Interpretation and history at Deception Pass

History

The human history of the park dates back thousands of years, when the first people settled in the areas now known as Cornet Bay, Bowman Bay and Rosario. Eventually, the land was settled by the Samish and the Swinomish. They lived on the land until the early 1900s.

During his Northwest coastal explorations, Captain George Vancouver became the first European to identify the area near Whidbey Island as a passage, which he named "Deception Pass." A 1923 act of Congress designated the property for public recreation purposes. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built roads, trails, buildings and bridges to develop the park.

The name "Deception Pass" derived from Captain Vancouver's realization that what he had mistaken for a peninsula was actually an island. He named that island "Whidbey" in honor of his assistant, Joseph Whidbey, who was at his side when Vancouver realized the mistake. The captain named the inlet at which he was anchored "Deception Pass" to commemorate the error.

Interpretive opportunities

A historical interpretive center is located in the park at Bowman Bay. The interpretive center building was originally constructed as a bathhouse, and was renovated by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) alumni volunteers in 1987 to commemorate the legacy of the CCC in Washington State Parks. The center is open year-round for group tours (by appointment only) and to individuals, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. mid-May through Labor Day. To schedule a group tour, call (360) 675-3767.

An observation deck overlooks the Cranberry Lake wetlands on the west-beach sand-dunes interpretive trail. Signage explains local vegetation and ecosystems.

The Maiden of Deception Pass story pole is located on Rosario Beach in the north section of the park. It depicts a story of the Samish Indian Nation.

The park contains one monument, located at the south bridge parking lot. It describes the discovery and naming of Deception Pass and Whidbey Island.

Lectures and slide shows occur frequently on weekend evenings in the park's outdoor amphitheater. A schedule of planned events is posted at the ranger contact station.