The Puget Sound area near Gig Harbor provides waterfront camping options within a temperate maritime climate, with average summer temperatures around 75°F. Winter camping remains available at many sites due to mild conditions, though rainfall increases from November through March. Most glamping facilities in the region maintain year-round operations with heated accommodation options.
What to do
River access for paddling: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offers easy water activities on the Green River. "Short hike to river spots that are perfect for wading or fishing. 10 minute drive from Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding," notes Ashlie M. The park provides multiple river entry points connected by well-maintained trails.
Wildlife observation: Dosewallips State Park Campground features regular elk sightings within camping areas. "Campground has elk that walk through it and is right on the river. There are several hiking trails that start from the campground," mentions Dean, highlighting the accessible nature paths. The park maintains designated wildlife viewing platforms near camping areas.
Shellfish harvesting: Seasonal clamming and oyster gathering opportunities exist at waterfront glamping sites. "Nestled among the trees, a great place to pitch a tent, dig clams and have a nice dinner," says Vince L. about Belfair State Park. Local regulations require a shellfish license available at nearby stores for $10-25 depending on duration.
What campers like
Private glamping sites: Dash Point State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site spacing. "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. Glamping sites include standard canvas structures with elevated platforms.
Beach front access: Fay Bainbridge Park offers direct waterfront glamping with views. "Great campground right on the beach. Clean facilities," notes Brook M. Most waterfront sites require advance reservations, especially during summer months when availability becomes limited.
Forest setting: Glamping in Gig Harbor, Washington often combines water proximity with woodland surroundings. "Beautiful weather and close escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Clean facilities as well!" shares Braden T. about Dash Point. Tree coverage provides natural temperature regulation for canvas structures during summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal water activities: Belfair State Park Campground offers temperature-friendly swimming. "The beach was great, water is rather warm for in the sound, it's also pretty shallow which is great for the kids to play in," explains Leah H. Water temperature ranges from 50°F in spring to 65°F during late summer.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping structures require advance booking, especially during peak season. "The beach loop fills up quickly - get your reservations in as early as possible if you want to camp there," advises Scott S. regarding Belfair State Park. Reservations typically open 9 months in advance through Washington State Parks.
Variable shower facilities: Many glamping locations feature token-operated showers. "Showers are older but clean. Need to buy tokens for the shower," notes Kate B. Token costs range from $0.50-$1.00 for 3-5 minutes of hot water, depending on the park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Millersylvania State Park Campground provides family-friendly amenities beyond glamping structures. "The beach is the main attraction and it is hopping. We went early in the morning and staked a claim and were happy all day. There is a nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock," reports Ellen T. Beach facilities include rentable kayaks and paddleboards.
Noise considerations: Park rangers actively enforce quiet hours for family comfort. "The park rangers mean business... if you are a large group, like to stay up late and listen to music and/or party it might not be the campground for you," explains Kelly P. about Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. Most glamping areas maintain 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. quiet hours.
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow water entries accommodate younger children at several locations. "Lots of pull through sites. Hook ups with dump station. Not to far from the cities and just outside of town," shares Richard M. about Belfair. Beach areas typically feature gradual entry points with minimal currents.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Riverbend Campground provides convenient waste disposal options. "Our spot didn't have sewer but they had a free dump station in the park so it was no big deal," explains Nathan K. Most glamping locations with RV sites maintain separate dump stations for $5-8 per use for non-campers.
Hookup limitations: Many glamping sites offer partial rather than full connections. "The site had water and electrical, but no sewer connections. They do have a nice dump station," notes Doug about Riverbend Campground. Electric service typically provides 30-amp connections suitable for smaller recreational vehicles and glamping units.
Level site considerations: Site preparation varies across locations, affecting setup time. "It was advertised as ok for a Motorhome but the gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground," warns Cody F. about Kanaskat-Palmer. Bringing leveling blocks remains essential for vehicle-based glamping units.
