Best Campgrounds near Port Townsend, WA

Camping near Port Townsend, Washington, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around Deception Pass State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The hike to see Deception Pass Bridge is awesome," making it a must-do for nature lovers.
• Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground. A camper shared, "Witnessed a beautiful sunset camping on the bluff," highlighting the park's scenic views.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for otters and other wildlife at San Juan County Park. One reviewer noted, "You will see otters and maybe whales," making it a great spot for animal enthusiasts.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Dosewallips State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Super clean bathrooms and showers," which is always a plus.
• Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the helpfulness of the park staff. One reviewer at Heart O' the Hills Campground said, "The ranger was very friendly and helpful," making for a welcoming atmosphere.
• Privacy: Campers at Fort Worden Historical State Park Campground appreciate the spacing between sites. A camper mentioned, "The spots are spaced quite a bit apart," allowing for a more relaxed experience.

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Sequim Bay State Park Campground, can be noisy due to nearby highways. One camper noted, "Upper loop has quite a bit of highway noise," so consider this when choosing your site.
• Reservations: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Dosewallips State Park Campground advised, "Probably need to reserve far in advance," to secure a good site.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Camano Island State Park Campground, may lack certain amenities. A camper mentioned, "No trash receptacles any longer in campground—pack it out!" so be prepared to bring your own supplies.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and open spaces, like Dungeness Recreation Area. One camper said, "Had a nice playground for kids," making it a great choice for families.
• Choose Quieter Sites: If your family prefers peace, opt for sites away from busy roads. A visitor at Bay View State Park Campground noted, "It is not noticeable that it was full," which can help keep the noise down.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One family at Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground enjoyed the beach and trails, saying, "I was surprised that with our frequent strolls on the beach with the pups, we only passed a small number of people."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site before booking. A reviewer at Heart O' the Hills Campground mentioned, "Sites are just a pad (no hookups or dump station)," which is important for RVers to know.
• Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One camper said, "Offered on a first come first serve basis over the winter months."
• Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds may have narrow roads or tight turns. A visitor at Camano Island State Park Campground noted, "Narrow road into campground creates issues if you meet a wide Class C on the road," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Port Townsend, Washington, provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy nature, relax, and create lasting memories. Just remember to plan ahead and choose the right campground for your needs!