M
MATTHEW R.
Guide
GuideThousand Trails Mount Vernon
Rest Area- 8 HR limit
Decent option if you’re traveling down 5. Seems like a popular spot so some safety in numbers. There’s a similar rest area on the other side for those traveling north
Camping near Port Townsend, WA
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Port Townsend and its surrounding areas feature numerous historic state parks with camping facilities, many preserving former military installations along the scenic shores of Puget Sound. Fort Worden Historical State Park offers beachfront camping within Port Townsend city limits, while Fort Townsend and Fort Flagler state parks provide additional options within a 30-minute drive. Point Hudson Marina & RV Park sits directly on the waterfront in downtown Port Townsend, catering exclusively to RVs with no tent camping available. Nearby Marrowstone Island hosts Fort Flagler with both wooded and beachfront sites. Camping options extend to Whidbey Island's Fort Casey and Fort Ebey state parks, accessible via a 30-minute ferry ride from Port Townsend.
Most campgrounds in the Port Townsend area require reservations, particularly during summer months when sites fill quickly. Washington State Parks typically require a Discover Pass for day use ($10 daily or $30 annually), though camping fees include this access. Winter camping offers greater availability with some parks switching to first-come, first-served after October 31st. As one camper noted, "Awesome fall and winter camping. First come first serve after Oct 31st. No problem finding sites side by side for 40 ft rigs." Spring brings stronger winds along the water, with one visitor reporting, "The wind can be vicious in early spring. We were glad we were in our small RV rather than tent camping." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with T-Mobile users reporting strong signals.
Historical military installations provide unique camping experiences throughout the region, with many sites offering views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and neighboring islands. Wooded campgrounds typically offer more privacy but less scenic water views. According to one camper at Fort Townsend, "The sites in the woods are preferable to the more open sites near the day use area. The sites in the wooded loop offer better privacy, although heavy tree cover limits sunlight if you have solar." Waterfront RV sites at Point Hudson Marina provide minimal privacy but exceptional views, with one visitor noting, "The sites are right next to each other with only a few feet between sites. The front spaces have views of mountains and water, and open onto a pretty beach." Most campgrounds feature hiking trails, beach access, and proximity to Port Townsend's historic downtown with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Best Campgrounds near Port Townsend (304)
1. Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground
"The kids had a blast exploring the fort and the forest around the campsite. There's a big beach with a small general store/burger joint within walking distance."
"We stayed here as a base to go whale watching out of Port Townsend. We really liked the campground, but it's a bit excluded, out on the end of the island."
from $12 - $176 / night
Check Availability2. Beach Campground — Fort Worden Historical State Park
"The trade off is the endless opportunity for walking, hiking and learning the history of the area. Charming Downtown Port Townsend is close by and a true National Historic resource! "
"Being close to the beach and trails was nice. So many places to explore around the old military fort. Also spent an afternoon in Port Townsend which is a fun little town. We will definitely be back."
from $12 - $51 / night
Check Availability3. Deception Pass State Park Campground
"Some trails walking distance from the campsite to gorgeous beaches while others we drove to get to other trails and scenic lookouts. I loved every minute staying there."
"This is one of the most popular locations in Washington State and easy to see why. Both fresh and salt water experiences are within a few steps away with amazing sunsets and breathtaking views."
from $12 - $144 / night
Check Availability4. Sequim Bay State Park Campground
"I was on the edge of the campground with views of the water. Sequim Bay State Park is a fairly small park with lots of sites and recreational areas."
"The bike trail runs through the campground and there is access to sports fields via a tunnel under the highway. There are a few short trails around a creek and the beach."
from $12 - $41 / night
Check Availability5. Fort Casey Historical State Park Campground
"Walk to the ferry to visit Port Townsend for the day. Camp in the deep woods. This place is awesome!"
"The fort itself is an easy walk to go and explore the history of the area, plus it also has some fantastic views of the Puget Sound."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability6. Fort Townsend Historical State Park Campground
"The sites for RVs out near the old parade grounds are pretty tightly packed."
"This nice little campground probably gets overlooked by people heading to Port Townsend or Marrowstone Island, but it’s well worth consideration."
from $12 - $71 / night
Check Availability7. Fort Ebey State Park Campground
"We didn't have a view where we were but I loved the wooded area and it was just a short walk to the bluff overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca."
"The campground is easy to find from the highway and the facilities are very clean and there's a number of showers and bathrooms around the campground."
from $12 - $156 / night
Check Availability8. Camano Island State Park Campground
"It was a quick walk to views of the water, and there were plenty of walking trails around."
"The system in Washington is sometimes showing how overwhelmed and understaffed they are, and this park is so severely understaffed it’s sad."
from $12 - $70 / night
Check Availability9. Point Hudson Marina & RV Park
"Port Townsend is one of our favorite locations, having come here by sailboat for decades and now with a travel trailer."
"This is the best way to spend time in our trailer, act like we're camping, while exploring Port Townsend one of the coolest towns in WA. Excellent weekend getaway."
from $33 - $77 / night
Check Availability10. Lower Oak Bay Park
"There are two sections to this small, tucked away campground on the edge of the Salish Sea, one in the forested area and another out on the beach spit."
"Nice stream of locals walking dogs and travelers on a pit stop."
from $30 / night
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Drive Time
- 56 min from Bremerton, WA
- 1 hr 12 min from Mount Vernon, WA
- 1 hr 18 min from Seattle, WA
- 1 hr 29 min from Bellingham, WA
Recent Camping Photos near Port Townsend, WA
405 Photos of 304 Port Townsend Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Beach Campground — Fort Worden Historical State ParkK
Fort Townsend Historical State Park Campground
Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground
Fort Casey Historical State Park Campground
Fort Ebey State Park Campground
Lower Oak Bay Park
Rhododendron Campground
Sage Horse Camp
Sequim Bay State Park CampgroundM
Camano Island State Park Campground
Cliffside RV Park - Military
Sequim Glamping
Recent Reviews near Port Townsend, WA
1567 Reviews of 304 Port Townsend Campgrounds
- GGlenn W.
ScoutTulalip Casino
Basic carpal
Just a car park. Do not go to the front of the casino as there are over hanging branches that that can scratch your RV.
Matt G.GuideFalls Creek Olympic National Forest
A little gravel pull off
Right off 101, you pull in an its almost a little gravel pit. Places for bigger vehicles. Not great to pitch a tent. Trash in in part, and no cell.
- FFrank N.Scout
Swinomish Casino & Lodge RV Park
Meh! Adequate
It’s prolly a good spot if you are here for the Casino. If not, it’s a good spot for a break along the way to someplace cool. The RV park it self has the basics. The view is okay. I’ve been by here several times and there is generally a sewage smell. My one night stay was no different. The reason I’ve been by here several times is there is a pretty massive field if you have a dog. Fun to watch mine run wild and get some exercise.
Gali K.
TravelerShadow Mountain RV Park and Campground
Good stay clean bathroom
Bathrooms and showers were exceptionally clean and hot, our site wasn’t reachable by car and so we had to move but thankfully the host was kind and let us change without much trouble. If you are coming after work hours call the host as it is hard to find the camp sites alone. It was fairly quiet, during busy hours you can hear the road though.
- Matt G.Guide
NF-2419 Dispersed Site
Little pulloff good for a night
The roads were fair to get to it, little bumpy. Right off road but not alot of traffic. You do have cell coverage here so thats nice. Bring anything you want of need, nothings but trees and the sky are close.
- TTodd K.Scout
Home Sweet Home — Olympic National Park
Nice spot close to the beach, flat grassy spots for a tent. Many spaces aren’t very big. Great set up for RVs.
This site, like many on the Oregon coaster were set up for RVs and camper vans, but not so much for tents. At $68 a night for out of state, it’s too expensive. They should have sites just for tents that are cheaper.
- RRobin S.Scout
Sequim West RV Park
Good
The management is awesome
- Matt G.Guide
Boulder Creek Trail Dispersed
Nice easy spot
The road was a pretty easy drive in on. Spots were clearly marked n quite nice. Little stream in the back, under the tree canopy. Good cell signal an bathroom.
Guide to Port Townsend
Port Townsend camping areas feature a blend of coastal and forested terrain around the northeastern edge of the Olympic Peninsula. Situated at sea level where Admiralty Inlet meets Puget Sound, the region's maritime climate brings mild summers with average highs of 70°F and winter lows rarely below 35°F. The camping season typically runs longest from April through October, though winter campers often find sites more readily available with minimal rain compared to other parts of western Washington.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: Fort Worden offers excellent tidepool access along its shoreline. "We could spend so many more hours exploring the buildings and beaches! Also saw so much wildlife: otters, deer, crab (lots of baby crabs everywhere!!) and starfish," reports KayLynn D. from Fort Worden Historical State Park Campground.
Historic fort exploration: Multiple state parks near Port Townsend feature former military installations with bunkers, gun emplacements and educational displays. "We went in spring and it rained a lot, but still got out to explore the bunkers and the beach. Beach front sites and more trees sites. Bikes are helpful to explore the whole park. Quiet island history!" notes Tami P. from Fort Flagler.
Mountain biking trails: Fort Ebey State Park provides dedicated trails through the forests. "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. Bring flashlights," advises Don from Fort Ebey State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Sequim Bay State Park offers clear waters ideal for spotting marine life. "This Bay is absolutely stunning. The water is so clear, and there is so much wildlife in this park. I've never seen more starfish, and seals. We went kayaking on the bay, and enjoyed the weather," shares Anthony S.
What campers like
Spacious forested sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain campgrounds. "The sites in the woods are preferable to the more open sites near the day use area. The sites in the wooded loop offer better privacy, although heavy tree cover limits sunlight if you have solar," notes Thomas B. from Fort Townsend Historical State Park Campground.
Waterfront camping: Several parks offer prime waterfront sites with direct beach access. "Beautiful spot. Campgrounds facing the water are probably the nicest, but generally this is a really beautiful spot. Spacious sites, clean water, decent bathrooms," shares Rachel A. from Fort Flagler State Park.
Lighthouse views: Fort Casey provides unique camping near a historic lighthouse and ferry terminal. "We love this small waterfront campground. Great beach and views with historic fort and bunkers. View of boats and cruise ships coming and going," explains Colleen T. from Fort Casey Campground.
Immediate access to Port Townsend: Point Hudson Marina & RV Park offers campers the most direct access to downtown. "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.
What you should know
Campground exposure varies: Some camping areas lack natural windbreaks. "The sites are right next to each other with only a few feet between sites. The front spaces have a view of mountains and water, and open onto a pretty beach," explains Thomas B. about Point Hudson Marina.
Military jet noise: Naval Air Station Whidbey Island operations affect certain campgrounds. "Definitely worth a stay with its proximity to the beach, stargazing, hiking. The whole area feels magical. The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis," warns will L. from Deception Pass.
Shower token systems: Most state parks use pay showers requiring tokens. "The bathrooms were very well maintained, and had hand soap available in the sink area. 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," notes Christopher D. from Fort Ebey State Park Campground.
County park alternatives: Smaller county parks can be less expensive but more basic. "This is a sweet little campground right on the bay. We were there in mid/late Sept and there was hardly anyone there, which made it so peaceful and quiet. The only amenities here are trash, one water spigot, and a pit toilet," shares Laura M. about Oak Bay County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Some parks include dedicated recreation areas. "This has been well thought out with the play parks. It really is a lovely site but limited for large RVs. You can hear the road from the RV sites but weirdly it didn't disturb us," reports Vik H. from Sequim Bay.
Consider beach access difficulty: Some waterfront parks have steep paths to the shore. "We hiked and biked the trails and napped like slugs on the beach (a short steep walk). Agree that the tight row of sites near the lawn and entrance station were not very attractive, but in the woods above, sites were pleasant and nicely spaced," explains Ken W. about Fort Townsend.
Junior Ranger programs: Fort Worden offers educational activities for children. "Great spot to getaway, easy access to beach. There is so much to do at this state park from the museum, bunkers to explore and just relaxing. Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets," suggests Becky R. from Fort Worden Historical State Park Campground.
Scout for wildlife viewing spots: Many parks offer opportunities to view marine animals. "We spent many hours exploring the beach and observing sea life. We were not disappointed and plan to return," notes Jerry about Fort Casey.
Tips from RVers
Solar considerations: Tree coverage affects solar panel effectiveness at some campgrounds. "The sites in the wooded loop offer better privacy, although heavy tree cover limits sunlight if you have solar," mentions Thomas B. about Fort Townsend Historical State Park.
Cell service reliability: Coverage varies significantly between carriers. "I did a Speed Test here at this campground as well but i cannot find the screen capture of the report but with my T-mobile hotspot I was getting 5 bars and had speedy internet to be able to work from this site if necessary in the future," reports Brooks S. about Fort Casey.
Site selection strategies: Campgrounds often have distinct sections with different characteristics. "The lower campground has hookups but you have no privacy. Lots to do there...beach, crabbing, clamming, playground, sport courts, trails, and the most fun is exploring all the gun batteries," explains Jill T. from Fort Flagler Historical State Park.
Winter accessibility: Several parks remain open year-round with first-come, first-served policies. "Campground and facilities were clean. Easy walk to the beach for exploring, which made it a great spot for kids. Good amount of privacy - we could see our neighbors but I never felt like they were too close," shares Rachel about Camano Island State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Port Townsend?
Where are the best campgrounds near Port Townsend?
Port Townsend is surrounded by excellent camping options, with historical state parks being the highlight. Fort Worden Historical State Park offers beachfront camping with spacious sites, endless hiking opportunities, and easy access to downtown Port Townsend. Fort Townsend Historical State Park Campground is a hidden gem with wooded sites that provide more privacy than the open sites near the day use area. The park features medium-difficulty hiking trails, interesting historical elements, and beach access. Other excellent options include Fort Flagler on Marrowstone Island and Fort Casey, which offers ferry access to Port Townsend.
What is the best time of year to go camping in Port Townsend?
What is the best time of year to go camping in Port Townsend?
The prime camping season in Port Townsend runs from late May through September when temperatures are mild (60-75°F days) and rainfall is minimal. July and August offer the warmest, driest conditions but also draw the largest crowds. For a quieter experience with pleasant weather, consider the shoulder seasons of late May/June or September when Sequim Bay State Park Campground and other area campgrounds are less crowded. The Olympic Rain Shadow keeps Port Townsend drier than much of Western Washington, making spring and fall camping viable options. Winter camping is possible at Deception Pass State Park Campground and other year-round facilities, though prepare for cooler temperatures and more precipitation.
How much does camping cost in Port Townsend?
How much does camping cost in Port Townsend?
Camping costs around Port Townsend vary based on amenities and location. At Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground, standard campsites typically range from $25-35 per night, with additional fees for utility hookups. Premium waterfront options may cost more. Fort Casey Campground offers similar state park pricing with standard sites in the $25-40 range. For all Washington State Parks, a Discover Pass ($10 daily or $30 annual) is required for vehicle access. RV parks like Point Hudson Marina & RV Park have higher rates, typically $40-70 per night depending on season and hookups. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months.
What RV camping options are available in Port Townsend?
What RV camping options are available in Port Townsend?
Port Townsend offers several RV-friendly camping options. Point Hudson Marina & RV Park provides premium waterfront RV sites within walking distance of downtown Port Townsend's shops and restaurants. The park offers full hookups and is ideal for those wanting to explore the town while enjoying beautiful water views. For a more nature-focused experience, Port Ludlow RV Park provides a quieter setting with necessary amenities. The historical state parks in the area also accommodate RVs, though sites can be tight for larger rigs. Fort Townsend has RV sites near the parade grounds, while Fort Worden can accommodate RVs with advance reservations. Most parks offer water and electric hookups, with some providing full-service options.
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