Campsites surrounding Lake Tapps sit at elevations between 500 and 800 feet, with most areas experiencing mild summer temperatures averaging 75°F. The region features second-growth forests dominated by Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar. Camping areas near Lake Tapps remain accessible year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing from November through February.
What to do
River exploration: Access Green River's edge trails at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, located 21 miles east of Lake Tapps. "Short hike to river spots that are perfect for wading or fishing. 10 minute drive from Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding," notes Ashlie M. The park offers multiple river access points for kayakers and fishing enthusiasts.
Hiking: Connect with forest trails at Tolt MacDonald Park, which features a suspension bridge across the Snoqualmie River. "If you venture across the Shakey bridge there are hiking trails, access to the water, and plenty of trees to hang your hammock in," explains Dawnielle C. The park provides both riverside and forested trails suitable for various hiking abilities.
Shoreline activities: Explore tidal beaches at Dash Point State Park during low tide. "Really cute camp spot and play area!! Pet friendly and dog park! Went here on our trip to Tacoma north of the city. Very nice beach and area!! There's also a light house to check out while you are here!" writes Carla S. The park sits 19 miles from Lake Tapps and provides sandy beaches for beachcombing.
What campers like
Private sites: Secluded camping areas at Dash Point State Park provide significant separation between neighboring sites. "I was impressed by how spread apart the sites were, I think they could have fit another in between each of them!" Katie S. remarked about the campground design. Each site features a fire ring and clear boundaries between neighboring areas.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower buildings at Elkamp Eastcreek provide coin-operated hot showers. "Elkamp was very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced. The shower is coin-operated so bring quarters if you wish to use," suggests Shannon H. Campers note the bathrooms remain heated during cooler months.
Family amenities: Recreation areas for children at Camp Lakeview include waterfront access. "There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court. A small beach with a large dock was available for use during the day as well as a boat launch and fishing dock," describes Julia B. The campground's activities remain available to all registered campers.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Winter camping options become restricted at several campgrounds. Saltwater State Park's camping area closes after mid-December though the day use area stays open. "The campground is open April 1– mid-December but the day use area is open year-round," explains Lee D.
Reservation systems: Plan bookings well ahead for glamping close to Lake Tapps, Washington, especially during summer months. Sites at Blue Sky RV Park fill quickly with limited availability for last-minute reservations. "We were able to grab a last minute reservation thanks to a FT resident leaving for service," states Mark O. regarding their fortunate timing.
Noise considerations: Aircraft patterns affect some campgrounds with notable frequency at Saltwater State Park. "No joke- ALL day and night the planes felt like they were in our tent/heads. Every 3-30 seconds it was LOUD," warns Kirsten. Train noise also affects some sites at Kanaskat-Palmer, though most campers report it as minimal.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for water activities: Pack appropriate swimming gear during summer months. "The weekend gets very busy but during the weeks it is a cozy little community," Julia B. explains about Camp Lakeview's waterfront facilities. Water temperatures at Lake Tapps typically reach the mid-70s by late July.
Consider ranger interaction: Expect regular campground checks at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day. I have had a fellow parent dropping their child off to camp with us and within 10 minutes the rangers were there checking that they had a park pass," explains Kelly P. The strict enforcement maintains quiet hours and prevents disturbances.
Select sites based on accessibility needs: Tolt MacDonald Park provides accommodations for families requiring easier access. "The campground, park and trails are very well maintained and they even provide you with garden carts to help you get your stuff across the bridge," notes Mercedes D. Some sites require walking distances that might challenge families with small children or mobility concerns.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Check utility connections before booking at glamping facilities near Lake Tapps, Washington. Most sites at Tall Chief Campground offer only water and electric. "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it imo," notes Brodie D. The campground provides a dump station on-site for RV waste disposal.
Power capacity concerns: Monitor electrical usage during hot weather at sites with older infrastructure. "Normally 30 amp posts are sufficient but we ended up here during a heat wave and an entire section of the park blew after having several days of power issues," Derek & Alex W. shared about their experience at Tall Chief Campground. Verify your power needs match available hookups before arrival.
Site leveling challenges: Request information about pad grading when booking RV sites. "I only took away a star because it was advertised as ok for a Motorhome but the gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground," Cody F. mentions regarding camping at Kanaskat-Palmer. Some parks provide leveling information on their reservation platforms.
