Camping options near Lake Forest Park, Washington aren't limited to horse facilities. Located in King County at approximately 200 feet above sea level, Lake Forest Park experiences mild Pacific Northwest weather with wet winters and moderate summer temperatures around 75°F. The area's diverse topography offers camping experiences ranging from riverside sites to forested mountain retreats within reasonable driving distance.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Tolt MacDonald Park provides river access for anglers targeting salmon and steelhead. One visitor noted, "It's located right smack in the middle of carnation so on a nice sunny day you could walk out of the park to get pizza, ice cream or even mexican food."
Hike to waterfalls: Collins Campground offers nearby trails leading to scenic water features. A camper shared, "We walked there and it was a milder way walk uphill to the trail head and then the .8 mile hike heads to a pretty waterfall which you can walk behind."
Explore coastal areas: Dungeness Recreation Area provides beach access and maritime experiences. A reviewer mentioned, "It's connected to wildlife refuge where you can take a 5 mile stroll on a spit to a public light house where you can see across to Canada and other parts of the Sound."
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Collins Campground offers sites along the Duckabash River. One visitor appreciated that "The Duckabash river runs along most of the sites. There is a good amount of space between most campsites. Each one has a fire ring and picnic table."
Unique accommodations: At Tolt MacDonald Park, campers can stay in converted shipping containers. A reviewer described, "They offer the typical primitive campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as yurts and shipping container conversions for those who want more of a 'GLAMping' outdoor experience."
Proximity to town: Several campgrounds offer both nature and urban conveniences. At Tolt MacDonald, a visitor observed, "This park is super close to downtown Redmond so if you are looking for an easy trip, or something a little more remote on the other side of the bridge, this is the spot for you."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed sites requires careful driving. At South Fork Snoqualmie River dispersed sites, a camper warned, "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience predictable noise patterns. At Evergreen State Fairgrounds, a visitor noted, "The racetrack here is non stop noise when they're racing. It's a gravel parking lot with no real amenities."
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly. For Dungeness Recreation Area, one camper advised, "Worst part is the $10 online reservation fee, but as a family, we'd rather pay to know we have a site."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Dungeness Recreation Area offers dedicated facilities for children. A reviewer mentioned, "This campground is great for families and people with kids. There are playgrounds near the bathrooms."
Wildlife experiences: Nearby attractions complement camping trips. One Dungeness visitor suggested, "You are a short drive from the Olympic Game Farm, well worth a visit. Check it out online, the kids will love feeding the buffalo and elk."
Shower availability: Confirm bathroom facilities before booking. A Dungeness camper appreciated that "A family campground with cheap and clean showers (50 cents/2 minutes), great play area, not a bad amount of mosquitoes for location, and quiet unlike many state park campgrounds."
Tips from RVers
Fairground considerations: While not ideal for recreational stays, Evergreen State Fairgrounds provides basic amenities. A visitor explained, "It has water and 30 amp power at all spots with access to a dump station. You are limited to 7 nights per month."
Level parking: Tolt MacDonald Park offers convenient RV sites. A camper reported, "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet."
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal. An Evergreen Fairgrounds visitor noted, "Dump station you either drive to or take your porta can and drag it there. Hosts are good people and quiet when races not running."
