Tent camping opportunities near Sammamish, Washington include sites across the Cascade foothills within 40 miles of the city. Most tent sites in this region sit at elevations between 500-2,500 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during day and 55°F at night. Fall and spring camping seasons offer fewer crowds but require additional cold-weather gear as nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Fishing in alpine settings: Pratt Lake Hike In Campsite offers clear waters filled with trout. "The lake is full of fish so make sure you bring your Pole, beautiful trout were jumping," notes camper Alex T., who adds that "the water was cold, but in the afternoon sun it was great for swimming."
Hiking to waterfalls: Wallace Falls State Park Campground provides direct access to waterfall trails. "The hike to Wallace Falls (lower & upper) is moderate & enjoyable. The 'wooded hike' meanders along the Wallace River, which is said to have salmon & steelhead in August," reports Josiah P.
Blackberry picking: July and August visitors can gather wild berries near campsites. "If camping in July-August, blackberries abound! I picked enough berries to share with my crew," writes one Wallace Falls camper, noting "there is nothing better than perfectly ripe blackberries on a camping trip."
What campers like
Island isolation: Blake Island Marine State Park Campground requires boat access, creating a secluded experience. "It is a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle with gorgeous views of the city. Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island," recommends Christi R.
River sounds: Campers at White River Dispersed Camping appreciate the natural sound barrier. "The campsites are absolutely beautiful—tucked among the trees with stunning views and the soothing, constant sound of the roaring White River nearby. The river noise also does a great job of masking any sounds from the nearby road," explains Mary B.
Urban proximity with natural settings: Tent sites near Sammamish balance accessibility with isolation. "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature," reports Wayne B. about Paine Field Community Park, making it ideal for quick weekend escapes.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before planning trips. "Campfires are not allowed close to the lake," notes Alex T. about Pratt Lake. Many sites implement seasonal restrictions during summer fire seasons.
Boat-only access: Some of the best tent camping near Sammamish requires water transportation. "You do need a boat or a ticket on the Argosy to get here, but it's so worth it!" writes Christi R. about Blake Island. Boat rentals are available in Seattle starting at $150/day.
Clearance requirements: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. "It is also a bit of a challenging road, so low clearance vehicles wouldn't be treated well," warns camper P J. about White River. Another camper notes, "saw some subarus trying to navigate into a cleared area and it was pretty scrape-y."
Campsite availability: Hollyhock Farm has limited capacity with only 4 sites. "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest, the toilet was clean and fairly close to the sites, parking was easy and the host was a total gem!" reports Rio B.
Tips for camping with families
Day-use parks with kid amenities: Look for sites with recreational facilities. "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!" writes Aimee M. about Paine Field Community Park.
Private camping options: Some private residences offer camping with added comfort. "It was my first time camping on a private residential property. I've grown so used to sites like KOA that it was strange to have friendly owners serving us rather than paid staff," reports Don L. about Woodlands at Lake Stickney.
Equipment planning for walk-in sites: Many sites require carrying gear from parking areas. "We arrived and only had hammocks to camp in and the two walk up sites did not provide trees to manage our hammocks. Therefore we parked in the parking lot near a tree and strung our hammocks from the tree to the car," explains Samantha J. at Wallace Falls.
Tips from RVers
Spot selection for mixed vehicle types: Areas near White River offer varied site options. "Spots are close to each other. No T-Mobile service," notes Laurie F., while another camper adds, "we drove a little further in and found a large secluded spot in the woods. Road gets a bit worse as you drive further, but it was manageable."
Timing for prime locations: Mid-week arrivals improve chances for riverside spots. "I can tell that this would get pretty full in the busy season and on weekends," observes P J. Another White River camper confirms, "The first night, I got there after 9pm and there were still plenty of spots available. I found a spot right next to the river."
