Kanaskat-Palmer State Park provides campers a wooded retreat approximately 40 miles southeast of Bellevue, Washington, at an elevation of 927 feet. The park borders the Green River, creating a distinct riparian ecosystem that transitions between western Washington's lowland forests and the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-45°F while summer temperatures average 65-85°F.
What to do
Fishing spots along the Green River: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offers accessible fishing areas within walking distance from the campground. "There's easy access to a beautiful stretch of the Green River, with picnicking areas and walking trails. You might catch a kayaker in the river, I hear this stretch take a lot of skill!" noted Shay F. from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park.
Beach activities at Fay Bainbridge: Located on Bainbridge Island, the park features volleyball courts and beach exploration with views of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker. "Great campground right on the beach. Clean facilities," reports Brook M. from Fay Bainbridge Park. The park has improved its amenities since becoming part of the city park system.
Swimming at Lake Sammamish: Vasa Park Resort provides direct lake access for swimming during warmer months. "We loved the Vasa Park Resort. We stayed here while visiting my brother in Seattle and had so much fun. We roasted hotdogs and s'mores over the camp fire and our dog loved swimming in the lake," writes Amy H. The resort maintains a designated swimming area that's particularly popular during summer weekends.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Tall Chief Campground in Fall City features sites with substantial tree coverage for privacy. "We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region... Most sites are pretty big too. We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space!" shared Brodie D. from Tall Chief Campground.
Easy commute to Seattle attractions: Lake Pleasant RV Park's location in Bothell provides convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "This was a very pleasant and nice place to stay, quiet and set up around a pond. The facilities were very clean, laundry was great and very affordable! Lots of geese, ducks, and bunnies are around the property," notes Terri from Lake Pleasant RV Park. The park sits approximately 30 minutes from downtown Seattle.
Reliable cell service: For remote workers or those needing connectivity, specific campsites at Tall Chief maintain good coverage. "I'm getting 120+ mbs download on AT&T in my site right now, but several sites down from me, it can dwindle down to 5mbs!" explains Brodie D. Cell reception varies significantly between sites due to tree coverage.
What you should know
Limited sewer connections: Many campgrounds near Bellevue lack full hookups. At Tall Chief, "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it imo," notes Brodie D. Campers staying multiple days should plan for gray/black water management with portable tanks or pumping services.
Park ranger presence: Some parks maintain strict noise and rule enforcement. "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day... I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quite," reports Kelly P. from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park.
Highway noise at urban campgrounds: Several campgrounds closer to the city experience road noise. "I'll start with the thing to be aware of: you'll be camping 200' from I-90. But we found our ear plugs did a good job of quieting that noise enough for us to get a good sleep," shares Jerry B. from Issaquah Village RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pirate ship playground: Fay Bainbridge Park offers distinctive play structures for children. "Best things: Beautiful beach, great views of Mt. Rainier & Baker on a clear day, cruise ships going by, pirate ship playground for children," says Judy J. from Fay Bainbridge Park.
Shower availability: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between parks. "The bathrooms and showers were a little dirty and the campspots are pretty close together. a little pricey but im sure i will stay here again," reports Amy H. from Fay Bainbridge Park. Several parks close shower facilities during off-season months or during maintenance periods.
Swimming options for kids: Dash Point State Park provides beach access for children to explore. "Facilities were good and trails around are fun and easy enough for me and 2 kids. The beach and its tides are why we came," explains Ingrid M. The beach areas tend to be rocky rather than sandy.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Electrical hookups vary between parks with 30-amp service common. "Knocking another star as the majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts. There are a few 50 amp sites but from what I saw they were all taken by RVers that are there on a more permanent basis," warns Derek & Alex W. from Tall Chief.
Big rig accommodation: Blue Sky RV Park accommodates larger RVs with appropriate hookups and space. "The pad was paved, level and long enough for Super C and toad," notes Mark O. from Blue Sky RV Park. Reservations for larger sites should be made well in advance, especially during summer months.
Dump station access: For pet friendly camping near Bellevue, Washington, access to dump stations can be limited. "There's a charge dump station at the ministorage at the turn off," mentions Russ H. from Tolt MacDonald Park. Some parks charge additional fees for dump station use for non-campers.
