Camping, Directions, & Logistics

SSTIKS is held at Twanoh State Park, on the Hood Canal east of Union, Washington.

Camping Facilities
SSTIKS attendees can camp at the SSTIKS Group Campsite or across the street at the Twanoh State Park Campground.
The SSTIKS Group Campsite is by the beach just a short walk from the big tent. There is a $50 fee per tent which includes Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Please use a backpacking size tent as space is limited. If you have a larger tent, we prefer that you use the State Park Campground tent sites across the street. We also ask that you take early morning and late evening conversations to the big group tent.
The Twanoh State Park Campground  offers campsite reservations. Reserve a spot through the online state park registration page. Twanoh State Park has 25 tent spaces, 22 utility spaces, two restrooms and one shower. Maximum site length is 35 feet.  Campsites are limited to 8 people per site.

Parking
Parking will be available in the large beach lot. Group site campers receive one parking pass per $40 tent permit if needed. Parking is limited and we want to reduce our impact on other park users. Please only take a pass if you have a vehicle that needs one. Similarly, the park asks that campers in the main campgrounds avoid moving their cars to the day use parking areas during the day. Additional cars require a separate parking pass or Washington State Park Discover Pass.
Speed Limit: The campground has a 10mph speed limit. Please ensure you follow the speed limit so we can continue to use the park for SSTIKS.

Recycling
We are trying to reduce the amount of waste we generate. It would make a big difference if you use your own reusable water bottle and coffee cup. It would also be great if you could take your recyclables home with you.  If you cannot, we will provide recycling containers for glass, cans, and plastic bottles and volunteers will take to the recycling center after the event.

Cell Phone Coverage
Cell phone reception can be limited in the park; check the service maps for your provider. Pay phones are also available in the park.

Safety
Oyster shells. Seriously, these things are sharp; they’ll slice you up. The beach and bottom are covered with oyster shells which will cut lightweight footwear. Never walk barefooted on the beach. Unprotected drysuit booties will be cut. Bare feet will require medical attention. Use Neoprene gloves when practicing is shallow water.

What to bring

A note on Greenland paddles and other gear.  You cannot learn traditional kayaking with a euro paddle.  Please leave yours at home. If you do not have a paddle, we will have plenty to borrow. There is usually an assortment of other Greenland gear such as Tuiliks, Akuilisaq, Aaqatit, Avataaq, and more. There will be traditional kayaks as well -just ask and most folks will be happy to let you take a spin.