Tent campsites near Hansville, Washington sit along the Puget Sound northern shore on the Kitsap Peninsula with mild temperatures year-round averaging 46-70°F depending on season. The area contains several small state parks and marine preserves within 30 miles, mostly at sea level with coastal forest vegetation. Access to many camping areas requires advance planning due to limited site availability and seasonal restrictions.
What to do
Hiking through historic military sites: Fort Ebey State Park Campground offers tent campers access to unique military history and wildlife viewing. "There are great hiking and mountain biking trails through forest, ocean views and beach access, and it's also fun to explore the old WWII facilities. Bring flashlights," notes Don, who adds "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer."
Beach activities and water play: Blake Island Marine State Park Campground provides exclusive beach access and shoreline exploration. Julia S. advises: "Getting here by boat is about an hour from Seattle and there are volunteers that help at the dock. In summer there is generally a burn ban and if you don't have a shaded spot, the heat can be pretty punishing but the temps go way down at night."
Mountain biking and cycling: Local campsites offer varied terrain for cyclists. Margaret S. observed at Fort Ebey: "There are several mountain biking trails around the park and lots to do and see at the beach!" The park's combination of forest and bluffs creates diverse riding conditions for different skill levels.
What campers like
Secluded woodland settings: Woodlands at Lake Stickney offers private tent camping despite being near urban areas. Don L. explains: "It was my first time camping on a private residential property. I've grown so used to sites like KOA that it was strange to have friendly owners serving us rather than paid staff. They took a lot of care in making sure we were comfortable while also giving us our privacy and space."
Water viewpoints: Tent campers consistently rate waterfront sites highest. Christopher D. describes Fort Ebey: "The campground was really nice, and was located in a densely forested area. Most of the campsites have a lot of privacy and are not very close together... There are also trails that lead to a stunning bluff area."
Unique island camping: Kinney Point State Park Campground offers boat-in camping only, making it less crowded. Thomas B. notes: "This is a great boat-in-only site. No running water but vault toilets. No reservations. Rack for kayaks above high tide. Nice alternative to the Oak Bay sites at Pt. Hadlock to the west."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campsites have limited water sources. Christopher D. notes at Fort Ebey: "The bathrooms were very well maintained, and had hand soap available in the sink area. There also showers in the bathroom... There are water spigots throughout the campground." However, at Kinney Point: "No running water but vault toilets."
Weather considerations: The Olympic Peninsula experiences variable conditions. According to Daniel S. at Dungeness Forks Campground: "We arrived here while beginning our trip around the Olympic peninsula. We unfortunately got caught in rain for almost 2 weeks... Still in November it was pretty frigid rain and there's no where to dry off in a mini van."
Reservation requirements: Site availability varies significantly. Tom K. notes about Fort Ebey: "For the money, it feels like WA state parks are expensive but this area was nice and I'll be back." Meanwhile, Melissa J. states about Dungeness Forks: "This campground seems to be less popular than others on the olympic peninsula. It's located in a great location for day hikes and exploring."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly parks: Paine Field Community Park provides accessible tent camping for families. Aimee M. reports: "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!" Wayne B. adds: "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature."
Educational exploration: Fort Ebey offers learning opportunities for children. "There are old (but well maintained) battery and concrete gun emplacements from WW2 when the Fort was used to defend the West coast," explains Margaret S. "There are so many fun walking paths around the bluffs as well as a beautiful hike around Lake Pondilla with interpretive signage naming the native moss and lichen."
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds feature wildlife viewing opportunities. Erin S. recommends at Fort Ebey: "Don't miss: - Sunset on the bluff - Exploring the old battery - Walk to the beach (trail is off the bluff, steep and long. Bring water!)." Planning visits during spring or fall offers optimal wildlife watching while avoiding peak summer crowds.
Tips from RVers
Limited access considerations: Lena Lake Campground requires planning for larger vehicles. "This is a hike-in campground down a 3.5 mile trail. It sees heavy use from locals on the weekend. There was plenty of room during the week when I was there," advises Art S. Most tent campsites near Hansville have narrow access roads unsuited for larger rigs.
Casino camping options: For RVers seeking amenities, Tulalip Casino offers convenient parking. Cary C. states: "Nice place to have a free spot for the night. Not sure the max number of nights. I forgot to ask. No hook ups and no water available. Clean area and pet exercise area. Security drives by regular."
Road conditions awareness: Access to remote campsites can be challenging. Ethan H. warns about Deer Park Campground: "Scariest road I've ever driven on. Very narrow steep cliffs on the side. Please be careful of oncoming traffic when turning corners! Views at the top make it all worth it." Most tent campsites around Hansville have unpaved access roads requiring slow, careful driving.
