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Stanwood & Camano

The Magic of Stanwood

Less than an hour north of Seattle and away from the big-city buzz is charming and quaint Stanwood, a small town with big character. With a population of nearly 9,000 people, the city is full of rich history and home to a growing business and entertainment community.

A drive through Stanwood takes visitors across agricultural lands, parks, trails, and waterfront views.

HISTORY

What is now Stanwood was settled in 1866 as a trading post. The area was first called Centerville and soon developed into two towns, Stanwood and East Stanwood. They became known as the “Twin Cities,” and the two downtowns are still referred to today as the Twin City Mile. By the 1960s, the two towns officially incorporated to create the City of Stanwood.

Situated at the mouth of the Stillaguamish River near Skagit Bay, Stanwood became an important hub for transporting logs from surrounding forests to mills throughout the Salish Sea region. Today, visitors can explore the area’s history at the Stanwood

Area Historical Society at the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, or online at sahs-fncc.org. Visitors can also follow the ongoing “Exploring History” series by local historian Mary Jennings in the Stanwood Camano News.

ADVENTURE

Stanwood offers activities for all ages.

Several parks and trails have opened or received major upgrades in recent years, creating even more opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors can grab coffee or breakfast downtown before exploring the region by bike, foot, or paddleboard. Take a relaxing bike ride through

town, challenge friends to pickleball at Heritage Park, or bring your pup to the popular dog park.

At the end of the day, enjoy one of the many eateries along the Twin City Mile, with cuisine ranging from American and Mexican to Thai, Chinese, and Japanese.

Wrap up the evening with a classic Stanwood sunset over the floodplains and waterways.

SHOPPING

With an ever-growing business community, Stanwood is an ideal destination for a shopping trip.

In West Stanwood, near 102nd Avenue

NW and 270th Street NW, visitors can browse antique stores, boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, and specialty businesses.

East Stanwood, along 271st Street NW, features another collection of independent stores and eateries, including bakeries, clothing shops, cafes, and popular local restaurants.

The growing uptown district near Highway 532 and 72nd Avenue NW continues to expand with grocery stores, gyms, restaurants, and locally owned businesses.

Chill out on Camano

Enjoy island time without waiting in a ferry line on scenic Camano Island.

Travel west on Highway 532 across the Mark Clark Bridge and onto the island, where visitors will find beaches, parks, art galleries, outdoor recreation, and a laid-back atmosphere.

ON THE WATER

Crabbing remains one of Camano Island’s most popular attractions.

Public boat launches are located at English Boom, Utsalady, Maple Grove, Mabana, Cavalero, and Camano Island State Park.

Before heading out, visitors should check current licensing requirements, crab seasons, and regulations at

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Not interested in crabbing? Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, beachcombing, or boating along the island’s scenic shoreline.

ADVENTURE

Beyond the beaches, Camano Island offers activities for every age and interest.

Camaloch Golf Course features 18 scenic holes, while Arrowhead Ranch offers axe throwing, mini golf, and outdoor family activities.

For thrill-seekers, Canopy Tours Northwest at Kristoferson Farm features zipline adventures through the forest canopy.

Visitors will also find miles of familyfriendly hiking trails at Barnum Point, Cama Beach State Park, and Camano Island State Park.

SIP & SHOP

Local breweries, wineries, coffee shops, and restaurants offer plenty of opportunities to relax after a day outdoors.

Shopping and dining are concentrated around the Camano Commons

Marketplace at 848 N. Sunrise Blvd. and the Camano Plaza area along NE Camano Drive.

The Commons includes restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, art galleries, and the island library, while nearby businesses provide groceries, hardware, and local services.

For more information, visit Camano Island Chamber of Commerce.

BOAT LAUNCHES

Public motorized boat launches on Camano Island include:

• English Boom

• Utsalady

• Maple Grove

• Mabana

• Cavalero

• Camano Island State Park Fees may apply.

Public launches near Stanwood include:

• Wenberg County Park at Lake Goodwin

• Kayak Point County Park

• Lake Ki

• Hat Slough on the Stillaguamish River

Popular public beaches for nonmotorized watercraft include Iverson Spit Preserve, Barnum Point, English Boom Preserve, Cama Beach State Park, Leque Island, Hamilton Landing Park, and Kayak Point.

CRABBING 101

Step 1

Purchase a current Washington fishing/crabbing license online or at

local sporting goods stores. Crabbers ages 15 and older must carry a valid license.

Step 2

Gather gear including a crab pot, rope,

buoy, and bait. Equipment is available at local marine and hardware stores.

Step 3

Head out by boat or use a public pier. Most crabbing takes place in waters 20-100 feet deep. Washington law requires life jackets for everyone aboard a vessel, and children 12 and younger must wear one.

Step 4

Cook your catch in boiling water for about 15 minutes, then cool in an ice bath before cleaning and serving.

Step 5

Don’t forget to report your catch at the end of the season following state reporting instructions.

LAKES

Several warm-water lakes sit east of Stanwood.

Lake Goodwin is the largest and features public parks, swimming areas, playgrounds, fishing, and boating access.

Wenberg County Park recently underwent major renovations and continues to be one of the region’s most popular recreation destinations.

RIVERS

The Stillaguamish River remains a defining feature of the region. Visitors can travel east on Highway 530 toward Darrington to find fishing access, scenic pullouts, and hiking opportunities.

To the north, the Skagit River winds from the Cascade Mountains to the

Salish Sea.

FISHING

The waters surrounding Stanwood and Camano Island, including Port Susan, Skagit Bay, and Saratoga Passage are popular destinations for salmon, crab, shrimp, and bottom fishing.

Several charter companies offer guided fishing and crabbing trips throughout the year.

Set up camp

In the Stanwood-Camano area, it’s easy to find a relaxing place to camp, explore, or simply spend the day outdoors.

Vacation rentals are also widely available through sites such as Airbnb and Vrbo.

WENBERG COUNTY PARK

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Goodwin, Wenberg County Park offers campsites, picnic areas, boating access, fishing, and more than 1,100 feet of freshwater shoreline.

The park includes a two-lane concrete boat launch and modern camping facilities.

Wenberg County Park is located at 15430 E. Lake Goodwin Road in Stanwood.

CAMANO ISLAND STATE PARK

Camano Island State Park remains one of the island’s premier camping destinations.

Amenities include campsites, hiking trails, picnic shelters, docks, and scenic waterfront access. Visitors can also fish, clam, and crab with proper licensing.

The park is located at 2269 S. Lowell Point Road on Camano Island.

KAYAK POINT COUNTY PARK

Kayak Point County Park continues major redevelopment improvements through 2026.

The campground and day-use areas remain open while improvements continue at portions of the waterfront and recreational facilities.

Recent upgrades include an elevated boat launch, expanded parking, and shoreline improvements.

Kayak Point County Park is located at 15711 Marine Drive south of Stanwood.

For more park information: snohomishcountywa.gov

Lasting memories

Adventure awaits around nearly every corner in the Stanwood-Camano area.

PLAY AT THE PARK

Freedom Park on north Camano Island features playgrounds, public art, and a gateway gallery.

In Stanwood, Church Creek Park

and Heritage Park continue to serve as community gathering spaces with playgrounds, pickleball courts, basketball courts, skate parks, and dog parks.

Cama Beach State Park offers hiking trails and a café.

GET ACTIVE

The Port Susan Trail system continues to expand in Stanwood.

The current trail begins near the Stanwood Park and Ride and travels west along Highway 532 toward Hamilton Landing Park and Island County parks: islandcountywa.gov

surrounding wetlands. Future trail phases will connect downtown Stanwood, Heritage Park, and additional waterfront access points into a larger community loop trail system.

PLAY DISC GOLF

Church Creek Park in Stanwood features a popular disc golf course for players of all skill levels.

To the south, Kayak Point Disc Golf Resort remains one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier disc golf destinations.

VISIT THE BEACH

Barnum Point County Park offers wooded trails, beach access, and abundant wildlife viewing.

Iverson Spit Preserve is one of the island’s few sandy public beaches and is popular for picnics and birdwatching.

English Boom Historical Park features sweeping views of Skagit Bay and Mount Baker.

TREASURE HUNT

Each February, the Northwest Glass Quest draws visitors from across the Pacific Northwest to search for hidden clue balls redeemable for hand-blown glass artwork.

The Camano Chamber’s “Kind Quester” campaign encourages visitors to focus on fun, kindness, and community throughout the event.

GO BIRDING

Stanwood-Camano is considered one of Washington’s premier birdwatching destinations.

The region is especially famous for snow geese and trumpeter swans that winter in local farmlands and estuaries.

Restoration projects at places like Leque Island have created popular wildlife-viewing areas for birders and photographers.

GO WHALE WATCHING

Whale watching remains a favorite activity throughout the Salish Sea region.

Boat tours and shoreline viewpoints

provide opportunities to spot gray whales, humpbacks, and occasionally orcas throughout the year.

Find public viewing locations at whidbeycamanoislands.com

SEE AMAZING ART

Stanwood and Camano Island continue to support a thriving arts community.

Organizations including the Stanwood-Camano Arts Advocacy Commission and Camano Arts Association host exhibits, festivals, studio tours, and public art programs year-round.

The Camano Arts Association Gateway Gallery at Freedom Park remains open Fridays through Sundays and features work by local artists, craftspeople, and makers.

On the calendar

Numerous events occur throughout the year in the Stanwood-Camano area, many of which have become community traditions. Dates and locations are subject to change, so it is recommended that visitors check with event organizers to confirm details.

JUNE

Stanwood-Camano Pride: 12-4 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at Freedom Park on Camano Island. Free admission. stanwoodcamanopride.com

Stanwood Farmers Market: Fridays, June through September, featuring a mix of new and returning vendors. The market is behind the Stanwood Police Station and takes place rain or shine. The market is closed for the Fourth of July. stanwoodfarmersmarket.org

Stanwood-Camano Soap Box Derby: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at Arrowhead Ranch, 615 Arrowhead Road on Camano Island. The Soap Box Derby is an annual event where children ages 7-19 build and race official soap box cars. Registration costs $100. stanwoodcamanoisland. soapboxderby.org

Stanfest 2026: Summer concerts will take place at Church Creek Park in Stanwood from 6-8 p.m. on the third Saturday in June, July, and August. Performers this year are Stage Hogs (June 20), Aaron Crawford (July 18), and Saltwater Sky (August 15.) Free admission. Learn more at stanwoodcommercealliance.org/ stanfest

Twin City Idlers Car Show: June 28, 2026, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, in downtown Stanwood. The Twin City Idlers Car Show features vintage and classic automobiles. Registration fees and event details are available online. twincityidlers.org

JULY

Silvana Fair: Saturday, July 25, 2026, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Parking and admission are free. Located at 1331 Pioneer Highway in Silvana. silvanafair.com

Bloom Fest: July 18-19, 2026, at Our Legacy Fields in Stanwood. Bloom Fest is a lavender festival featuring vendors, live music, food trucks, lavender ice cream, U-Pick Lavender Gardens, games, raffles, demos, tours, and more. ourlegacyfields.com

AUGUST

Stanwood-Camano Community Fair: July 31-August 2, 2026, at 6431 Pioneer Highway in Stanwood. The fair features rides, animals, vendors, entertainment, and food. Ticket

pricing and schedules are available online.stanwoodcamanofair.org

Stanwood-Camano Community Parade: Saturday, August 1, 2026, in downtown Stanwood. Hosted by the local Rotary Club. Parade details and theme will be announced closer to the event. stanwoodrotary.org

National Night Out: Tuesday, August 4, 2026, 6-8 p.m., in the parking lot behind the Stanwood Police Station. National Night Out promotes public safety, community partnerships, and neighborhood camaraderie. Registration is free but required. natw.org

Movies in the Park: Thursdays in August at Church Creek Park in Stanwood. Movies begin at dusk with complimentary water and popcorn provided. Movie titles will be announced closer to the event. stanwoodwa.org/609/Movies-inthe-Park

SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER

Camano Ciderfest: September 5-6, 2026, 12-5 p.m., at the Camano Commons Marketplace. Ciderfest features cider tastings, live music, and food vendors. Tickets are available online. camanocommons.com/ciderfest

Meyer Art Festival: August 29, 10a.m. - 6p.m. MAC Fest is a multiday art festival hosted by the

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Stanwood-Camano Arts Advocacy Commission with events throughout the area. scaacwa.org

Art by the Bay: October 9-11, 2026, at the Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road. Hosted by the Stanwood-Camano Arts Guild, this event features local artist booths and free admission. stanwoodcamano.art

Ghouls Night Out: Halloween from 3-6 p.m. in downtown Stanwood. Join the City of Stanwood for free trick-or-treating, costumes, candy, and more. stanwoodwa.org/608/GhoulsNight-Out

The Wonder of Christmas: Saturday, November 28, 2026, 6-9 p.m., at the Camano City Schoolhouse. Enjoy holiday lights, music, treats, and a giant Christmas tree. Free admission. camanoschoolhouse.org

The Lights of Christmas: Evenings from November 27-December 28, 2026, at Warm Beach Camp in Stanwood. The Pacific Northwest’s largest Christmas festival features more than 1 million lights. Ticket information is available online. thelightsofchristmas.com

Old-Fashioned Christmas: Held in December at The Floyd in Stanwood. A free community holiday celebration featuring family-friendly activities. sahs-fncc.org

JANUARY-FEBRUARY

Country Living & Modern Homesteading Expo: Late January 2027 at Stanwood High School. Hosted by Washington State University Extension and the Livestock Master Foundation, the expo offers educational workshops and classes on homesteading and rural living. extension.wsu.edu/ skagit/countrylivingexpo

Northwest Glass Quest: Mid-February 2027 throughout the StanwoodCamano area. Hosted by the Camano Chamber of Commerce, participants search for hand-blown glass treasures hidden throughout the region. Free admission.

northwestglassquest.com

Snow Goose and Birding Festival: Saturday, late February, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center in Stanwood. The festival includes presentations, workshops, birdwatching tours, vendors, and family activities. Admission is $10; children 12 and under are free. sahs-fncc.org

MARCH-MAY

McClinchy Camano Classic Century: Held the last Sunday in April. This annual cycling fundraiser offers routes of varying distances and difficulty levels. Registration begins at $65 and increases after March 31. bikesclub.org/mcclinchy

Camano Island Studio Tour: Held Mother’s Day weekend and the following weekend. The self-guided tour features dozens of local artists opening their studios to visitors. Free admission. camanostudiotour.com

Camano Island Mother’s Day Art Festival: Mother’s Day weekend at Terry’s Corner, 848 N. Sunrise Blvd., Camano Island. Free admission. artsfestivals.org/festivals