The Lake Stevens area offers multiple options for yurt camping experiences across 2,000 acres of county and state parkland. These permanent canvas tents sit on wooden platforms at various elevations between 200-600 feet, providing protection from Pacific Northwest rainfall that averages 36 inches annually. Most yurts in the Lake Stevens region remain open year-round with limited seasonal closures.
What to do
Beach exploration: Kayak Point County Park provides water access with a fishing pier and boat ramp. "During a previous trip in April we saw a whale feeding in the bay. We take our boat and crab," notes Russ H., highlighting the marine wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife viewing: Paca Pride Guest Ranch offers unique animal interactions beyond just camping. The working alpaca farm provides an agricultural tourism component with convenient proximity to Lake Stevens. Electric hookups and shared bathroom facilities make this a comfortable yurt stay.
Historical exploration: Fort Worden State Park combines beach access with historical structures. "If you like bunkers, canons, and barracks, with a view, then come here. There is a lighthouse that still functions and plenty of beach access," explains Ryan L. The park features gun batteries, trails, and the Point Wilson Lighthouse within walking distance of the campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Kayak Point County Park earns praise for its site layout. "Surprisingly the sites are not on top of each other and there is good privacy between sites," reports Brooks S., who appreciates that despite being a small county park, campsites maintain adequate separation.
Water recreation: River Meadows Park provides direct river access for summer activities. Linda C. notes the "river access nearby. Saw people floating on the river. Nice and shallow, clean rocky beach is just a short walk from the camp."
Privacy between sites: Several Lake Stevens area campgrounds feature natural vegetation barriers. Austin R. comments that at River Meadows Park, "The spaces are sectioned off by large bushes which was nice to have some privacy." This separation creates individual camping zones within the community setting.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer brings significantly higher visitor numbers to Lake Stevens area campgrounds. At Wenberg County Park, Jennifer M. cautions it's "very busy city camping. Beach area is nice but packed in the summer."
Limited dump stations: Several yurt camping locations near Lake Stevens lack sewage facilities. At Fay Bainbridge Park, Judy J. notes "no dump station" is available, which requires planning for longer stays.
Naval flight noise: Some campgrounds experience periodic aircraft noise from nearby military installations. Will L. mentions that at Deception Pass State Park, "The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play structures. At Kayak Point County Park, Kim B. mentions "a playground and the shore to keep the kids busy and fishing for us."
Open play areas: For active children who need space to run, River Meadows Park delivers. Mindy P. describes "a huge open field for play" that complements the camping experience and provides ample room for group activities.
Pirate-themed activities: Camano Island State Park offers maritime-themed recreation. Kim B. describes it as having "boating and a few small trails, if you don't have a boat or don't plan to fish or crab there's not much to do but sit and enjoy the waves with a picnic."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: When selecting a yurt camping site near Lake Stevens, consider adjacent RV site specifications. At Kayak Point County Park, Jamie S. advises to "choose carefully if you need a pull through or if you have a large rig that you're trying to back up."
Utility connections: Most Lake Stevens area yurts lack hookups, but Tolt MacDonald Park offers nearby RV sites with utilities. Russ H. comments, "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."
Shower tokens: Some facilities require purchased tokens for hot water. Becky R. notes at Fort Worden, "The showers were hot but low pressure. It only took two tokens for a quality shower."
