Tent campsites near Nordland, Washington offer access to Olympic Peninsula's diverse ecosystems within a 20-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F with limited rainfall from July through September. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop to the mid-30s with frequent precipitation.
What to do
Explore historic military sites: Fort Ebey State Park Campground offers more than just camping with its preserved WWII fortifications. According to one visitor, "There are old (but well maintained) battery and concrete gun emplacements from WW2 when the Fort was used to defend the West coast" and "lots to do and see at the beach!"
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The Fort Ebey State Park Campground trail system includes routes specifically designed for mountain bikers. A camper notes, "There are great hiking and mountain biking trails through forest, ocean views and beach access, and it's also fun to explore the old WWII facilities."
Wildlife viewing: Deer are common sightings at several campgrounds in the region. One camper at Deer Park Campground shares, "The deer are in abundance so you should definitely keep food in the car," while another mentions "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer."
Salmon fishing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer direct access to waters with wild salmon. A reviewer at Dungeness Forks Campground reports, "Right next to the creek/water which was beautiful with wild salmon that we spent the morning fishing for!"
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Many campers appreciate sites positioned directly beside water features. At Dungeness Forks, campers enjoy being "nestled in the valley in between two beautiful rivers" with "several river front sites" that allow you to be "lulled to sleep by the sound of the water."
Secluded tent sites: While some campgrounds have closely packed sites, others offer more privacy. A camper at Kinney Point State Park Campground notes it's "a great boat-in-only site" with "rack for kayaks above high tide," providing a secluded alternative to other nearby options.
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates opportunities for stargazing. A camper at Deer Park Campground describes their experience: "That night it got so dark we were blanketed in stars and it was simply amazing."
Level camping spots: Several campgrounds feature terrain that's conducive to comfortable tent setup. At Fort Ebey, a visitor notes, "The sites are level and could accommodate 2 medium size tents" while another mentions, "The campsite was very well maintained and raked when we arrived."
What you should know
Water availability varies significantly: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. At Deer Park Campground — Olympic National Park, "This campground has no showers or water. They do have pit toilets and firewood for sale. Be prepared to see lots of deer." Similarly, at Dungeness Forks, there's "no safe water, no trash collection."
Site competition is common: Many smaller campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. A Dungeness Forks visitor advises: "We arrived about 1 o'clock on a Friday and just 2 spots left out of about 10. Filled up quickly after and lots of cars stopping to check for spaces."
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating difficult roads. A visitor to Deer Park describes it as the "scariest road I've ever driven on. very narrow steep cliffs on the side. please be careful of oncoming traffic when turning corners!" Another notes the drive is "a bit intense, but the views make it totally worth it!"
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds in the area have minimal or no cell service. Prepare for a digital detox and bring physical maps for navigation around the Olympic Peninsula.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment alternatives: While nature provides plenty of exploration opportunities, having backup activities helps during downtime or inclement weather. The Woodlands at Lake Stickney provides "games that Bryan provided" according to one reviewer.
Choose campgrounds with bathroom facilities: When camping with children, accessible restrooms are important. At Fort Ebey, "The bathrooms were clean with pay showers" and "there also showers in the bathroom. Shower tokens, fire wood and ice, are for sale at the state park office at the main entrance of the park."
Consider weather patterns: The Olympic Peninsula can experience rapid weather changes. One camper at Dungeness Forks warns, "We unfortunately got caught in rain for almost 2 weeks. This made our exciting trip the washington rain forrest a little less exciting."
Look for interpretive opportunities: Educational elements enhance family camping experiences. At Fort Ebey, visitors appreciate "a beautiful hike around Lake Pondilla with interpretive signage naming the native moss and lichen."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Many campgrounds in the Nordland area have limitations for larger vehicles. At Tulalip Casino, RVers can find "free camping for up to three nights" in a "clean area and pet exercise area" with "security drives by regular," making it a convenient option for larger rigs when exploring the region.
Limited hookup availability: Most natural campgrounds near Nordland lack RV amenities. A reviewer notes Dungeness Forks has a "drive to the site was accurately steep with little room on either side. Our 19ft campervan made it up and down but a car did need to pull off to the side for us and back up a ways for us to squeeze by."
Prepare for uneven terrain: RV campers should bring leveling equipment. At Deer Park, "The pads don't really exist so be prepared for uneven tent surfaces. I don't think campers are allowed but if so, I wouldn't bring one up."
Consider seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the area have limited seasonal availability, particularly at higher elevations where snow can restrict access from late fall through spring.
