Camping sites near Gig Harbor, Washington offer diverse experiences along the Puget Sound shoreline at elevations ranging from sea level to 400 feet. The climate remains mild year-round with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F and winter temperatures seldom dropping below freezing. Campers should prepare for rainfall even during summer months, as the region receives approximately 40 inches of annual precipitation.
What to do
Tide exploration: At Belfair State Park Campground, the changing tides create opportunities for wildlife viewing and beachcombing. "When the tide comes and goes, so does the water fowl. Nice campground, open sites, full hook ups," notes Kari R., who enjoyed bird watching during her stay.
Kayaking: Jarrell Cove State Park Campground provides excellent water access for paddlers. "Great kayaking too," reports Mike K. who has visited multiple times. The park features docks where you can launch directly into the water, making it convenient for water-based activities.
Hiking trails: Dash Point State Park Campground offers several miles of forested trails suitable for all skill levels. "Facilities were good and trails around are fun and easy enough for me and 2 kids. The beach and its tides are why we came," shares Ingrid M. The park maintains well-marked paths connecting the campground to beach areas.
Clamming and oyster harvesting: Seasonal shellfish gathering is permitted at certain parks with proper licensing. "We loved this spot! A quick walk from camp and your picking oysters from Hood Canal. Amazing!" states Blaine B. about Twanoh State Park. Check current regulations and harvesting seasons before planning your trip.
What campers like
Beach access: Manchester State Park Campground provides shoreline exploration with historical military features. "There are great hammock trees at nearly every site. The hiking trails views onto the sound are nice as well," notes Mike about his experience at the park.
Privacy between sites: Despite being in developed campgrounds, some parks offer secluded camping spots. "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes, and the walking trails," writes Brittany D. about Dash Point State Park.
Water views: Joemma Beach State Park Campground offers waterfront sites with direct views of Puget Sound. "Several sites have gorgeous views of the water. Simple, small, peaceful campground with pit toilets and potable water," comments Annie B. The park includes a pier extending into the water.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds feature resident deer and various bird species. "Several deer came up throughout the day to eat the apples off the ground and trees in those spots, that was fun," reports Sunday C. about their stay at Jarrell Cove State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "We camped here mid week last August. There's a beach loop for RVs and a woods loop for tents & smaller RVs," explains Leah H. about Belfair State Park, noting the different camping areas available.
Seasonal closures: Saltwater State Park Campground operates from May through September. Recent updates indicate limited availability: "Camping is closed for 2024 while the park undergoes planning and development efforts," reports Ken who lives near the park.
Noise considerations: Some parks experience aircraft or road noise due to proximity to urban areas. "Commercial jets landing at Sea-Tac fly directly above us at a low altitude and are VERY loud and VERY frequent (every 3-5 minutes)," warns Travis P. about Saltwater State Park.
Limited facilities: Primitive campgrounds have fewer amenities. "Only drop toilets, potable water and dumpsters for amenities though," notes Austin R. about Joemma Beach State Park, which offers basic services at budget-friendly rates.
Tips for camping with families
Beach play areas: Penrose Point State Park Campground offers family-friendly shorelines with warm water. "The beach is a short walk from camp, just long enough to make you feel like you earned your sunset view, but not so long that you regret your life choices," shares Adrienne Q., noting the manageable distance for children.
Junior Ranger programs: Some state parks offer educational activities for children. "The grounds, including bathrooms, were well maintained and the kids enjoyed taking part in the junior ranger program," reports Sarah H. about her family's experience at Penrose Point.
Off-season visits: Camping during shoulder seasons provides a quieter experience with fewer crowds. "Spent a weekend here in October. Campground is wooded and quiet, spots are nice and private. Penrose Point Park nearby has a great beach and a fun interpretive trail to do with kids," recommends Big_Tan_Turtle.
Safety considerations: When camping with children, check for nearby emergency services. "We stayed in lot #1 which was the largest and we had plenty of room for my truck and my wife's car plus two dogs. The lot is easy to maneuver and getting to the hookups," notes Rick S. about Lakebay Getaway, mentioning the spacious sites suitable for families.
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup availability: Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor provides complete services for RVs. "Very close to Gig Harbor. Quiet, lots of trees, level gravel sites, and full hook ups available," shares Steven L., noting the convenient location and amenities.
Size restrictions: Many state parks have limited space for larger rigs. "The drive to Jarrel cove is on a very rural road with several places where the road is almost one lane wide," warns Steve C., highlighting access challenges for larger vehicles.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping facilities. "No dump station on the grounds," notes Steve C. about Jarrell Cove State Park, advising RVers to plan accordingly for waste disposal.
Seasonal water pressure issues: Some campgrounds experience utility challenges during peak periods. "Water pressure challenges on hill, WiFi ok/slow," reports John K. about Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, suggesting campers might need to adjust expectations for hookup performance.
