Tent campsites near Langley, Washington range from 0 to 1,700 feet in elevation across Whidbey Island and the neighboring mainland. The region experiences mild summers with average temperatures between 65-75°F and cool winters rarely dropping below freezing. Many camping spots feature second-growth forest with Douglas fir and Western red cedar, creating natural windbreaks during coastal weather patterns.
What to do
Beach exploration: 3-mile hike from Tulalip Casino to nearby Possession Sound Preserve. "Clean area and pet exercise area. Security drives by regular," notes Cary C., making this a secure base for day trips.
Mountain biking: Trail networks around Squire Creek Park & Campground connect to the Mountain Loop Highway system. "It has very dense trees and a small beach on a creek for wading. Hiking trails and a larger river are a short drive away," according to Annie B.
Stargazing: Clear night skies visible from higher elevation campgrounds. At Deer Park Campground, "That night it got so dark we were blanketed in stars and it was simply amazing," shares Meghan S.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings common at dawn and dusk. A visitor at Deer Park Campground reported, "We also saw a lot of deer right by our tent," while another mentioned the animals are "in abundance so you should definitely keep food in the car."
River access: Waterfront sites available for cooling off during summer. At Dungeness Forks Campground, campers enjoy "a babbling river with many adventures to be found. Various kinds of edible berries, log bridge, rocks to climb, eddy pools, etc," according to Mishqueen.
Unique accommodation options: Beyond traditional tent sites, some campgrounds offer alternative sleeping arrangements. Nicole B. reported about Paca Pride Guest Ranch, "Camped on a yurt tent pad here and it was awesome. Alpacas and other animals. Mellow and fun!"
What you should know
Water availability: Several primitive sites have no potable water. At Deer Park Campground, "There is no water, so bring your own and there a couple of vault toilets," explains Chad K.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require caution. The route to Deer Park has been described as "scariest road I've ever driven on. Very narrow steep cliffs on the side. Please be careful of oncoming traffic when turning corners!" by Ethan H.
Site privacy: Varies significantly between locations. At Fort Ebey State Park Campground, Chad K. noted, "The first thing you notice about this campground is that the sites are tightly packed. There is not a lot of privacy," though he added the sites were "bigger than expected."
Noise levels: Road proximity affects some camping experiences. Squire Creek campers mentioned, "During the early evening of our first night, they came and locked the bathrooms leaving the entire campground with one, well used portable toilet. When we went to bed that night, the sound of trucks and traffic kept us awake most of the night."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: No-water sites require planning ahead. As one Deer Park visitor advised, "This is quite primitive camping (no water available) so being prepared is key."
Consider off-season visits: Less crowded camping experiences available outside peak summer months. "Quiet and private during the offseason weekdays. Had the whole park to our selves," reported Jakob M. about Squire Creek Park.
Check bathroom facilities: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. Big Country offers "Beach within Walking Distance" and tent sites that are "secluded yet close to the Possession Sound Preserve," according to Ashley F.
Shelter options: Rain protection important for coastal camping. At Deer Park Campground, "If it rains, some have shelters keep dry," notes Chad K.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Squire Creek Park, a camper advised, "If camping in a trailer, take special note of accessibility of the site by checking out the campground map. I would recommend the sites 1-11 area as most accessible for trailers."
Alternative parking: Casino camping offers free overnight stays. "Great free camping for up to three nights. Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive," explains Adam Y. about Tulalip Casino, adding there's "very nice friendly security staff."
Limited hookups: Most tent-oriented sites have minimal RV amenities. At Tulalip Casino, Nicole A. explains, "This is just a parking lot for you to park your RV while gaming. There is a spot for the animals to wee and that is about it."
