Best Campgrounds near Gig Harbor, WA
Campgrounds near Gig Harbor, Washington range from established state parks to private RV resorts, with most facilities concentrated along the Puget Sound shoreline. Penrose Point State Park Campground in nearby Lakebay offers tent and RV sites with beach access, while Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor provides full-hookup RV sites with modern amenities. The region includes several waterfront camping options with varying levels of development, from primitive sites at Joemma Beach State Park to more developed facilities at Dash Point and Manchester State Parks. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, though hookup availability varies significantly by location.
Seasonal considerations affect campground operations throughout the region, with some parks like Saltwater State Park operating only from May to September. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly for summer weekends when waterfront locations fill quickly. One visitor noted, "We are so fortunate to have so many State parks along the beaches of the Sound. Penrose Point is located across Carr Inlet from Gig Harbor and Fox Island. There are trails and beaches to explore." Road access to most campgrounds is well-maintained, with paved routes leading to major state parks. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though coverage may vary in more remote locations like Joemma Beach.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Gig Harbor area, with several reviewers highlighting beach exploration opportunities. Campsites at Penrose Point and Belfair State Parks provide direct access to Puget Sound beaches, allowing for activities like beachcombing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. A camper described Dash Point State Park as "a hidden gem in the middle of a major Western Washington city. Once in the campground, you would have no idea that you are surrounded by a sprawling metropolitan area." While waterfront sites tend to be more exposed with less privacy between campsites, they offer scenic views and easy water access. Forested campgrounds like those at Dash Point provide more seclusion but may lack direct beach access. Most developed campgrounds in the region feature standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms, with shower facilities available at many state parks.
