YMCA Camp Casey Trip

Lake Stevens Rotarians,

I would like to extend a personal invitation to join me for a tour of YMCA Camp Casey on Whidbey Island the morning of Friday, June 6th. This visit would be a great opportunity to experience firsthand the powerful impact this facility has on youth and families in our region.

Camp Casey provides inspiring group getaways, youth development programs, and overnight summer camps that serve both Island and Snohomish County. It is a remarkable example of the kind of resource that strengthens communities, builds resilience in young people, and promotes health and connection across generations.

I believe a visit to Camp Casey would provide valuable perspective as we continue to explore opportunities to expand YMCA programming and presence in our own community.  We will have approximately an hour tour of the beautiful property and its amenities by Chief Development Officer, Jennifer Willows and the CEO of the Y of Snohomish County, Payton Tune.

Below is our Group Itinerary for your reference.

I have also included an optional Whidbey Island Day Guide if you would like to enjoy more of the island, and a few lunch recommendations too. 

Or, you can plan on just getting back to the mainland by lunchtime and getting on with our day. 

Either way, I do promise it will be really fun 🙂 and you will be impressed!

 

Group Itinerary: Mukilteo to Whidbey Island – Camp Casey Tour Day

Date: June 6th

Group Leader: Amy Lewandowski (360) 920-1596

Ferry Departure: 8:30 AM from Mukilteo

Tour Start Time: 10:15 AM at Camp Casey

 

7:45AM – Group Meetup at Mukilteo Ferry Terminal

 

Location: 910 Front St, Mukilteo, WA

• Arrive early for vehicle staging.
• carpooling cars can find parking at the Sounder train station, immediately to the right of the ferry toll booth

 

 

8:30 AM – Ferry Departs Mukilteo

Duration: ~20 minutes

• Enjoy scenic views from the passenger deck

 

8:50 AM – Arrive at Clinton Ferry Terminal (Whidbey Island)

 

Morning Stops

9:10 AM – Whidbey Island Bagel Factory (Quick Bite & Coffee)

 

Location: 1704 Main St, Freeland, WA

• Drive Time: ~20 minutes from Clinton
• Enjoy fresh bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee
• Quick grab-and-go style recommended to stay on schedule

 

Main Event

10:15 AM – Camp Casey Tour Begins

Location: YMCA Camp Casey Conference Center, 1276 Engle Rd, Coupeville, WA

• Meet your guide at the designated tour starting point
• Tour includes historical insights and a walk through key buildings and grounds

Reminders for the Group

Dress in layers and bring a jacket – coastal weather can change quickly

• Wear comfortable walking shoes – light walking required 
• Restrooms are available at all major stops

 

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🗺️ OPTIONAL Whidbey Island Day Guide: Post-Camp Casey Itinerary activities

 

1. Admiralty Head Lighthouse

Location: Within Fort Casey Historical State Park

• Time: ~30 minutes self walking tour
• Highlights: Explore the historic 1903 lighthouse, climb the tower for panoramic views of Admiralty Inlet, and visit the interpretive center.  

 

2. Fort Casey State Park Bunkers & Bluff Trail

Location: 2 min from Camp Casey. 1280 Engle Rd

• Time: ~45 minute self walking tour
• Highlights: Wander through World War II-era bunkers, view historic artillery, and enjoy a scenic walk along the bluff trail with sweeping ocean vistas.  

 

3. Coupeville Wharf & Historic Waterfront

Location:12 min drive from Camp Casey. 26 Front Street NW, Coupeville, WA 98239

• Time: ~45 minutes stroll
• Highlights: Stroll along the historic wharf, explore boutique shops, and savor local seafood at nearby eateries.  

 

4. Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve

Location: 7 min drive from Camp Casey. 162 Cemetery Rd, Coupeville

• Time: ~1 hour hike
• Highlights: Hike the coastal bluff trail for breathtaking views of the Salish Sea, explore historic farmlands, and learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage.

 

5. Price Sculpture Forest

Location: 12 min drive from Camp Casey.  678 Parker Rd, Coupeville

• Time: ~30 minute walk about 
• Highlights: Experience a unique outdoor art exhibit where nature and sculpture intertwine along peaceful forest trail

 

 

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OPTIONAL LUNCH RECOMMENDATIONS ON WHIDBY ISLAND 

 

Here are three great lunch spots near Camp Casey on Whidbey Island, each with its own vibe and local charm:

 

1. Front Street Grill (Coupeville)

Drive Time: 10 minutes from Camp Casey

• Why Go: Known for fresh Penn Cove mussels, fish tacos, and waterfront views.
• Menu Highlights: Mussel pots, crab mac & cheese, burgers, and cocktails.
• Website: frontstreetgrill.com

 

2. Toby’s Tavern (Coupeville)

Drive Time: 10 minutes

• Why Go: A rustic local favorite with a historic pub feel—great for casual bites.
• Menu Highlights: Clam chowder, halibut & chips, burgers, and of course, mussels.
• Note: 21+ only inside, but there’s sometimes outdoor seating for families.
• Website: tobysuds.com

 

3. Callen’s Restaurant (Coupeville – near ferry terminal)

Drive Time: 5 minutes from Camp Casey

• Why Go: Cozy spot with a view of the ferry and locally sourced food.
• Menu Highlights: Crab Benedict, chowder, grilled sandwiches, seasonal salads.
• Website: callensrestaurant.com