The McKenna area offers accessible camping between 400-700 feet elevation with predominantly Douglas fir forests and several bodies of water, including Alder Lake and Deep Lake. The region experiences moderate rainfall even in summer months, with temperatures typically ranging from 45°F to 85°F depending on season. Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations despite seasonal weather fluctuations.
What to do
Lake activities at Alder Lake Park: Visitors can enjoy swimming at the designated beach area and boating with both wake and no-wake zones. "This place is beautiful!! There are trails to explore, a sandy beach area that is also for public access, a boat launch and boat dock. The water is that beautiful blue/green glacier water color," shares Nicole P. at Alder Lake Park.
Hiking trails at Millersylvania: The park features multiple forest trails suitable for different ability levels. "There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake, which is not far from the campground," reports Christina F. Trails connect to the lake shore, making them convenient for campers wanting both forest and lake experiences.
River access at Riverbend: The campground provides direct river shore access for fishing and water play. According to J, "We stayed there on a Thursday right on the river. 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."
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Campers consistently appreciate the well-spaced sites at Ike Kinswa State Park. "Very private spaces, clean restrooms," notes Don O. Another camper explains, "As we were on the outer part of the loop in a pull-through site, we had a view of the woods and quite a bit of space between neighboring sites. We could not see either of the neighboring sites while sitting by our campfire."
Yurt camping at Millersylvania State Park: The canvas structures provide a comfortable glamping option. Mary C. reports, "They have glamping! Or as the campground calls it: pampered camping. The canvas tent option was one I didn't know about until I got there. The tents are cabin shaped and have a few chairs and BBQ grill outside it. Great option for families."
Clean facilities: Campers regularly mention well-maintained bathrooms. "The campsite was very clean and maintained, the hosts do a great job and you can tell they take pride in their duties," says Mary C. about Alder Lake Park. At Elkamp Eastcreek, one visitor called it "the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced."
What you should know
Reservations required: Most popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. At Elkamp Eastcreek, one camper noted, "We spent 1 night at Elkamp and were sad to have to move on so quickly. It would be a great base for exploring the south side of Mt. Rainier as it is within minutes of the Nisquilly entrance."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels affect beach quality at some locations. A visitor to Alder Lake noted, "Only damper to this year was the dam in Tacoma was partially drained causing a 'low tide' which exposed the dirt and poor beach area... usually when water is at normal level the beach is all sand and water is clean and clear."
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have sites with difficult approaches. At Alder Lake, "Some camping sites have a steep walkway to them but each year we come we find a better spot and take it next year." For RVs, specific site selection matters as some loops have limited maneuverability.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer play equipment for children. At Camp Lakeview, "We stayed at site number C10 A in our tent with our children. It was a larger site that sits next to the small creek. There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court."
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming zones with gradual entry points. "The beach is the main attraction and it is hopping. We went early in the morning and staked a claim and were happy all day. There is a nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock," explains Ellen T. about Millersylvania State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer wildlife observation opportunities. One visitor to Alder Lake Park mentioned, "My kids enjoyed playing in the sand and watching deer from our campsite." Morning hours typically provide the best viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Power considerations: Some campgrounds have limited electrical capacity despite advertising hookups. A camper at Dash Point State Park noted, "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." Consider bringing additional power banks or solar options during peak season.
Site selection for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have varied site sizes and accessibility. "It took a long time to get set up because of the ridiculously small amount of space I had to maneuver my 33ft RV and my 8ft extended cab truck," warns an RVer at Majestic Mobile Manor. Request specific site dimensions when making reservations.
Water and sewer connections: Full hookup availability varies by campground and loop. At Ike Kinswa State Park, "We were in loop D, which was the only open loop along with the cabins. This is a partial hook-up loop. Full hook-ups are in loop A." During winter months, check which loops remain open as many parks reduce available services.
