Tent camping options near Bothell, Washington extend beyond established campgrounds into secluded wilderness areas within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at low elevation in western Washington's temperate rainforest ecosystem, receiving approximately 37 inches of rainfall annually. Most tent sites in the area remain open year-round, though facilities and availability vary seasonally with optimal camping conditions from June through September.
What to do
Waterfront hiking trails: Blake Island Marine State Park Campground offers a 5-mile perimeter trail with views across Puget Sound. Camper Christi R. notes, "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island. It's a great place to stay in the summer months and relax."
Berry picking: Wallace Falls State Park Campground provides access to wild blackberry patches during summer months. According to camper Josiah P., "If camping in July-August, blackberries abound! I picked enough berries to share with my crew. There is nothing better than perfectly ripe blackberries on a camping trip."
Wildlife viewing: Hollyhock Farm offers forest camping with opportunities to observe local wildlife. Reviewer Rio B. mentions, "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest," making it ideal for quiet nature observation.
Beach exploration: Big Country campground provides walking access to Possession Sound Preserve. Ashley F. notes the site is "secluded yet close to the Possession Sound Preserve," offering beachcombing opportunities.
What campers like
Seclusion with conveniences: Woodlands at Lake Stickney provides tent sites that balance natural settings with nearby amenities. Don L. shares, "It was my first time camping on a private residential property. They took a lot of care in making sure we were comfortable while also giving us our privacy and space."
Family-friendly facilities: Paine Field Community Park receives praise for its amenities suitable for children. Wayne B. describes it as "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature," while Aimee M. adds, "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!"
Casino proximity: Tulalip Casino offers free overnight camping for up to three nights. Adam Y. recommends, "Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive. Very nice friendly security staff. Great place to walk your dog. Many great places to eat and of course the casino."
Marine isolation: Blake Island requires boat access, creating a more exclusive camping experience. Julia S. explains, "Getting here by boat is about an hour from Seattle and there are volunteers that help at the dock. In summer there is generally a burn ban and if you don't have a shaded spot, the heat can be pretty punishing."
What you should know
Burn restrictions: Many Bothell area campgrounds implement fire bans during summer months. At Blake Island, Julia S. warns, "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."
Transportation requirements: Several tent camping locations near Bothell require special access. Sydney A. plainly states about Blake Island: "Beautiful park, great hiking! Only accessible by boat."
Hammock limitations: Traditional tent setups work best at most campgrounds. At Wallace Falls State Park Campground, Samantha J. shares, "We arrived and only had hammocks to camp in and the two walk up sites did not provide trees to manage our hammocks. Therefore we parked in the parking lot near a tree and strung our hammocks from the tree to the car."
Security presence: Overnight parking areas have regular patrols. Cary C. notes about Tulalip Casino, "Security drives by regular," providing safety for tent campers using the free overnight parking area.
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities: Paine Field Community Park offers features specifically designed for children. Aimee M. recommends, "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!"
Wildlife encounters: Paca Pride Guest Ranch provides unique animal interactions for children. Nicole B. shares, "Camped on a yurt tent pad here and it was awesome. Alpacas and other animals. Mellow and fun!"
Waterfall hikes: Wallace Falls State Park Campground features family-friendly trail options. Josiah P. describes, "The hike to Wallace Falls (lower & upper) is moderate & enjoyable. The 'wooded hike' meanders along the Wallace River, which is said to have salmon & steelhead in August."
Quiet hours: Blake Island enforces early quiet hours. Julia S. advises, "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."
Tips from RVers
Pet exercise areas: Tulalip Casino accommodates tent campers with pets. Cary C. notes, "Clean area and pet exercise area," making it suitable for those traveling with animals.
Tent pads vs. parking lots: Some RV areas accommodate tent camping with limitations. Nicole A. cautions about Tulalip Casino, "This is just a parking lot for you to park your RV while gaming. There is a spot for the animals to wee and that is about it."
Residential tent camping: Woodlands at Lake Stickney offers tent sites in a residential setting. Nicole L. explains, "I've been to the public Access area and have to say that it's very peaceful and has a restroom which is nice."
