Covid- 19 safety guidelines

When visiting the Gardens, please continue to observe rules regarding appropriate distancing and masking in public spaces. Please be ​considerate of your fellow visitors ​and allow six feet between you to pass on trails and walkways.  We strongly encourage visitors to bring hand sanitizing products to optimize hygiene. For the safety of our staff and fellow visitors we ask that you carry out your own trash.

Garden maps can be accessed online and/or downloaded by clicking this link: Garden Map.

We hope you enjoy your visit and thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

FAQ

Meet the 2024 Meerkerk Board and Staff

Board Officers  

Re McClung, President and Executive Committee Chair,   Don Kohlenberger, Vice President,   Pat Sasson, Secretary and Fundraising Committee Chair, Ellen Alexander, Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair  

Board Members and Committee Chairs  

John Bachert,   Margot Bottolfson,  Maria Cablao,   June Davis, Education Committee Chair,   Barb Faville,    Ann Holmberg, Governance Committee Chair, Barb Moore, Horticulture Committee Chair 

Garden Staff     

Ron Newberry, Garden Operations Manager, Virginia Keck, Nursery Manager, Lili Van Sickel, Garden Assistant

Office Staff         

Development Manager (open position), Daniel Burns, Publicity, Outreach and Events Manager, Jeanne Celeste, Bookkeeper

Are the Gardens open year round?

Yes! 365 days of the year at 9:00 am. The Gardens do not have any lighted paths, therefore we ask visitors to not attempt to walk on the garden paths after dark. Gardens may be closed without notice during periods of high winds. The parking lot gates are closed and locked at 4 p.m.

What does it cost?

Admission is $10 donation per person. You can pay by cash, check, or credit card at the entry gatehouse. Become a garden member and your whole immediate family is included in the membership perk of unlimited entry into the garden for that year.

Can I bring my dog(s)?

Yes! However, they must be on a leash at all times. Please pick up and pack out your dog’s waste.

Can I have an event at the Gardens?

Some small private events are being allowed subject to changing COVID guidelines. If you are interested in such an event, please email our events staff at events@meerkerkgardens.org

Do I need to be a member to visit the Gardens?

No. You may visit the gardens without being a member however you must pay the admission cost of $5 per person. We encourage everyone to become a member to enjoy the benefits of membership throughout the year. Check out our membership options right here!

Is photography allowed in the Gardens?

Yes! Bring our camera and enjoy the splendor. All commercial photography sessions require a photography and media permit to filled out prior to the photo session. Permits must be submitted no later than 7 days prior to the first photographic event. Please download the permit here. Fill out the form, sign, and return it by email or mail it to the addresses listed on the permit form.

Are there public bathrooms?

Sort of.... From March - October, we offer clean portable restrooms.

Are the trails easy to walk?

We encourage all visitors to wear sturdy shoes and watch their footing as there are many tree roots, muddy spots, and Douglas Fir cones along the walking paths. 

What is the best time of year to visit the Gardens?

All year! The Rhodies bloom from early to late spring, but with our large collection of azaleas, trees, and companion plants the Gardens offer visitors four seasons of inspiration. Each season in the Gardens offers visual delights, photo opportunities, and reflection.

WHERE TO STAY?  WHERE TO EAT?

SOME EXCELLENT RECOMMENDATIONS CAN BE FOUND AT:

The Langley Chamber of Commerce    .   The Freeland Chamber of Commerce

The Coupeville Chamber of Commerce    .    The Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce