Mountlake Terrace sits at an elevation of about 450 feet in Washington's Puget Sound region, with camping options scattered throughout the surrounding forest and lakeside areas. The area experiences mild temperatures most of the year, though winter nights can drop into the 30s. Campers typically find denser crowds during summer weekends when temperatures remain comfortable in the 70s.
What to Do
Beach exploration: 30 minutes away at Fay Bainbridge Park offers shoreline activities with mountain views. "Beautiful beach, great views of Mt. Rainier & Baker on a clear day, cruise ships going by, pirate ship playground for children," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "Every night, my husband and I would walk to the wildlife viewing platform to see lots of birds, or walk down by the river and see lots of elk and bald eagles," notes a visitor at Dosewallips State Park Campground.
Short hiking trails: Several parks offer walking paths around their properties. "Around the perimeter of the park are short hiking trails through the trees — somewhat steep gravel trails that give you an added level of workout over laps around the park," mentions one camper about Lake Pleasant RV Park.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Hedges and landscaping create separation at many locations. "Great privacy hedges between spots. The areas were paved and level. A great place to walk around and enjoy during your stay," shares a camper from Lake Pleasant.
Seasonal rental flexibility at Tolt MacDonald Park accommodates various camping preferences. "They offer the typical primitive campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as yurts and shipping container conversions for those who want more of a 'GLAMping' outdoor experience."
Water access: Multiple parks provide shoreline or water features. "This campground is right next to a state park. It's also very close to a river and lots of woods," notes a visitor at Dosewallips State Park Campground.
What You Should Know
Varying shower facilities: Availability differs between parks. "Pay Showers ($.50 token) are in central Restrooms. Only 1 shower per Restroom," explains a visitor at Dosewallips State Park Campground.
Site density considerations: Some parks offer more space than others. "The campsite backed up on the river, so we were able to wade in it and put out some chairs and sit on the beach. There is a little bit of road noise, and a lot of the sites have no privacy," reports another Dosewallips visitor.
Laundry costs vary: When available, laundry facilities typically charge modest fees. At Lake Pleasant RV Park, "The laundry machines ($2 washer/$2 dryer) get the job done, with no need to keep feeding the machine."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds for children: Several parks offer play structures. At Flowing Lake Park & Campground, visitors note the "amazing playground. Playground is awesome for little kids. Amazing play structure."
Consider seasonal timing: Fall offers unique experiences with fewer crowds. "Fall camping here is beautiful," shares a Flowing Lake visitor. "Great county operated campground campsites are spacious and private. Reserve ahead very popular especially during the summer."
Cabin options for easier family stays: For those seeking more comfort with kids. "We typically visit the cabins here in the winter, so we don't usually partake in the summer activities of swimming, boating, etc., but we do love coming here in the winter. The cabins are heated and have bunk beds."
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose carefully based on your specific needs. At Kitsap Memorial, "RV sites 1, 2, 4, 9, and 11 will be easier to back in to. The other full hook up sites are 90° approaches."
Pet policies for RVs vary significantly across parks. At North Sound Recreational Vehicle Park, "Your travel trailer must be year 2005 or newer. Pet friendly(limit 2) not to exceed 25 lbs. Aggressive breed restrictions apply."
Water pressure considerations: Some parks have infrastructure limitations. "Water pressure is low, averaging just over 20psi," reports a camper at Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground.