Saddlebag Island State Park

Saddlebag Island State Park is a marine state park in Skagit County covering about 26 acres with roughly 2 kilometers of shoreline along Padilla Bay. The island features two rocky elevations connected by a narrow land bridge that shapes its distinctive character.

The island was mapped in 1841 by the United States Exploring Expedition under Charles Wilkes and was initially known as Porpoise Rocks. The state of Washington acquired the property in 1974.

Visitors can connect with nature through walking trails, swimming, fishing, and watching wildlife in their natural habitats. The four primitive camping sites encourage people to experience this remote environment and its local plants and animals up close.

Reaching the island requires bringing a boat, and visitors should watch the tidal patterns of Padilla Bay throughout their stay. Poor timing with tides could leave vessels stuck, so planning your visit around water levels is important.

The island gets its name from its distinctive shape: two separate rocky peaks that resemble a saddlebag when viewed from certain angles. This unusual outline makes it stand out when approached from the water.

Location: Skagit County

Inception: 1974

Website: https://parks.wa.gov/576/Saddlebag-Island

GPS coordinates: 48.53583,-122.55639

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01