Best Campgrounds near Bothell, WA
Bothell, Washington provides a mix of developed campgrounds and RV parks within a 30-mile radius, with options ranging from lakeside settings to forested retreats. Lake Pleasant RV Park offers year-round camping directly in Bothell with full hookups and a central duck pond, while Tolt MacDonald Park in nearby Carnation features tent sites, RV spaces, cabins, and yurts along the Tolt River. The region's campgrounds typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several locations also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more sheltered accommodations.
Road access to most campgrounds near Bothell remains reliable throughout the year, though seasonal considerations affect site availability and conditions. Many campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations, but experience significantly higher demand during summer months. "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," noted one Lake Pleasant RV Park visitor. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend camping between May and September, particularly for sites with water views or electrical hookups. Most developed campgrounds provide water and restroom facilities, though amenities vary considerably between locations.
Campers frequently mention the convenient proximity to urban amenities while still enjoying natural settings. Several visitors highlighted the balance of accessibility and natural beauty, with one camper describing Tolt MacDonald Park as having "easy access to UW Bothell" while providing a peaceful environment. The campgrounds near Bothell serve as practical basecamps for exploring the greater Seattle area while avoiding city accommodations. Water features represent a common element in the region's most highly-rated campgrounds, with ponds, rivers, and lakes enhancing the camping experience. Public lands with more primitive camping options can be found farther east toward the Cascade Mountains, providing alternatives to the more developed campground options closer to Bothell.