Seattle tent camping opportunities extend beyond popular destinations, featuring several lesser-known sites within an hour's drive of the city. The Puget Sound region's maritime climate creates distinct camping seasons, with dry summers and wet winters. Most tent campgrounds in this area sit at elevations below 3,000 feet, making them accessible nearly year-round despite occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Lena Lake Campground provides direct access to multiple hiking trails, including the path to Upper Lena Lake. "A gorgeous 3.5 mile hike through a forest, plenty of places to rest or to pull over and take pictures," notes camper Camiren R. The trail system accommodates various skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: At Blake Island Marine State Park Campground, accessible only by boat, visitors can observe diverse wildlife. "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island," suggests reviewer Christi R. The island's isolated nature creates unique wildlife viewing opportunities compared to mainland sites.
Beach exploration: Big Country campground offers beach access within walking distance. The proximity to Possession Sound Preserve allows campers to explore tidal zones and shoreline ecosystems. This location combines woodland camping with saltwater beach experiences in a single trip.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Hollyhock Farm earns praise for its secluded atmosphere away from urban noise. Rio B. notes, "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest," creating a sense of privacy despite being near Seattle.
Natural settings: Green Mountain's primitive campsites appeal to those seeking forested surroundings. According to Ivy K., the area offers "easy access to multiple trails and logging roads" with sites that maintain a wilderness feel despite basic amenities like picnic tables and fire pits.
Urban convenience: Many tent campers appreciate Woodlands at Lake Stickney for combining natural settings with nearby urban amenities. "It's very peaceful and has a restroom which is nice," reports Nicole L., highlighting the balance between seclusion and convenience.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited access methods. Blake Island requires boat transportation, with an approximate one-hour journey from Seattle. Julia S. advises, "There are volunteers that help at the dock" for those arriving by private vessel.
Seasonal considerations: Summer camping near Seattle often means fire restrictions. According to Julia S. at Blake Island, "In summer there is generally a burn ban and if you don't have a shaded spot, the heat can be pretty punishing but the temps go way down at night."
Facility limitations: Many tent sites have minimal facilities. At Lena Lake Campground, Art S. reports, "This is a hike-in campground down a 3.5 mile trail" with vault toilets but no running water, requiring campers to filter water or pack it in.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly options: Paine Field Community Park receives positive feedback for family camping. Aimee M. shares, "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!" The park's layout accommodates family activities.
Pet considerations: Several campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. Wayne B. describes Paine Field as "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature" that works well for both dogs and children.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: For families wanting to introduce children to backpacking, Lena Lake offers an accessible option. Lance R. notes the trail features "steady climb up meandering switchbacks" that most school-age children can handle.
Tips from RVers
Casino parking alternatives: Tulalip Casino provides free overnight parking for RVs with basic amenities. Adam Y. recommends, "Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive. Very nice friendly security staff." This option allows up to three nights of free camping.
Limited hookups: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Seattle provide few RV amenities. Cary C. notes about Tulalip, "No hook ups and no water available. Clean area and pet exercise area. Security drives by regular," emphasizing the basic nature of these accommodations.
Size restrictions: Many forest campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. Green Mountain's sites work for smaller vehicles and tent camping but lack hookups or services, making them better suited for self-contained camping in compact RVs or vans.
