Tent and RV camping options surround Milton, Washington, a small city positioned between Tacoma and Federal Way. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 300-800 feet with forested settings. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and more precipitation.
What to do
Explore beach trails and marine life: At Dash Point State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy shoreline exploration with easy water access. "The beach and its tides are why we came," notes Ingrid M., who found the trails "fun and easy enough for me and 2 kids."
Visit nearby lakes: The camping areas provide access to multiple lakes within a short drive. "Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding" is just "10 minute drive" from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, according to Ashlie M.
River activities: Many campgrounds feature river access for fishing, wading, and relaxation. Riverbend Campground offers "nice river walks and nice picnic spots," writes Lai La L., making it ideal for water-based recreation during summer months.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Elkamp Eastcreek receives praise for its natural setting and site layout. One camper mentioned, "The campsites are far enough apart that they feel relatively private, and most appear completely level. Trees abound."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently highlight the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Elkamp Eastcreek, Sarah Claire B. noted, "The bathrooms were always clean. There's designated dish washing station and potable water station."
Accessible water features: Alder Lake Park offers "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," according to Nicole P., making it popular for water activities during summer months.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Belfair State Park Campground, "The beach loop fills up quickly - get your reservations in as early as possible if you want to camp there," advises Scott S.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Saltwater State Park, Travis P. notes, "Commercial jets landing at Sea-Tac fly directly above us at a low altitude and are VERY loud and VERY frequent (every 3-5 minutes)."
Rule enforcement: Rules are strictly enforced at certain campgrounds. At Kanaskat-Palmer, one camper reported, "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day."
Weather planning: The Milton area experiences significant rainfall during spring and fall months. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, but campers should prepare for wet conditions outside summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Lakeview features facilities designed for children. Julia B. shares, "There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court. A small beach with a large dock was available for use during the day as well as a boat launch and fishing dock."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer swimming options for children. Alder Lake Park includes "a sandy beach area" while Dash Point provides water access appropriate for families.
Wildlife viewing: Campsites often feature opportunities to spot local wildlife. Nicole P. enjoyed "watching deer from our campsite" at Alder Lake Park.
Short hikes: Many campgrounds feature trails suitable for younger hikers. Elkamp Eastcreek includes "a meadow over the bridge" that one reviewer called "a hidden delight," perfect for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electrical hookups are common but not universal. At Kanaskat-Palmer, "One loop has electricity (no water or sewer hookups but has a dump station) and the other does not," notes Kelly P.
Site leveling: At some campgrounds, leveling can be challenging. Cody F. shared his experience at Kanaskat-Palmer: "The gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground."
Campsite layout: RVers should check site configurations before booking. Doug noted at Riverbend Campground that "site 106 does is a back in, but the slab is at a 90 degree angle from the drive. So you will have to back your trailer around a corner if you plan to park it on the slab."
Dump station access: Many campgrounds provide dump stations even when full hookups aren't available. Jay F. noted at Kanaskat-Palmer that the dump station was "clean and well maintained" with opportunities to "filled up with some fresh water" while there.
