RV camping near Lake Tapps offers access to Mount Rainier and Puget Sound urban centers. Lake Tapps itself spans 4.5 square miles with 45 miles of shoreline and maintains water temperatures between 70-80°F during summer months. Cell coverage varies by carrier with Verizon providing the most consistent signal throughout the region's campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails accessibility: At Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, campers find convenient access to nearby outdoor recreation. "Waterfront is right down the street. Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by," notes Jacob P., highlighting the balance between nature and convenience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Numerous water birds inhabit the ponds at Lake Pleasant RV Park. "We did not use the bathrooms, but enjoyed the walking trails, playground for the kids, and watching the resident ducks in the pond," shares Nikki R. The park's natural setting attracts various wildlife despite its proximity to urban areas.
Winter activities: Campgrounds in the region maintain operations throughout winter months with adjusted amenities. "We are here in November for a week. The staff are friendly and helpful. Lots of trees in our section separating us but in other sections you're really close to each other," reports one camper at Tall Chief Campground, indicating the seasonal variations in privacy and spacing.
What campers like
Private sites: Tall Chief Campground receives praise for spacious sites. "We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region... Most sites are pretty big too. We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space!" explains Brodie D. The forested setting creates natural privacy between many sites.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds prioritize cleanliness, particularly appreciated at Blue Sky RV Park. "The new and clean bathrooms and showers were a real treat after a 2100 mile journey from Texas," shares Todd B., describing the park as "A Quiet oasis tucked into the forest."
Affordable laundry: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate reasonably priced laundry facilities. "Laundry machines ($2 washer/$2 dryer) get the job done, with no need to keep feeding the machine," mentions John M. at Lake Pleasant RV Park, while another camper at a different location notes, "Laundry is cheap ($1 wash)."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing spots in advance becomes essential at popular RV sites near Lake Tapps, Washington. "Make reservations in advance! Great place, peaceful, lots of trees," advises John K., emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.
Pet restrictions: Dog-friendly policies vary between campgrounds, with specific designated areas. At Issaquah Village RV Park, "You must walk your dogs off site across the street to relieve themselves... They even provide a poo poop can at the driveway with baggies," explains Wendy R., highlighting the structured pet policies.
Site leveling considerations: RV sites throughout the region have varying degrees of levelness. "The spaces are very close together, but there are a lot of trees and it's very well kept," notes Joseph I., describing Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor. Many campgrounds have gravel pads that may require minor adjustments for larger rigs.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: For families with children, some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "There is a small playground, dog run and well marked facility," mentions Mareesha B. about Trailer Inns RV Park, though she cautions, "This is not a place for those looking to camp with kids and stay at the camper."
Swimming access: During summer months, water activities provide relief from heat. "Indoor pool, small playground, dog run and well marked facility," lists the same reviewer about amenities suitable for family entertainment at Trailer Inns.
Spacing between sites: Family groups should research site proximity when booking. "Large private or cramped sites based on what you choose and pay for. Some have fire rings. All with picnic tables but you will be sitting right next to your neighbors if you choose the sites in middle section of park," advises mary F. about Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Sewer hookups: South Prairie Creek RV Park offers full-service sites for extended stays. "Pretty nice park for a quick stopover or base camp. No picnic tables and only a small outdoor area," notes Katie O., providing context for RVers planning their stay duration.
Site selection for connectivity: Cell reception varies significantly within campgrounds. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees... I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it," suggests Brodie D., reporting significant speed differences between sites at Tall Chief Campground.
Vehicle size considerations: Many campgrounds accommodate large RVs with specific restrictions. "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station," advises David O. about managing long-term stays at Tall Chief Campground with larger rigs.
