides.
However, be aware there are no designated biking trails within this park's boundaries.
The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate but always wear helmets and follow safety guidelines while cycling.
Remember that cyclists must share roads with vehicles so stay alert at all times to avoid accidents.
During peak season or weekends, expect more traffic which may affect your bicycling experience.
Always check weather conditions before planning any outdoor activities as they could impact your ride significantly.
It's advisable not only for beginners but also experienced riders to carry repair kits in case of unexpected breakdowns during their journey.
1. Terrell Creek Loop Trail: This 2-mile loop trail offers a moderate hike through lush forests and along the shoreline of Birch Bay.
2. Nautical Shellfish Beach Walk: A flat, easy walk that stretches for about 0.5 miles along the beachfront with views over to Semiahmoo Spit.
3. Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve Trails: Located near Birch Bay State Park, this network of trails spans approximately two miles in total length featuring stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife habitats.
4. The BP Heron Center Nature Trails: These are short interpretive nature trails located within walking distance from park's campground area offering educational signs on local flora & fauna.
5. Birch Bay Drive Pedestrian Pathway: Although not technically a hiking trail, it is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy scenic walks or bike rides alongside beautiful bay vistas.
6. Terrell Marsh Interpretative Trail: An accessible boardwalk path leading you into marshland habitat where birdwatching opportunities abound.
7. Semiahmoo Spit Walking Paths: Just outside state park boundaries but worth mentioning due its close proximity; these paths offer leisurely strolls around Drayton Harbor's edge while observing marine life.
8. Padden Lagoon Nature Area Hiking Routes: Another nearby location boasting several small yet picturesque routes winding through wetlands teeming with birds species.
Birdwatchers can spot Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons and various waterfowl. The park also hosts migratory birds seasonally.
Located 20 miles north of Bellingham, Wash., and ten miles south of Blaine, Wash., near the Canadian border in Whatcom County.
From the south:Take exit #266 off of I-5. Go left on Grandview for seven miles, then right on Jackson for one mile, then turn left onto Helweg.
From the north:Take exit #266 off of I-5, and turn right onto Grandview.