Glamping sites near Puyallup, Washington range in elevation from 400 to 1,000 feet across the region's varied terrain. Most locations experience mild summers with average temperatures of 75-85°F and cool, wet winters typical of the Pacific Northwest. Sites throughout the area typically require reservations 2-3 months in advance during peak summer season, with availability expanding significantly during fall and spring months.
What to Do
River activities: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offers access to the Green River with calmer eddy pools suitable for wading. "Short hike to river spots that are perfect for wading or fishing. 10 minute drive from Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding," writes Ashlie M. The riverfront trails provide multiple access points, though some visitors note the main current can be strong.
Beach exploration: Dash Point State Park Campground provides both forest and beach environments within a single location. "The beach and its tides are why we came," shares Ingrid M. The shoreline features rocky, muddy terrain rather than sand, making it ideal for tide pool exploration and rock skipping rather than traditional beach activities.
Trail systems: Elkamp Eastcreek connects to an extensive network of trails. "The meadow over the bridge is a hidden delight," notes Amanda M. Visitors can access maintained hiking paths directly from their campsites, with trails ranging from easy quarter-mile loops to more substantial connecting routes.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Riverbend Campground offers riverside tent locations with ample room. "Super peaceful, great fire pit location, water at the site entrance, portable restrooms away (but close), and best of all right at the river's edge," reports reviewer J. The campground maintains significant space between sites to enhance privacy.
Clean facilities: Alder Lake Park consistently receives praise for its maintenance. "The facilities are clean and we'll kept. All in all, we might travel around a bit year to year, but we will always return to this park to stay at least once a year," explains Chandra J. The park includes coin-operated showers and regularly serviced restroom facilities.
Scenic water views: Several glamping options near Puyallup provide waterfront locations. "This campground was beautiful! There's a day use lake and we had a wonderful time camping here!" shares Brittany L. about Dash Point State Park. Most lakefront properties offer dedicated swimming areas separate from fishing and boating zones.
What You Should Know
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience noise from transportation corridors. At Saltwater State Park Campground, "No joke- ALL day and night the planes felt like they were in our tent/heads. Every 3-30 seconds it was LOUD," reports Kirsten. Similarly, several sites note railway noise at locations near train tracks.
Rule enforcement: Rangers maintain strict supervision at certain locations. "The park rangers are no joke... I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quiet as myself and three 9-year-old girls were talking (no music etc) too loud," shares Kelly P. about Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. Quiet hours typically run from 10 PM to 7 AM and are actively enforced.
Urban proximity: While convenient for access, some sites have an urban feel. "It's a gorgeous park next to Puget Sound. Fairly safe since it's gated and a park ranger was there overnight," notes Robert G. about Saltwater State Park, adding "From my experience it was quiet and after a while the air traffic from the airport becomes tolerable."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water safety: Dash Point State Park offers a designated swimming area for children. "Really cute camp spot and play area!! Pet friendly and dog park!" writes Carla S. However, parents should note that no lifeguards are on duty, requiring direct supervision of children in water.
Playground access: Multiple glamping facilities around Puyallup include dedicated play structures. "Facilities were good and trails around are fun and easy enough for me and 2 kids," explains Ingrid M. Camp Lakeview Resort specifically mentions "a great playground for kids" according to molly N.
Security considerations: Sites vary in their level of seclusion and monitoring. At Kanaskat-Palmer, "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day," reports Kelly P., adding "I have never felt unsafe or had any unpleasant experiences here but the park rangers mean business."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant adjustment for larger vehicles. At Kanaskat-Palmer, "We dry camped with our 30' Motorhome... I only took away a star because it was advertised as ok for a Motorhome but the gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground," explains Cody F. Always check site reviews for leveling information before booking.
Hookup availability: Electric-only sites predominate at several locations. "The site had water and electrical, but no sewer connections. They do have a nice dump station," reports Doug about Riverbend Campground. Most facilities near Puyallup provide potable water access and dump stations but full hookups are limited.
Arrival timing: Several campgrounds have specific check-in protocols. "Also, this is a private campground, so they have a guy that stands at the gate to open it when guests arrive," notes Doug about Riverbend. Office hours can be limited, especially at smaller privately-run operations like Elkamp Eastcreek.
