Jones Island State Park

For dining near Jones Island State Park, several excellent options are available in the surrounding area. The Madrona Bar & Grill offers waterfront dining with a focus on American cuisine, including steaks and seafood. Matthew’s Smokehouse is renowned for its barbecue, providing a cozy atmosphere for dinner. Island Hoppin Brewery is a popular spot for craft beer and casual dining. Island Skillet serves breakfast and lunch classics in a casual setting. Lastly, The Lower Tavern offers a relaxed pub experience with burgers and live music.

For accommodations near Jones Island State Park, several options are available. Roche Harbor Resort offers a luxurious waterfront experience with a spa and multiple dining options. Snug Harbor Resort provides upscale suites and cabins along with a private marina. WorldMark Deer Harbor offers resort-style accommodations with vacation rentals. Additionally, Deer Harbor Inn provides cozy rooms and cottages with harbor views.

Jones Island State Park offers basic amenities to support outdoor activities. The park includes a canoe/kayak/small boat launch, a dock/pier, and tent campsites. Composting toilets are available, and picnic tables are provided for visitors. Water is accessible from May to September, but there is no garbage service, so visitors must pack out what they bring in.

The park's facilities are designed to maintain a natural and pristine environment, encouraging visitors to respect and preserve the area's beauty.

Jones Island State Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the two miles of trails, spotting wildlife like deer and birds, or exploring the historic orchard. The park's shoreline offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, while the dock allows for mooring boats. Camping is also a popular activity, with 24 primitive campsites available.

The serene environment makes it an ideal spot for nature walks, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Jones Island State Park has limited accessibility features due to its remote and natural setting. While there are no specific wheelchair-accessible trails or facilities on the island, the surrounding areas like Deer Harbor and Orcas Island offer more accessible options for dining and accommodations.

Visitors with mobility needs should plan carefully and consider the park's primitive conditions before visiting.

Parking for Jones Island State Park is limited since the park is accessible only by boat. Visitors typically park their vehicles at nearby marinas or launch sites and then travel to the island by boat. There are no parking fees on the island itself, but visitors may need to pay for parking at the mainland launch points.

The lack of vehicle parking emphasizes the park's secluded nature and encourages a more immersive outdoor experience.

Jones Island State Park has a rich history, having been named after Captain Jacob Jones, a U.S. Navy officer. The island was homesteaded by Robert Kittles and his Lummi wife during the San Juan Island Boundary dispute. Today, it is known for its tame deer that often approach campers.

The park's unique wildlife and historical significance make it a fascinating destination for those interested in both nature and history.

Jones Island State Park is surrounded by other attractions in the San Juan Islands. Nearby Orcas Island offers opportunities for whale watching, fishing, and exploring Turtleback Mountain Preserve. The park itself is a significant attraction due to its historical sites, including the remains of a pioneer's homesite.

Visitors can also explore the charming towns of Eastsound and Deer Harbor for shopping and dining experiences.