Lacey's camping options sit near the base of the Cascade Mountains, providing access to both forested hills and the waters of Puget Sound. The area receives around 50 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush camping environments with abundant vegetation. Winter temperatures average 35-45°F while summer brings 65-75°F days ideal for luxury tent accommodations and outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Millersylvania State Park Campground features numerous old-growth forest trails. "Nice state forest with old growth. Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free. Quieted down around 10pm," notes Anna P. about the trail system that accommodates various skill levels.
Lake activities: Alder Lake Park offers swimming, fishing and boating opportunities. "The lake is that beautiful blue/green glacier water color," explains Nicole P. The park includes a sandy beach area, boat launch, and fishing dock where anglers can try for trout.
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings around Ike Kinswa State Park Campground create excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "The natural flora and fauna in late May/early June are amazing," writes Lisa K. Visitors often spot deer and various bird species throughout the park's 46-acre waterfront property.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Riverbend Campground offers sites along the water's edge. "We stayed there on a Thursday right on the river. Super peaceful, great fire pit location, water at the site entrance," shares J. The riverfront tent sites provide the sound of flowing water as a natural sleep aid.
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes," Brittany D. mentions about Dash Point State Park Campground. Similarly, at Ike Kinswa, Christina F. notes, "We could not see either of the neighboring sites while sitting by our campfire."
Clean facilities: Elkamp Eastcreek in Mineral receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "Elkamp was very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced," says Shannon H. Another camper, Sarah Claire B., confirms: "The bathrooms were always clean. There's designated dish washing station and potable water station."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels can affect beach conditions at some parks. At Belfair State Park Campground, "As the tide comes and goes, so does the water fowl," according to Kari R. Similarly, at Alder Lake, one visitor noted that when "the dam in Tacoma was partially drained causing a 'low tide' which exposed the dirt and poor beach area."
Reservation timing: The most desirable sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "After months of trying to get reservations for this popular campground, we finally got one for Thanksgiving weekend!" shares Christina F. about Millersylvania State Park. For glamping options near Lacey, booking several months ahead is often necessary.
Varying privacy levels: Site selection matters for those seeking seclusion. John G. describes Millersylvania: "Separated tent and RV sites, sites are spacious." However, at other parks like Alder Lake, a camper notes it can get "crowded and the campsites are pushed up pretty close together."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds and swimming areas. "The park is large with a play ground and beach area. My kids enjoyed playing in the sand and watching deer from our campsite," Ashley Y. says about Alder Lake Park. The shallow swimming areas are particularly suitable for younger children.
Security features: Some parks offer patrol services for added safety. At Alder Lake, Chandra J. appreciates that "the grounds are clean, and are patrolled intermittently adding to nighttime safety." This allows families more peace of mind when camping with children.
Group facilities: For larger family gatherings, seek out group camps. "We stayed in the group camp and I can highly recommend it. It had its own bathrooms. It was set back in the woods with tons of places for tents. The shelter was large and had water and power," describes Ellen T. about her Millersylvania State Park experience.
Tips from RVers
Power management: Olympia Campground and other parks may have electrical limitations. An RVer warns: "They advertise 30A service, but the grid cannot handle it. Breakers flip often, especially in the colder months when campers are trying to stay warm." Plan accordingly by bringing alternative heating options during cooler months.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for variable terrain. One camper at Millersylvania notes: "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up. The thin layer of mud on the pavement made things quite slick as I was trying to get leveling blocks down."
Site selection for slides: Tree density can create challenges for larger RVs. Christina F. comments about Ike Kinswa: "The campground is heavily wooded which is really nice for shade, though it can make it tricky to get into a spot if you have slide outs." Request specific sites that accommodate your RV's dimensions when booking glamping or RV sites near Lacey.
