Camping options near Manchester, Washington include several Forest Service sites within a 30-mile radius of Puget Sound. This coastal region experiences mild temperatures averaging 45-75°F seasonally, with increased rainfall from October through April. Most tent camping locations sit at low elevations under 2,500 feet, with dense evergreen forest providing natural shelter at most sites.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Lena Lake Campground, campers can explore beyond the main lake. "If you don't make it to the upper lena lake, that's ok! Lena lake itself is just as beautiful on its own. You will need a parking pass if parking at trail head!" notes Jess G.
Wildlife observation: Elkhorn Campground offers opportunities to spot native wildlife. "Hiked out there in February and seemed to be the only ones to do it. It was a nice easy hike and the area was beautiful. Great glimpses of mountains along the trail," shares Joseph.
Island exploration: Boat access to Blake Island Marine State Park Campground provides unique hiking opportunities. A camper notes, "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island. It's a great place to stay in the summer months and relax."
What campers like
Natural settings: At NF-2419 Dispersed Site, campers appreciate stream access. "Great avenue to get out into nature with various streams crossing the path of the service road. Truly magical place," writes Jason C.
Wildlife encounters: Forest camping creates opportunities for animal interactions. Trevor M. shares, "Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories" while staying at NF-2419.
Secluded sites: Hollyhock Farm provides privacy between campsites. "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest, the toilet was clean and fairly close to the sites, parking was easy," notes Rio B.
Weather variation: The Olympic Peninsula creates interesting weather patterns. Matthew G. describes his Lena Lake experience: "It was incredible really, because while lower Lena was in full on spring upper Lena was still locked in the grip of winter."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping near Manchester requires self-sufficiency. At Green Mountain, Caren M. notes it "had a bathroom but no other amenities - drinking water, shower, firewood/ice for sale."
Permit requirements: Forest access may require permits. At Lena Lake, Jess G. reminds campers "You will need a parking pass if parking at trail head!"
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly Thursday through Sunday. "NF-2419 is a very busy road at all hours. 2 or 3 cars drive by all day and all through the night," reports Spencer L.
Fire regulations: Seasonal burn bans affect most sites from July through September. Julia S. notes at Blake Island, "In summer there is generally a burn ban and if you don't have a shaded spot, the heat can be pretty punishing."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly facilities: Paine Field Community Park offers amenities for children. Aimee M. states, "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!"
Accessible hikes: Consider trail difficulty for young hikers. Lance R. describes Lena Lake as "Easy, yet rewarding!" noting the trail offers "a rewarding view after a steady climb up meandering switchbacks."
Wildlife education: Create wildlife observation opportunities. Wayne B. recommends Paine Field as "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature."
Timing considerations: Avoid peak weekend crowds with children. Brit B. cautions about Lena Lake: "Beautiful views but too many people."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. Trevor M. shares about NF-2419: "We saw people driving various types of vehicles so most will make it up. My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem."
Site size constraints: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Green Mountain, Ivy K. notes: "Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads."
Amenity planning: Bring essential supplies as most sites lack hookups. For NF-2419, Trevor M. advises, "Bring in water and plenty of fire wood."
Extended stay considerations: Not all dispersed sites work for longer visits. One camper notes about NF-2419: "Most spots are only good for an overnight. Unless you have one of the ones with space I wouldn't stay here for a long period of time."
