Long Island at Willapa National Wildlife Refuge

In the SW corner of Washington in Willapa Bay is a 5,500 acre uninhabited island called Long Island, a National Wildlife Refuge. Long Island is the Pacific coast's largest estuarine island. On the island, you can find 270 acres of old-growth western red cedar forest. The largest patch is at the Don Bonker Cedar Grove, which has a loop trail to view the grove. For boaters, the island has 5 primitive boat in campsites and numerous trails crossing the island connecting the camps. Due to tides and shallow water, most camps can only be reached at high tide. Camps have picnic tables, fire rings and pit toilets and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis (except for late August and September during hunting season). No water, so bring lots or a filter, small creeks can be found. The three west side camps offer sunset views and more sandy/rocky shorelines if arriving at non high tide. The two east side camps must be close to high tide. Visiting during the week or off season should provide individuals with an opportunity for good solitude as we found some even on a holiday weekend. Wildlife includes black bear, Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, river otters, and beaver. The birds include bald eagles, great blue herons, marbled murrelets, pileated woodpeckers, flying squirrels and spotted owls. The marine environment supports oysters, clams, crabs, salmon, and steelhead. Hiking the length of the island is a long 10 miles one way with side trails to places like Baldwin Slough and Paradise Point offer further exploration.