Tent camping opportunities near Port Townsend, Washington extend beyond the Olympic Peninsula into the nearby islands of Puget Sound. The region sits at the junction of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Admiralty Inlet, creating a rain shadow effect that results in less precipitation than surrounding areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-80°F during the day with significant cooling at night, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Explore WWII history sites: Fort Ebey State Park Campground offers access to historical military installations. According to one visitor, "There are old (but well maintained) battery and concrete gun emplacements from WW2 when the Fort was used to defend the West coast. There are so many fun walking paths around the bluffs as well as a beautiful hike around Lake Pondilla with interpretive signage naming the native moss and lichen."
Go fishing at river confluences: At Dungeness Forks Campground, campers enjoy fishing where two rivers meet. One review notes: "Beautiful little spot right next to a river that collides with another one. Trees are so beautiful and smell so good. We love this spot only 1 hour from where we live so we can enjoy without the long drive." Salmon fishing is possible during certain seasons.
Hike alpine meadows: For a completely different ecosystem experience, travel to Deer Park Campground in Olympic National Park. A reviewer shared: "We set up camp during a short rain break. We couldn't see the view at all that night. The next day we woke up and were stunned by the mountain peak view. It was worth it to camp here just for this. We also saw a lot of deer right by our tent."
What campers like
Star gazing opportunities: The higher elevation campgrounds provide exceptional night sky viewing. A Deer Park camper reported: "That night it got so dark we were blanketed in stars and it was simply amazing. This campground has no showers or water. They do have pit toilets and firewood for sale. Be prepared to see lots of deer."
Waterfront beach access: Odlin County Park on Lopez Island offers beachfront sites with views. According to one review: "There's a long sandy beach where locals and tourists alike come to spend their days. There are some RV/car sites right on the water that have very little privacy from one another as well as a few others up into the woods a little more."
Budget-friendly options: The best tent camping near Port Townsend, Washington includes free camping areas. At Slab Camp/Deer Ridge Trailhead, campers mention: "There are about 5 sites with rock fire pits and a decent amount of space. A nice quiet place to spend the night even if you're not trying to hike."
What you should know
Pack water supplies: Many primitive campgrounds in the region have no potable water. At Dungeness Forks, reviewers note: "Tiny campground on the river: no reservations, toilets, but no safe water, no trash collection. The drive up was a little intense, but our sedan made it (no RVs!)."
Book far in advance: During peak summer months, best tent camping sites near Port Townsend fill quickly. For sites at Odlin County Park on Lopez Island, "Reservations are available 90 days prior and necessary July – August."
Weather can change rapidly: Even in summer, be prepared for temperature swings and precipitation. One Dungeness Forks camper warned: "March we woke up to snow just fair warning."
Road conditions require caution: Access to Slab Camp/Deer Ridge Trailhead involves navigating logging roads. A reviewer explained: "This area is more of a trailhead than a campsite. It's up some logging type roads and has a large gravel lot for parking. There are a lot of spots that you could wander into the woods and set up camp on a mossy bed under the canopy."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campsites with nearby activities: Fort Ebey State Park provides multiple recreation options. A family camper shared: "There's a great hiking trail that begins at the campground and takes you along the bluff and shoreline to Ebey's Landing Historic Park. There's a number of historic buildings in the area and everyone I talked to was friendly and more than happy to explain the history of the area."
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Many area campgrounds offer chances to see deer and other wildlife. At Odlin County Park, one camper reported: "We had deer in our campsite everyday. Camp host was very welcoming and helpful."
Consider island camping for biking: Lopez Island offers family-friendly biking from campsites. A reviewer noted: "One of the best parks for bike camping in the islands. Sites are spacious and offer wonderful views of the sound." Another mentioned: "This place is perfect for who goes on bikepacking or using car to camping there."
Tips from RVers
Check road access details carefully: Several campgrounds have restrictive access roads. For Dungeness Forks, a camper in a small RV noted: "The drive to the site was accurately steep with little room on either side. Our 19ft campervan made it up and down but a car did need to pull off to the side for us and back up a ways for us to squeeze by. We did not tow anything behind us and I wouldn't recommend it."
Consider casino parking alternatives: When established campgrounds are full, Tulalip Casino offers free overnight parking. A reviewer explained: "Great free camping for up to three nights. Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive. Very nice friendly security staff. Great place to walk your dog."
Measure your vehicle before booking: Many campgrounds have site limitations. At Odlin County Park, a Class B RV owner mentioned: "I had a class B and probably could not fit into some spaces (too short and/or low tree branches). Great location to bike from or kayak."
