Best Campgrounds near Port Orchard, WA

State parks and forests surrounding Port Orchard, Washington feature a mix of waterfront and wooded camping experiences within an hour's drive of the city. Manchester State Park, located directly in Port Orchard, offers year-round camping with both hookup and dry sites in a wooded setting with water access. Nearby options include Illahee State Park in Bremerton, Belfair State Park along Hood Canal, and Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeck. These established campgrounds primarily accommodate tents and RVs, with some offering cabins or glamping options. Most state parks in the region maintain well-developed facilities including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas, while providing access to beaches, hiking trails, and water activities.

Washington's Discover Pass ($30 annually) is required for day use at most state parks and campgrounds in the region. Many campers note the proximity to water as a key feature, with one visitor to Manchester State Park commenting, "Nice wooded campground with access to the water. Plenty of opportunities for day hikes and not far from Port Orchard." Weather considerations significantly impact camping experiences, with mild summers ideal for outdoor activities and wet winters requiring proper preparation. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though services may be limited during off-season months. Cell service varies by location but is generally reliable near Port Orchard and diminishes in more remote areas.

Sites with water views tend to fill quickly during summer months, particularly on weekends. Several visitors mention the balance between accessibility and seclusion as a key benefit of camping in this region. As one camper at Illahee State Park noted, "Close enough to town for any necessities but far enough to get the secluded feeling." Highway noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those along major routes like US 101. Privacy between sites varies considerably, with waterfront locations typically offering less separation than forested areas. Campground cleanliness receives consistent praise, with well-maintained facilities and clean restrooms frequently mentioned in reviews. The region's proximity to Olympic National Park (within an hour's drive) makes these campgrounds convenient basecamps for exploring both coastal and mountain environments.

Best Camping Sites Near Port Orchard, Washington (277)

    1. Dash Point State Park Campground

    72 Reviews
    Federal Way, WA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $20 / night

    ""Firstly, I just have to say what a positive and amazing experience I had at this campground. The volunteers were friendly, kind and absolutely awesome to interact with."

    "The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Ours had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table."

    2. Dosewallips State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Brinnon, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 796-4415

    $12 - $50 / night

    "The grounds are well-maintained with easy access to some hiking trails that are easy to moderate in difficulty."

    "Dump station close by worked great on exit. Wooded with ferns. Rain was nice to enjoy through the windows."

    3. Manchester State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Manchester, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 871-4065

    $50 / night

    "Nice wooded campground with access to the water. Plenty of opportunities for day hikes and not far from port orchard Washington. Some sites have hookups and others are dry camping."

    "Trails, views, and history in walking distance. Coin operated showers and clean restrooms."

    4. Belfair State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Belfair, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 275-0668

    $12 - $50 / night

    "Often our first or last trip of the year, due to its proximity to the greater Seattle area.  Most of the folks we meet are from western Washington. "

    "On the water of the Hood Canal, it offered more family activities than many of the parks around. The campground itself is situated close to the water with several loops, tightly packed together."

    5. Fay Bainbridge Park

    22 Reviews
    Bainbridge Island, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (206) 842-3931

    $7 - $95 / night

    ". #2, #3, #4 are IMO best after that as they move away from the beach and then curve around in ascending order.

    Some neighbor noise, sites are close, but was not busy."

    "Great spot on the edge of bainbridge. Lots of spots depending on your preferred privacy level."

    6. Scenic Beach State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Seabeck, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 830-5079

    "Big spaces for tents tucked away from other campers. The beach is a short walk away. Real flushing toilets no porta potties. RV dump station only $5."

    "Easily accessible water and easy access to the beach. We got a bit lost while walking the trails to the beach. More signs would be nice for fool's like us."

    7. Seal Rock Campground

    20 Reviews
    Brinnon, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 765-2200

    $18 / night

    "Seal Rock campground is on the Hood canal side of the Olympic peninsula in Washington state. It's actually the second time we camped there, this time on July 3rd and 4th."

    "Seal Rock Campground is a nice quiet place tucked away just out side of Brinnon WA. All of the sites are dispersed in a nice forested area which lends for good privacy."

    8. Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor

    10 Reviews
    Gig Harbor, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 858-8138

    $57 - $104 / night

    "Close by stores, trails, parks, harbor. Tacoma across bridge (10 minutes - $6.25 toll)."

    "Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by."

    9. Penrose Point State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $32 / night

    "Pros: group camp is very close to beach front area, GREAT CLAMMING AND OYSTERING!"

    "Penrose Point State Park is a great place close to Seattle to go camping in a small or large group. It's tent or camper friendly with plenty of spots for busier seasons."

    10. Illahee State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Manchester, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 478-6460

    $20 - $37 / night

    "Great place to walk around and enjoy what the deep green that is Washington state."

    "The hiking around here is amazing and theres so many different things to do here. It’s close to the water, too which is really neat."

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Recent Reviews near Port Orchard, WA

1275 Reviews of 277 Port Orchard Campgrounds


  • Nicole L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Woodlands at Lake Stickney

    BEAUTIFUL LOCATION

    I myself have never parked my RV at the campsite. However, I've been to the public Access area and have to say that it's very peaceful and has a restroom which is nice. I'm a local. I live inside my RV and it has been a major adjustment but having places like this has been extremely helpful.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Top of the Hill camping

    Top of the hill camping

    This is actually a really secluded, pivate location with a beautiful view! The road is fairly easy to get up to this spot but really just room for one vehicle. I guess the last people used it as the dumb spot when they were leaving because there’s a grill and a TV screen there… we did not stay and camp here, but we did check it out and if we didn’t have a trailer, I would definitely have claimed the spot!

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    FR27 Landing

    fr27 landing

    Great large flat spot for camping. Could easily fit about 5 cars here. About 4 fire rings set up and the road is pretty easy getting here.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    NF-27 Tunnel Creek

    Pull through site

    This is a great spot to stay for a bit if you’re looking to do that OR just stay for a night. It’s like, a big circle that you pull in and out of. There’s a trail from this site that leads to a great tint site as well. Plenty of space if you have a decent sized group. Easily accommodating 3 cars. We have plenty of space with our rig. Star link works great here!

  • Eun Ji L.
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Big Creek Campground

    I'm an avid camper - this was THE WORST experience ever.

    I'm an avid camper, and the experience I had at this campground with the host was ABSOLUTELY THE WORST ever. We arrived at the campground early to find the best spot as we were planning to take some outdoor wedding photos at the campsite the day after. It was not a busy season, so there were only a couple of sites occupied. We carefully selected a spot, paid for it, and posted the receipt on the site clip. I took a photo of both the envelope and the receipt clipped at the site. 

    After exploring the national park, we arrived at the campground at around 9pm. Most of the campsites were still unoccupied. To our surprise, when we arrived at our reserved spot, there was a group of people who took our campsite! They already put up their tent and a canopy as well. When I checked the pole where I clipped the receipt, it was GONE & REPLACED by someone else's!! When I talked to those people who took our campsite, there were already drunk and were at the verge of becoming hostile. But they did tell us that the host "allowed" them to take the spot. 

    Right then and there, we went to the host and explained the situation, and the host said (1) we never paid and that (2) there was no receipt clipped at the site. When I told him that that wasn't true, he proceeded to tell me that the information I wrote on the clip let him know that we were checking out today. So, for a second, I thought maybe I wrote either the# of nights spent or check-out date incorrectly. But then, I remembered I took pictures of both the envelope and the receipt!! I showed the photos to him, then, of course, he could not lie his way out of this. 

    There was no apology, and he simply proceeded to tell us to sleep at one of the other available campsites. We were super furious because we had NEVER experienced this kind of rudeness, lies, and brazen behavior. As anyone can imagine, we did not want to spend another second there, so we demanded a refund, and "MIRACULOUSLY", the envelope (still glued) with our payment was found in his RV. 

    I'm reporting the host to the US Forest Service.

  • alexandrea L.
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Penrose Point State Park Campground

    Beautiful

    The beach is beautiful here! And the campsites are very secluded! There are tons of trees and bushes in between everybody’s campsite

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Falls Creek — Olympic National Park

    Quinalt

    Extremely serene and clean. Seasonal campground on lake. Mediocre toilets. Lodge and store nearby. Right on water

  • TheFoxphire F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Schafer State Park Campground

    Great

    There was a huge spider at the women’s restroom door that my wife says was asking her for snacks. Other than that this place was very nice and had a ton of lush vegetation and ferns. Beautiful. Also, we watched Harry and the Hendersons here.

  • yThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    American Heritage Campground

    Hidden Gem - Peaceful, family owned

    I’m always weary before I arrive. You never know what you’re gonna drive up to. I’d stay here any time. I feel safe, comfortable, spacious sites (only back in), fire pits, old school playground which we love and friendly owners who also staff it. Apparently it’s been in the fam for over 40 years. Lovely. Not new and fancy but quaint and classic.


Guide to Port Orchard

Camping sites near Port Orchard, Washington range from sea level waterfront locations to forested settings at elevations reaching 500 feet. The region receives approximately 40 inches of rainfall annually, with most campsites situated on the Kitsap Peninsula bordering Puget Sound or Hood Canal. Winter temperatures typically drop to the mid-30s while summer averages 75°F, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions.

What to do

Beach activities at low tide: At Penrose Point State Park, the calm cove provides excellent water play options. "The beach is a medium-length walk and very warm and swimmable for NW standards," notes Adrienne Q., who also mentions the heavily wooded surroundings provide substantial shade.

Military history exploration: Manchester State Park features remnants of its naval base past. "Look for the cement form lines on the buildings, they are only 18" high at best, this is because when they were built Portland cement hadn't been invented yet," explains Tom N., adding that similar construction appears at Fort Flagler, Fort Casey, and Fort Worden.

Shellfish harvesting: The Hood Canal area offers multiple opportunities for collecting oysters and clams. At Seal Rock Campground, one visitor reports, "During our time shrimping, we also head out and get oysters and clams. The oysters are so abundant and you are able to crack open a few and eat them there on the beach!"

Wildlife observation: Set aside time for spotting marine wildlife and birds. "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. about their time at Dosewallips State Park.

What campers like

Tent site privacy: Many camping areas offer secluded spots despite their popularity. At Scenic Beach State Park, "This campground is unique in how private the sites are with an unusual amount of foliage between sites," writes Jeannie P., adding that it's "our family's favorite campground!"

Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance receives frequent praise. "The facilities and grounds are clean and well cared for," notes Joseph I. about Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, while another camper at Scenic Beach reports "Bathrooms are clean as are the showers."

Proximity to water: Most campers highlight the short distance to beaches as a key benefit. "There's a day use lake and we had a wonderful time camping here!" says Brittany L. about Dash Point State Park, while other campers mention easy beach access for swimming and water sports at multiple locations.

Off-season solitude: Visiting during less busy periods offers a different experience. A camper at Scenic Beach State Park shares, "In the off season only the front section of the campground is open, but that's not a problem since maybe 5 other sites were occupied. Everything was very well maintained."

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Most state parks require advance booking, especially during summer months. One visitor to Penrose Point advises, "The campground was full with lots of families with young kids but the sites felt relatively private." Walk-in sites are limited, and holiday weekends fill months in advance.

Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campsites. At Dash Point State Park, Saraj B. notes, "You might hear a bit of road noise, depending on your site. But it's a small price to pay for a low-effort, high-reward camping weekend."

Wildlife encounters: Prepare for nocturnal visitors at campsites. "Sites were reasonably private and quiet at night (except for a brief invasion of 6 raccoons at our site one night!)" reports Rachel about Penrose Point State Park. Food storage in secure containers is essential.

Ferry considerations: Access to some campsites may require ferry travel. Plan for additional time and costs, especially during peak summer months when ferry waits can exceed two hours on weekends. Some campgrounds are accessible by land routes only.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas for children. At Fay Bainbridge Park, "Great place for families that looks to be kept really clean... There is a ship playground for the kids and beach volleyball court," according to Brandon K.

Junior Ranger programs: State parks often offer educational activities. "The grounds, including bathrooms, were well maintained and the kids enjoyed taking part in the junior ranger program," shares Sarah H. about her family's experience at Penrose Point.

Beach safety: Tidal fluctuations create varying conditions. "The sites were level. The beach access, though, small offers standard gorgeous PNW views," notes Justin L. about Scenic Beach State Park. Parents should monitor children near water as tides can change rapidly with drops of 10+ feet between high and low tide.

Trail difficulty: Consider hiking distances when planning with children. At Dosewallips State Park, Michael B. recommends "the beach trail which is maybe 2 miles to the beach and back," noting it was appropriate for his family with young children.

Tips from RVers

Site selection guidance: Choose RV sites based on the campground layout. For Belfair State Park, Doug recommends, "If you can score a waterfront site, this campground earns the loyalty of everyone we meet there," though noting there are "no restrooms on the waterfront loop."

Hookup availability: Research utility connections before arrival. "Only had 2 night here, but it was quiet and very enjoyable. Spacious lots. No sewer at our site, but we did have electrical and water. Dump station close by worked great on exit," reports Lauren M. about Dosewallips State Park.

Pull-through options: Larger rigs require specific sites. "We have a 25ft trailer and there was more than enough room," notes Beth N. about Scenic Beach State Park's pull-through sites, adding that camping areas were "quite large with a fire pit and a picnic table."

Weather preparation: Winter camping requires additional planning. "Rain was nice to enjoy through the windows," shares Lauren M. about Dosewallips State Park, suggesting the benefit of RV camping during typical Pacific Northwest precipitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV parks in Port Orchard with full hookups?

Eagle Tree RV Park in Port Orchard offers full hookup sites for RVs, though some sites may experience highway noise. For a more highly-rated alternative, Lake Pleasant RV Park is worth the short drive north of Seattle, offering excellent rates and amenities including a picturesque duck pond. The park features easy highway access and is considered one of the best RV parks in the greater Seattle region. RVers should also consider Manchester State Park, which has some sites with hookups, and Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor which provides full-service RV sites in a convenient location near Port Orchard.

Can you rent campers or RVs in Port Orchard for local camping?

While Port Orchard itself doesn't have dedicated RV rental facilities, the greater Seattle-Tacoma area offers numerous options for renting RVs and campers that can be used at local campgrounds. National rental companies like Cruise America and RVshare have pickup locations in the region, allowing you to rent various sizes of motorhomes or travel trailers. Local peer-to-peer rental services also operate in the area, connecting RV owners with renters. Once you've secured a rental, Coho Campground and Fort Worden Historical State Park are excellent destinations that accommodate RVs of various sizes. For the best experience, reserve your RV rental and campsite well in advance, especially during summer months.

What tent camping options are available around Port Orchard?

Tent campers near Port Orchard have several excellent options. Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park offers a wilderness experience with sites along a river providing great water access. The campground is primitive but beautiful, though temperatures can drop to freezing in shoulder seasons. For a more rustic experience, Graves Creek Campground is a favorite spot with sites near a running creek. It's tent-only as RVs and trailers aren't permitted due to narrow gravel roads and small spaces. Closer to Port Orchard, Fay Bainbridge Park on Bainbridge Island offers walk-in tent sites with beach access, while Penrose Point State Park provides tranquil tent camping in a forested setting.

Where are the best campgrounds near Port Orchard, WA?

Port Orchard offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Manchester State Park Campground is a top choice with wooded sites, water access, and day hiking opportunities just minutes from Port Orchard. Many sites offer hookups while others are suitable for dry camping, and most spots are level. Another great option is Dash Point State Park Campground, known for its friendly volunteers, clean facilities, and beautiful layout. For those willing to venture a bit further, Dosewallips State Park and Penrose Point State Park provide additional camping experiences within an hour's drive, offering waterfront access and hiking trails.