Top Glamping near Des Moines, WA

Iowa isn’t always considered when you think of states to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or just a place to spend the night, Des Moines, Iowa has plenty of options.

The best camping near Des Moines is going to be near the Saylorville Lake Project. While any lakefront spot is great, the Bob Shetler Recreation area is popular for tents and RVs. If you’re willing to make a bit of a drive, you’ll find the Red Rock Wildlife Management Area near Hartford, IA. While WMA camping depends on the state, you’re welcome to spend up to 14 consecutive days at your campground when you’re at Red Rock. Kick your feet up and enjoy a lakefront campsite when you’re there.

Best Glamping Sites Near Des Moines, WA (38)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground

    1. Dash Point State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    122 Photos
    413 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground

    2. Dosewallips State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    135 Photos
    293 Saves

    Dosewallips State Park, only 60 miles north of Olympia, is the eastern gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. The region is made up of forests, mountains, rivers, beaches and deltas – and surrounded by sound and sea. This freshwater/saltwater park makes a perfect day or weekend trip. It can also serve as a base from which to explore the historic forts and charming small towns to the north, or the first night on a grand road trip around the peninsula.

    The park's moss-carpeted forest and glacial river slope down to a shell-strewn delta on Hood Canal, a delight for clam-diggers, anglers, boaters, birders and beach explorers. The park features riverside campsites, cabins and five-person platform tents.

    Guests may share space with the local elk herds that wander through camp. (Stay back 100 feet, and never offer food.) Bald eagles have been seen on the beach and great blue herons flock to the river.

    The evening may find you grilling up a shellfish dinner and retiring to your cabin or tent, where you'll fall asleep to the sound of the river, enchanted by this lush, green corner of the country.

    PARK FEATURES Dosewallips State Park is a 1,064-acre, year-round camping park with 5 miles of shoreline on Hood Canal and the Dosewallips River. All camp areas are grassy and located in scenic, rustic settings.

    All campsites are on the reservation system. The campground has 37 tent spaces, 58 utility sites, twelve cabins, one dump station, four restrooms (one ADA), and two showers (one ADA). Maximum site length is 40 feet (limited availability). During winter months (November 15 through March 1), the campground is winterized and only sites 21-29 have water. Winter water supply is still available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park

    3. Fay Bainbridge Park

    19 Reviews
    84 Photos
    305 Saves

    Fay Bainbridge Park is a 17-acre marine camping park with 1,420 feet of saltwater shoreline on the northeast corner of Bainbridge Island. The park offers sweeping views of Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains and features sandy beaches. On clear days, Mount Rainier and Mount Baker are visible from a sandy beach.

    Due to seasonal high water conditions, restrooms may be closed intermittently throughout the winter. We apologize for any inconvenience. The campground has 14 tent sites at $20.00 per night with a central water location and a portable toilet. We also offer 26 RV sites with water and electricity, with ADA accessible site 17, at $40.00 per night and three cabins at $95.00. There are two restroom facilities, one with showers. Please note that there is no longer a dump station available.

    Notice for Hiker/Biker Campers: Hiker/Biker campsites have moved from the north end of the campground to the south end, adjacent to the kayaker site. The north end of the campground is now for day use only.

    Due to seasonal high water conditions, restrooms may be closed intermittently throughout the winter. We apologize for any inconvenience.

    All RV sites have water and electricity and some will accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length. These sites are 11, 12, 13 and 14, these spaces are at a premium and very limited.

    Most campsites can be reserved. Sites and cabins can be reserved online ten days or more in advance of arrival date. Any sites not reserved will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations cannot be made for the Accessible site, or the Hiker/Biker/Kayaker sites. The three Hiker/Biker sites are available for one night only.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $7 - $95 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tolt MacDonald Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tolt MacDonald Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tolt MacDonald Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tolt MacDonald Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tolt MacDonald Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tolt MacDonald Park, WA

    4. Tolt MacDonald Park, WA

    22 Reviews
    80 Photos
    241 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground

    5. Saltwater State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    19 Photos
    67 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground

    6. Tall Chief Campground

    14 Reviews
    47 Photos
    168 Saves

    Tall Chief RV Resort is located in Fall City, just 25 miles from Seattle and 10 minutes from beautiful Snoqualmie Falls! Book your stay and take part in all that Seattle has to offer including Pike Place Market, local wineries, sporting, cultural events and world-class shopping! Many of Washington State's premier attractions and natural wonders are less than one hour's drive from this RV campground in Seattle! RV campground in Seattle, just minutes from downtown Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Tall Chief RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience. *These activities are open Memorial Day thru Labor Day. Please Bring Your Own Equipment: Guests are welcome to use onsite amenities using their own equipment. Park will not be checking out recreation equipment until further notice.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground

    7. Belfair State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    81 Photos
    154 Saves

    Puget Sound is made of wetlands, pebble beaches, tidal flats, and salmon runs. You will find those features and more at Belfair State Park.

    Located on Hood Canal between Shelton and Bremerton, the park's gentle breezes offer ideal conditions for kite-flying, windsurfing and kicking back on a warm summer day. Anglers can choose from fresh and saltwater fishing, and kayakers can push off onto the Cascadia Marine Trail and explore the Puget Sound waterways.

    Belfair State Park is a 94-acre, year-round camping park on 3,720 feet of saltwater shoreline at the southern end of Hood Canal in western Washington.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek

    8. Elkamp Eastcreek

    35 Reviews
    111 Photos
    260 Saves

    Elkamp Eastcreek allows visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors. Located near the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this campground provides easy access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, river rafting, kayaking and wildlife watching. The campsites are nestled among the trees and offer plenty of privacy, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat whether that be in a tent or more luxurious cabin. Elkamp Eastcreek also features modern amenities, including clean restrooms, showers and laundry facilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground

    9. Middle Fork Campground

    21 Reviews
    32 Photos
    274 Saves

    Overview

    This campground is located along the Middle Fork of the scenic Snoqualmie River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Beneath a canopy of towering Douglas fir, cedar and Western hemlock, and located near several hiking trails within a short driving distance, this campground is a perfect site for both individual and small group camping excursions.

    Recreation

    In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, horseback riding and picnicking in summer and early fall, Middle Fork offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. Approximately 1,500 miles of trails throughout the area can entice any hiker to get outdoors. From smooth paths meandering through deep quiet forests to challenging ascents up boulder-studded mountains, opportunities abound for every skill level. The popular Middle Fork Trail is a 3 mile trail offering visitors a glimpse into the area's diversity. The trail begins by crossing the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River via the Gateway Bridge, then turns upstream and meanders between the river and overhanging cliffs, offering sweeping views of nearby peaks. After climbing away from the river and passing under Stegosaurus Butte, a granite ridge towering over the valley at over 1,000 feet, the trail follows an old logging railroad grade used by pioneers and finally descends back to river level. The Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trail is also used by bicycles and horseback riders. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trail on odd- numbered days of the week. A Recreation Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.

    Facilities

    In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, horseback riding and picnicking in summer and early fall, Middle Fork offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. Approximately 1,500 miles of trails throughout the area can entice any hiker to get outdoors. From smooth paths meandering through deep quiet forests to challenging ascents up boulder-studded mountains, opportunities abound for every skill level. The popular Middle Fork Trail is a 3 mile trail offering visitors a glimpse into the area's diversity. The trail begins by crossing the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River via the Gateway Bridge, then turns upstream and meanders between the river and overhanging cliffs, offering sweeping views of nearby peaks. After climbing away from the river and passing under Stegosaurus Butte, a granite ridge towering over the valley at over 1,000 feet, the trail follows an old logging railroad grade used by pioneers and finally descends back to river level. The Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trail is also used by bicycles and horseback riders. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trail on odd- numbered days of the week. A Recreation Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.

    Natural Features

    Hemmed in by several designated wilderness areas, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests. On a clear day visitors will see Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness Area. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, the active volcano from which the forest takes its name is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Wildlife in the area include mountain goats, coyotes, pine marten and a variety of migratory birds and native fish.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Verlot Public Service Center, near the South Fork Stillaguamish River, was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps from 1933 to 1942. Verlot`s handsome buildings reflect the architectural style and fine craftsmanship of that era and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors enjoy the North Cascades and Mt. Rainer National Parks, where interpretive programs and exhibits offer education about the diverse landscape and history of the area.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 932-0242.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $90 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023
    Camper-submitted photo from Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023
    Camper-submitted photo from Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023
    Camper-submitted photo from Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023
    Camper-submitted photo from Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023
    Camper-submitted photo from Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023

    10. Vasa Park Resort - CLOSED FOR 2023

    5 Reviews
    6 Photos
    128 Saves

    Vasa Park is closed for public walk-in day use and overnight camping for 2023.

    Boat Launch is still publicly available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $48 - $60 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews In Des Moines

420 Reviews of 38 Des Moines Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    September 30, 2024

    Fay Bainbridge Park

    Puget Sound visit

    Good place for families that looks to be kept really clean. The spaces are packed in fairly tight with no dividing barriers of trees. Campsite 10 looks to be the best as it has a little canopy tree and is in the corner without obstruction for a view of the Puget Sound. Water and electric hookup, picnic table, fire pit at each site with additional bathroom with a shower for the grounds. There is a ship playground for the kids and beach volleyball court. It is nestled back through an area of homes that back up to sites 1-8.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    September 14, 2024

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Best. Spot. Ever.

    Went here for a social event and had a blast. Big sites with lovely paths between, wonderful shop with firewood available at any hour (just square up when the place is actually open), clean plumbed bathrooms and a coin operated shower at $0.50/minute. There’s a beautiful meadow, a creek, huge trees. The owners are incredibly friendly and the place is very dog friendly.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Camp Lakeview
    August 15, 2024

    Camp Lakeview

    Awesome place!

    I came for my birthday and had a great time. Staff was so friendly and helpful, and the place was clean. They have a little store in case you forget something and firewood that’s way cheaper than buying elsewhere. People were fishing, paddle boarding and swimming. I would absolutely go stay there again!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    August 12, 2024

    Dosewallips State Park Campground

    Well-Kept State Park Campground

    I spent three nights (arrived Monday, departed Thursday) at this lovely campground about an hour from my house.  The grounds are well-maintained with easy access to some hiking trails that are easy to moderate in difficulty. (If I were in better shape without 50+ years of knee problems, I'd rate all the trails as easy.)

    The campsites are a short walk to the Dosewallips River, which is shallow and not very fast this time of year. It's a longer walk to the Hood Canal itself.

    You're not going to have a private, quiet, pristine wilderness experience here. US 101 runs through the park next to the campground, and the logging trucks can be quite loud. There are lots of families -- meaning, kids running around and riding bikes -- and the campsites are close to one another without any privacy. But, highway traffic is pretty much nonexistent in the evening and night and the entire camp was pretty quiet by 9 pm every evening.

    The camp is arranged in a bunch of loops. The first and last sites in each loop are preferable because of all the open space between the site and the road. The last site -- in my case, No. 20 -- is the best with an RV because the trailer will provide privacy from the adjacent campsite and there's a big space to other sites. (See the attached photo.)

    T-Mobile was 2 bars of 4G LTE reception. I have a Pepwave cellular modem in my trailer and had virtually no problem streaming shows.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    August 9, 2024

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Shake out

    I live 5 miles from this park and am here all the time, just not for camping. I came for one night to do a shakeout in my new to me trailer. My husband came to be my second set of eyes as I set up camp and to entertain our kiddo while I made dinner. Then we drove him home since he had to work in the morning. Several reviews complain about the airplane noise overhead, but I live in Federal Way and cargo planes from JBLM often fly over my house so some commercial airlines don't bother me one bit. I was in a pull-through full hook-up site. I did not hook up the sewer hose however because the lid was broken and I would have had to find a large rock to hold my elbow in place. All in all, it's a nice campground and was quiet. I didn't even hear the cars on road.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    August 5, 2024

    Belfair State Park Campground

    Bad Situation Turned Out Terrific!

    We arrived at 10pm with 2 exhausted kids and someone had sniped our site! We went to the Campground Host and not only did they get us into an emergency spot (which was actually better) they gave my kiddos each a little toy. They even checked on us each day to make sure everything was going well in the new site.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    July 18, 2024

    Fay Bainbridge Park

    Amazing spot

    This is the second year we have camped at Fay Bainbridge. Love the whole area. The camp host is friendly and helpful. The spots are spacious and shaded and the beach is easily accessed.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    July 18, 2024

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Heavenly Retreat

    Nicely maintained property, with spacious sites, great restroom facility, acres to gorgeous meadow and evening star viewing. Tom was gracious and welcoming host. Enjoyed our stay!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    July 15, 2024

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Gorgeous Campground

    So beautiful, so well maintained. The meadow over the bridge is a hidden delight. Constant attention to the grounds regularly. Exquisite!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Saltwater State Park Campground
    July 12, 2024

    Saltwater State Park Campground

    2024 report - Camping closed all year

    I live adjacent to the park. Camping is closed for 2024"while the park undergoes planning and development efforts.". Campfires have been banned for a couple years as the neighbors(who bought houses next to a state park) didn’t like the smell. Kayak rentals moved to Des Moines marina. Trails are fun, jet traffic is frequent. Sunsets amazing

  • Camper-submitted photo from Olympic Wilderness Basecamp
    June 24, 2024

    Olympic Wilderness Basecamp

    amazing!

    i stayed here for my sister batch party last summer and it was definitely a time to remember! marc was such a great host and the campsites were beautiful!!!!!!!!!!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    June 13, 2024

    Dosewallips State Park Campground

    Nice and Popular!

    This is the ultimate family campground. Kids and families on bikes everywhere, amphitheater, trails, water, grass fields, the works. The spots along the road are subject to highway noise, it does die down at night, but starts early. (If you live on a busy street, you won’t notice!) There are quieter tent sites in the back, but also what looks like a group camp. Staff was super friendly. Probably need to reserve far in advance, we reserved 3 weeks out and got the last spot. Not everything was open though, still clean-up from winter going on. Online reservation system worked perfectly and was intuitive. Had a few bars of ATT. Did not investigate WiFi. Beautiful park!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    June 11, 2024

    Middle Fork Campground

    Very clean site with good day hikes and river fishing in the area

    Very clean campground with very nice tent pads.  The bathrooms were spotless.  A lot of great activities in the area: several trails

    The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 starts is because this campground is a little less than 1.5 hours from Seattle so you can sometimes get some "amateurs" from the city who have poor campsite etiquette.  We were a couple sites down from one of two group sites and they were pretty noisy.

    Sites 8, 9, and 16 as the most secluded, especially site 9.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    June 10, 2024

    Fay Bainbridge Park

    Tent sites walk in

    Very disappointed. Booked and told tent sites could be driven up to. Not the case. Host was very nice. Beautiful place

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground
    May 24, 2024

    Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground

    Good Enough

    A nice enough little spot near where we needed to be. Day trip to NE section of Olympic NP was doable. Day trip to Seattle would probably be doable as well. Nice area and small towns with good food and atmosphere. Park is small and sites are very close together. Modern sites are in the open right next to each other. Rustic sites are very shaded but still close together and gets load on weekends when it's full.

    Facilities: Showers and bathrooms were nice, individual rooms for each bathroom and shower, most are code locked to prevent day use people hogging them

    Cell Service: Good enough Verizon and T-mobile to work remotely

    Starlink: While we didn't need to use it, the rustic (non-elec) sites are extremely shaded so no clear view for the dish; some modern sites would maybe work

    Solar: Our site had a SW facing opening so we were able to grab some solar, but most other rustic sites are very shaded with very little to no sun; modern sites are open to the sky but solar is not needed there with an electric site

  • Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sky RV Park
    May 22, 2024

    Blue Sky RV Park

    Awesome park

    We reserved a space for 1 night the day before. Great communication with Brett, everything went really smooth. The facilities are great and very clean, the park very quiet. There are a lot of big rigs parked there, some of the pm long-term as it seems. We enjoyed ourselves and would definitely visit again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    May 8, 2024

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Different

    It’s weird place one part looks like people without a home live there the other part have half million dollars rvs rolling in! Beautiful area! Main Street near by that is apparently a racing street

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    April 15, 2024

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Well maintained with decent amenities

    I stay here from time to time with an RV. I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water. I use this an overnight point to fill my RV before going off grid. It is also a nice spot to stop close to Seattle for an easy overnight without a lot of hastle.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    March 11, 2024

    Tall Chief Campground

    Our main TT

    We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region.

    It’s super close (like 7 min drive) from one of my favorite coffee shops, Aroma Coffee Co. Try it! You won’t be disappointed!

    Tall Chief’s biggest perk is probably how nice they keep the park. Bathrooms are usually found to be immaculate. The main bathrooms have a great “spa” feeling to their design and make you feel like you are glamping.

    Most sites are pretty big too. We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space!

    No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it imo.

    The staff are always super nice and helpful.

    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.

    I’m getting 120+ mbs download on AT&T in my site right now, but several sites down from me, it can dwindle down to 5mbs!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    January 3, 2024

    Millersylvania State Park Campground

    Old Growth Forest near Olympia, Washington!

    Just 20 minutes south of Olympia, WA you can pull off I-5 and pitch a tent beneath towering old growth Douglas Fir and Hemlock trees. This stunning state park reminds us both of the kinds of campgrounds we frequented as kids. 

    Most of the campsites in the forest loops are small with limited parking and the narrow roads would not serve larger camper rigs. Our little 15 foot travel trailer made it in without any problem. The feeling of camping under the old-growth canopy is so classic Washington, but the solar gain is pretty minimal. Ironically, the electrical hookup sites, which more easily accommodate the big rigs, are out in a more cleared area where there would be solar gain for days. 

    We camped on the closest loop to the full-hook up RV area and were able to get our solar suitcase out into the sunshine on its extension cord for a few hours. The bathrooms in the forest loops are pretty simple ranging from pit toilets to flush varieties with showers. There is a more modern bathroom facility with nicely clean and refreshing showers near the larger RV field. Things to do in this park are abundant. The water is super chill, shallow and warm. 

    Only “cartop boats” are allowed in the lake, making it ideal for stand up paddle boards, small kayaking boats, inflatables, canoes, fishing dinghies and just swimming around.  Lightening storms in this part of the world are pretty rare, so very fun to see one over the lake while we were here.  The lake shore has some classic picnic shelters, built by the CCC, that are reservable, offer wood burning stoves, and lots of places to cook for a family get together. 

    Hiking and trailing running in the park is wonderful, and with all the loops your efforts can range from 30 min strolls to half-day hikes. The trails are well mapped, and signed making it nearly impossible to get lost. 

    Tumwater is about 10 miles away on country roads to the north, and Grand Mound is 10 or so miles to the south. Either of these communities provide the usual suburban supplies for groceries and restaurants. There are also some nearby convenience and general stores where you could pick up some ice and such. During the summer months the park has a small cafe and ice cream shop.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tall Chief Campground
    October 16, 2023

    Tall Chief Campground

    Camping in a forest

    This is a big park that is part of Thousand Trails.  No sales pitch to join, which was nice.  Rangers were super nice.  Bathrooms very new and clean.  Lots of trees between sites.  Hard to find one in the sun if that is what you are looking for.  Looked like lots of long term campers.  Very quiet.  We enjoyed see the surrounding area - Beaver Lake Park, Carnation, Fall City.  Didn't make it to Snoqualmie Falls, maybe next time.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Henleys Silver Lake Resort Campground
    August 23, 2023

    Henleys Silver Lake Resort Campground

    The owner does not like African American

    I spoke to the owner over the phone and he told me he had a lot of space . Once I came he discriminated and said no no no . He seem nice over the phone but he really isn’t . Extremely racist

  • Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    July 30, 2023

    Millersylvania State Park Campground

    Site 202

    Stayed in site 202 in the RV section of the park. We had tents but enjoyed access to water and electricity. 202 is separate from the other camp sites which was great but can be downwind of the dump station and dumpsters. When the wind shifted it was bad. 202 also opens up to the main road entering the park. If you have small children or animals, I would not recommend this site for fear of them running into the street. This also resulted in a lot of campers thinking our site was a cut through and attempting to walk through our site at all hours. Upside was it was a short walk from our site to the lake, you don't have to walk through the rest of the campground but you do have to walk on the main road with no sidewalk. State park was clean and well maintained. Couldn't go 30 mins without seeing a park ranger or employee out and about. Lake was crowded from 11-5/6 but early mornings or late afternoon it really quieted down. Bathrooms by the RVs have the showers and a nice volleyball net set up. Would not recommend it if you are not kid friendly. This is a very kid friendly camp ground. Has a beer garden and snack shack but limited hours on those and rentals for the lake which was nice.



Guide to Des Moines

Camping near Des Moines, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there are plenty of 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 see wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, "Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs."
  • Beach Activities: At Penrose Point State Park Campground, you can enjoy beach walks and tide pooling. 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: Campgrounds like Seal Rock Campground are right on the water, perfect for fishing and kayaking. One camper noted, "It’s the best of the best! Both tents or trailer/campers are accommodated at most campsites."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review for Dosewallips State Park Campground stated, "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... the sites are level and are a mix of back-in and pull-through."
  • 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 due to nearby roads or other campers. A review for Belfair State Park Campground noted, "Some of the larger sites... are right next to the beach, and you can set up chairs and have a beautiful view. These sites have little, if any, vegetation to provide privacy."
  • Reservation Recommendations: It’s a good idea to book your spot in advance, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Twanoh State Park Campground mentioned, "I reserved 3 weeks out and got the last spot."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Tinkham Campground pointed out, "The dispersed campsites themselves are nice enough, but... there's human feces and toilet paper everywhere."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities for kids. One reviewer at Fay Bainbridge Park said, "The beach is beautiful, rocky and sandy - love the PNW beaches."
  • Pack for Activities: Bring toys and games for the kids. A parent at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park shared, "We had a very enjoyable 1st weekend back to camping."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have downtime in your schedule. A visitor at Belfair State Park Campground mentioned, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Dosewallips State Park Campground noted, "I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water."
  • Be Prepared for Road Conditions: Some campgrounds may have rough access roads. A visitor at Tinkham Campground mentioned, "The road was my only issue. It’s full of deep dips and bumps throughout."
  • Look for Quiet Spots: Choose sites that are away from busy areas. A camper at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park said, "It was surprisingly quiet!"

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

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Des Moines, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Des Moines, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 65 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find glamping camping near Des Moines, WA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 38 glamping camping locations near Des Moines, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.