Best Tent Camping near Kirkland, WA
Tent campgrounds around Kirkland, Washington range from established parks to walk-in sites, often located along lakeshores and forested areas. The Woodlands at Lake Stickney provides secluded tent camping with electric hookups and thirty-amp service, while walk-in sites at Hollyhock Farm offer a more rustic experience. Blake Island Marine State Park Campground provides boat-in tent camping with basic amenities and waterfront views for those willing to travel by water from nearby harbors.
Most tent sites in the Kirkland area feature compacted dirt or gravel pads with variable shade coverage depending on the campground. Walk-in tent sites typically require carrying gear a short distance from parking areas, with distances ranging from 100 feet to nearly a quarter mile at some locations. Fire rings are common at established campgrounds, though seasonal fire bans are strictly enforced during dry summer months. Drinking water availability varies significantly - Blake Island and Hollyhock Farm provide potable water, while other locations require campers to bring their own supply. Vault toilets or portable facilities are standard at most locations, though maintenance schedules can be inconsistent.
The tent camping experience near Kirkland offers access to both forested settings and waterfront locations with varying levels of seclusion. Sites at Blake Island provide waterfront views and hiking trails circling the island, creating an isolated camping experience despite proximity to Seattle. Big Country and Woodlands at Lake Stickney offer more intimate settings with single tent sites surrounded by forest vegetation. Morning wildlife viewing opportunities are common at lakeside locations. A camper described Blake Island as "a gorgeous park with really fantastic location. Quiet hours are at 10pm which is early for some people so be aware. 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 and you'll have a great breeze off of the water."
