Gig Harbor camping experiences range from waterfront RV hookups to secluded forest sites across various campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Most RV parks near Gig Harbor remain open year-round with average summer temperatures of 75°F and winter lows around 35°F. Fall and spring camping offers fewer crowds with temperatures typically ranging from 45-65°F depending on elevation and proximity to water.
What to do
Beach combing at Hood Canal: Located about 30 minutes from Gig Harbor, Rest-A-While RV Park offers waterfront access. "Oceanside view stay, beautiful scenery, calm waters which is perfect for paddle boarding. You can dig for clams and oysters by paying cash to the office for your gatherings," notes Jennifer K.
Hiking forest trails: The area surrounding Tall Chief Campground provides excellent hiking opportunities. "It feels like you are deep in the PNW rainforest but you close to amenities and shopping," shares Adele W. The campground sits near trails that showcase typical Pacific Northwest environments.
Shopping and dining: Many campers appreciate the convenient location of local RV parks for accessing urban amenities. "From most RV parks, you can easily drive to local attractions, grocery stores, and restaurants without unhooking your tow vehicle," explains a visitor to Gig Harbor.
What campers like
Privacy despite proximity: Despite having neighbors, many campsites provide adequate separation. At Lake Pleasant RV Park, campers appreciate the natural barriers: "Great privacy hedges between spots. The areas were paved and level," says Terri.
Clean facilities: Multiple campers mention well-maintained amenities as a highlight. "The facilities and grounds are clean and well cared for. I stayed for almost three weeks and it was quiet and relaxing, despite how close together the sites are," reports Joseph I. about his stay at a Gig Harbor area campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many RV parks feature ponds or natural areas with resident wildlife. "Lots of geese, ducks, and bunnies are around the property," notes one camper about Lake Pleasant RV Park, located within driving distance of Gig Harbor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak summer months, securing a spot requires advance planning. Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with premium waterfront or full-hookup sites.
Site differences: Not all sites are created equal, even within the same campground. At Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, one camper notes: "Nice spot, tight next to neighbors, laundry, guests must check in at desk."
Cell service considerations: Reception varies widely between parks and even between sites at the same location. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it," advises Brodie D.
Tips for camping with families
Limited child amenities: When evaluating RV parks in Gig Harbor for family stays, check for kid-friendly features. One camper at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor observed the park is "Pet friendly, but not many attractions for children (no playground, no pool)."
Laundry access: For longer family stays, on-site laundry becomes important. "The laundry machines ($2 washer/$2 dryer) get the job done, with no need to keep feeding the machine," notes John M. about Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Alternative accommodations: Some parks offer options beyond traditional campsites. Jacob P. mentions that while Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor "is definitely a RV resort, but there are 5 or 6 tent camping sites under some big trees which provide shade almost all day."
Tips from RVers
Extension cords: Several RV parks have power posts positioned in ways that may require longer electrical cords. Some sites at Washington Land Yacht Harbor have unique hookup positions: "All connections are in the back so imagine hooking up at a parking lot at the concrete stoppers. Sewer and electric, make sure you got enough tubes and extensions."
Staff assistance: First-time RV campers can find helpful staff at many area campgrounds. At Cove RV Park near Gig Harbor, Matt B. shares: "This is our first trailer camping trip ever so we wanted to start small and close to home. We first arrived with only knowing the basic and Mike the grounds master was more than happy to help us park and hook up."
Regular maintenance services: For longer stays, service availability becomes important. "If you're staying at a site without full hookups," local RV dump stations can be found at most locations around Gig Harbor.
