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ScoutDosewallips State Park Campground
Having a herd of Elk grazing in the campground was a bonus.
Camping near Manchester, WA
22 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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The area surrounding Manchester, Washington provides a variety of developed campgrounds with strong access to Puget Sound and Hood Canal waterways. Manchester State Park Campground serves as a central option with both tent and RV sites, while nearby alternatives include Illahee State Park, Dash Point, and Belfair State Park Campground. These mixed-use campgrounds typically feature standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water. Most established sites in the region support multiple accommodation types including tent camping, RV camping with hookups, and in some locations, cabins or glamping options.
Most state park campgrounds in the Manchester area maintain year-round operations with peak season running May through September. Reservations are highly recommended during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. "Manchester is a great place for hiking, camping and kayaking. The campsites aren't huge but they're all nice and secluded in the trees for privacy," noted one visitor. Several campgrounds offer electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations, though specific amenities vary by location. Campers seeking RV sites with full hookups should target Illahee and Manchester State Parks, while those requiring 50-amp service may need to consider Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor approximately 20 miles south.
The waterfront setting represents a defining characteristic of Manchester area camping, with multiple state parks offering beach access and water views. Several campgrounds provide direct beach frontage or walking trails to shorelines. A camper observed that Manchester State Park features "historical military buildings throughout and a beautiful open air event building overlooking the water. Easy kayak launch site and great hiking trails!" While highway noise can affect some campgrounds closer to major roads, sites within the forested sections typically offer more seclusion. Proximity to urban centers makes these campgrounds popular for weekend trips, with many visitors noting the area serves as an ideal "quick Seattle getaway" without requiring significant travel time. The combination of wooded campsites and water access creates versatile camping options suitable for different preferences.
Best Campgrounds near Manchester (285)
1. Dash Point State Park Campground
"Firstly, I just have to say what a positive and amazing experience I had at this campground. The volunteers were friendly, kind and absolutely awesome to interact with."
"The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Ours had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table."
35 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $23 - $74 / night
2. Manchester State Park Campground
"Manchester is one of the few campgrounds that's easily bikeable from Seattle. Nice sites that feel relatively secluded and charging available if you have an e-bike like me."
"Manchester is a great place for hiking, camping and kayaking. The campsites aren’t huge but they’re all nice and secluded in the trees for privacy."
16 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $12 - $250 / night
3. Fay Bainbridge Park
"2, #3, #4 are IMO best after that as they move away from the beach and then curve around in ascending order.
Some neighbor noise, sites are close, but was not busy."
"Great spot on the edge of bainbridge. Lots of spots depending on your preferred privacy level."
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $95 / night
4. Dosewallips State Park Campground
"The grounds are well-maintained with easy access to some hiking trails that are easy to moderate in difficulty."
"Dump station close by worked great on exit. Wooded with ferns. Rain was nice to enjoy through the windows."
64 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $12 - $61 / night
5. Scenic Beach State Park Campground
"Big spaces for tents tucked away from other campers. The beach is a short walk away. Real flushing toilets no porta potties. RV dump station only $5."
"Easily accessible water and easy access to the beach. We got a bit lost while walking the trails to the beach. More signs would be nice for fool's like us."
23 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $12 - $141 / night
6. Belfair State Park Campground
"Often our first or last trip of the year, due to its proximity to the greater Seattle area. Most of the folks we meet are from western Washington. "
"On the water of the Hood Canal, it offered more family activities than many of the parks around. The campground itself is situated close to the water with several loops, tightly packed together."
59 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $12 - $61 / night
7. Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor
"Close by stores, trails, parks, harbor. Tacoma across bridge (10 minutes - $6.25 toll)."
"Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by."
Check Availabilityfrom $57 - $104 / night
8. Seal Rock Campground
"Seal Rock campground is on the Hood canal side of the Olympic peninsula in Washington state. It's actually the second time we camped there, this time on July 3rd and 4th."
"Seal Rock Campground is a nice quiet place tucked away just out side of Brinnon WA. All of the sites are dispersed in a nice forested area which lends for good privacy."
Check Availabilityfrom $18 / night
9. Illahee State Park Campground
"Great place to walk around and enjoy what the deep green that is Washington state."
"The hiking around here is amazing and theres so many different things to do here. It’s close to the water, too which is really neat."
20 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $23 - $41 / night
10. Blake Island Marine State Park Campground
"Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island. It's a great place to stay in the summer months and relax."
"Really fantastic location. Very strict rangers which can be good or bad depending on your preference. Quiet hours are at 10pm which is early for some people so be aware."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $12 - $70 / night
Drive Time
- 24 min from Bremerton, WA
- 1 hr 6 min from Olympia, WA
- 1 hr 12 min from Seattle, WA
- 2 hrs 6 min from Mount Vernon, WA
Recent Camping Photos near Manchester, WA
357 Photos of 285 Manchester Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Manchester State Park Campground
Courter Country FarmD
Fay Bainbridge Park
Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor
Scenic Beach State Park Campground
Seattle/Tacoma KOA - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Dash Point State Park Campground
Belfair State Park Campground
Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground
Dosewallips State Park CampgroundT
Seal Rock CampgroundT
Vasa Park Resort
Recent Reviews near Manchester, WA
1376 Reviews of 285 Manchester Campgrounds
Grant M.
RangerDungeness Forks Campground
There are limited sites here, but we managed to snag one with a fire ring at the last minute. I gave this place five stars because it’s exactly what I picture when I think of a classic riverside campsite: tucked under the timber, cozy, warm, and well maintained. There’s a clean outhouse, bathrooms, and fire rings, with easy access to walk down to the water and enjoy the river.
Worst-case scenario, which seems to happen pretty regularly, is that all the campsites are full. Fortunately, there’s a larger parking lot nearby where you can camp if you can’t get one of the designated sites. We also noticed people pulling off along the access road and parking overnight for a place to sleep.
If you’re hoping to stay a few days, you could always arrive, find a place to park for the night, and check for an open campsite the following morning. The larger parking lot also gets a little more sunlight for solar, although most of the campground is tucked nicely under the timber.
This is a paid campground, but it was only around $14 per night. For that price, the setting and amenities make it a great little spot.
Austin A.ScoutTrailer Inns RV Park (Bellevue)
This place covers your basics. Electric and water hookup, tight parking with neighbors less than 1ft away on both sides. The rating I gave is mostly a reflection of the staff though. The staff were not friendly, seemed annoyed that I was booking with them and provided incorrect information on how to park/setup so I had to turn my 33ft rig around 3 times in these very narrow driveways.
- Kari T.
GuideFort Flagler Historical State Park Campground
This historical campground has a great deal of history. It is one of the few forts that actually has 2 guns still in place. The campground is showing it's age but still a great place to be. Some of the sites are not private, others are slightly more private. The water flow can be a bit temperamental. There are lots of trails, a beach, bunkers to explore and a museum. During the summer there are kayak rentals, a little store and even paragliding. Fun place for all ages.
- Austin A.Scout
Angle Lake RV Park
No shower or bathroom but the staff is friendly and the space is a slice of quiet nature. Imrated 4 stars because it is the most confusing location for a driver or friend to find. It's nestled behind a Shell station and Google Maps will deliver your guests to a parking lot across the street..
Juliana J.RangerRock Candy Mountain Trailhead
Stunning, quiet - worth the trek
I essentially drove as far as I could into the forest and fount a cut off that absolutely was not well maintained but I managed to get my car through and my goodness was it worth it! A bit of trash left behind but other than that this was probably top 3 of the over 25 sites I stayed at over the past several weeks. I even had a little bit of service (Verizon) You do need a discover pass - so technically not free. No amentities but there was a rock fire pit that had been well used. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to find this spot again, but I’ll try and try.
Marissa O.GuideDash Point State Park Campground
Nice campground, well maintained and rangers often patrol the campsite loops. Bathrooms are nice but dated, but quite expensive campground. Paying in-person was $49 for an RV spot with utilities, but booking online was $69 for the same site. Can be busy on the weekend.
Dianna and Barney R.ScoutTrailer Inns RV Park (Bellevue)
Delightful RV park close to the city
This place is so nice. We felt welcomed as soon as we walked to the check-in desk. Dave and Victoria are so kind. This place is so nice and neat and clean. They have a pool and a hot tub which is a plus and a sauna. It was very nice to be able to chatter with them and joke back-and-forth like they were old friends. You can’t go wrong staying here. The only thing is I hate to tell anyone how nice it is cause then I might not be able to get in.
sue M.ScoutPort Susan Camping Club
Port Susan Camping Resort Warning
My review is from my own experience but there are numerous other reviews that express my same sentiments. I was there 7 years and only had infractions during one month. (all from the same ranger) and one speeding infraction.
Port Susan Camping Resort has been a bad experience for me and presently turned to bitter. I sold my lot but the check got lost in the mail. I asked the sales agent to replace the check and I have waited approximately 35 days! I finally asked the board to intervene. This is bad business. This is a sample of the treatment or abuse I was given at Port Susan from the sales office. Replacing a check is easy and the money is not even drawn on Port Susan, it comes from the buyer. What would happen if I were paid but the buyer could not access the lot or wasn't given a gate pass or if the sales had to wait for their commission for 35 days after the sale? I was treated so unfairly! They showed me lots for sale with BLACK MOLD.I would think I am being targeted once again but there are many complaints that have been filed about poor management, unfair fines and being targeted if you speak up. The only recourse you have is to go to Tribal court since Port Susan Camping resort is Tribal owned. If you ask me this is a conflict of interest? Bottom line, absolute power leads to absolute corruption. Port Susan is like living under communist rule: The board took a vote to install 50 amp service, the members voted against it because most trailers use 30 amp. The 50 amp was installed any way and members have to pay for it. I spoke up on Campers Chat, but PSCC has the right to determine what will be allowed to be viewed. Freedom of Speech, NOT sat Port Susan. Members have to be careful who they speak to, if they speak against unfair fines to one of"them" they will be targeted. I have been targeted by one ranger who gave me 1200.00 worth of fines in one month. There used to be one ranger who patrolled lots 24 hours a day now there are 2 or 3. You are under constant survelience and fined for violations. Port Susan changes the rules constantly. One example, the road going downhill to the laundra mat and mailbox changed the speed limit to 5 miles per hour. Try going down a hill at 5 miles per hour. I was fined 200.00 at 5:00 am. This was thrown out because no one could do this but later going down hill to the front gate is a radar controlled system. I accidentally was going 17 mph in a 15 mph and was fined 400.00 for going over the speed limit for a 2nd infraction! no where in this country has fines like this but PSCC has unlimited power and no jusidiction. If you take it Tribal Court,( they lease the land to Port Susan you can be held liable to pay the attorney fees against Port Susan. There is less than 30 years on the lease so your membership is a poor investment. Not to mention that they have water pipe problems and boil water warnings posted periodically. If they decide to change all the water pipes the members will pay. I had rats get into my trucks. One was towed to Toyota and they found a rat. The rats got into the cab. I replaced this truck with a brand new Honda and during an oil change was notified that rat tracks were found all over my distributor cover and it was only at my site for 2 weeks!!! Many members tell the truth once they leave and abuse and mistreatment is the norm. THIS IS A FEAR BASED COMMUNITY Good luck with your purchase
Guide to Manchester
Manchester camping areas offer a mix of wooded and waterfront settings in Washington's Kitsap Peninsula region. Campgrounds typically operate year-round with complete facilities, though summer demand requires advance planning. The region sits at elevations ranging from sea level to 400 feet, creating varied terrain across camping spots near Manchester.
What to do
Beach exploration along Hood Canal: Scenic Beach State Park Campground is ideal for rocky shoreline adventures. "The beach is a short walk from camp, just long enough to make you feel like you earned your sunset view, but not so long that you regret your life choices. It's more of a rocky, muddy beach than a sandy one, but it's still great for exploring, skipping rocks, or pretending you're in a moody PNW indie film," shares Saraj B.
Visit historical military sites: Manchester State Park Campground contains preserved structures from its former military use. A camper mentions, "This CG is a hidden jewel located on the east side of Bainbridge island on beautiful rich passage. Like many sites on the Puget Sound this was first used as a military base for the US Navy to guard the Bremerton ship yards during the Spanish American war and WW2. There are many remnants of the fort located in the park."
Kayaking and water sports: Fay Bainbridge Park provides excellent water access. "Great campground right on the beach. Clean facilities," notes Brook M. Many campers mention the ease of launching kayaks from the shoreline areas with minimal carrying distance.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dosewallips State Park Campground offers frequent wildlife encounters. "Every night, my husband and I would walk to the wildlife viewing platform to see lots of birds, or walk down by the river and see lots of elk and bald eagles," reports Amy & Stu B.
Site privacy levels: The natural separation between sites varies significantly across Manchester area campgrounds. At Scenic Beach State Park, "The campground is unique in how private the sites are with an unusual amount of foliage between sites," according to Jeannie P. Similarly, at Dash Point, campers appreciate that "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes, and the walking trails."
Transportation entertainment: Campers near Manchester enjoy watching maritime traffic. A visitor to Fay Bainbridge notes, "Beautiful beach, great views of Mt. Rainier & Baker on a clear day, cruise ships going by." Many camping spots offer views of Washington State Ferries traversing Puget Sound.
What you should know
Reservation timing requirements: Summer reservations fill quickly, often months in advance. At Manchester State Park, securing preferred sites requires planning. "We decided to check this camp ground out after our friends had stayed there. Nice wooded campground with access to the water. Some sites have hookups and others are dry camping. Most spots are level," explains Eric P.
Urban proximity effects: Campgrounds closer to metropolitan areas experience more traffic noise and higher usage. For Dash Point State Park Campground, "This is a cute campground, especially if you don't want to be too far from the city. I was impressed by how spread apart the sites were," notes Katie S.
Water conditions: Tidal fluctuations affect beach access at most waterfront campgrounds in the Manchester area. At Belfair State Park, "As the tide comes and goes, so does the water fowl." Some beaches disappear completely at high tide, while others maintain limited shoreline.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Belfair State Park Campground offers kid-friendly amenities. "The kids loved the park! The beach was great, water is rather warm for in the sound, it's also pretty shallow which is great for the kids to play in," reports Leah H.
Nature scavenger hunts: Manchester State Park offers educational opportunities. One visitor shared, "Had a great Atlasquest scavenger hunt for the kids." This helps engage younger campers with the park's military history and natural features.
Beach safety considerations: Many beaches near Manchester have sharp shells and slippery rocks. At Fay Bainbridge, the "pirate ship playground for children" provides an alternative to beach play when tides are unfavorable or temperatures drop.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor offers the most extensive RV amenities in the region. "Very close to Gig Harbor. Quiet, lots of trees, level gravel sites, and full hook ups available," notes Steven L. The resort also provides specialized facilities like "a dog wash" that appeal to long-term RV travelers.
Site selection strategy: Manchester area campgrounds vary significantly in site dimensions. For Belfair State Park, an RVer advises, "That is the waterfront loop, the tent loop is also quite nice and a bit more private but we have not stayed there. My chief complaint is that there are no restrooms on the waterfront loop, the two closest being fully public and free to use."
Off-season advantages: Visiting Manchester camping spots during spring or fall provides better availability and quieter experiences. "We stayed here in May and had wonderful weather. Close enough to town for any necessities but far enough to get the secluded feeling," shares Joseph from Illahee State Park Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Manchester, WA?
What camping is available near Manchester, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Manchester, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 285 campgrounds and RV parks near Manchester, WA and 17 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Manchester, WA?
Which is the most popular campground near Manchester, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Manchester, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 79 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Manchester, WA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Manchester, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Manchester, WA.
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