Port Townsend offers year-round camping opportunities in Washington's rain shadow, receiving just 19 inches of annual rainfall compared to Seattle's 38 inches. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-45°F while summer averages 60-75°F with minimal humidity. Most campgrounds maintain water access from May through October, with limited services available during winter months.
What to do
Explore military history sites: Fort Ebey State Park Campground features preserved gun batteries and historic structures from WWII. "Fort Ebey was such a beautiful experience! A beautiful sunset every night! Easy access to Deception Pass State Park as well as a quick drive down all of Whidbey Island," notes Joshua D.
Beach combing at low tide: Dungeness Recreation Area offers extensive tidepools and shoreline access. "Just go for a walk out the spit to get a unique perspective of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This is a USFWS refuge and campground, so if your into seabirds, this is the place to go," suggests Ryan L.
Mountain biking on established trails: Fort Ebey State Park Campground maintains dedicated single-track routes through coastal forest. "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," says Don.
Kayaking in protected waters: Sequim Bay State Park Campground provides boat launches and rentals seasonally. "This Bay is absolutely stunning. The water is so clear, and there is so much wildlife in this park. Ive never seen more starfish, and seals," writes Anthony S.
What campers like
Quiet winter camping options: Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground remains open year-round with reduced crowds after October. "Awesome fall and winter camping. First come first serve after Oct 31st. Spent a long weekend there last week. No problem finding 2 sites side by side for 40 ft rigs," shares Mike K.
Clean shower facilities: Many Port Townsend area campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathroom facilities. "Clean modern restrooms. Excellent hot showers. Paved level sites and most have good separation," reports Leonard H. about Beach Campground at Fort Worden.
Spacious campsites: Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground features larger-than-average camping spots. "This campsites here are really big. It is probably a group site. This place has fire rings and tables," notes Kevin T.
Walking distance to town: Point Hudson Marina & RV Park provides downtown access. "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," explains Clyde W.
What you should know
Navy jet noise: Deception Pass State Park Campground experiences periodic aircraft activity. "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.
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Upper and lower campground sections offer different experiences. "This campground is made up of two parts, the upper and lower. The lower campground is right on the beach. No privacy and no trees, but crazy beautiful views! The upper campground has several sites, most have plenty of privacy," explains Melissa J. about Oak Bay County Park.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during summer months, particularly between June-August. "This would definitely be a spot we'd stop at again when we're in the area next," notes Laura M. about Evergreen Coho SKP Park.
Shower token systems: Many state parks charge nominal fees for shower use. "The showers required tokens. Each token was $0.50 for 3 minutes," explains Angela A. about facilities at Sequim Bay State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Dungeness Recreation Area provides dedicated children's spaces. "This campground is great for families and people with kids. There are playgrounds near the bathrooms. The bathrooms have showers, and are clean and accessible," writes Melissa J.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer regular animal sightings. "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer. It's a good place to make memories!" shares Don about Fort Ebey State Park.
Educational history programs: Fort Worden Historical State Park offers interactive learning activities. "Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets," recommends Becky R.
Off-season camping advantages: Pet friendly camping near Port Townsend, Washington remains accessible year-round with fewer crowds during spring and fall. "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," notes Erica G.
Tips from RVers
Designated RV loops: Beach Campground — Fort Worden Historical State Park features dedicated utility hookup areas. "Site was great with lots of room and full services. Excellent area for walking on the trails or the beaches. Close to town for shopping and restaurants," shares Doug M.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds maintain sanitation facilities with varying fees. "We stayed in a dry camp site for only $7.50, and paid $5 for the dump," reports Laura M. about Evergreen Coho SKP Park.
Satellite and cellular coverage: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds. "Cell service was good and they have good wifi as well," notes Laura M. about connectivity options at Evergreen Coho.
Site length limitations: Some campgrounds restrict larger vehicles. "Nice views and right on the water but each site is very small with a 30' total vehicle length limit. We had a 19' trailer and it was tight and had to park the truck crosswise," cautions Doug M. about Lower Oak Bay Park.
