RV campgrounds near Elma, Washington offer year-round accommodations in the southwestern region of the Olympic Peninsula where elevation ranges between 100-250 feet above sea level. The area experiences mild, wet winters and moderate summer temperatures that rarely exceed 85°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible during winter months when many neighboring Olympic Peninsula facilities close seasonal operations.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Sylvia: Located about 20 minutes from Elma, this area provides fishing and swimming opportunities during summer months. "We pulled in late at night and on off season and they still accommodated us!" shared one camper about Hoquiam River RV Park, which serves as a convenient base for lake exploration.
Golf and camping combination: Some RV parks integrate recreational amenities directly on-site. Riverwoods Golf and RV features 20 sites with water and electric hookups adjacent to their golf course. A short drive away, "The campground is quiet, except for the nearby construction. The staff is super friendly and accommodating," notes a visitor about camping facilities in the region.
Blackberry picking: Seasonal berry picking becomes possible in late summer at many campgrounds. "The site was level and has plenty of ripe blackberries for picking," mentioned one camper at Thousand Trails Chehalis, where natural food foraging adds to the camping experience.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Bathroom cleanliness consistently receives positive mentions from campers in the Elma region. "Bathrooms are clean. Laundry facility works really well. And the little walking trails along the river were gorgeous," reported one visitor about Hoquiam River RV Park, highlighting amenities beyond the basic hookups.
Walking trails: Natural pathways provide exercise opportunities at several campgrounds. "We checked out everything about it. Pool, showers, mini golf, the trails, the club houses to laundry room! There was nothing about it, that we did not like," shared a guest at Thousand Trails Chehalis.
Beach access: Some campgrounds offer direct routes to coastal areas. "Short walk to the beach, and facilities are well kempt," noted a reviewer about Thousand Trails Oceana, which provides ocean access approximately 45 minutes west of Elma.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many RV parks feature closely positioned sites with minimal privacy. "The spaces are very close together with no privacy. There are many long-term RVs here," observed one camper about regional park layouts. Other visitors note: "The sites had a concrete slab and fit our Jayco 174BH perfectly."
Casino proximity: Several RV parks operate in conjunction with tribal casinos. "Full hookups for the rver. Sites to 70 ft. No firepits is a downside but the upside is the best seafood bar in the area," reported a visitor to Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park, which maintains year-round operations.
Winter access: Unlike many Olympic Peninsula campgrounds that close seasonally, most Elma area RV parks remain operational throughout winter. "Heavy traffic prevented us from getting to our target destination. This was a nice place to stop for an overnight and the price was excellent for full hookup," noted one winter traveler.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer organized recreational programs. "Kids are helping review campgrounds we visited this summer. They loved that there was scavenger hunts for pigs in morning, tractor rides in afternoon, face painting, slushees, movie in lodge, crafts," shared a family staying at Thousand Trails Chehalis.
Beach safety considerations: When camping near coastal areas, parents should monitor tide conditions. "Great for kids because the inlet water is fairly shallow," explained a camper at Bayshore RV Park & Guest Suites, highlighting the family-friendly water features available within driving distance of Elma.
Seasonal occupancy impacts: Summer months bring significantly higher visitor numbers, especially during weekends. "The weekends are full of local tent campers and they are all out of control, noisy, don't pick up after their dogs, no boundaries," warned one RVer about peak season challenges.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Terrain conditions vary across campgrounds in the region. "Some sites are beautiful with woods separating the sites and level spaces. Others are in the open with very slanted spaces," noted a visitor at one park, highlighting the importance of leveling equipment.
Power stability concerns: Electrical service quality fluctuates between facilities. "The power was really variable. Sometimes it would spike to 130 volts and then drop suddenly to 110," warned an RVer about potential electrical issues that can affect sensitive electronics and appliances.
Reservation timing: During summer months, advance bookings become essential at Elma area RV campgrounds. "Make reservations in advance!" emphasized a visitor to Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, noting how quickly spaces fill during peak travel season, especially at parks with full hookup capabilities.
