Sequim occupies a unique rain shadow position on the Olympic Peninsula, receiving just 16 inches of annual rainfall compared to nearby areas that get 100+ inches. This creates drier camping conditions than most Pacific Northwest destinations, with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F. Campsites around Sequim provide access to both the Strait of Juan de Fuca shoreline and mountain trails within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Explore lighthouse trails: The Dungeness Recreation Area connects to a 5-mile trail leading to a public lighthouse where visitors can see 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.
Visit historic military installations: Fort Worden State Park offers exploration of multiple historic gun emplacements and military structures. "There is a lighthouse that still functions and plenty of beach access. You could even play tennis here if you wanted," explains Ryan L. at Fort Worden State Park.
Mountain biking trails: Fort Ebey State Park maintains dedicated mountain biking trails through forested terrain with ocean views. "There are great hiking and mountain biking trails through forest, ocean views and beach access, and it's also fun to explore the old WWII facilities. Bring flashlights," recommends Don at Fort Ebey.
Observe marine wildlife: The clear waters of Sequim Bay support abundant marine life viewing 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," shares Anthony S. about Sequim Bay State Park Campground.
What campers like
Level sites with privacy: Fort Ebey campers appreciate the site layout despite proximity. "The campsites are generally large and well separated by foliage, even in winter," reports Don from Fort Ebey State Park Campground. "The sites are bigger then expected, they are level and could accommodate 2 medium size tents."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean shower and bathroom facilities. "The restrooms are very well maintained, and had hand soap available in the sink area. There also showers in the bathroom," notes Christopher D. about Fort Ebey. Similarly, at Dungeness Recreation Area, a camper reports "Warm showers, flushing toilets, sparkling clean restrooms."
Recreational amenities: Families appreciate the availability of designated play areas. "This campground is great for families and people with kids. There are playgrounds near the bathrooms," explains Melissa J. from Dungeness Recreation Area. At John Wayne's Waterfront Resort, "There's a playground, volleyball bet, fire pits, general store and plenty else."
Year-round accessibility: Unlike many Pacific Northwest destinations, several Sequim-area campgrounds remain open through winter. "A very nice wooded campground located right off Hwy101 and on Sequim Bay... Some campsites are waterfront (#80-82 have best views)," notes Emma A. about Sequim Bay's year-round availability.
What you should know
Naval flight patterns: Nearby military installations can create periodic noise. "The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis," warns Will L. about Deception Pass State Park. This affects multiple campgrounds in the region, though jets typically stop flying by early evening.
Site selection importance: Campground layout varies significantly within the same park. At Fort Townsend, one camper advises: "We were in the 28-35ish strip of slots and they were narrow, 360 degree exposure and had no fire pits. The spots up the hill were better... I would not come back here if these were the only places available." Site maps prove essential for pet-friendly camping near Sequim.
Reservation fees: Some county parks charge substantial reservation fees. At Dungeness, a visitor notes: "Worst part is the $10 online reservation fee, but as a family, we'd rather pay to know we have a site." Most state parks have similar fees, making last-minute camping challenging during peak season.
Weather variation: Despite being in the rain shadow, weather changes rapidly. At Sequim Bay State Park Campground, Angela A. shares: "We stopped for lunch and decided to stay the night because it was so nice." Having wet-weather gear remains important even in this drier microclimate.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play facilities for easier supervision. Charlotte H. from Dungeness Recreation Area recommends: "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, not a bad amount of mosquitoes for location, and quiet unlike many state park campgrounds."
Junior Ranger activities: Several parks offer educational programs for children. At Fort Worden, Becky R. suggests: "Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets." These programs typically take 1-2 hours and provide structured activities.
Beach accessibility: Consider distance to shoreline when selecting sites with children. At Fort Flagler, sites facing the water offer the most convenience for families. "Beautiful spot. Campgrounds facing the water are probably the nicest, but generally this is a really beautiful spot. Spacious sites, clean water, decent bathrooms," notes Rachel A.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning and evening animal watching with kids. "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer. It's a good place to make memories!" shares Don about Fort Ebey State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At some parks, utilities may be positioned inconveniently. About Sequim Bay State Park, Amanda B. notes: "Our site in particular had hookups in all the wrongs places and a steep hill directly behind it (not great for families with little ones)." Check site diagrams before booking when arranging pet-friendly camping near Sequim.
Dump station fees: Not all parks include dump station access in camping fees. Alex S. from Dungeness Recreation Area mentions: "There is a dumpsite on the way out of the park convenient for RVers who dry camped," but at other locations like Fort Townsend, fees apply separately.
Paved site benefits: For RV travelers with dogs, paved sites prevent muddy paws. At Gilgal Oasis RV Park, Mike E. appreciates: "No dirt or mud here everything paved and clean. Yes the sites are close together but everything was clean and campers were respectful during our stay."
Winter camping options: RVers seeking year-round options should note Mike K.'s tip about Fort Flagler: "Awesome fall and winter camping. First come first serve after Oct 31st... No problem finding 2 sites side by side for 40 ft rigs... Website said water was turned off at the sites but all sites still had water."
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