Camping near Port Orchard offers access to the Kitsap Peninsula's temperate rainforest environment, where annual rainfall averages 50 inches and temperatures rarely drop below freezing. The region features several RV campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Port Orchard, Washington, with most facilities positioned along major highways or near bodies of water.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Lake Pleasant RV Park, campers can access perimeter hiking trails through wooded areas. "Around the perimeter of the park are short hiking trails through the trees — somewhat steep gravel trails that give you an added level of workout over laps around the park," notes one visitor.
Beach activities: Rest-A-While RV Park provides oceanside access for water recreation. "Oceanside view stay, beautiful scenery, calm waters which is perfect for paddle boarding. You can dig for clams and oysters by paying cash to the office for your gatherings," explains a camper who visited.
Public transportation: Some campgrounds offer convenient access to Seattle via public transit. "It was only about 30 minutes to downtown, but almost felt like you were out in the country," reports a visitor about Lake Pleasant RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor receives positive reviews for maintenance standards. "So many places advertised themselves as a resort when they are not such. This place is very nice. Very well laid out. Beautiful trees and landscaping. Well maintained, full facilities in amenities, A1 staff," observes one camper.
Pet amenities: Multiple campers appreciate pet-friendly features at various RV campgrounds in Port Orchard. "The campground is quiet, except for the nearby construction. The staff is super friendly and accommodating. I didn't use the bathroom/shower rooms. But the laundry facilities are clean and reasonably priced," mentions a visitor at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor.
Affordable laundry: Tall Chief Campground stands out for its well-maintained bathroom facilities. "Tall Chief's biggest perk is probably how nice they keep the park. Bathrooms are usually found to be immaculate. The main bathrooms have a great 'spa' feeling to their design and make you feel like you are glamping," according to one reviewer.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Roadside locations can create sound issues at some parks. At Mike's Beach Resort, "The highway is all that separates it from the canal. There are several RV hookup site all with fire pits. There aren't flushing toilets, just an it house," notes a camper.
Site spacing: Many campgrounds feature closely arranged sites. "The spaces are very close together, but there are a lot of trees and it's very well kept. The facilities and grounds are clean and well cared for. I stayed for almost three weeks and it was quiet and relaxing, despite how close together the sites are," reports a visitor about Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor.
Cell reception variability: Signal strength differs within parks. At Tall Chief Campground, one camper advises: "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Check if parks have recreational facilities for children. "This is definitely a RV resort, but there are 5 or 6 tent camping sites under some big trees which provide shade almost all day. Nice bathroom and showers. Laundry, dog run, tv room, plus really friendly employees," notes a visitor at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor.
Seafood harvesting opportunities: Cove RV Park & Country Store offers nearby seafood gathering opportunities. One visitor shares, "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!"
Water recreation: Some parks feature water access suitable for families. "If you like oysters and clams, this place is perfect. It's not fancy, tent sites don't have privacy between them. However, we had a blast here. Great weekend away. Family friendly," mentions a Mike's Beach Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Extended stays: Some parks offer monthly rates for longer visits. At Tall Chief Campground, one RVer mentions: "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station."
Site selection strategy: For better privacy, choose sites strategically. "Most sites are pretty big too. We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space! No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it," advises a Tall Chief Campground visitor.
Power limitations: Some parks have outdated electrical systems. One visitor at Tall Chief noted: "Knocking another star as the majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts. There are a few 50 amp sites but from what I saw they were all taken by RVers that are there on a more permanent basis."
