Fay Bainbridge Park features waterfront camping on Bainbridge Island with views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and Mount Baker on clear days. The park includes both RV sites with water and electric hookups as well as walk-in tent sites positioned in two separate areas. Tent campers should note that vehicles cannot drive directly to the tent sites despite what some reservation systems indicate.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Dosewallips State Park Campground, visitors can access Hood Canal directly from campsites. "Our campsite backed up on the river, so we were able to wade in it and put out some chairs and sit on the beach," notes one visitor. The park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as well.
Historical exploration: Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground provides extensive military history to discover. "Lots to do there...beach, crabbing, clamming, playground, sport courts, trails, and the most fun is exploring all the gun batteries," shares one camper. The old bunkers and batteries are particularly popular with families.
Shellfish gathering: Many beaches near Kingston allow oyster harvesting during appropriate seasons. At Seal Rock Campground, "Great for shrimping, clamming and oyster hunting. Tons of wildlife, and great trails nearby," says one visitor. Remember to check regulations and obtain necessary permits before harvesting.
What campers like
Beach access with mountain views: Fort Worden Historical State Park offers spectacular vistas. "Great coastal views and beach walks with lighthouse and pier access. Possibility to rent kayaks," shares a recent visitor. The campground provides easy access to both beaches and historical areas.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report seeing diverse wildlife at dog-friendly campgrounds near Kingston. "Elk, river, puget sound...nice if you want to venture up the river or head to the bay to get clams," notes a visitor to Dosewallips State Park, where elk sightings are common.
Private, spacious sites: Scenic Beach State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. "This campground is unique in how private the sites are with an unusual amount of foliage between sites," explains one camper. Another adds, "Very clean and well cared for. Beach a bit small for volume of users. It is also a rock based beach."
What you should know
Off-season advantages: Many Kingston area campgrounds offer reduced rates during winter months. At Seal Rock Campground, "Awesome fall and winter camping. First come first serve after Oct 31st... Great hiking and exploring. City views of Port Townsend." Water may still be available at sites despite website notices.
Reservation requirements: Most state parks require advance reservations during peak season (May-September). During off-season months, some parks switch to first-come, first-served. Availability varies widely by season.
Beach conditions: Most beaches in the area are rocky rather than sandy. One visitor to Scenic Beach State Park notes, "It is a rock based beach," which makes appropriate footwear important. At low tide, beaches expand considerably for better exploration.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Lake Pleasant RV Park, families appreciate "the walking trails, playground for the kids, and watching the resident ducks in the pond." The natural setting provides additional entertainment.
Kid-friendly beaches: Some beaches are better suited for children than others. "Amazing kids area pirate ship. Great beach walk and good camp sites," shares a visitor to Fay Bainbridge Park, which has become known for its distinctive playground equipment.
Educational opportunities: Fort Worden and Fort Flagler both offer junior ranger programs. "Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets," advises one visitor, noting these activities help children appreciate the historical significance of these locations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When staying at Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground, experienced RVers recommend specific sites. "RV sites 1, 2, 4, 9, and 11 will be easier to back in to. The other full hook up sites are 90° approaches," advises one RVer who noted the park's layout challenges.
Water pressure considerations: Check water pressure at hookup sites. One RVer at Kitsap Memorial noted, "Water pressure is low, averaging just over 20psi," which might require adjustments for RV systems.
Site privacy varies: Many RV sites at dog-friendly campgrounds near Kingston offer limited privacy. "The camper spots are really close together. There is a big field to play ride bikes walk dog etc," notes a Kitsap Memorial visitor. For more secluded options, Port Ludlow RV Park offers "a lay out that lets you feel like you've got your privacy in the woods."