Anderson Island, located in the South Puget Sound, sits approximately 8 miles from mainland Washington with an elevation range of 0-200 feet. The island's tent camping options primarily require water transportation, as there are no developed campgrounds directly on Anderson Island itself. Camping conditions in this region feature moderate temperatures ranging from 45-75°F during peak season (May-September), with summer nights cooling significantly due to water proximity.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Blake Island Marine State Park: This boat-accessible park offers prime wildlife viewing opportunities along its perimeter trail. "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island. It's a great place to stay in the summer months and relax," notes Christi R. about Blake Island Marine State Park Campground, which is accessible by boat from Seattle.
Clam digging at Hope Island: When visiting Hope Island Marine State Park, seasonal clamming provides a rewarding activity. Rich M. explains, "Hope Island is one of my favorite places. It is located in the Puget Sound just North of Steamboat Island. It has 2 miles of hiking trails and 8 primitive campsites." The island requires short water transportation, typically by kayak from nearby launch points.
Hiking near tent sites at Lena Lake: For tent campers willing to travel slightly further from Anderson Island, Lena Lake Campground offers exceptional hiking opportunities with lake access. "A gorgeous 3.5 mile hike through a forest, plenty of places to rest or to pull over and take pictures. There are camp sites scattered along the lake as well," shares Camiren R. about this popular tent camping destination.
What campers like
Limited crowds at boat-in sites: The water barrier around island camping areas naturally creates a more exclusive camping experience. "Boat-in sites are first-come, first serve so we did not arrive early enough to snatch the few that are right on the water but nonetheless the ones tucked in the forest were still beautiful and only a few steps from the water," notes Rich M. about his experience at Hope Island Marine State Park Campground.
Temperature moderation from water proximity: The Puget Sound water creates comfortable sleeping conditions even during warm summer days. Julia S. observed at Blake Island Marine State Park, "In summer there is generally a burn ban and if you don't have a shaded spot, the heat can be pretty punishing but the temps go way down at night and you'll have a great breeze off of the water."
Secluded tent options at Macie's Brook: For tent campers seeking more privacy near Anderson Island, Macie's Brook offers just three tent sites with boat-in, hike-in, and walk-in access. Jake C. notes, "Macie's Brook has a great spot for those looking to setup their tents in an awesome spot."
What you should know
Limited water transportation options: Reaching most tent camping destinations near Anderson Island requires personal watercraft. For Hope Island, Rich M. advises, "To access take Hwy 101 to Taylor Town and drive out to Arcadia Point. There is a gravel parking lot. Kayak the short jont east to the island. Note that there isn't a spot to launch your kayak from Steamboat Island."
Varying bathroom facilities: Toilet facilities at these marine campsites range from vault toilets to none at all. At Mowich Lake Campground, Laura F. notes, "There are 10 spots, first come first serve, they are arranged in a circle above the day use parking lot. You will have to carry your gear up you cannot park next to your site, no fires allowed."
Seasonal fire restrictions: Summer fire bans are common throughout the Puget Sound region. At Blake Island, Julia S. mentions, "In summer there is generally a burn ban and if you don't have a shaded spot, the heat can be pretty punishing."
Tips for camping with families
Animal interaction opportunities: Families looking for unique experiences near Anderson Island might consider The Healing Farm, where Rebecca A. reports, "This was one of the best camping experiences I have ever had. The kids was in Awh with all the animals and how they would let you walk up to them and interact with them. The goats were awesome, they would spend all day out at our camp."
Group-friendly tent sites: For larger family gatherings requiring multiple tent sites, Camp Thunderbird provides suitable accommodations. Rich M. explains, "Camp Thunderbird is owned by the Boy Scouts of America and is available for public use. It is located at the base of Summit Lake, with a dock and great swimming spot. There are tent sites, adirondacks, and cabins."
Weather preparation essential: Families should pack for significant temperature variations. When tent camping at Mowich Lake, Kasey advises, "Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be."
Tips from RVers
Dispersed options beyond the islands: For RVers seeking alternatives to tent camping on Anderson Island, NF-2419 Dispersed Site provides free camping options. Trevor M. notes, "Found a few great spots that we pinned for later that are unmarked with fire rings. Not many other campers' sites are well dispersed."
Access challenges for larger rigs: Most camping near Anderson Island presents difficulties for RVs. At Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead, Margaret G. cautions, "They wrote it on barely white enough for two vehicles to safely pass each other. Not suitable for anything wider than a class B."
Limited hookup availability: RV campers should prepare for dry camping when visiting this region. Trevor M. advises about NF-2419, "Bring in water and plenty of fire wood."
