Bowman Bay Pier Closed, Boat Launch Suspended at Deception Pass
On December 11 Deception Pass State Park announced the Bowman Bay pier would be closed indefinitely and the boat launch for trailered vessels would be closed because of unsafe conditions, while non trailered small craft such as kayaks, paddle boards and canoes retain access to the launch area. The park also scheduled short term water servicing at Quarry Pond campground for December 15 and 16, a disruption that could affect campers and winter visitors.
Deception Pass State Park closed the Bowman Bay pier indefinitely and suspended the boat launch for trailered vessels after posting an alert on December 11 citing unsafe conditions. The alert left access open for non trailered small craft including kayaks, paddle boards and canoes, but officials warned that the pier and the ramp for trailered launches remain off limits until conditions are resolved.
The closure of the pier and the trailered launch is likely to alter plans for boaters who rely on Deception Pass for access to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and local waterways. Boat owners who tow trailers will need to seek alternative launches or postpone outings, which could affect weekend traffic, charter operations and small businesses that serve visiting boaters. Recreational users without trailers retain a launch option, but the alert emphasizes that posted closures are in place for safety and must be followed.
Park officials also listed a short term maintenance notice for Quarry Pond campground. Water servicing was scheduled for December 15 and 16 and may interrupt water supply to campsites during that period. Campers planning overnight stays at Quarry Pond should expect limited or no potable water and plan accordingly. The timing coincides with mid December outdoor activity when colder weather increases the consequences of plumbing or water interruptions.
The alert urged visitors to check park conditions before traveling and to follow posted closures. For Island County residents and visitors this means verifying launch availability and campground services prior to departure and adjusting plans if infrastructure remains closed. The indefinite nature of the pier closure underscores the need for timely updates from park staff on repairs and safety assessments.
Local officials and business owners in communities that serve park visitors will be watching for further notices that clarify the cause of unsafe conditions and a projected timeline for reopening. Until the park indicates otherwise, verify park conditions before traveling and follow posted closures for safety.
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