Dog-Friendly Camping near McKenna, WA

Millersylvania State Park Campground sits about 15 miles south of Olympia at 400 feet elevation, offering year-round camping options within old-growth forests and lakeside sites. The 842-acre park features multiple camping areas with varying levels of privacy and access to Deep Lake. Winter camping operates on a reduced schedule with only select sites available.

What to do

Lake activities: Millersylvania State Park provides access to Deep Lake where visitors can swim in designated areas and launch non-motorized watercraft. "The lake is that beautiful blue/green glacier water color. The campground we stayed at did not have designated fire rings, but did have a metal BBQ that we used for the kids to make s'mores on," notes Nicole P. about Alder Lake Park.

Trail exploration: Numerous wooded trails wind through the camping areas, providing opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. One camper at Millersylvania State Park Campground shared, "Nice state forest with old growth. Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free. Quieted down around 10pm."

Fishing opportunities: Several lakes in the area offer fishing access with docks specifically designed for anglers. A visitor to Camp Lakeview mentioned, "People were fishing, paddle boarding and swimming. I would absolutely go stay there again!"

What campers like

Secluded sites: Many campgrounds feature wooded areas that create natural barriers between campsites. "I'd stay here any time. I feel safe, comfortable, spacious sites (only back in), fire pits, old school playground which we love and friendly owners who also staff it," writes one camper about American Heritage Campground.

Clean facilities: Bathroom facilities throughout the area are generally well-maintained, with some offering coin-operated showers. "We spent 1 night at Elkamp and were sad to have to move on so quickly. Elkamp was very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced," reports a visitor to Elkamp Eastcreek.

Water access: Most campgrounds provide some form of water access, from swimming beaches to boat launches. A reviewer at Ike Kinswa State Park noted, "It's right near the water and you can walk to little beaches, kayak off of them or go to the big swimming area/park which is lovely. Big protected swim area and there's even a protected kayaking area that goes up the river."

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak season. A camper at Millersylvania mentioned, "After months of trying to get reservations for this popular campground, we finally got one for Thanksgiving weekend! The park is on their winter schedule so only sites 1-7 and 226-248 were open."

Site variations: Campsite privacy and amenities vary significantly between and within campgrounds. "The lots are well plotted with space and privacy," notes a visitor to American Heritage Campground, while another explains, "Each site has a fire grate and picnic tables. There are water spickets throughout the park making water collection easy."

Pet restrictions: While most campgrounds are pet-friendly, specific rules apply regarding leashing and designated areas. At Riverbend Campground, one camper noted the campground has "at least 2 pet areas neither are fenced so a leash is required, along with a playground for the kids."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "This campground is on Mayfield Lake where the Cowlitz River flows into the lake... The day use area is out of the campground and across the main road. There is a playground and beach area," reports a visitor to Ike Kinswa State Park.

Swimming options: Protected swimming areas make water activities safer for younger campers. At Millersylvania, "We did some paddle boating, dipped our toes into the water, and purchased snacks at the small store. This was a perfect halfway point to meet family when half of us were coming from Portland and the other half from Seattle."

Noise considerations: Campground noise levels vary by location and time of year. "This was our second time staying there and was not disappointed. Easy access, not far from I-5," mentions one camper, while another notes, "We enjoyed our stay at Millersylvania. It's a beautiful place. We purchased firewood from the Boy Scout troop here for $6/bundle. The only downside for us is that it is really crowded."

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: RV sites with full or partial hookups are available at most area campgrounds. "This campground is extremely well run and organized. The entire campground and park are absolutely beautiful. The sites are large, shaded and quiet. Many are pull through. If you want a water view you will find full hook up does in loop A," describes an RVer at Ike Kinswa State Park.

Leveling challenges: Some sites may require additional work for proper RV setup. "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up. The thin layer of mud on the pavement made things quite slick as I was trying to get leveling blocks down."

Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. A visitor noted, "The campground is heavily wooded which is really nice for shade, though it can make it tricky to get into a spot if you have slide outs."