Matia Island
Except for the two-acre camping area adjacent to Rolfe Cove, Matia Island is designated National Wilderness Area. Visitors who would like to experience this unique island environment may hike along the 1.2 mile loop trail, remembering the rest of the island is closed to the public in order to provide undisturbed habitat for wildlife. The loop trail provides a rare glimpse of old-growth island forest habitat present in only a few areas in the region.
For more information about San Juan Wilderness, visit wilderness.net.
Island Map
Pets: Pets are not allowed anywhere on the island.
Boat Landing: Boats are only allowed to land at the Rolfe Cove dock and beach. All other shoreline on the island is closed to public use.
Beach Use: With the exception of Rolfe Cove, all beaches on the island are closed to public use.
Hiking: The 1.2 mile Matia Wilderness Trail offers a rare glimpse of old-growth island forest habitat. With the exception of the campground area at Rolfe Cove and the wilderness loop trail, the island is otherwise closed to public access and use to protect habitat and wildlife.
Camping: Matia has six primitive campsites and one additional picnic site, all with picnic tables. In addition, Matia has a composting public toilet, two seasonal mooring buoys, and a seasonal dock located in Rolfe Cove. Consult the Washington State Parks website for more information on campground regulations. Camping is not allowed outside of the designated sites.
Campfires: Open fire as well as wood gathering is not allowed any place on the island. Only liquid fuel or gel camp stoves are allowed in the campground.
Food Storage: Raccoons have been known to open coolers and other containers. All food should be stored in animal-proof containers. Raccoons, crows and jays on the island can be aggressive. Feeding wildlife, either purposefully or through neglectful food storage, is not allowed.
Marine Mammals: Harbor seals and their pups rest on Refuge shores and should not be approached or disturbed. They are protected by the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act.