Most campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of McKenna, Washington maintain accessibility throughout the year with notable exceptions like Thousand Trails Paradise, which operates seasonally from late April through September. McKenna sits at an elevation of approximately 515 feet in the Nisqually Valley, with nearby camping areas ranging from 125 to 515 feet in elevation. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F while winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: Thousand Trails Paradise RV Campground features two stocked fishing ponds popular with younger visitors. A camper noted, "My grandson loves coming here with us the two ponds they stock with fish." The ponds are maintained seasonally and fishing licenses aren't required for registered campers.
Swimming in multiple pools: Thousand Trails Paradise RV Campground offers a comprehensive swimming area with three different depth pools. According to one visitor, "This campgrounds has an awesome swimming area with three pools, one 8ft deep, on 6ft, and one wading pool. Also has a large spa."
Hiking nearby trails: While staying at Washington Land Yacht Harbor in Olympia, campers can access several hiking trails within a 15-minute drive. One regular guest mentions, "This is a great and affordable place to stay while in town. Staff is friendly. Rv sites offer full hookups."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor receives consistent praise for cleanliness. A repeat visitor shared, "I've stayed here numerous times over the past few years and this place is consistently amazing." The campground maintains daily cleaning schedules for restrooms and common areas.
Organized activities: Thousand Trails Chehalis offers structured activities for children throughout the summer. One family noted, "Kids are helping review campgrounds we visited this summer. They loved that there was scavenger hunts for pigs in morning, tractor rides in afternoon, face painting, slushees, movie in lodge, crafts."
Proximity to town amenities: Several RV parks near McKenna provide convenient access to shopping centers. At Gig Harbor, a tent camper mentioned, "Waterfront is right down the street. Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by."
What you should know
Power reliability issues: Several rv parks near McKenna, Washington experience electrical challenges during peak usage. At Thousand Trails Paradise, one camper reported, "Older facilities. A lot of RV sites with no water and non-functioning electric. Power issues with high demand. Pool closed due to power problem."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites requiring extensive leveling equipment. A camper at Majestic Mobile Manor & RV Park noted, "It was a quiet place but obviously has a lot of full timers. It took a long time to get set up because of the ridiculously small amount of space I had to maneuver my 33ft RV."
Reservation requirements: Some parks have specific requirements beyond standard information. Washington Land Yacht Harbor conducts thorough inspections, with one visitor sharing, "Requiring more info on your rigs than any other place I've stayed. Insurance and a member actually does an inspection of rig when you arrive."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated activities: Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including access to the resort pool. A visitor mentioned, "Very nice hotel and casino with reasonably priced food at the cafe."
Look for tent options: While most facilities near McKenna focus on RVs, Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor does accommodate tent campers. A visitor explained, "This is definitely a RV resort, but there are 5 or 6 tent camping sites under some big trees which provide shade almost all day. Nice bathroom and showers."
Consider seasonal timing: For families with children, Thousand Trails Chehalis offers expanded activities during summer. One satisfied family shared, "Extended our stay because there was so much to do for the kiddos. Staff here are amazing and fellow campers a delight."
Tips from RVers
Plan for utility connection locations: Many RV parks near McKenna have utility connections positioned in specific locations requiring additional equipment. One visitor at Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park advised, "Make sure you get a site that is large enough for both the RV and your vehicle as there is no extra parking."
Prepare for water pressure variations: Several campgrounds experience water pressure fluctuations. At Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, a long-term camper observed, "Water pressure challenges on hill, WiFi ok/slow. New laundry room almost complete, small dog run, exterior dog bath, clean restrooms."
Consider spacing between sites: Most RV parks in the area feature close site spacing. A camper at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor noted, "The spaces are very close together, but there are a lot of trees and it's very well kept. I stayed for almost three weeks and it was quiet and relaxing, despite how close together the sites are."
