Dave Curl/ For The Olympian
American Camp, which is part of San Juan Island National Park, is home to one of the last prairies on San Juan Island.

Four islands, four different flavors to experience

SHARON WOOTTON, FOR THE OLYMPIAN

Each of the four ferry-served islands has its own flavor.

San Juan Island has the largest population, Friday Harbor shopping, history, and whale-watching, both from shore and from boats leaving Friday Harbor.

Orcas Island, the largest, has a few mountains, Moran State Park (the island's highest elevation at 2,454 feet) and loads of artists.

There are four parks on Orcas, including Moran State Park (360-376-2326) with its 5,175 acres and commanding views from Mount Constitution. Eastsound is its largest commercial center, but other hamlets have places to eat and shop.

Check out Rosario Resort (360-376-2222), once the home of shipbuilder Robert Moran, the Orcas Island Historical Museum (360-376-4849) and Orcas Island Pottery (360-376-2813).

Lopez is the farming island, with rolling fields and one town. The island has six parks, including Spencer Spit State Park (360-468-2251), that dot the outer edge of Lopez.

This is the best island for a one-day driving tour, being closest to Anacortes. Stop in at the Lopez Historical Museum, eat at Lopez Village, and visit Shark Reef Park's rocky shoreline.

Shaw, the smallest of the islands, has rural scenery, a county park with a sweeping beach and about 200 full-time residents.

The Olympian Copyright 2001

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