Best Campgrounds near McKenna, WA

McKenna, Washington sits within reach of several established campgrounds and natural areas offering varied camping experiences. Alder Lake Park in nearby Eatonville provides year-round camping with both tent and RV sites, while Millersylvania State Park Campground near Olympia features cabins and yurts alongside traditional camping options. The region includes a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and military facilities like Lewis North Travel Camp on Joint Base Lewis McChord. Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain amenities such as drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables, with many offering electric hookups for RVs.

Public lands surrounding McKenna feature a range of camping environments from riverside sites to forested settings. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when visitation peaks. "This campground is about 20 minutes away from my parents place in Longview Wa. About 5 miles off of the freeway next to Silver Lake and the Mt Rainier Visitor Center," noted one visitor about Seaquest State Park. Weather conditions remain relatively mild year-round, though winter camping may require additional preparation for rain and cooler temperatures. Several campgrounds in the area maintain shower facilities and flush toilets, while more remote locations offer vault toilets or no facilities at all.

Campers report high satisfaction with sites near rivers and lakes, particularly those offering privacy between campsites. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Most of the sites are in the woods, although they are all pretty close together. Some of the larger sites, including the RV sites, are right next to the beach, and you can set up chairs and have a beautiful view." Proximity to Mount Rainier National Park serves as a significant draw for many campgrounds in the region, with several visitors mentioning the convenience of using these areas as base camps for exploring the national park. Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds appear at several developed campgrounds, while those seeking more solitude can find it at less developed sites farther from population centers. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with better connectivity at campgrounds closer to towns.

Best Camping Sites Near McKenna, Washington (265)

    1. Alder Lake Park

    31 Reviews
    La Grande, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2778

    "It's about an hours drive from Paradise, which makes it less ideal than Cougar Rock if that's your destination, but the reservations do not fill up nearly as quickly."

    "Walking distance to the day use beach area. Very clean showers. Well maintained sites and fire wood for sale with the camp host. A great spot for exploring near Mt. Rainer."

    2. Millersylvania State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Tenino, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $12 - $45 / night

    "This is a very nice, typical Washington state park with plenty of trees, greenery, hiking, pathways and even a lake."

    "This is a beautiful park located on Deep Lake just outside of Olympia.  The park itself is huge offering lots of options for campers.  "

    3. Elkamp Eastcreek

    36 Reviews
    Mineral, WA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 492-3104

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Rainier as it is within minutes of the Nisquilly entrance.  The majority of the campsites were amid tall trees. "

    "The sites are situated amongst beautiful tall trees, spacious and private. A beautiful creek runs through with a foot bridge with access to a beautiful meadow."

    4. Dash Point State Park Campground

    71 Reviews
    Federal Way, WA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $20 / night

    ""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."

    5. Sasquatch Farm

    4 Reviews
    Yelm, WA
    4 miles
    +1 (360) 473-8447

    $20 - $50 / night

    "It's ffs camping, but it was the middle of the week so I had no trouble snagging a spot around 7."

    "They took us around the farm and showed us the animals. We have a 38-foot trailer and had plenty of room to back in. At the end of the day, soaking in the hot tub was the best!"

    6. Riverbend Campground

    7 Reviews
    DuPont, WA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 491-2534

    "Super peaceful, great fire pit location, water at the site entrance, portable restrooms away (but close), and best of all right at the river’s edge."

    "We needed something close to the city, but didn’t want to feel like we were in the city, this fit the bill. People are very friendly and accommodating. The park is really clean."

    7. American Heritage Campground

    15 Reviews
    Tumwater, WA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 943-8778

    $40 - $60 / night

    "We had a little trouble finding this spot because an industrial area moved in around the campground.  Signs tell you where it is, but it feels wrong."

    "Site #5 is close to main office where you can get wifi if you want, we declined though. Restrooms were good. No issues. Will definitely return again soon!"

    8. Lewis North Travel Camp - Joint Base Lewis McChord

    6 Reviews
    DuPont, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 967-7744

    $12 - $35 / night

    "Very friendly next to the lake plenty of things to do walking, biking, hiking, fishing, Military museums, not to far off of I-5. Full hookups laundry shower facilities. Cabins too."

    "Unfortunately the restrooms right next to our site were closed so it was a slight walk to the nearest restroom. Restrooms were heated and well taken care of."

    9. Holiday Park Military - Lewis McChord Base

    7 Reviews
    Spanaway, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 982-5488

    "Excellent location for those with military access to the base - active duty, retired or family. 30/50 amp hookups. Beautiful views of American Lake. Pet friendly."

    "It is in the wilderness, on the lake, but it is also fairly close to stores and gas stations. Long term max is 28 days per spot."

    10. The Healing Farm

    2 Reviews
    Yelm, WA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 308-0188

    $60 / night

    "The kids was in Awh with all the animals and how they would let you walk up to them and interact with them."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 265 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near McKenna, WA

1281 Reviews of 265 McKenna Campgrounds



Guide to McKenna

Camping near McKenna, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Many campers enjoy the miles of hiking trails available. One visitor at Dash Point State Park Campground mentioned, "Love coming here to hike with the dogs and kids," highlighting the area's family-friendly trails.
  • Beach Activities: The beach near Dash Point State Park Campground is a great spot for relaxing and letting pets run free. A reviewer noted, "The beach is clean and the water is too!"
  • Fishing and Water Sports: At Ike Kinswa State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy kayaking and fishing. One camper shared, "Lake Mayfield is beautiful for kayaking, fishing, swimming in approved areas."

What campers like:

  • Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers appreciate clean and organized sites. A visitor at Alder Lake Park said, "The bathrooms are very nice. They charge a nominal fee for the showers but they have great water pressure and hot water."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A reviewer at Elkamp Eastcreek mentioned, "The sites are comfortably private and well thought out for tent, table, and fire ring placements."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Mossyrock Park are great for families. One camper noted, "Best camp playground I’ve ever seen!"

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Penrose Point State Park Campground mentioned, "While there is nothing wrong with partying, this should be designated as party central not as a campground."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Alder Lake Park pointed out, "No sewer or showers, pit toilets."
  • Reservation Recommendations: It’s wise to reserve spots during peak seasons. A reviewer at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground advised, "For off-season campers, if you’re going on a weekend, we highly recommend making a reservation."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and open spaces. A parent at Mossyrock Park said, "Our kiddo really liked the playground and getting ice cream at the concession stand after dinner."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground mentioned, "The campgrounds seem very well maintained and also you don’t feel like you’re close to the city."
  • Pack for Comfort: Ensure you have enough supplies for everyone. A camper at Dash Point State Park Campground noted, "I did not hook up the sewer hose however because the lid was broken."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Alder Lake Park shared, "The pad is paved but ours was not at all level."
  • Utilize Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric and water hookups. A visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are very generous in size with LONG paved driveway pads."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Expect busy weekends and plan accordingly. A camper at Millersylvania State Park Campground noted, "The lake was crowded from 11-5/6 but early mornings or late afternoons it really quieted down."

Camping near McKenna, Washington, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near McKenna, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, McKenna, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 265 campgrounds and RV parks near McKenna, WA and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near McKenna, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near McKenna, WA is Alder Lake Park with a 4.3-star rating from 31 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near McKenna, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near McKenna, WA.