Put in at the boat launch at the Willapa Wildlife Refuge Administration Offices and paddle across Willapa Bay. Follow the shores of Long Island clockwise with options to pull out at High Point/Pinnacle Rock Campground (best in any tide), Smokey Hollow Campground, or Sand Spit Campground. Hike some of its 23 miles of trails, including the Don Bonker Cedar Grove Trail, while watching for elk, black bears, smaller mammals, and birds. Rake for clams or pick oysters on the Long Island Oyster Reserve (WFWS permit required, regulations permitting), enjoy a picnic, hike, and head back the same way, following the shoreline until crossing back over to the boat launch. Or for a full- or multi-day paddle, continue around Long Island, past Jensen Point and Diamond Point, to Lewis Campground and Lewis Slough, Kaffee Slough, Paradise Point, Sawlog Campground, and Baldwin Slough, and Center Road – circumnavigating the entire island. Please note: Negative low tides can ground you in mudflats, and storms off the Pacific can turn a calm day into rolling surf with little notice so be extra cautious of the weather. Campsites on Long Island are first come, first served, and primitive. Registration and permits are required. Check with Willapa Paddle Adventures for kayak rental options.
