Best Campgrounds near Bainbridge Island, WA

Campgrounds around Bainbridge Island feature a mix of waterfront and wooded settings with views of Puget Sound. Fay Bainbridge Park provides tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with beach access and mountain views on clear days. Within a short drive, Manchester State Park and Kitsap Memorial State Park offer additional camping options with varying levels of privacy and amenities. The region includes both year-round facilities and seasonal operations, with most campgrounds providing water and electric hookups for RVs while maintaining tent-friendly areas with fire rings and picnic tables.

Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though availability and conditions vary by season. "The views are to die for. The only downside is the showers were a little dirty and the campspots are pretty close together," noted one visitor about Fay Bainbridge Park. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. Sites with water and electrical hookups tend to be more developed but offer less privacy than tent-only areas. The ferry-accessible location makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for Seattle residents, resulting in higher occupancy rates from late spring through early fall. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though some campgrounds have limited or no sewer hookup facilities.

Waterfront views rank consistently high in visitor reviews, with campers noting the spectacular vistas of Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and passing ships on Puget Sound. A recent review described Fay Bainbridge as having "stunning views and beach. The beach is beautiful, rocky and sandy - love the PNW beaches." Sites closer to the water tend to be more exposed with less privacy between neighbors, while wooded tent sites often provide more seclusion. Many campgrounds feature family-friendly amenities including playgrounds, beach access, and volleyball courts. The proximity to town allows campers to easily access supplies while maintaining a natural setting. Common concerns in reviews include tight spacing between sites, bathroom cleanliness, and summer crowds, though most visitors rate their overall experience positively due to the exceptional water views and beach access.

Best Camping Sites Near Bainbridge Island, Washington (271)

    1. Fay Bainbridge Park

    22 Reviews
    Bainbridge Island, WA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (206) 842-3931

    $7 - $95 / night

    "Great spot on the edge of bainbridge. Lots of spots depending on your preferred privacy level."

    "This is a small state park on Bainbridge Island with rocky beaches of Peget Sound. Sites are fairly close and bathrooms are typical of older state parks. Lots of space to fly kites and walk."

    2. Manchester State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Manchester, WA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 871-4065

    $50 / night

    "This CG is a hidden jewel located on the east side of Bainbridge island on beautiful rich passage. like many sites on the Puget Sound this was first used as a military base for the US Navy to guard the"

    "Nice wooded campground with access to the water. Plenty of opportunities for day hikes and not far from port orchard Washington. Some sites have hookups and others are dry camping."

    3. Dosewallips State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Brinnon, WA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 796-4415

    $12 - $50 / night

    "The grounds are well-maintained with easy access to some hiking trails that are easy to moderate in difficulty."

    "Dump station close by worked great on exit. Wooded with ferns. Rain was nice to enjoy through the windows."

    4. Dash Point State Park Campground

    72 Reviews
    Federal Way, WA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $20 / night

    ""Firstly, I just have to say what a positive and amazing experience I had at this campground. The volunteers were friendly, kind and absolutely awesome to interact with."

    "The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Ours had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table."

    5. Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Poulsbo, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 779-3205

    "There is a big field to play ride bikes walk dog etc . The beach is really nice and nearby and at low tide is so peaceful to take a walk. There’s group activities too which is great for the kids."

    "Very quiet area, lots of room on site 9, walked to beach area. Bathrooms for camping have code, cleaned frequently. 5G service was fast. Very nice place."

    6. Scenic Beach State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Seabeck, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 830-5079

    "Big spaces for tents tucked away from other campers. The beach is a short walk away. Real flushing toilets no porta potties. RV dump station only $5."

    "Easily accessible water and easy access to the beach. We got a bit lost while walking the trails to the beach. More signs would be nice for fool's like us."

    7. Seal Rock Campground

    20 Reviews
    Brinnon, WA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 765-2200

    $18 / night

    "Seal Rock campground is on the Hood canal side of the Olympic peninsula in Washington state. It's actually the second time we camped there, this time on July 3rd and 4th."

    "Seal Rock Campground is a nice quiet place tucked away just out side of Brinnon WA. All of the sites are dispersed in a nice forested area which lends for good privacy."

    8. Illahee State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Manchester, WA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 478-6460

    $20 - $37 / night

    "Great place to walk around and enjoy what the deep green that is Washington state."

    "The hiking around here is amazing and theres so many different things to do here. It’s close to the water, too which is really neat."

    9. Lake Pleasant RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Bothell, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 487-1785

    $62 - $750 / night

    "This is the nicest park with the best rates close to the Seattle area. It’s north of Lake Washington so you can skip bridge traffic and tolls. It has easy access to UW Bothell."

    "The roadways are easy to navigate and lots of folks walk around the park roads."

    10. Blake Island Marine State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Manchester, WA
    7 miles
    Website

    $12 - $45 / night

    "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island. It's a great place to stay in the summer months and relax."

    "Really fantastic location. Very strict rangers which can be good or bad depending on your preference. Quiet hours are at 10pm which is early for some people so be aware."

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Recent Reviews near Bainbridge Island, WA

1277 Reviews of 271 Bainbridge Island Campgrounds


  • Nicole L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Woodlands at Lake Stickney

    BEAUTIFUL LOCATION

    I myself have never parked my RV at the campsite. However, I've been to the public Access area and have to say that it's very peaceful and has a restroom which is nice. I'm a local. I live inside my RV and it has been a major adjustment but having places like this has been extremely helpful.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Top of the Hill camping

    Top of the hill camping

    This is actually a really secluded, pivate location with a beautiful view! The road is fairly easy to get up to this spot but really just room for one vehicle. I guess the last people used it as the dumb spot when they were leaving because there’s a grill and a TV screen there… we did not stay and camp here, but we did check it out and if we didn’t have a trailer, I would definitely have claimed the spot!

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    FR27 Landing

    fr27 landing

    Great large flat spot for camping. Could easily fit about 5 cars here. About 4 fire rings set up and the road is pretty easy getting here.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    NF-27 Tunnel Creek

    Pull through site

    This is a great spot to stay for a bit if you’re looking to do that OR just stay for a night. It’s like, a big circle that you pull in and out of. There’s a trail from this site that leads to a great tint site as well. Plenty of space if you have a decent sized group. Easily accommodating 3 cars. We have plenty of space with our rig. Star link works great here!

  • Eun Ji L.
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Big Creek Campground

    I'm an avid camper - this was THE WORST experience ever.

    I'm an avid camper, and the experience I had at this campground with the host was ABSOLUTELY THE WORST ever. We arrived at the campground early to find the best spot as we were planning to take some outdoor wedding photos at the campsite the day after. It was not a busy season, so there were only a couple of sites occupied. We carefully selected a spot, paid for it, and posted the receipt on the site clip. I took a photo of both the envelope and the receipt clipped at the site. 

    After exploring the national park, we arrived at the campground at around 9pm. Most of the campsites were still unoccupied. To our surprise, when we arrived at our reserved spot, there was a group of people who took our campsite! They already put up their tent and a canopy as well. When I checked the pole where I clipped the receipt, it was GONE & REPLACED by someone else's!! When I talked to those people who took our campsite, there were already drunk and were at the verge of becoming hostile. But they did tell us that the host "allowed" them to take the spot. 

    Right then and there, we went to the host and explained the situation, and the host said (1) we never paid and that (2) there was no receipt clipped at the site. When I told him that that wasn't true, he proceeded to tell me that the information I wrote on the clip let him know that we were checking out today. So, for a second, I thought maybe I wrote either the# of nights spent or check-out date incorrectly. But then, I remembered I took pictures of both the envelope and the receipt!! I showed the photos to him, then, of course, he could not lie his way out of this. 

    There was no apology, and he simply proceeded to tell us to sleep at one of the other available campsites. We were super furious because we had NEVER experienced this kind of rudeness, lies, and brazen behavior. As anyone can imagine, we did not want to spend another second there, so we demanded a refund, and "MIRACULOUSLY", the envelope (still glued) with our payment was found in his RV. 

    I'm reporting the host to the US Forest Service.

  • alexandrea L.
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Penrose Point State Park Campground

    Beautiful

    The beach is beautiful here! And the campsites are very secluded! There are tons of trees and bushes in between everybody’s campsite

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Dungeness Recreation Area

    Nicely treed park.

    Spectacular views and walking on the beach and the spit. We were able to drive in and reserve a spot on the fly. Free hot showers. RV dump site for a $10 fee, $40 for a site per nite. We were ok with that as we have been paying $12 in the cascades.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    RV@Olympic

    Brand New

    If you want crisp, clean and new this is a park for you. We choose it for access to Hurricane Ridge. 15min to park entrance, 45 to the ridge. The spots are wide and you can park next to your coach. The clubhouse is nice and new. I did not make it to the bathhouse or laundry but I’m sure they are nice. Someone commented about walking dogs but I did not have a problem. There is a big grassy area in a circle of sites. If you have a dog, get one of these. I just walked through several vacant sites to the area. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but I did. Nice place for access to the northern part of Olympic.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Lewis North Travel Camp - Joint Base Lewis McChord

    Easy

    If you have access, use it. $50 for FHU. The laundry is fine. The bathhouse is big and well maintained. There are two separate buildings with these facilities. I observed Commons#2. The park is kid of tight for my tastes. But the sites are big and separated from your neighbors. Very comfortable and woodsy. Great place.


Guide to Bainbridge Island

Camping near Bainbridge Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Dash Point State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs."
  • Beach Activities: Enjoy the sandy shores at Fay Bainbridge Park. A visitor shared, "The beach is beautiful, rocky and sandy - love the PNW beaches."
  • Fishing: Try your luck at Penrose Point State Park Campground. One camper noted, "We caught a bunch of little trout (catch and release) with the kids."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Dosewallips State Park Campground. A reviewer stated, "Super clean bathrooms and showers."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. One visitor mentioned, "The campground is nice and clean... the sites are decent size and mostly private."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground is noted for its welcoming vibe. A camper said, "The camp was pretty quiet by 9 pm every evening."

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and open spaces, like Tolt MacDonald Park. A camper mentioned, "There is a playground for kids in the park."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for lively environments, especially during peak seasons. One parent noted about Fay Bainbridge Park, "The campground was loud BUT it was full of happy campers."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along snacks and drinks, as some campgrounds may not have nearby markets. A visitor at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park appreciated its proximity to a Safeway.

Tips from RVers:

Camping around Bainbridge Island has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to check the campground details and reviews to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor getaway!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds on Bainbridge Island?

The primary campground on Bainbridge Island is Fay Bainbridge Park, located on the northeastern edge of the island with direct beach access on Puget Sound. This public park offers camping spots with varying privacy levels and is situated far enough from the main area of Bainbridge to provide a quiet atmosphere while still being a quick drive to town amenities. While Bainbridge Island itself has limited camping options, this waterfront park serves as the island's main camping destination with beautiful views of the Sound and recreational facilities.

What amenities are available at Bainbridge Island campgrounds?

Bainbridge Island camping facilities offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. At Fay Bainbridge Park, you'll find relatively clean bathrooms, volleyball courts, a covered recreation area, and children's playground equipment. The park features direct beach access for water activities and ample open space for flying kites and walking. Nearby, Dosewallips State Park Campground provides well-maintained grounds with easy access to hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. Both locations offer a mix of natural beauty and practical facilities to support comfortable camping experiences.

Do I need reservations for camping on Bainbridge Island?

Reservations are highly recommended for camping on Bainbridge Island, especially during the peak summer season when limited camping spots fill quickly. For the island's main camping option at Fay Bainbridge Park, securing a reservation in advance will ensure you have a spot, particularly on weekends and holidays. Nearby alternatives like Fort Worden Historical State Park and Dash Point State Park Campground also operate on reservation systems. The popularity of these Puget Sound camping destinations, combined with their limited capacity, makes advance planning essential for a successful camping trip in the Bainbridge Island area.

What camping options are available near Bainbridge Island?

Several excellent camping options surround Bainbridge Island within a short drive or ferry ride. Manchester State Park Campground is a hidden gem on the east side of the Kitsap Peninsula overlooking Rich Passage with historic military structures. Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground near Poulsbo offers drive-in and walk-in sites with water and toilet facilities. For RV travelers, Cedar Glen RV Park provides well-maintained, level gravel sites with grassy areas and some with patio pads, plus a dedicated dog walking area.