|
|
San Juan Island National Historical Park |
Description:
San Juan Island NHP commemorates the peaceful resolution of the 19th century boundary dispute between Great Britain and the United States over the Oregon Country. The crisis on San Juan Island -- which both nations claimed -- ignited when on June 15, 1859, an American farmer shot a British-owned pig. Soon the U.S. Army and Royal Navy were at gunpoint. However, officials on both sides quickly restored calm and the nations agreed to a military joint occupation of the island until the boundary dispute could be resolved. The American soldiers and British Royal Marines remained for 12 years until Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany, as arbitrator, awarded the islands to the United States.
San Juan Island National Historical Park is an excellent place to hike, picnic and view wildlife. From soaring eagles and hawks, to river otters, red fox, black-tailed deer, and European rabbits, the park supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Just offshore at American Camp you may see whales, porpoises, seals, and sea lions as well.
Situated on the Pacific Flyway, the San Juan Islands and the surrounding saltwater provide
a stopover for many birds, both marine and terrestrial. More than 200 species may be found here all or part of each year.
Designations:
San Juan Island National Historical Park (September 9, 1966)
Accessibility:
Ninety percent of trails are wheelchair accessible; all restrooms and the Visitor Centers at Friday Harbor and American Camp are accessible. As of this posting, a ramp is being planned for the English Camp royal marine barracks.
Laser disc programs are captioned and texts are available for the sight impaired.
Getting Around:
Walking tours only.
Activites:
Auto_Touring | Educational Programs | Fishing | Hiking | Horseback Riding | Wildlife Viewing | Bird Watching | Nature Walks | Stargazing | Kayaking | And more.
Facilities:
Visitor_Centers | Picnic Areas | Comfort Stations | Tours & Guided Activities | And more.
Directions to San Juan Island National Historical Park
Plane:
To Friday Harbor via Harbor Airlines; Kenmore Air; or West Isle Air
Car:
Private vehicle; car rental in Friday Harbor.
Public Transportation
Shuttle buses stop at both camps daily during the summer season with an abbreviated schedule during spring and fall. Contact San Juan Transit (360) 378-8887.
Nearby Parks:
Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve in Washington
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site in Washington
|
|
|
|
Washington Road Maps (WA Maps)
Washington Photos