Tent campsites near Freeland, Washington offer diverse camping experiences within forested settings and along coastal bluffs. The Whidbey Island area receives approximately 21 inches of annual rainfall, significantly less than mainland Washington due to its position in the Olympic rain shadow. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F while winter months can drop to 35-45°F, with occasional frost in exposed camping areas.
What to do
Explore old military installations: Fort Ebey State Park Campground features World War II-era structures accessible from the campsite. "There's also a great hiking trail that begins at the campground and takes you along the bluff and shoreline to Ebey's Landing Historic Park. There's a number of historic buildings in the area and everyone I talked to was friendly and more than happy to explain the history of the area," notes one visitor to Fort Ebey State Park Campground.
Hike the coastal bluffs: Blake Island offers a 5-mile perimeter trail with panoramic views. "It is a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle with gorgeous views of the city. Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island," reports a camper at Blake Island Marine State Park Campground.
Watch salmon runs: At Dungeness Forks Campground, visitors can observe wild salmon during seasonal runs. "Right next to the creek/water which was beautiful with wild salmon that we spent the morning fishing for!" shares one camper at the site.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Woodlands at Lake Stickney provides private tent camping options. One camper reports, "It was my first time camping on a private residential property. I've grown so used to sites like KOA that it was strange to have friendly owners serving us rather than paid staff." The Woodlands at Lake Stickney features walk-in tent sites for those seeking privacy.
Level camping spots: Deer Park Campground in Olympic National Park provides tent sites at higher elevations. "We stayed in spot A4, backing right up to the meadow. It didn't offer a ton of privacy, but all you have to do is look outside your tent to forget about that," notes a visitor to Deer Park Campground.
Boat-in camping opportunities: Kinney Point State Park offers an accessible boat-in camping option. According to a reviewer, this "great boat-in-only site" has "no running water but vault toilets" and even includes a "rack for kayaks above high tide."
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted operating seasons. Dungeness Forks Campground runs "May 15 to Labor Day," while Deer Park Campground operates "June to mid October" due to weather conditions.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Dungeness Forks Campground, a visitor notes: "Mid week camping might be luckier to find a spot than weekend camping, because there are only 9 sites... Arrived at 1pm on a Friday and just 2 spots left out of about 10. Filled up quickly after and lots of cars stopping to check for spaces."
Water availability: Many tent camping areas lack potable water sources. A Deer Park visitor advises: "This is quite primitive camping (no water available) so being prepared is key." Campers should plan to bring sufficient water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer specialized facilities for children. Paine Field Community Park receives praise from visitors: "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!"
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer Park Campground provides close encounters with wildlife. "We also saw a lot of deer right by our tent," reports one camper. Another visitor mentions: "The deer are in abundance so you should definitely keep food in the car."
Select campgrounds with easy beach access: Big Country offers tent camping with nearby coastal access. According to a reviewer, this site is "secluded yet close to the Possession Sound Preserve" with "beach within walking distance."
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most tent campsites near Freeland have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Dungeness Forks, a visitor warns: "The drive up was a little intense, but our sedan made it (no RVs!)." Another camper adds: "Our 19ft campervan made it up and down but a car did need to pull off to the side for us and back up a ways for us to squeeze by."
Casino camping option: For RVers seeking a convenient overnight option, Tulalip Casino offers free camping. "Great free camping for up to three nights. Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive," notes one visitor. Another adds: "No hook ups and no water available. Clean area and pet exercise area. Security drives by regular."
Prepare for narrow access roads: When approaching certain campgrounds, RV drivers should use caution. Regarding Deer Park, a camper warns: "Scariest road I've ever driven on. Very narrow steep cliffs on the side. Please be careful of oncoming traffic when turning corners!"
