ts we paddled up to the empty beach, we were excited to see the Hope Island Marine State Park trail head. We followed the trail through the green sun-dappled forest. We passed by the campground with not a soul in sight. It was then it set in, we are truly on a deserted island that is all our own. Or at least that’s what it felt like.
We continued further down the trail as it opened up into a meadow full of golden sunlit grass, dotted by fruit tress, which provide an afternoon snack for the resident deer, that were planted by American homesteaders many years before. We were joined by deer that are friendly enough to share their orchard with us long enough to make a memory.
The island is home to Douglas fir, hemlock, cedar, alder and maple, providing food and shelter for bald eagles, great blue herons, deer and many other wildlife.
Island amenities: 8 campsites, 2 vaulted toilets, first come first served.