Mukilteo's campgrounds offer year-round access with winter temperatures averaging 45-50°F and summer highs in the 70s. Located at the edge of Puget Sound with an elevation range of sea level to 500 feet, the area's camping options include modern yurts and tent sites sheltered by dense coastal forests. Most campgrounds maintain typical Pacific Northwest seasonal patterns with busier summers and quieter shoulder seasons.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: Fay Bainbridge Park provides excellent tide pool opportunities along its beachfront. "Great campground right on the beach. Clean facilities," notes Brook M. The park maintains tide charts at the ranger station for optimal timing of your explorations.
Wildlife viewing platforms: Dosewallips State Park offers dedicated wildlife viewing areas where visitors can spot native species. "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," shares Amy & Stu B.
Historical site exploration: The military installations at Fort Casey State Park provide an educational component to camping trips. "Really neat military relics. Walk to the ferry to visit Port Townsend for the day. Camp in the deep woods. This place is awesome!" explains Rand H. Self-guided tours of the gun emplacements are available daily.
What campers like
Yurt camping accessibility: The yurt accommodations at Tolt MacDonald Park offer comfort for those exploring yurt camping near Mukilteo, Washington. "Spent a night in the yurt. Everything worked," reports Chris A. These yurts include electricity and heating, making them suitable for cooler weather camping.
Wide open play areas: Several parks provide dedicated recreation spaces for family activities. "There's a big field to play ride bikes walk dog etc. The beach is really nice and nearby and at low tide is so peaceful to take a walk," mentions Nicole R. about Kitsap Memorial State Park.
Lake and ocean access options: Wenberg County Park offers freshwater alternatives to saltwater camping. "The day use area, fishing dock and boating areas are phenomenal! Reserveable day use shelters, lots of picnic tables and BBQs for all," notes Mindy P. Boat launches are typically concrete and accommodate vessels up to 20 feet.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Fort Casey, "It is tiny and right next to the ferry dock with no cover or shade from the sun. Seeing the ferry come and go is neat but gets tiring," according to Tom K.
Campsite spacing varies significantly: Many sites across the region have limited privacy. "The campsite is up top and the day use area (beach and boat ramp and pier) is down below," explains Russ H. at Kayak Point County Park.
Seasonal closures and limitations: Some facilities operate with reduced services in winter. "Bathrooms in camping have code, cleaned frequently," reports Mike D., noting that off-season camping requires preparation for fewer amenities.
Reserve well ahead for yurt camping: Mukilteo area yurts book quickly, especially at Kayak Point and Camano Island. "The coolest thing about the campground is the yurts. They're modern and pretty close together if it's just your family," notes a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Beach Campground — Fort Worden Historical State Park offers kid-friendly recreation areas. "Fun and safe campground. Near the beach with a small aquarium open on the weekend. The family had a blast," says Nicholos J. The aquarium operates Friday-Sunday with modest admission fees.
Enclosed campfire areas: Several parks provide fire pits with partial wind protection, helpful for family cooking. "Each site has water and electric. The downside is there is no sewage dumping site at the park. However there are public bathroom available," notes ML D. about Fay Bainbridge.
Security considerations: Campgrounds with camp hosts provide additional peace of mind. "Want to feel safe and secure? I reserved space 97 at deception state park for just myself and was just amazed of the feeling safe when I arrived," shares Aletta M.
Shower token systems: Most state parks require tokens for showers. "Showers require tokens... inquiry upon entry," advises Leonard H., recommending bringing quarters for shower access.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Limited level sites exist throughout the region. "All campsites are surrounded by trees so choose carefully if you need a pull through or if you have a large rig that you're trying to back up," cautions Jamie S. at Kayak Point.
Water pressure variations: Expect lower pressure at some parks. "Water pressure is low, averaging just over 20psi," notes K D. at Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground, suggesting filling tanks before arrival.
Site reservation guidance: RVers should carefully review site dimensions. "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet," shares Russ H. about Tolt MacDonald Park, noting the convenience for larger rigs.
