San Juan Island is well known for splendid vistas, saltwater shore, quiet woodlands and orca whales. But it was also here in 1859 that the United States and Great Britain nearly went to war over a dead pig.
Things To Do
Hiking: American and English camps abound with opportunities for strenuous hiking, taking a leisurely stroll through a field of wildflowers or finding a log and enjoying the seashore. Click on the link below to find a hike. more...
Histories
Claims, Conflict and Compromise: The park is a tangible reminder that the San Juan Islands and Pacific Northwest were once contested by Imperial Spain as well as the United States and Great Britain. But at each critical point along the way, the competing nations chose peace over war. more...
Special Programs
San Juan Island National Historical Park offers a full range of special programs, most of which are scheduled during the summer season. The highlight each year is the annual Encampment at English Camp, featuring living historians from throughout the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia. Encampment 2006 is scheduled August 26-27 with the Candlight Ball set for 8 p.m., August 26 in the Royal Marine barracks. Click on the link below to view the park's 2006 Summer Program Guide. more...
Cool summers and mild winters with summer highs occasionally peaking in the high 80's and winter lows briefly the in low 20's. Annual rainfall ranges from 18 to 36 inches, with higher counts in the islands' northern extremities. From September through early February, the Georgia Strait is affected by land fogs that form on cool nights with clear skies. During long cold periods, these may persist for several days.
