Camping options near Mountlake Terrace, Washington provide convenient access to both urban amenities and natural attractions within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with a mild maritime climate characterized by wet winters and moderate summer temperatures averaging 75°F. Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round with peak season running May through September.
What to do
Trail exploration: 7-minute drive to access the Sammamish River Trail from Tall Chief Campground. "We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region," notes Brodie D., who adds it's "super close (like 7 min drive) from one of my favorite coffee shops, Aroma Coffee Co."
Urban day trips: 30-35 minutes to downtown Seattle from select campgrounds in the region. "This is a perfect place for dropping your mobile hotel room and explore Seattle and the surrounding areas," says Mareesha B. about staying at Trailer Inns RV Park in Bellevue.
Water recreation: Direct access to freshwater at several locations with waterfront sites. One camper at Gig Harbor RV Resort notes, "Waterfront is right down the street. Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate spacing at select rv sites near Mountlake Terrace, Washington. Richard D. says about Tall Chief Campground, "Great camp site for all sizes. Mostly no sewer. But if you enjoy a little distance between sites without sacrificing camp size line up here."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive consistent praise. At Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, Jacob P. reports, "Nice bathroom and showers. Laundry, dog run, tv room, plus really friendly employees!!!"
Natural settings: Wooded areas provide shade and atmosphere at certain parks. "Large private sites. It feels like you are deep in the PNW rainforest but you close to amenities and shopping," writes Adele W. about her stay at Tall Chief Campground.
What you should know
Sewer limitations: Many campgrounds near Mountlake Terrace offer water and electric but lack sewer connections. David O. notes at Tall Chief Campground, "All hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station."
Electrical service variations: Power capacity differs between locations with some offering limited 50-amp service. Derek & Alex W. warn, "Knocking another star as the majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts. There are a few 50 amp sites but from what I saw they were all taken by RVers that are there on a more permanent basis."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region with many wooded sites creating reception challenges. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it," advises a Tall Chief camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide dedicated children's play areas. At Lake Pleasant RV Park, Nikki R. enjoyed "the walking trails, playground for the kids, and watching the resident ducks in the pond."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lakes and ponds at several locations offer opportunities to observe local waterfowl. "The grounds are quiet... truly silent... save for the many geese that call the lake in the center of the property their home," kristin S. mentions about her stay at Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Budget-friendly amenities: Several parks offer affordable on-site services for families. One camper appreciated that at Lake Pleasant RV Park, "laundry is cheap ($1 wash), maintenance staff is constantly tending to the grounds."
Tips from RVers
Extended stay options: Some parks accommodate longer-term visitors with monthly rates. Tom C. advises about Lake Pleasant RV Park, "Look at monthly rates if you staying more than two weeks. On site storage if you need to leave your rig for a few days."
Site selection strategy: RV campers recommend researching specific site characteristics before arrival. At Issaquah Village RV Park, Jerry B. notes, "I'll start with the thing to be aware of: you'll be camping 200' from I-90. But we found our ear plugs did a good job of quieting that noise enough for us to get a good sleep."
Off-site pet policies: Be aware of designated pet relief areas that may be outside park boundaries. Wendy R. explains at Issaquah Village RV Park, "You must walk your dogs off site across the street to relieve themselves. Some reviewers are bajiggity about this but it's the Burke Gilman trail and it's not like you are having to cross a busy street or pass a crosswalk. They even provide a poo poop can at the driveway with baggies."
