"Every year we'll gather in a new place — not because we have to, but because this is what we choose to do with our time. Good food, open air, familiar faces, and new ones too. Days to laugh, play, rest, and remember what matters."
The Rooks Family · Inaugural Gathering · 2026
Year One · 2026
Cornet Bay Retreat Center
Why Here · A Piece of Family History
For our very first gathering, we chose this place with purpose. The land around Deception Pass State Park was homesteaded by the grandparents of Janet Lynch — early Northwest settlers whose story became part of the Rooks family legacy through Janet's marriage to Albert Rooks Jr. Coming here for Year One means standing on ground that our extended family's pioneers once called home. There's no more fitting place to begin this new tradition than right here, where those deep roots still reach.
Each year this gathering will find a new home — a new place to explore together. For 2026 we're staying at the Cornet Bay Retreat Center, a private, fully-equipped group facility tucked along the shores of Cornet Bay with old-growth trees, sweeping views of Mount Baker, and room for up to 70 guests. Whether you're here to hike, fish, kayak, play games, or simply sit by the fire — there's space and time for all of it.
Sunday, August 16 — Tuesday, August 18, 2026 Arrive Sunday morning; depart Tuesday by noon
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Where
Cornet Bay Retreat Center Deception Pass State Park 400 W Cornet Bay Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
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Food & Feasting
We eat well together here. The retreat center has a full commercial kitchen — bring a favorite dish or recipe to share, and we'll cook, laugh, and linger around the table like we always do.
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Fun for All Ages
Volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, an outdoor amphitheater with firepit — plus the park's hiking trails, beach, kayaking, and fishing just steps away. There's something for everyone, from the littlest to the eldest.
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Discover Pass
A Washington State Discover Pass is required per vehicle for park entry. Purchase online at discoverpass.wa.gov before you arrive or at the gate.
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Good to Know
No pets (except service animals on leash). No smoking inside buildings or within 25 ft. Linens not provided — bring your own bedding. Free Wi-Fi available in limited areas.
Where You'll Sleep
Accommodation Options
However you like to sleep under the stars — or indoors with a proper mattress — we've got you covered. Choose the option that fits your style and let us know when you register. Lodge spots are limited, so don't wait too long!
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Lodge / Bunkhouse
Limited Availability
Sleep indoors in the recently renovated bunkhouses with comfortable mattresses, bunk beds, and restrooms with showers. The duplex and bunkhouse buildings each have their own bathroom facilities. Linens not provided — bring sleeping bag or bedding.
Best for: families with young kids, those preferring indoor comfort
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Tent Camping
Available on Site
Set up your own tent on the camp grounds and sleep under the stars surrounded by old-growth trees. Access to on-site shower facilities included. Bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and pad.
Best for: outdoor enthusiasts, those who love classic camping
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Camp Trailer / RV
Available on Site
Bring your own camp trailer or RV and park within the group site. Access to on-site facilities. Please note hookups are limited — coordinate with the reunion organizer after you register.
Best for: families with their own trailer or RV setup
Three Days Together
Weekend Schedule
Sunday, August 16
10:00 AM
Gates Open & SetupHelp decorate and get the party started
11:00 AM
Welcome GatheringOpening remarks, family history & introductions
12:30 PM
Potluck LunchDig in! Grill fired up, all dishes welcome
2:00 PM
Games & ActivitiesCornhole, horseshoes, relay races, kids' activities
5:00 PM
Family PhotoAll hands on deck — don't miss it!
6:00 PM
BBQ Dinner & CampfireStories, s'mores, and stargazing
Monday, August 17
9:00 AM
Pancake BreakfastFuel up together before the day begins
10:30 AM
Family Trivia & TalentHow well do you know the Rooks family?
12:00 PM
Lunch TogetherMidday meal — kitchen crew, sign up to help!
2:00 PM
Hiking & ExplorationGoose Rock Trail, beach walk, or free time on the water
6:00 PM
Campfire Dinner & AmphitheaterEvening gathering at the outdoor amphitheater overlooking Cornet Bay
Tuesday, August 18
8:00 AM
Morning Coffee & BreakfastSlow morning around the campfire
10:00 AM
Final ActivitiesLast hike, beach walk, or just relax
12:00 PM
Teardown & FarewellHelp break camp — many hands make light work!
The People & The Place
Family in Photos
A New Place Every Year
The Gathering Trail
Part of what makes this tradition special is that every year brings a new adventure. A new landscape, a new region, a new set of memories. Each location is chosen with care — for its beauty, its meaning, or its spirit of exploration. Here's where we've been and where we're headed.
2026 · Year One
Deception Pass State Park, WA
Cornet Bay Retreat Center — homesteaded by the grandparents of Janet Lynch, early Northwest settlers connected to the Rooks family. The perfect place to begin.
★ This Year
2027 · Year Two
Location To Be Chosen
The next adventure is yours to help decide. Bring your ideas to this year's gathering!
2028 · Year Three
Location To Be Chosen
Every trail leads somewhere beautiful.
Come As You Are
Join Us This Year
Whether you've been coming for years or it's your very first time — family, friends, and everyone in between — you belong here. Let us know you're coming by August 1, 2026 so we can plan for the full crew.
🎉 You're on the list — we can't wait to see you!
See you at Deception Pass this August. Spread the word!
