Best Campgrounds near Kingston, WA
Kingston sits at the center of several popular camping destinations on Washington's Kitsap Peninsula, with state parks and developed campgrounds spread across both sides of Puget Sound. Kitsap Memorial State Park offers tent, RV, and cabin camping options just north of Kingston, while Manchester State Park provides tent and RV sites near Port Orchard. Most campgrounds in the area feature waterfront or near-water locations, with varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to full-hookup RV facilities.
Campground access generally remains open year-round in this region, though many visitors note the significant difference between summer popularity and quieter off-season experiences. "Despite being early in the season, that Saturday it was the only spot available day of," reports one camper describing last-minute availability. Sites near the water tend to book months in advance during summer, while shoulder season (April-May and September-October) offers better availability. Most state parks require a Discover Pass for day use ($30 per year), and camping fees typically range from $15-40 depending on amenities and location. Cell coverage is generally good throughout the area due to proximity to populated areas.
Mixed-use campgrounds dominate the Kingston area landscape, with many offering both tent and RV sites in separate loops or areas. Several visitors praise the waterfront locations, particularly at campgrounds along Hood Canal and Puget Sound. One reviewer noted that at Scenic Beach State Park, "Big spaces for tents tucked away from other campers. The beach is a short walk away." Privacy between sites varies significantly, with forest campgrounds typically offering more separation than waterfront locations. Highway noise can be an issue at some campgrounds, particularly those near Highway 101 or major thoroughfares. Most developed campgrounds provide clean restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, with some offering showers and dump stations for RVs.
