Patos Island State Park is a remote and wild 200-acre island located in the Salish Sea, marking the northwestern-most point in the lower 48 states. It offers a diverse landscape with sandy to rocky beaches and steep cliffs, surrounded by the scenic backdrops of the Canadian mountains and the Cascade and Olympic ranges. The park is accessible only by boat, with limited mooring buys and campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The island is cooperatively managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Washington State Parks, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, boating, and wildlife viewing. The historic Patos Island Lighthouse, built in 1893, is a notable landmark.
The island's unique ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, marbled murrelets, and harlequin ducks. Visitors can enjoy activities like sea kayaking and wildflower viewing amidst the island's diverse flora. The park is open year-round, with a small interpretive museum available during summer weekends.
Patos Island is rich in cultural and historical significance, with archaeological sites indicating Native American use for shellfish harvesting over thousands of years. The island was named by early Spanish explorers, reflecting its natural beauty and historical importance.
