Best Campgrounds near Wauna, WA

Puget Sound waterfront camping dominates the landscape around Wauna, Washington, with multiple state parks offering shoreline access. Notable options include Penrose Point State Park and Dash Point State Park, both providing a mix of tent and RV camping in forested settings near saltwater beaches. Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor represents one of the few private RV resorts in the region, offering full hookups and amenities like laundry facilities. Most campgrounds in the Wauna area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several also offering cabin or glamping options for those seeking additional comfort.

Campground access generally remains consistent year-round, though seasonal considerations affect amenities and availability. Most state parks in the region operate throughout the year, but some amenities may be limited during winter months. "The campground is quiet, except for the nearby construction. The staff is super friendly and accommodating," noted one visitor to Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor. Reservation requirements vary by location, with most established campgrounds requiring advance booking, especially during summer weekends. Joemma Beach State Park represents one of the few dispersed camping options in the area but is only open from March through October. Weather in the Puget Sound region can bring significant rainfall during fall and winter, making spring and summer the most comfortable camping seasons.

Waterfront views and beach access constitute the primary attractions for campers in the Wauna area. Several visitors highlighted the importance of tide schedules when planning activities. "We had a great time exploring the beaches. Sites were reasonably private and quiet at night," reported one camper at Penrose Point State Park. The tall trees provide ample shade at most campgrounds, with many sites featuring enough coverage to protect from both sun and light rain. Wildlife sightings include seals, various shorebirds, and occasionally raccoons visiting campsites. Campground noise levels generally remain moderate, though holiday weekends can bring increased activity. Tight spacing between sites is common at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, while state parks typically offer more separation between camping areas. Most locations provide clean restroom facilities, though shower availability and water pressure can vary by campground.

Best Camping Sites Near Wauna, Washington (248)

    1. Dash Point State Park Campground

    72 Reviews
    Federal Way, WA
    13 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."

    2. Penrose Point State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $32 / night

    "Pros: group camp is very close to beach front area, GREAT CLAMMING AND OYSTERING!"

    "Penrose Point State Park is a great place close to Seattle to go camping in a small or large group. It's tent or camper friendly with plenty of spots for busier seasons."

    3. Belfair State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Belfair, WA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 275-0668

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Often our first or last trip of the year, due to its proximity to the greater Seattle area.  Most of the folks we meet are from western Washington. "

    "On the water of the Hood Canal, it offered more family activities than many of the parks around. The campground itself is situated close to the water with several loops, tightly packed together."

    4. Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor

    10 Reviews
    Gig Harbor, WA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 858-8138

    $57 - $104 / night

    "Close by stores, trails, parks, harbor. Tacoma across bridge (10 minutes - $6.25 toll)."

    "Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by."

    5. Manchester State Park Campground

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

    $50 / night

    "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."

    "Trails, views, and history in walking distance. Coin operated showers and clean restrooms."

    6. Twanoh State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Tahuya, WA
    14 miles
    Website

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Location was clean, easy to access and feels like a world away from the busy cities close by."

    "This is clean and well-maintained state campground that offers nice access to the southern tip of Hood Canal, although you have to cross Rt. 106 to get to the waterside picnic area and docks, and that"

    7. Dosewallips State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Brinnon, WA
    24 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."

    8. Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 884-1944

    $12 / night

    "We arrived little later around 6 p.m. And being such a nice day there were only few sites left."

    "Conveniently located right next to the bathroom with an area for parking two vehicles. I have AT&T and had good service in this spot."

    9. Jarrell Cove State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 426-9226

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Tucked away remote campsite in a forest next to estuary. Two sites have hookups. Clean restrooms with shower."

    "Site 8 is a pull through and is very large, but not so private as everyone walking to the main dock walks right past your site."

    10. Saltwater State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Des Moines, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 661-4956

    $60 / night

    "My family stayed here for a night when we went out to Washington a few months ago. It was a nice little place."

    "Pay showers ($1 for 3 minutes) and clean restroom with air dryer, pet friendly, lots of trails to hike and a beautiful beach area with a playground, seasonal/weekend snack shop, outdoor shower by the beach"

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Recent Reviews near Wauna, WA

1167 Reviews of 248 Wauna Campgrounds


  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Beautiful grounds, meticulous maintenance

    There aren’t many campgrounds to which I would award six stars out of five, but Elkamp Eastcreek is certainly one of them. Every square inch is meticulously maintained (and that includes the two spacious and sparkling clean restrooms). The campsites are far enough apart that they feel relatively private, and most appear completely level. Trees abound. Dogs are welcome! 

    You couldn’t ask for more courteous and caring hosts than Tom and Brian. They run a classy gift shop with merchandise that includes art, apparel, books, games, gifts and gear.(Plus firewood, ice and propane.) Brian is also the barista at the KampGrounds espresso wagon, and he makes a fabulous mocha. 

    Eatonville is reasonably close, and the Mill Haus Cider Co. is worth the drive. The food is excellent— order the Basque cheesecake if it’s on the menu that day— and the outdoor patio(with a working waterwheel) is stunning. And, of course, you’re only a few miles from the Nisqually Gate of Mt. Rainier National Park, which needs no introduction. If that’s not enough, Tom and Brian will have additional ideas for you. 

    If you don’t happen to have an RV or a tent, you can rent Elkamp’s Airstream by the night. And while I don’t see a link on the website, there’s also a cabin you can rent. 

    What would improve Elkamp? It would be great to have a dump station. Sewer hookups would be even better. But that’s a small inconvenience in exchange for staying at a gorgeous campground just a short drive from the Seattle metro area. 

    We will definitely be back. Probably every year.

  • 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.

  • L
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Vasa Park Resort

    Vasa Park Resort

    We have enjoyed our 3 week stay at this little water front event and RV campground. This is in the shore of Lake Samammish, giving access to swim, paddle, picnic. The facilities and grounds are kept clean and well maintained. It been fun watching the buffet groups come in and have their celebrations. Everyone is friendly and kind.

  • c
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Millersylvania State Park Campground

    Nice but crowded

    We enjoyed our stay at Millersylvania. It’s a beautiful place. We purchased firewood from the Boy Scout troop here for $6/bundle. The only downside for us is that it is really crowded, and a few dogs and some very rude people kept us up until about 1 am.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    NF-2419 Dispersed Pullout

    Large spot in the woods

    My friend and I met here and had plenty of room for my truck, 21' trailer, and a lost woman who we let pull in and sleep. It was so large that we could have added a few more vehicles. The road wasn't bad. There were blackberry plants all over the place. There was, unfortunately, a lot of trash and no Verizon service.

  • T
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Camp Lakeview

    Ball field camping spots

    Overall very nice but you get what you pay for. Limited fire pits and spots are first come first serve and field is not regularly monitored. Bathrooms are portapotties and no shower facilities. Also it is across the road from main campground.

  • Johnny/Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Ok spot

    It’s ok. Again. A little catfished. Was here for two nights. Quiet at night Campground full of kids if that’s your thing! Bathrooms clean and everyone is friendly! It’s beautiful

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground

    Very nice place

    Stayed at Kitsap Memorial Park past few days. 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.

  • Julia B.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Camp Lakeview

    Quiet and cozy

    We stayed at site number C10 A in our tent with our children. It was a larger site that sits next to the small creek. It was very pleasant and quiet. The bath house isn’t too far and was usually well stocked and clean. There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court. A small beach with a large dock was available for use during the day as well as a boat launch and fishing dock. The weekends get very busy but during the weeks it is a cozy little community.


Guide to Wauna

Camping near Wauna, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, 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: At Dosewallips State Park Campground, you can enjoy the beach. A visitor shared, "The beach itself is fairly large with plenty of space to stretch out and let your animals go wild."
  • Fishing: Millersylvania State Park Campground is great for fishing. One camper noted, "The lake was crowded from 11-5/6 but early mornings or late afternoon it really quieted down."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. A reviewer said, "The campground is nice and clean."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Belfair State Park Campground is popular with families. One parent mentioned, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."
  • Privacy: Many campers enjoy the spacious sites at Seal Rock Campground. A visitor remarked, "The campsites are spacious and relatively private, nestled amongst old growth fir trees."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A reviewer at Dosewallips State Park Campground mentioned, "US 101 runs through the park next to the campground, and the logging trucks can be quite loud."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. At Staircase Campground, one camper noted, "There are tons of open spots when we got there for first come first serve, but the nicer bathrooms were closed in the fall."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Fay Bainbridge Park can fill up quickly. A visitor advised, "Probably need to reserve far in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Millersylvania State Park Campground, one parent said, "This is the ultimate family campground. Kids and families on bikes everywhere."
  • Safety First: Choose sites that are away from busy roads. A camper at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park mentioned, "If you have small children or animals, I would not recommend this site for fear of them running into the street."
  • Plan for Rain: Be prepared for wet weather, especially in spring and fall. A visitor at Twanoh State Park Campground noted, "It was pretty wet and muddy so opt for hiking boots over tennis shoes."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dash Point State Park Campground said, "I did not hook up the sewer hose however because the lid was broken."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Belfair State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "We had tents but enjoyed access to water and electricity."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure a good experience for everyone. A visitor at Penrose Point State Park Campground noted, "The rangers cruised by periodically which seemed to help with quiet hours."

Camping near Wauna, Washington, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Wauna, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Wauna, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 248 campgrounds and RV parks near Wauna, WA and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Wauna, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wauna, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 72 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wauna, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Wauna, WA.