Best Campgrounds near Olympia, WA
Campground options near Olympia, Washington encompass both forested settings and waterfront locations. Millersylvania State Park Campground provides diverse camping arrangements including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurt accommodations, all situated within wooded surroundings. American Heritage Campground, located just off I-5, offers tent sites, RV spots with hookups, and cabin rentals in a secluded, tree-lined setting. The area includes several state parks with varying levels of amenities, from basic primitive sites to fully developed campgrounds with showers, electricity, and sewer connections.
Camping availability in this region remains consistent year-round at several locations, though some sites like Joemma Beach State Park operate seasonally from March through October. Many campgrounds experience flooding during heavy rain periods, particularly at lower elevations. "We stayed in couple different sites on and off since June 2020. All sites flooded and twice (different sites) my electrical hook-up box caught fire," noted one camper at an Olympia area campground. Road access generally accommodates standard vehicles, with most established campgrounds offering drive-in access. Several campgrounds provide boat-in options as well, particularly those situated near waterways. Visitors should verify seasonal regulations and reservation requirements before arrival, as popular sites fill quickly during summer months.
The camping areas across the Olympia region feature varying levels of privacy and natural surroundings. Several visitors mentioned the value of tree cover at local campgrounds. One camper described American Heritage Campground as having "lots of trees, sites are roomy and clean," noting that while "you can hear some road noise but it's generally quiet." Campgrounds closer to urban areas tend to have more long-term residents, while state parks attract more short-term recreational campers. Water access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the region, with several offering boat launches or swimming areas. Restroom and shower facilities vary considerably between locations, with state parks typically providing more reliable and well-maintained facilities compared to smaller private campgrounds. Tent and RV sites throughout the region often include standard amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally.
