The Conway area provides campers with a variety of RV campgrounds in northwest Washington, with sites situated along rivers, lakeshores, and coastal areas. Located in Skagit County between Mount Vernon and Stanwood, this region experiences mild summers with average temperatures between 65-75°F and wet winters with 40-50 inches of annual rainfall. Most campgrounds remain muddy from late fall through early spring, particularly in unpaved areas.
What to do
Beach exploration near La Conner: Thousand Trails La Conner offers water access with scenic sunset spots. "The walks to 'Lone Tree' at sunset are amazing. The hosts are ALWAYS so friendly!" notes kimberly W., who visits regularly.
Naval aircraft viewing: When staying at Cliffside RV Park - Military on Whidbey Island, you'll experience military aircraft overhead. "Air force planes fly right above so it can be noisy (but also exciting) when they are flying by," explains Emma A. The park requires military ID for entry but rewards visitors with unique aviation displays.
Lakefront water activities: Cedar Grove Shores RV Park provides direct lake access for swimming and small watercraft. "RV Park for all size trailers... near a small gas station called The Lake Goodwin Store and a Restaurant Pub called The Paddle Pub that has a Cafe next door which sells espresso, icecream and pastries," reports Natalie W.
What campers like
Private creek settings: Friday Creek Campground offers waterfront sites with natural features. Danielle M. appreciates that her site has a "Creek in the backyard, nice and secluded. Do have to bring tote up to location. Great showers."
Convenient location for ferry access: Campers appreciate the proximity to transportation connections. Kate K. notes that Friday Creek Campground offers "benefits of this spot are the facilities and the 15 minute drive to the ferry terminal. Super conveneient. Only open May-Oct!"
Well-maintained grounds: Thousand Trails Mount Vernon earns praise for its spacious layout. "All the power poles, water, sewer hookups all look in good order. A few sites are reserved with a permanent sign, for RV's larger than 35' which is nice," according to Linda O., who stayed for an extended period.
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Several campgrounds face water management challenges. At Thousand Trails La Conner, infrastructure problems can occur: "June 2023 dump stations and all campsite sewer hookups are down for maintenance. Nearest offsite dumps are 10 miles away," warns John M.
Maintenance concerns: Some campgrounds show signs of neglect. Michael G. observes, "I counted more than a dozen closed sites. Some of these sites had been closed for a long time. Potholes and ruts in the road made travel unpleasant but the pools of water (and mud) really stood out" at Thousand Trails La Conner.
Site conditions vary: Privacy levels differ across parks. At Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, "There are some sites that are leased and a few of those are in a very neglected state. Most sites have a lot of pine trees so are very shaded," according to Linda O.
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly amenities: North Whidbey RV Park offers both RV spots and cabin rentals. One camper reports, "We spent the weekend here with my sister and her family who rented one of the cabins at the RV Park. The cabin was very simple, clean and had a well-stocked kitchen."
Find less crowded hiking trails: Families can discover quieter outdoor experiences. At North Whidbey RV Park, a camper shares: "If you venture right (directionally) out of the driveway from the RV Park, you'll find the Cornet Bay side of the state park that offers quieter, lesser crowded trails and a different view of the bridge."
Consider resort-style options: Town and Country Motorcoach and RV Resort offers upscale amenities. Travis H. notes, "Very friendly host and security guard met us on our arrival. Place is brand new. Facility is more like a 3 or 4 star hotel. First time I was ever given a cookie at check in or where there were massage rooms available in the spa."
Tips from RVers
Check campground rules carefully: Riverfront RV Park has specific policies. "They are very rule oriented so read the rules," warns Phyllis K. about the Mount Vernon campground area. Gate closure times and check-in procedures can vary significantly between parks.
Verify site leveling before arrival: RV sites can be challenging in older parks. At North Whidbey RV Park, a camper notes they were "in RV spot C-22 and it was quite a tight and unlevel location. The pavement on the grounds is not in great condition with lots of bumps and ditches."
Consider connectivity needs: Campgrounds in the Conway area vary widely in internet access. At Mount Vernon RV Campground, one camper warns: "If you need wifi to plan your next days this location is not for you. Wifi available at the lodge only and very slow."
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