RV sites near Seattle, Washington range from fully equipped parks to more primitive campgrounds. Most campgrounds within 25 miles of Seattle's urban center offer water, electric, and sewer hookups. The region's mild climate makes RV camping viable year-round, though winter brings considerable rainfall with average precipitation of 37 inches annually. Many campsites are nestled among evergreen forests with elevation changes that can create challenges for larger vehicles.
What to do
Lake activities at Bothell: Lake Pleasant RV Park provides access to its small lake where waterfowl viewing is popular. "We stayed at this park on a trip to Seattle. It was only about 30 minutes to downtown, but almost felt like you were out in the country. We did not use the bathrooms, but enjoyed the walking trails, playground for the kids, and watching the resident ducks in the pond," explains one camper at Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Hiking nearby trails: Sites close to the Sammamish River Trail offer extended walking or biking opportunities. A visitor reports, "Around the perimeter of the park are short hiking trails through the trees — somewhat steep gravel trails that give you an added level of workout over laps around the park. If you're looking for some extra miles, the walk/run to the Samammish River trail and/or Burke Gilman trail is less than 2 miles down the road."
Coffee exploration: The Snoqualmie Valley offers excellent local coffee shops within short driving distance of several campgrounds. "It's super close (like 7 min drive) from one of my favorite coffee shops, Aroma Coffee Co. Try it! You won't be disappointed!" shares a regular visitor to Tall Chief Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many Seattle-area parks offer natural separation between camping spots. "Large private sites. It feels like you are deep in the PNW rainforest but you close to amenities and shopping," notes one camper at Tall Chief Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality is consistently mentioned as a standout feature. "The facilities and grounds are clean and well cared for. I stayed for almost three weeks and it was quiet and relaxing, despite how close together the sites are," reports a visitor to Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor.
Affordable laundry services: Several parks offer reasonably priced laundry facilities. "The laundry is the hidden gem. At half the cost of the local laundromats, and with twice the machines I'm used to at a campground this size, I always have clean towels," mentions a camper at Eagle Tree RV Park.
What you should know
Cell service varies by site: Tree coverage affects signal strength even within the same park. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it. I'm getting 120+ mbs download on AT&T in my site right now, but several sites down from me, it can dwindle down to 5mbs!"
RV storage options: Some parks offer temporary storage if you need to leave your vehicle. "On site storage if you need to leave your rig for a few days. I camped, stored my camper while I went on a cruise, camped and then headed out for the remainder of an around the country journey," notes a visitor from Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Power limitations: Older parks may have electrical issues during peak demand. "Knocking another star as the majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts. There are a few 50 amp sites but from what I saw they were all taken by RVers that are there on a more permanent basis. If you want/need one, you cannot get one."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. "This is definitely a RV resort, but there are 5 or 6 tent camping sites under some big trees which provide shade almost all day. Nice bathroom and showers. Laundry, dog run, tv room, plus really friendly employees!!! Waterfront is right down the street," shares a visitor to Issaquah Village RV Park.
Indoor recreation for rainy days: Seattle's frequent rain makes indoor options important. "Mini golf basket ball court, lakes, bingo, free donuts and coffee showers are bug and clean price is fairly cheap," notes a camper at Blue Sky RV Park.
Shopping proximity: Many RV parks provide convenient access to necessities. "The park is across the street from a Safeway which was very convenient. Also very close to some excellent restaurants in Bothell."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Big rig owners should call ahead to confirm adequate site dimensions. "Pad was paved, level and long enough for Super C and toad. Will definitely come back to stay at Blue Sky!"
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to choose the best locations, especially for larger vehicles. "We got a pull through and, while it wasn't a huge amount of space, the trees between spots offered a really nice level of privacy."
Propane services: Some parks offer on-site propane filling. "They offer propane for sale on site and their laundry room is very well kept and only $1 each for the washer and dryer! They also have a small visitor information center stocked with area brochures on tourist spots and tours."
