Fort Flagler Historical State Park offers distinct camping experiences between its upper and lower sections. The upper campground features wooded sites with more privacy, while the lower campground provides full hookup sites closer to the water. Several campsites have direct trails to the shoreline with beach access from both sides of Marrowstone Island. The park's waterfront location creates opportunities for wildlife observation along with miles of hiking trails throughout the grounds.
What to do
Explore historic bunkers: At Fort Worden Historical State Park, visitors can discover military history across the property. "If you like bunkers, canons, and barracks, with a view, then come here. There is a lighthouse that still functions and plenty of beach access," notes Ryan L. The park combines outdoor recreation with historical exploration.
Kayak in protected waters: Sequim Bay State Park provides calm waters ideal for paddling. "We went kayaking on the bay, and enjoyed the weather. This is my favorite park in the U.S. I highly recommend it. There was so much to see, and do," shares Anthony S., who visited the park while staying with family.
Hike forest trails: The wooded areas of Deception Pass State Park feature extensive trail networks. "Incredible campground with great amenities, but it is loud and busy due to all the guests," reports Parker C. Trails connect through forested sections and lead to beaches with tide pools and wildlife viewing areas.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The coastal setting at Fort Ebey State Park attracts diverse wildlife. "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer. It's a good place to make memories!" explains Don. The park's bluff location provides excellent vantage points for spotting marine wildlife as well.
Beach access from campsites: Point Hudson Marina & RV Park offers waterfront camping with direct shore access. "The front spaces have a view of mountains and water, and open out onto a pretty beach. You have essentially no privacy, but again, those views," notes Thomas B., highlighting the tradeoff between privacy and location.
Spacious camping areas: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at Fort Flagler. "Beautiful spot. Campgrounds facing the water are probably the nicest, but generally this is a really beautiful spot. Spacious sites, clean water, decent bathrooms," reports Rachel A., who stayed in the upper campground section.
What you should know
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers quieter experiences with less competition for sites. At Fort Worden State Park, Christina F. noted: "Jan 24-26, 2025. We went for a winter meet-up with my local teardrop trailer group... Even in winter, the park was busy with people during the day and the campground was full."
Naval air noise: Campgrounds near naval installations experience periodic aircraft sounds. Will L. mentions about Deception Pass: "Definitely worth a stay with its proximity to the beach, stargazing, hiking. The whole area feels magical. The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis."
Limited tent site privacy: Some parks have close quarters in certain areas. Kelli H. says about Sequim Bay: "The area is very wooded, and pretty. However, the campsites are small and not very private. Also, no sandy beach access." Consider site selection carefully when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kayak Point County Park offers recreation facilities near campsites. "This was stop 3 for us on a summer camping vacation. Very quiet and well-maintained county park. Large spots with water and electric hook-ups," reports Breann B., who found the park suitable for family activities.
Junior Ranger programs: Fort Worden offers educational activities for children. Becky R. suggests, "Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets." These programs help children learn about local history and ecology while completing fun activities.
Beach exploration: Lower tide periods reveal marine life along shorelines. "We could spend so many more hours exploring the buildings and beaches! Also saw so much wildlife: otters, deer, crab (lots of baby crabs everywhere!!) and starfish," shares KayLynn D. about her family's experience at Fort Worden State Park.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping considerations: Some parks offer year-round access with fewer crowds. Mike K. notes about Fort Flagler: "Awesome fall and winter camping. First come first serve after Oct 31st. Spent a long weekend there last week. No problem finding 2 sites side by side for 40 ft rigs. Great hiking and exploring."
Site selection for views: At Upper Oak Bay Park, waterfront sites offer scenic vistas but less privacy. "There are a couple of sites with good views, but they are very close to each other. I would recommend camping in one of the wooded sites, and then walking/driving to the Lower Campground for the day," advises Thomas B.
Hookup locations: Consider utilities placement when selecting sites. Amanda B. cautions about Sequim Bay State Park: "The camping for RV's with hookups is iffy. It's very close to the highway and the sites are extremely close to one another. Our site in particular had hookups in all the wrong places."
Ranger
