Camping options near Kent span from riverside tent sites to full-hookup RV parks within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at moderate elevations in western Washington's lowlands, with a temperate climate that supports year-round camping. Most campgrounds remain open all seasons, though winter rainfall can create muddy conditions at primitive sites from November through March.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Tolt MacDonald Park offers access to multiple trails along the Snoqualmie River. "Great spot close to the city if you want to get away but not drive too far," notes one camper at Tolt MacDonald Park, who appreciated the well-maintained trails.
Water activities: Swimming and paddling opportunities abound during summer months at Lake Sammamish. A visitor at Vasa Park Resort reports: "We loved the Vasa Park Resort. We roasted hotdogs and s'mores over the camp fire and our dog loved swimming in the lake."
Kayaking: The Green River through Kanaskat-Palmer State Park draws experienced paddlers. "Big entertainment for three boys who explored the woods and played on the rocks and in the eddy pools at the public river take-out," shares a family who camped at Kanaskat-Palmer.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating separation between campsites in certain parks. "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes," writes a visitor to Dash Point State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. One camper at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park reports, "It has 6 very clean individual bathrooms with a shower in each," adding that the campground is "heavily patrolled by the park rangers."
Proximity to urban conveniences: Several campgrounds offer wilderness settings with urban amenities nearby. A camper at Dash Point noted, "I spent a weekend tent camping at Dash Point State Park, and honestly, it was a great time even though I completely failed to plan any meals. Thankfully, civilization is only about 15 minutes away."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds book quickly, especially during peak season. For Game Farm Wilderness Campground in Auburn, one visitor advises: "Book early—reservations open January 1st!"
Noise considerations: Airplane noise affects some campgrounds due to flight paths. At Saltwater State Park, a camper reports, "No joke- ALL day and night the planes felt like they were in our tent/heads. Every 3-30 seconds it was LOUD."
Space constraints: Some campgrounds have tight spacing between sites. A visitor to Vasa Park Resort observed, "Spots are a little tight. Looks like they cater mostly to day use and corporate events during season."
Strict rule enforcement: Several campgrounds enforce regulations diligently. A Kanaskat-Palmer visitor experienced, "I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quite as myself and three 9-year-old girls were talking too loud."
Tips for camping with families
Yurts for less experienced campers: Alternative accommodations provide camping comfort. A visitor to Tinkham Campground enjoyed their experience, noting, "Wonderful time at Tinkham! Most of the sites are on the water and it is GORGEOUS!"
Campgrounds with play areas: Some locations offer dedicated recreational spaces. A camper at Vasa Park Resort mentions, "Beautiful beach area, basketball courts, playground, and volleyball right at the site."
Weekday camping: For quieter family experiences, consider non-weekend stays. "We picked tall chief because it was close to home for our first trip with new trailer," a family reports about their experience at Tall Chief Campground, noting the site was not busy on a weekday.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Several campgrounds offer limited hookups. An RV camper at Tall Chief Campground shares, "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it. The staff are always super nice and helpful."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment for leveling. One RVer at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park reported, "The gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground."
Cell reception variability: Signal strength varies considerably among the best places to camp near Kent, Washington. A Tall Chief camper advises, "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. 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."
