The entrance to Cama Beach could well be a doorway to an earlier time. Set on Camano Island, an hour north of Seattle, the original family resort had its heyday from the 1930s to the 1950s. This place has retained the feel of a bygone era, with rows of cabins, a park store and a large campfire circle for evening socializing.

The current state park also features a great hall and café, as well as boat-building classes offered by The Center for Wooden Boats on scheduled weekends in the boathouse.

The porch of your west-facing cabin is the perfect place to spot a marine mammal, watch the sunset and gaze at the stars before turning in for the night. Traveling in winter? The cabin's front window offers prime storm watching over Saratoga Passage, along with a cozy escape from the rain.

When morning comes, breakfast aromas beckon sleepy guests to the Cama Beach Cafe, where omelets, baked goods and lattes await (open Saturday and Sunday in fall, winter and spring; daily during the summer).

While the park invites you to slow your pace and unwind, you will still be engaged at Cama Beach. Between boat rentals, interpretive programs and events, you and your family will be busy. The historic cabins provide a built-in social life, like the camp resorts of old, with kids playing and riding bikes and families gathering for beach exploration and card games.

Need solitude? Take a hike along the bluff, have a swim or find a fishing spot and cast out your line. Make sure to soak up this remnant of the past before heading back to the modern world.

PARK FEATURES

Cama Beach Historical State Park is set in a spectacular, 486-acre waterfront location against a forested backdrop. It is connected by a mile-long trail to the 244-acre Camano Island State Park, which also is open for day use and overnight stays year 'round.

Discover Pass: A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the Discover Pass web page.

Automated pay stations: This park is equipped with automated pay stations for visitors to purchase a one-day or annual Discover Pass and boat launch permit.