The English Camp Parade Ground is located on Garrison Bay, in the northwest corner of San Juan Island. Occupation of this area was not new; Coast Salish tribes had lived on this bay since time immemorial. When the Royal Marines landed at English Camp, they noted that the surface of the Parade Ground was “a shell bank - the accumulation of Years, evidently, as it averaged ten feet high, from thirty-five to forty feet through, by 120 yards long. It was the work of Indians, as they live very much on a shellfish called “Clams.” They also found a Coast Salish longhouse that accommodated as many as 600 individuals and which the English disassembled and used as building materials.
The British chose to live in this spot during the boundary dispute for several reasons. First, it was at the opposite end of the island to the Americans. Second, there was an established trail connecting it to Hudson Bay Company’s Belle Vue Sheep Farm. Third, there was enough room in the area for the large number of soldiers expected to be needed. And last but not least, the Roche Harbor Highlands Watershed provided good water and plenty of other natural resources.
In opposition to the utilitarian nature and appearance of American Camp, English Camp was constructed to be pretty and remind its inhabitants of home. They had several flower gardens and grew English produce. Jim Crook, a prominent caretaker of English Camp, moved there with his family when he was little. Even when the British occupation of the land ended, Crook was paid by the British government to maintain the Royal Marines Cemetery. He dedicated his life to the stewardship of his family’s home and English Camp.
Today, you can view what remains from the British occupation and appreciate the same resources that drew them to the area. Participate in a ranger guided walk to learn more about the camp’s history. Check out the visitor center that used to be a barrack for Royal Marines. Those with mobility issues can be driven around to these sites via golf cart by our staff.
There are many hiking trails originating near the English Camp Parade Ground. If you’re looking for a fairly strenuous hike, make the journey up Young Hill to visit the Royal Marine’s Cemetery and take in wonderful views of Canada. The parade ground hosts less strenuous activities as well. Have a picnic, launch a kayak, or forage for shellfish.
It is important to note that cellular service on this side of the island is spotty. For your safety, be sure to download or print a map, and bring a compass.
English Camp is located on Garrison Bay, 9 miles northwest of Friday Harbor. Today, you can visit sites from the Royal Marine era including the parade ground, barracks, blockhouse, commissary, and formal garden.
English Camp Visitor Center
Phone: (360) 378-5607
Address: 3905 West Valley Rd., Friday Harbor, WA 98250
The Royal Marine Barracks, built as a privates' mess in 1860 and converted to a barracks in 1867, serves as a visitor contact station during the summer season. Ranger Programs are available during the main visitor season from June to September.
