Camping in Redmond, Washington offers access to both urban conveniences and natural attractions within a short drive. The area sits at the edge of the Cascade foothills at approximately 500 feet elevation, with most campgrounds situated in second-growth forests. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop to 35-45°F with frequent precipitation, while summer nights can cool to 50-60°F even after warm days.
What to do
Water activities at Tolt MacDonald Park: Located in Carnation, this park offers river access where campers can enjoy fishing, swimming, and paddling during summer months. "Tolt MacDonald is super cute park and campground... great spot for steelhead + salmon fishing. We've fished steelhead and pinks out of the snoqualmie river in the past," notes Mercedes D. in her review of Tolt MacDonald Park.
Beach exploration at Fay Bainbridge Park: The waterfront location provides opportunities for beachcombing, wildlife watching, and paddling in Puget Sound. "Great campground right on the beach. Clean facilities," says Brook M., who camped at Fay Bainbridge Park. The park includes volleyball courts and a playground shaped like a pirate ship.
Historical sites at Manchester State Park: Explore the military history through remnants of former Navy fortifications. "This CG is a hidden jewel located on the east side of Bainbridge island on beautiful rich passage. Like many sites on the Puget Sound this was first used as a military base for the US Navy... There are many remnants of the fort located in the park," explains Tom N. about the historical significance of the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campgrounds offer secluded sites. At Dash Point State Park, campers appreciate the spacing: "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes, and the walking trails," notes Brittany D. in her review of Dash Point State Park Campground.
Easy city access with natural settings: Campers value locations that allow quick trips to city attractions while maintaining a forest setting. "You are about 20-30 minutes from downtown Seattle," reports Ralph D. about Vasa Park Resort, adding that "this seems like an amazing summer family spot... it was gorgeous and very quiet and right on the water."
Year-round camping options: Several campgrounds remain open through winter. "We are here in November for a week. We really love it here," shares a camper about the year-round operations at Lake Pleasant RV Park, where visitors appreciate "the quiet... truly silent... save for the many geese that call the lake in the center of the property their home."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Redmond-area campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. "You cannot beat this location! Close to Seattle, feels secluded... The staff is amazing and the park and facilities are kept clean," notes John M. about Lake Pleasant RV Park, highlighting why reservations are essential.
Varying hookup options: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Many don't offer full hookups, like Tall Chief Campground: "I do have to knock a star for the fact no sites have sewer hookups... Most people I saw had a honey wagon. We don't have room for one so we used a pumping service halfway through our time there," explains Derek & Alex W.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds. At Issaquah Village RV Park, "you'll be camping 200' from I-90. But we found our ear plugs did a good job of quieting that noise enough for us to get a good sleep," advises Jerry B. in his review.
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with playgrounds: Several locations offer dedicated kids' areas. "Amazing kids area pirate ship. Great beach walk and good camp sites," reports Tanya B. about Fay Bainbridge Park. Similarly, Vasa Park Resort has "a ship playground for the kids and beach volleyball court."
Indoor recreation for rainy days: Consider campgrounds with indoor facilities when camping with kids during unpredictable weather. At Tall Chief Campground, "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great," according to Isabel G., providing options when outdoor activities aren't possible.
Proximity to stores: Families benefit from campgrounds near shopping. "The park is across the street from a Safeway which was very convenient. Also very close to some excellent restaurants in Bothell," notes Kristin S. about Lake Pleasant RV Park, which reduces stress when camping with children who might need unexpected supplies.
Tips from RVers
Limited maneuvering space: Many area campgrounds have tight sites. At Vasa Park Resort, an RVer notes, "Spots are a little tight. Looks like they cater mostly to day use and corporate events during season. When you're arriving the turn into the property is tough...easier to pull into their overflow across the street and drive straight in."
Power limitations: Be prepared for electrical restrictions. At Tall Chief Campground, one RVer reported, "The majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts... we ended up here during a heat wave and an entire section of the park blew after having several days of power issues."
Storage options: Some campgrounds offer flexibility for those needing temporary storage. A visitor to Blue Sky RV Park shared, "We were able to grab a last minute reservation thanks to a FT resident leaving for service... Pad was paved, level and long enough for Super C and toad." Lake Pleasant also provides "on site storage if you need to leave your rig for a few days."
