Tent camping near Burien, Washington offers distinct opportunities on both freshwater and saltwater shorelines with an average summer high of 75°F. Many sites require a Northwest Forest Pass for trailhead parking, while boat-in locations demand water transport. Several campgrounds in the region operate on a first-come basis with limited facilities.
What to do
Paddle to island sites: Blake Island Marine State Park requires boat access for its tent sites. One camper noted it has "great hiking! Only accessible by boat" while another recommends to "hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island."
Hike before setup: Lena Lake Campground requires a 3.5-mile hike to reach. A visitor described it as "a nice 3.5 miles ish hike from the parking area to campground. The campsites offers fire rings and has plenty of amazing views of the lake."
Wildlife observation: Bears frequent some areas, particularly at higher elevations. At Mowich Lake Campground, a camper reported "There are bears! Although I didn't see one apparently according to our neighbor he walked right behind me."
Water recreation: Many sites offer swimming access. Temperature variations can be significant, with one Mowich Lake visitor noting "the water is so clear and beautiful! Definitely nice to have the lake close by to jump in on a hot day!"
What campers like
Escape despite proximity: Hollyhock Farm offers seclusion despite being near urban areas. A visitor described the sites as "secluded from one another within a beautiful forest, the toilet was clean and fairly close to the sites, parking was easy."
Level tent platforms: Several campgrounds provide raised platforms for tents. At Mowich Lake, a camper noted "Each spot had a raised platform for your tent, bear box, and picnic table."
Weekday tranquility: Visiting on non-peak days provides a different experience. A Lena Lake visitor shared "There was plenty of room during the week when I was there. Lena Lake is quiet and serene and the perfect place to sit on a log and journal."
Cold weather preparation: Even summer camping requires warm gear at some locations. A Mowich Lake camper advised "Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be."
What you should know
Varying road conditions: Access roads to several tent sites near Burien require caution. A visitor to Green Mountain described it as "Very close to Bremerton, Silverdale, Kitsap county. Has about 5 tent spots with picnic tables and fire pit."
Bear safety precautions: Bear boxes are provided at some locations. A Mowich Lake camper mentioned the campground has "bear boxes, trash cans and pit toilets all good things."
Water supply limitations: Most sites lack drinking water. Green Mountain "Had a bathroom but no other amenities- drinking water, shower, firewood/ice for sale."
Strict quiet hours: Noise regulations are enforced at several campgrounds. A Blake Island visitor cautioned "Very strict rangers which can be good or bad depending on your preference. Quiet hours are at 10pm which is early for some people."
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities for children: Paine Field Community Park offers family-friendly facilities. A visitor reported "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!"
Environmental education: Several sites provide nature learning opportunities. Paine Field was described as "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature."
Trail difficulty considerations: Choose appropriate hikes based on child abilities. A Lena Lake visitor recommended it "for beginner and intermediate hikers as a potential introduction to the Olympic peninsula."
Weather preparedness: Tent camping with families requires appropriate gear. At Mowich Lake, a visitor noted "it definitely gets cold up there even in mid August so pack warm!"
Tips from RVers
Small RV accessibility: Some tent-focused sites can accommodate compact RVs. At Woodlands at Lake Stickney, visitors noted owners "took a lot of care in making sure we were comfortable while also giving us our privacy and space."
Dispersed options: Areas near established campgrounds sometimes offer alternative parking. Near Green Mountain, one visitor mentioned "Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads."
Private property considerations: Some tent camping options near Burien are on residential land. A Lake Stickney visitor remarked "It was my first time camping on a private residential property. I've grown so used to sites like KOA that it was strange to have friendly owners serving us rather than paid staff."
