Glamping in Arlington, Washington offers camping experiences in canvas yurts and safari-style accommodations throughout Snohomish County. Located 40 miles north of Seattle, this area features the confluence of the north and south forks of the Stillaguamish River with terrain varying from 300 feet to nearby forested foothills. Winter temperatures average 35-45°F, while summer months see 70-80°F conditions ideal for riverside camping.
What to do
Explore military history: Fort Casey State Park houses historical military installations with easy access from campsites. "There is some noise here from the Coupeville-Port Townsend ferry that docks here but it is only every 1.5 hours during the low season. We like to watch the ferries and they don't make that much noise," notes Judy T., who also mentions the "beaches to walk on and views of several Cascades peaks and the Olympic Range."
Enjoy water activities: Wenberg County Park provides lake access with amenities for swimmers and boaters during summer months. According to a reviewer, "The day use area, fishing dock and boating areas are phenomenal! Reserveable day use shelters, lots of picnic tables and BBQs for all. Also lots of open grassy/park areas that are great for games, picnic, etc."
Wildlife viewing: At Paca Pride Guest Ranch, visitors can combine glamping with farm animal interactions. Nicole B. shares her experience: "Camped on a yurt tent pad here and it was awesome. Alpacas and other animals. Mellow and fun!"
What campers like
Private forest settings: Campers at Kayak Point County Park appreciate the natural surroundings. Jake G. notes, "When you want to get away from it all, but don't want to travel far from the city, THIS is the spot. Spacious campsites. Running water. Flushing toilets. Showers. A tranquil Puget Sound experience."
Beach access: Camano Island State Park combines forest camping with shoreline. According to Bridget S., "We had 22 girls and there was plenty of room. This is a huge group site. Has running water, a couple fire pits and a bunch of picnic tables. These are lots of level spots to pitch tents."
Shelter options: Seasonal glamping near Arlington provides protection from weather while maintaining outdoor access. Brooks S. describes Kayak Point: "This is a great campground, it only has one loop of camping and it's a small county park, but surprisingly the sites are not on top of each other and there is good privacy between sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Arlington glamping sites require advance booking. Linda C. shares her River Meadows Park experience: "There was only one site available when I was looking for a site (looking in June for August trip). Coming to the campground, I saw that at least 2 sites were unoccupied, so people didn't show up."
Military access restrictions: Some exceptional glamping facilities have limited access. Christina F. explains about Jim Creek Wilderness Recreation Area: "Jim Creek is a Naval Radio station and is for active duty military, retired, DoD, and reserves. There is a gate and you must show id to get in. Because of this and the base police roll through once or twice a day, I felt very safe compared to a state park."
Seasonal closures: Facilities may operate differently during off-season months. One camper at Fort Casey noted, "Full hook up sites are available for more. There are flush toilets and potable water. The only faucet operating currently is the pump spigot as others were shut off due to frost."
Tips for camping with families
River swimming spots: Deception Pass State Park offers family-friendly water access. Travis D. explains, "There are trails everywhere from the campsites, but most importantly down to the beach and Cranberry Lake. I must say it's quite amazing to sleep amongst the tall trees of the forest and then meander down to the beach to play! Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos."
Campground facilities: Bathrooms and showers vary across sites. Mindy P. comments on River Meadows Park: "Great little campground if you want to head to the river! Short walk to beach on river. Great river floating, swimming etc. Some trails and a huge open field for play!"
Recreation rentals: Some locations offer equipment for family activities. Jesse C. shares his Jim Creek experience: "If your military or retired this hidden gem is a must do on the list. From its hiking trails through its old growth forest, to its beautiful lake, Jim Creek has something for everyone!"
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Greenstone Farm Camping offers larger sites for RVs with mountain views. Mark Q. noted, "We stayed here two week and loved it. Host was very friendly and accommodating. The grounds are well kept. Nice fire pit and Beer Garden area and a great view with mountains and trees surrounding you."
Hookup availability: RV sites vary in amenities across Arlington area campgrounds. Jamie S. explains at Kayak Point, "All campsites are surrounded by trees so choose carefully if you need a pull through or if you have a large rig that you're trying to back up. We had a small camper van and it fit perfectly. Water and 30 amp electric at all sites except one tent site."
Noise considerations: Military installations may create periodic noise. One Fort Casey camper warned, "This is near a major Naval Air Force base in Oak Harbor. Apparently a few new squadrons were brought in a few years ago. For over two hours, we were treated to intermittent but frequent LOUD jets flying close to the ground."
