In 1859, the British and American armies set up conflicting camps on San Juan Island to fight a war triggered by the killing of a pig. Come to the English Camp in summer to find out about this peculiar battle, in which the only casualty was the pig itself. Also visit the camp if you are into hiking and nature, because it is a picturesque spot and there are four miles (6.4 kilometres) of scenic trails and wildlife to discover.
A visit to the small museum at English Camp takes you back to 1861. The site is the only part of this American National Park to honour a British military site and even flies the British Union Jack. The exhibits and tour will help explain the Pig War, which was the result of the San Juan Boundary Dispute and, remarkably, an argument over compensation owed by an American who shot an Irishman’s pig for trespassing on his land. Kaiser Wilhelm I eventually solved the dispute and the camp was abandoned.
Witness a re-enactment on any Saturday during the summer or attend the free Encampment event at the end of July, a celebration of peace.
The former military post is part of the extensive National Historical Park on San Juan Island, with its network of nature trails. Enjoy stunning views over and the archipelago towards Canada from Young Hill, a gentle, 20-40 minute hike uphill. Spot the occasional bald eagle or deer along the way.
There are picnic tables in the camp, so bring food and drinks and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
English Camp sits on the northwestern part of San Juan Island, surrounded by Westcott Bay and Garrison Bay. The park is just a 20-minute drive west of Friday Harbour, where the ferries and planes land.
Entrance to the camp is free. They take reservations for group celebrations and activities. There are numerous accommodation options in nearby Roche Harbour. English Camp is closed during the winter season from October until June.
