Best Tent Camping near Bellevue, WA
Tent camping options near Bellevue, Washington range from accessible state parks to secluded forest sites within an hour's drive. Blake Island Marine State Park Campground offers tent sites with boat-in access, while Hollyhock Farm provides secluded tent camping in a forested setting. Most sites in the area are walk-in only, with Woodlands at Lake Stickney and Paine Field Community Park offering additional options within a short drive of the city.
Most tent sites in the Bellevue area feature basic amenities, with fire pits at select locations like Blake Island and Hollyhock Farm, though seasonal fire bans may apply during summer months. Toilet facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, with Blake Island offering showers while others provide only vault toilets or no facilities. Potable water is available at some sites but not all, making it essential for campers to bring their own supply. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer months when availability becomes limited.
Tent camping near Bellevue provides varying levels of seclusion and natural settings. The forested sites at Hollyhock Farm offer privacy between campsites, creating a more isolated wilderness experience compared to more developed options. Areas like Blake Island provide unique waterfront tent camping with views of Seattle across the water. In early summer, sites fill quickly as the weather improves, particularly at locations accessible by road. According to one visitor at Hollyhock Farm, "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest, the toilet was clean and fairly close to the sites." Walk-in tent sites often provide more separation from neighboring campers than drive-in options, making them preferable for those seeking a more authentic outdoor experience.
