Best Campgrounds near Federal Way, WA

Camping near Federal Way, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful nature and convenient amenities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Dash Point State Park Campground, have trails where you can hike and spot wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, "Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs."
• Beach Access: Campgrounds such as Penrose Point State Park Campground provide access to beaches. A visitor shared, "The sites are decently spaced with tall trees and ground cover between, trails for hiking and beach walks are clean and easy to navigate."
• Fishing and Kayaking: If you enjoy fishing, Belfair State Park Campground is located right on the Hood Canal, where you can catch oysters and enjoy water activities. One camper noted, "This campground is located right on the hood canal which is filled with oysters beds."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A reviewer at Dosewallips State Park Campground said, "Amazing campgrounds. Super clean bathrooms and showers."
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park mentioned, "The campground is nice and clean. It's 2 loops, a mix of pull-through and back in sites."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Tolt MacDonald Park are great for families. One reviewer said, "Kids and families on bikes everywhere, amphitheater, trails, water, grass fields, the works."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near highways. A visitor at Twanoh State Park Campground noted, "We had a nice view of the water from our site but were exposed to the wind and could hear traffic noise all day."
• Reservation Recommendations: Popular spots fill up quickly. A camper at Fay Bainbridge Park advised, "Probably need to reserve far in advance, we reserved 3 weeks out and got the last spot."
• Limited Amenities in Off-Season: Some campgrounds may have fewer services during the off-season. A reviewer at Scenic Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "The dump station was closed at this one and there was no water, not even a communal spigot."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Belfair State Park Campground, which has playgrounds and safe areas for kids to play. One parent said, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."
• Pack for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor toys. A reviewer at Dash Point State Park Campground suggested, "I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water. I use this as an overnight point to fill my RV before going off grid."
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise, especially in busy campgrounds. A visitor at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park noted, "It was surprisingly quiet!"

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Tinkham Campground mentioned, "Spacious campsites with a decent amount of privacy trees and brush in between."
• Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A reviewer at Dosewallips State Park Campground said, "I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water."
• Be Prepared for Road Conditions: Some access roads can be bumpy. A visitor at Tinkham Campground noted, "The road was my only issue. It’s full of deep dips and bumps throughout."

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