Camping options near Everett, Washington range from riverside sites to forested retreats with varying levels of amenities. The region sits within the Puget Sound lowlands, where summer temperatures typically remain below 80°F and winters bring consistent rainfall rather than heavy snow at most campgrounds. Tree cover varies from dense forest settings to more open waterfront locations, with elevation changes most pronounced at eastern sites near the Cascade foothills.
What to do
Water recreation access: Kayak Point County Park offers shoreline activities and fishing opportunities from its pier. "During a previous trip in April we saw a whale feeding in the bay. We take our boat and crab," notes camper Russ H.
Mountain hiking trails: Campers use Verlot Campground as a base for nearby mountain exploration. "Situated beside the pristine Sauk River & two miles below the trailhead for Lake Twenty Two," reports Josiah P., highlighting its strategic location for hikers.
River floating: Summer visitors enjoy water activities on the rivers near Monroe. "Shady but fun to float the river! Best in hot times of year due to shade," explains Nicole B. about her experience at Thousand Trails Thunderbird.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing opportunities in both rivers and lakes. One visitor at Kayak Point County Park mentions, "Fishing is good, the scenery is awesome, and it's peaceful," showing why many anglers return to this campsite near Everett.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers value sites with adequate separation. At Verlot Campground, Jason G. notes that despite highway proximity, "my site was very nice, large, and really private from neighbors," highlighting the spaciousness of individual sites.
Year-round cabin options: Flowing Lake Park & Campground receives praise for its cabin accommodations in colder months. "My Questival team stayed at Flowing Lake in cabins in October, and we loved it! Cabin was clean and warm despite chilly weather!" shares Annie K.
Waterfront locations: Campers consistently rate water access highly. "We stayed in a lovely tent spot. The space had plenty of room. A fun lake to play in," writes Lynn K. about her experience at Flowing Lake Park.
Walking trails: Several campgrounds feature on-site trail systems. Tolt MacDonald Park offers "very well maintained" trails according to Mercedes D., who adds that "they even provide you with garden carts to help you get your stuff across the bridge."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Reserve ahead very popular especially during the summer," advises Mindy P. about Flowing Lake Park & Campground, where advance planning is essential.
Highway noise levels: Some campsites experience road noise. At Verlot Campground, a camper notes: "I was shocked by the high score and mostly positive reviews, but then I realized there is probably a huge difference between camping in the spots along the river vs. the ones right next to the highway."
Variable tent conditions: Tent campers should research site conditions carefully. "Tenting areas are 10-15 feet from the road, so very noisy all night long," warns Geoffrey W. about Thousand Trails Thunderbird, adding that "all other tent sites are on a gentle lean."
Winter bathroom access: Off-season campers may find limited facilities. At Kayak Point County Park, Frankie S. reports, "We had to stop in at the park station and ask the person working for the bathroom code" because "the bathrooms were locked due to it being the off season."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Lake Pleasant RV Park offers child-friendly features. "We did not use the bathrooms, but enjoyed the walking trails, playground for the kids, and watching the resident ducks in the pond," shares Nikki R.
Group camping options: Several parks accommodate youth groups. "We camped here with my daughter's American Heritage Girls troop. The site was nice and big. The park had lots for the girls to do and explore," reports Bridget S. about her stay at Flowing Lake Park.
Beach access considerations: Water features vary in quality. At Flowing Lake County Park, Ryan O. cautions, "This place loses a star for the beach access park. The grass is very wet and mushy. The swimming area is also just rock and mud."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local animals at multiple campgrounds. "Douglas squirrels are common and shy," notes Jamie S. about Kayak Point County Park, while Lake Pleasant features numerous waterfowl that captivate young visitors.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: RV campers should research site configurations. Michael S. explains that at Flowing Lake, "Pretty much all the lots are hard pack gravel with no tent pads. Most of the sites are set up that way to accommodate various RV's or tow behinds."
Utility connections: Hook-up options vary significantly between parks. "Has water electric and token showers. No dump spot!" warns Kirby M. about Flowing Lake Park, highlighting the importance of checking sanitation facilities before arrival.
Site spacing: Some RV parks offer better separation than others. At Kayak Point County Park, Brooks S. appreciates that "surprisingly the sites are not on top of each other and there is good privacy between sites," adding that "for those with RVs/Trailers there is no dump station at this park."
Free overnight options: For self-contained units, Tulalip Casino provides no-cost parking. "Great free camping for up to three nights. Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive," advises Adam Y., though he notes "No hook ups and no water available."
