Port Ludlow sits on the eastern shore of the Olympic Peninsula at approximately 50 feet above sea level, with a moderate maritime climate that rarely drops below freezing or exceeds 80°F. The surrounding Puget Sound waters maintain warmer winter temperatures compared to inland areas, while summer humidity levels remain lower than many campgrounds east of the Cascades. Most rv campgrounds near Port Ludlow remain open year-round due to these moderate conditions.
What to do
Beach exploration: 2-mile walk at low tide from Point Hudson Marina & RV Park provides access to shoreline collecting and wildlife viewing. "Port Townsend is one of our favorite locations, having come here by sailboat for decades and now with a travel trailer. Point Hudson marina and campground are right on the edge of downtown PT and have beautiful views and access for culling, kayaking, and paddle boarding," notes Clyde W.
Hood Canal proximity: 30 minutes south of Port Ludlow at Cove RV Park & Country Store, campers access marine activities and hiking trails. "Nice location for hiking or boating in the Hood Canal area, a great store, and fantastic and friendly management made this a very pleasant stay," according to JL.
Ferry excursions to Whidbey Island: Day trips provide cycling opportunities from Point Hudson Marina. "You can catch a ferry over to Whidbey Island, which is great for a day of biking. You'll definitely need to book well in advance for this one," advises Thomas B.
What campers like
Forested privacy: Most sites at Port Ludlow RV Park provide natural separation between camping spots. "It's set in the woods, so there's lots of privacy. There's a host right at the gate, so it's pretty safe and secure," explains Thomas B. Another camper noted, "Simple campground with no real Amenities but the setting is fantastic with a lay out that lets you feel like you've got your privacy in the woods."
Waterfront access: RV campsites with water views attract many visitors to the Port Ludlow area. "The property is at the edge of downtown Port Townsend with Water and Washington streets right there, and even uptown quite accessible as well," notes Eph B. about Point Hudson Marina.
Camp hosts and site management: Several campgrounds receive praise for their staff. "Mike and the ladies in the office just great people, very helpful and friendly. Small park, a little road noise but nothing that bothered us, will stay here again," writes Adrian H. about Cove RV Park.
What you should know
Military-only options exist: Cliffside RV Park offers prime waterfront camping exclusively for active and retired military personnel. "Located on Naval Air Station Whidbey Island this is a great site for military and retired vets. They have RV sites as well, but I always use the tent sites. Must be able to get on to the base to use it," explains Hubbard G.
Off-season availability: October through April offers better campsite selection throughout the area. "We stayed here in early April after making a last minute reservation (by phone only). Only a couple of spots were open," notes Emma A. about Cliffside RV Park.
Cell reception variability: Service strength fluctuates between campgrounds and even between sites within the same facility. "The cell reception varies; some sites I'm getting 120+ mbs download on AT&T, but several sites down from me, it can dwindle down to 5mbs!" explains Brodie D.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and recreation access: Tall Chief Campground provides multiple child-friendly amenities. "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy," reports Isabel G.
Site selection for space: Larger sites allow for family equipment and activities. "We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space!" notes Brodie D. about Tall Chief Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Ponds and natural areas provide educational opportunities. "The grounds are quiet... truly silent... save for the many geese that call the lake in the center of the property their home," mentions Kristin S. about Lake Pleasant RV Park, adding "Lots of folks walk around the park roads. Around the perimeter of the park are short hiking trails through the trees."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up variations: Multiple campgrounds offer different electrical service options. Brodie D. notes about Tall Chief Campground: "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it."
Grocery proximity: Several campgrounds provide convenient shopping access. "The park is across the street from a Safeway which was very convenient. Also very close to some excellent restaurants in Bothell," shares Kristin S. about Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Site parking challenges: RV site layouts can create backup difficulties at some locations. "We watched a couple people spend some time backing in their rigs. We had a pull through and, while it wasn't a huge amount of space, the trees between spots offered a really nice level of privacy," notes Kristin S.
