Dungeness Recreation Area and Heart O' the Hills Campground offer distinct experiences for camping near Sequim, Washington. Sequim sits in the Olympic Peninsula's rain shadow, receiving only about 16 inches of rainfall annually. Campsites throughout the region range from sea level locations with beach access to higher elevation spots beneath old-growth forests, providing diverse environments for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Hike the Dungeness Spit: Visit Dungeness Recreation Area where a 5-mile trail leads to a public lighthouse with views across to Canada. "It's connected to wildlife refuge where you can take a 5 mile stroll on a spit to a public light house where you can see across to Canada and other parts of the Sound," notes Alex S. from Dungeness Recreation Area.
Explore historic forts: Fort Flagler State Park offers military history alongside outdoor activities. "We stopped for lunch and decided to stay the night because it was so nice. The check in office had a herb garden that was available for campers to enjoy use of," shares Angela A. about their stay at Sequim Bay State Park Campground.
Stargazing from higher elevations: The clear nights at Deer Park Campground provide exceptional stargazing. "That night it got so dark we were blanketed in stars and it was simply amazing," reports Meghan S. The campground sits at higher elevation with minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Sequim's coastal campgrounds offer direct water access. At Fort Worden State Park, one camper notes, "Being right on the beach is fantastic, and well worth the slightly higher cost." The park combines beach recreation with historical exploration.
Old-growth forests: Heart O' the Hills Campground immerses visitors in ancient forest settings. "Beautiful location. The bathrooms were immaculate and heated. Though you're right off the main road to Hurricane Ridge, the site was nice and quiet during the day and night," writes Kendra P. about Heart O' the Hills Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Sequim area offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "This Bay is absolutely stunning. The water is so clear, and there is so much wildlife in this park. Ive never seen more starfish, and seals," reports Anthony S. about Sequim Bay.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many Sequim area campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. At Dungeness Forks Campground, a reviewer notes: "Mid week camping might be luckier to find a spot than weekend camping, because there are only 9 sites."
Naval operations noise: Some campgrounds experience jet noise from nearby military facilities. For Fort Worden Historical State Park, one camper mentions the "excellent hot showers" but others note periodic noise disruptions.
Campsite privacy varies: Site selection matters for privacy at most area campgrounds. "The tent sites all have moderate to high privacy, especially the perimeter sites. If you're in the middle of the loop then unfortunately you have people 360 degrees around you but still not terrible," explains a camper at Fort Townsend.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Dungeness Recreation Area, a visitor mentions: "Located in walking distance to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge ($3 family admission/day or with National Parks Pass), we found this campground to be just what we were looking for! A family campground with cheap and clean showers (50 cents/2 minutes), great play area."
Junior Ranger programs: Fort campgrounds offer educational opportunities. "Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets," recommends a camper at Fort Flagler Historical State Park.
Shallow swimming areas: Families appreciate the safe swimming spots. "Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos," notes a parent about Deception Pass State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Large rigs have limited options in some campgrounds. At Dungeness Recreation Area, a reviewer cautions: "Excellent views and scenic trails with semi-private campsites... The campsites do not have electricity, water or sewer but on the other hand are rather inexpensive ($26 a night)."
Limited hookup availability: Check for utility connections before booking. "We were ok with that as we have been paying $12 in the cascades," notes Dwight F. about the $40 nightly fee at Dungeness Recreation Area Clallam County Park, which includes RV dump access for a $10 fee.
Solar considerations: Tree cover affects solar setups at wooded campgrounds. One camper at Fort Townsend notes that "heavy tree cover limits the sunlight if you have solar," suggesting sites near clearings for those relying on solar power.
