It is the purpose of San Juan Island Park and Recreation District to enhance the quality of life on San Juan Island by: Offering the widest variety of leisure and recreational activities to all island residents. Acquiring, developing, maintaining, preserving and protecting recreational resources. Ensuring that recreational activities and facilities are accessible and affordable to all residents.
The Town of Friday Harbor (est. 1909) is the only incorporated town in the county and serves as the county seat. In addition to managing building permits and utilities within the town (water, sewer, garbage), it maintains streets and all public areas including five public parks, three pocket parks, and four poetry gardens.