RV campgrounds near Clinton, Washington provide access to Whidbey Island's coastal environment at elevations ranging from sea level to 500 feet. The region experiences mild maritime climate with summer temperatures averaging 70°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with heaviest occupancy from June through September when ferry wait times can exceed two hours.
What to do
River fishing opportunities: At Thousand Trails Thunderbird in Monroe, visitors can enjoy fishing along the Skykomish River. "Along the river you see fly fishing its amazing," notes one camper. The campground is located directly on the riverbank, providing easy water access.
Beach walking: Campgrounds like Port Ludlow RV Park offer access to shoreline trails and beaches. A visitor shared: "A quiet beautiful area great for camping with the family and enjoying wilderness." The park connects to waterfront areas where campers can observe marine wildlife.
Historic exploration: Point Hudson Marina & RV Park in Port Townsend puts campers within walking distance of cultural sites. "Port Townsend is one of our favorite locations... It is an easy walk or bike ride to coffee shops, beach, State Park, etc." The waterfront location provides direct access to the historic district with buildings dating to the 1800s.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Port Ludlow RV Park offers sites tucked among trees. "Simple campground with no real Amenities but the setting is fantastic with a lay out that lets you feel like you've got your privacy in the woods," reports a reviewer. Sites are arranged to maximize separation despite the relatively small campground footprint.
Water views: Many campers appreciate waterfront locations when visiting Clinton area RV parks. "This place is a gem... Where this place shines is in its location with beautiful views across the mouth of Puget Sound to Whidbey Island, the Cascades beyond, as well as Point Wilson Lighthouse nearby at Fort Worden," writes one visitor about Point Hudson.
Clean facilities: Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. "The facilities and grounds are clean and well cared for. I stayed for almost three weeks and it was quiet and relaxing, despite how close together the sites are," explains a camper. The park recently upgraded its facilities including adding a new fitness center.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Clinton area RV parks require advance booking, especially during summer. Port Hudson Marina advises: "We have stayed here 4 or 5 times in the past... Easy weekend getaway. Restaurants, shops, marina, history, all within walking distance. Friendly staff, level sites."
Hookup limitations: Several campgrounds offer partial hookups only. At Tall Chief Campground, "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it... The staff are always super nice and helpful." Alternative waste management options include pump-out services or on-site dump stations.
Cell service variability: Coverage fluctuates significantly between campgrounds. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it," advises a Tall Chief camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some RV parks near Clinton offer child-friendly facilities. Tall Chief Campground includes recreational amenities as noted by a reviewer: "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy."
Water activities: Lake Ki RV Resort offers lakefront recreation options. "This resort was very clean and was easy for our first night in the RV. The lake was pretty, so all in all felt this was perfect," mentions a visitor. Families can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating directly from the campground.
Budget considerations: Campground costs vary significantly across the Clinton area. "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All Hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station," reports one Tall Chief camper, noting the value for extended stays compared to other parks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Many Clinton area RV campgrounds have varying site qualities. "The spaces are very close together, but there are a lot of trees and it's very well kept," notes a Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor visitor. Experienced RVers recommend requesting sites away from main roads for reduced noise.
Electrical capacity: Power limitations exist at several campgrounds. One Tall Chief visitor observed: "Knocking another star as the majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts. There are a few 50 amp sites but from what I saw they were all taken by RVers that are there on a more permanent basis."
Nearby provisioning: Clinton area RV parks offer varying access to supplies. Lake Pleasant RV Park provides convenient shopping options: "The park is across the street from a Safeway which was very convenient. Also very close to some excellent restaurants in Bothell. They offer propane for sale on site and their laundry room is very well kept and only $1 each for the washer and dryer!"
