Simple places to pause, breathe, and enjoy nature at your own pace
Secret Gardens and Quiet Outdoor Spaces to Discover on Stanwood & Camano Island
Stanwood and Camano Island offer more than just stunning views and fresh coastal air—they're home to peaceful pockets of nature tucked away from the everyday rush. From hidden gardens to quiet trails and serene green spaces, these local gems invite you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the outdoors.
Whether it’s a walk through the trees or a quiet moment surrounded by nature, these spaces offer the calm we all need. Locals treasure them, and visitors quickly understand why—they're gentle reminders to slow down and simply exist.
There’s something special about discovering a secluded spot that feels like it was meant just for you. Beyond the popular beaches and scenic lookouts, you'll find green spaces and secret sanctuaries where time slows, and peace lingers. So, grab a jacket, bring your sense of wonder, and come explore some of our community’s best-kept quiet treasures.
Bonhoeffer Botanical Gardens (Stanwood)
Hidden next to Warm Beach Camp, Bonhoeffer Botanical Gardens is a peaceful and simple place that honors Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Lutheran pastor who stood up against Nazi Germany. It’s not a fancy garden, but a quiet spot where native plants grow along shady paths, and you can hear birds singing and leaves rustling in the calm air.
Locals visit to walk, reflect, capture photos, or simply sit in silence. Whether or not you’re familiar with Bonhoeffer’s story, this space invites you to pause and appreciate the calm, simple beauty all around. It’s a welcoming place where both community members and visitors can find peace and a sense of calm in the natural surroundings.
Address: 20800 Marine Dr, Stanwood
Four Springs Preserves (Camano Island)
Four Springs Preserve is a peaceful alternative to the busy state parks on Camano Island. The lake here is more like a quiet pond, with gentle springs flowing into the wetlands and birdsong filling the air along the trails. Covering over 50 acres, the preserve offers multiple paths through dense forests, towering old-growth trees, flowing streams, and vibrant ferns. Whether you’re hiking, watching wildlife, or enjoying a picnic, Four Springs provides a calm, natural setting where both locals and visitors can unwind and connect with nature.
Address: 585 Lewis Ln, Camano Island
English Boom County Park (Camano Island)
English Boom County Park, located at the north end of Camano Island, offers about 7 acres of waterfront trails with stunning views of Mt. Baker and nearby islands. This quiet, tucked-away spot brings together nature and history in a way that feels both peaceful and meaningful. As you explore, you’ll wander through wildflowers, hear the songs of local birds, and take in wide, sweeping views of the Cascades. Remnants of the park’s logging past—like old rail lines and waterways—add a layer of history to your stroll. A short trail leads through a calm estuary, where winding channels reveal a hidden world to discover. Whether you’re a local seeking a quiet escape or a visitor looking for a lesser-known treasure, English Boom County Park is a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and local history.
Address: Moore Road, Camano Island
Freedom Park Peace Garden (Camano Island)
Just steps from the marketplace, the Freedom Park Peace Garden is a hidden gem worth discovering. This beautifully designed space invites both locals and visitors to step away from the rush and enjoy a moment of quiet reflection. With blooming trees, native plants, and memorial plaques thoughtfully placed throughout, the garden offers a peaceful atmosphere that honors the past while creating space for calm in the present. Whether you're taking a break during your day or exploring the area for the first time, the Peace Garden is a meaningful stop—a place to pause, breathe, and appreciate a quieter side of the community.
Corner of Hwy 532 & East Camano Dr
Tips for Visiting These Peaceful Places:
- Bring a blanket, book, or journal – These spots are perfect for slowing down. Whether you're reading under a tree, jotting down thoughts, or simply soaking in the view, you'll want to stay awhile.
- Pack out what you pack in – Help keep these spaces pristine for everyone. Be sure to take all trash, snack wrappers, and drink containers with you when you leave.
- Respect the quiet – These areas are loved for their stillness and serenity. Keep voices low, silence devices, and allow the natural sounds to take center stage.
- Visit during spring through fall – This is when the trails are most accessible and the wildflowers, foliage, and fresh air are at their best. Don’t forget your camera—each season brings its own kind of beauty.
Looking for a Peaceful Escape Close to Home (or Just Passing Through)?
These hidden green spaces and gardens are part of what makes Stanwood and Camano Island truly special—for those who call it home and those just passing through. They offer a refreshing escape from the busyness of daily life, inviting you to slow down and take in the natural beauty all around. Whether you're a longtime local or a first-time visitor, when you're in need of a quiet moment, skip the crowds and step into one of these peaceful retreats. They're a gentle reminder that tranquility doesn’t have to be far away—it’s right here, in our shared backyard, just waiting to be discovered.
If you’d like directions to these spots or info on other local gems, Windermere is open 7 days a week—we’re happy to help you explore!
Written By Windermere Staff
