First, we are so grateful that the incident yesterday on I-5 which destroyed the bridge crossing the Skagit River between Mt. Vernon and Burlington did not result in any deaths. We are certainly thinking about those whose lives were impacted yesterday and will be impacted for months to come by this tragedy.
As for Camp Orkila and the many families, campers and students who will be making their way to Orcas Island in the next few months, we will be following this very closely as things develop to ensure we are recommending the most appropriate options for travel.
For those going to Memorial Day Family camp, we suggest the following:
Head north on I-5 and take exit # 221 Lake McMurray.
You will turn left onto Pioneer Hwy go about .3 mi
Turn right onto Fir Island Rd and to about 5.1 mi
Fir Island Rd becomes Best Rd
Go through 1 roundabout
Go about another 6 miles and turn left onto WA 20 which will take you in to Anacortes.
The DOT is currently placing detour signs on this route.
It is not clear how much travel time it will add but estimate it could be up to an additional hour to get to Anacortes.
If guests are not able make the ferry they had planned with us, they should call camp directly and let them know – 360-376-2678. We will have staff answering the phone until about 11PM this evening. We will also pick up families who decide to walk on the 10:40AM ferry from Anacortes in the morning. We do need to know so please let us know as you adjust.
Regarding our summer campers. We will be working with our charter bus company the next couple of weeks as information is updated with the Department of Transportation and determine if any adjustments to our current transportation plan with parents is needed. We will keep you informed and the website adjusted if we make changes.
Thanks so much.