Millersylvania State Park Campground sits about 10 miles north of Bucoda, Washington, in an area known for its old-growth forests and numerous freshwater lakes. The campgrounds near Bucoda operate in a region with mild, rainy winters and dry summers where temperatures typically range from 35°F to 80°F. Many sites offer year-round camping options despite the region receiving approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall, primarily between November and April.
What to do
Hiking through old-growth forests: Millersylvania State Park features several miles of well-maintained trails that wind through centuries-old trees. "Beautiful campsite, amazing trails just no cell service," notes one camper at Millersylvania State Park Campground.
Fishing for trout and bass: The lakes around Bucoda provide excellent fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months. At Ike Kinswa State Park Campground, situated on Mayfield Lake, visitors report great fishing conditions. "We've been coming back again and only damper to this year was the dam in Tacoma was partially drained causing a 'low tide' which exposed the dirt and poor beach area... usually when water is at normal level the beach is all sand and water is clean and clear," explains a visitor to Alder Lake.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Many campgrounds in the area offer access to calm lakes perfect for paddling. "We were able to beach our boat right in front of our spot. Our spot was very quiet, some of the upper level spots seem close to highway," reports a camper at Mayfield Lake Park.
What campers like
Private, wooded camping sites: Many glamping areas near Bucoda feature nicely separated sites. "The sites are large, shaded and quiet. Many are pull through. If you want a water view you will find full hook up does inn loop A, or no hook up sites on loop C," shares a visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in this region maintain high cleanliness standards. "The campground is heavily wooded which is really nice for shade, though it can make it tricky to get into a spot if you have slide outs," notes a visitor to Ike Kinswa State Park Campground.
Lake swimming areas: Most parks around Bucoda feature designated swimming spots. "There is a large swimming area, hiking trails, playgrounds, boating, fishing just to name a few," mentions a reviewer at Mayfield Lake Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality issues: Some parks occasionally experience water quality concerns. "I did encounter a slight concern with using this bathhouse because there was a current e coli water warning which was displayed throughout camp on all water spigots," reports a visitor to Lewis & Clark State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Many glamping sites near Bucoda have spotty connectivity. According to a visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground, "We had decent service for Verizon. There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake, which is not far from the campground."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Can hear HWY 12 at night time. During the day there was heavy machinery running VERY close to the upper loop, maybe expect construction noise this summer?" notes a camper at Mayfield Lake Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. "My kids loved the addition of a playground. Many parks dont have this and it kept them entertained for hours," writes a visitor to Seaquest State Park Campground.
Junior Ranger programs: Some parks offer educational activities. "At night the campground had a great Junior Ranger program with a very enthusiastic park ranger that kept the almost 50 people/kids entertained. She was great at engaging all the kids and teaching them about the park," mentions a camper at Seaquest State Park.
Swimming safety: Lakes in the area have varying swimming conditions. "Alder lake is a great spot for both swim play and boating. The lake has a blocked off no wake area for those that wish to have swim fun and the rest of the lake is for small motorized water craft," explains a visitor to Alder Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra preparation. "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up. The thin layer of mud on the pavement made things quite slick as I was trying to get leveling blocks down," shares a visitor to Lewis & Clark State Park Campground.
Power limitations: Electrical capacity varies between campgrounds. "They advertise 30A service, but the grid cannot handle it. Breakers flip often, especially in the colder months when campers are trying to stay warm," warns a reviewer at Olympia Campground.
Dump station logistics: Not all sites offer sewer hookups. "The site had water and electrical, but no sewer connections. They do have a nice dump station," notes a camper at Riverbend Campground.
