Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground offers traditional camping spaces with forested campsites set within 58 acres of woodland. Located on the western shore of Puget Sound across from Hansville, the park provides standard campsites with limited privacy between neighbors and features bathroom facilities that are cleaned regularly. Most RV sites include hookups for electricity and water, while tent sites feature fire pits and picnic tables on compacted dirt pads. Visitors have direct beach access via short trails leading to a pebble shoreline where low tide reveals opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife observation.
What to do
Beach exploration and hiking: Fort Worden Historical State Park maintains a network of walking paths connecting the campground to both forested areas and waterfront. "Great coastal views and beach walks with lighthouse and pier access. Possibility to rent kayaks. Clean modern restrooms. Excellent hot showers," notes one visitor to Fort Worden Historical State Park.
Fishing and crabbing: Lake Leland Campground offers freshwater fishing opportunities in a quiet setting without motorized boats. "Great location, lake is walking distance for dogs, swimming, and fishing," reports one camper at Lake Leland Campground. Crabbing seasons draw visitors to waterfront parks throughout the region.
Military history exploration: Historical fortifications provide educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. "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," explains one visitor about the military installations at Fort Worden State Park.
What campers like
Quiet camping options: Kayak Point County Park offers a peaceful experience despite being relatively close to urban areas. "When you want to get away from it all, but don't want to travel far from the city, THIS is the spot. Spacious campsites. Running water. Flushing toilets. Showers. A tranquil Puget Sound experience," explains a camper at Kayak Point County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Dosewallips State Park Campground allows visitors to observe native species in their natural habitat. "Campground has elk that walk through it and is right on the river. There are several hiking trails that start from the campground," notes a visitor to Dosewallips State Park Campground.
Yurt camping options: Several parks near Hansville, Washington offer yurt accommodations for those seeking shelter without bringing a tent. Yurt camping in the Hansville area typically provides raised platforms with canvas structures, basic furniture, and nearby restroom facilities. "The coolest thing about the campground is the yurts. They're modern and pretty close together if it's just your family, but we were here for a scout event and it was just so neat staying in the yurts, especially in the colder months," explains one visitor about the yurt options.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Pacific Northwest climate brings rain even during summer months, so waterproof gear remains essential year-round. "Be prepared for rain," advises one camper at Deception Pass State Park.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from transportation or military operations. "This campground's beach access gets very busy during crabbing season as all the boaters rush to the boat launch here," notes one visitor about Lake Leland, while another comments 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."
Site selection strategy: Consider specific site numbers when making reservations at Fay Bainbridge Park. "Campsite 10 looks to be the best as it has a little canopy tree and is in the corner without obstruction for a view of the Puget Sound. Water and electric hookup, picnic table, fire pit at each site with additional bathroom with a shower for the grounds," recommends one experienced camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play equipment for younger visitors. "Amazing kids area pirate ship. Great beach walk and good camp sites," shares one Fay Bainbridge visitor with children, adding that it's "kid friendly" despite some facilities being closed during their visit.
Protected swimming areas: Deception Pass State Park provides designated swimming areas with shallow water. "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," explains one visitor to Deception Pass State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Fort Casey State Park offers historical learning experiences alongside outdoor recreation. "Really neat military relics. Walk to the ferry to visit Port Townsend for the day. Camp in the deep woods. This place is awesome!" shares an enthusiastic visitor who brought children to explore the historical features.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check specific campground amenities before arrival, as services vary widely. "RV sites 1, 2, 4, 9, and 11 will be easier to back in to. The other full hook up sites are 90° approaches. Water pressure is low, averaging just over 20psi," notes a visitor to Kitsap Memorial State Park who traveled with an RV.
Site selection: Consider maneuverability when selecting sites. "All campsites are surrounded by trees so choose carefully if you need a pull through or if you have a large rig that you're trying to back up," advises a camper at Kayak Point.
Dump station access: Not all parks with hookups provide on-site dump stations. "This is a small camp ground, but very charming. The RV spaces are close together but each site has water and electric. The downside is there is no sewage dumping site at the park," explains a visitor to the Upper Oak Bay Park.
