RV campgrounds around Shoreline, Washington range from heavily wooded sites to waterfront locations. Most campgrounds in this region receive 37 inches of annual rainfall, with wettest months from October through March. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-45°F, while summer temperatures average 65-75°F with occasional heat waves exceeding 80°F.
What to do
Kayaking and water access: Port Ludlow RV Park offers excellent water access for kayakers. "The best thing is that if you have kayaks or a boat you can launch and explore some beautiful sections of Puget Sound. You can get to Marrowstone Island, which is one of the best-kept secrets of the Olympic Peninsula," notes a visitor to Port Ludlow RV Park.
Hiking nearby trails: Many campgrounds provide access to walking and hiking paths. "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," according to a review of Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Miniature golf and recreation: Some campgrounds offer on-site activities for guests. A visitor at Thousand Trails Thunderbird commented, "Plenty of amenities - showers, pools, hot tub, mini golf etc. staff were friendly as well."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value space and privacy at their sites. "Large private sites. We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space!" reports a guest at Tall Chief Campground. Another camper at Port Ludlow RV Park shared, "It's set in the woods, so there's lots of privacy. There's a host right at the gate, so it's pretty safe and secure."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained facilities. "The bathrooms and showers were clean. Same with the laundry room and you can do a full load for $4. There is a quarter machine," notes a visitor to Issaquah Village RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many parks feature resident wildlife. Lake Pleasant RV Park has "a murky pond and the geese are happy residents here so expect a lot of goose poop at any spot near the water," according to one visitor. Another guest mentioned, "Lots of geese, ducks, and bunnies are around the property."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or transportation. A guest at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor noted, "The campground is quiet, except for the nearby construction." At Thousand Trails Thunderbird, tent campers should be aware that "tenting areas are 10-15 feet from the road, so very noisy all night long. The road is 35mph, so it's noisy."
Reservation requirements: Many popular parks fill quickly, especially during summer months. "Make reservations in advance! Great place, peaceful, lots of trees," advises a visitor to Port Ludlow RV Park.
Varying cell service: Cell reception can vary significantly within the same campground. A camper at Tall Chief Campground shared, "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with features for children. At Cove RV Park, "Camp hosts are great and made for a wonderful holiday. Free Saturday night ribs and chicken made a great surprise!"
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer swimming facilities. A visitor to Tall Chief Campground mentioned, "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy."
Grocery access: Having supplies nearby helps with family camping. One camper noted that Lake Pleasant RV Park is "across the street from a Safeway which was very convenient. Also very close to some excellent restaurants in Bothell."
Tips from RVers
Power connections: Check what electrical service is available before booking. At Eagle Tree RV Park, sites offer "full hookup and amenities," according to one visitor.
Site leveling: Be prepared for uneven sites at some locations. A reviewer at Trailer Inns RV Park noted, "RV park is basically a paved parking lot. It is not level. Vehicles are packed in tight."
Waste management: Not all parks offer sewer hookups at individual sites. A camper at Tall Chief Campground explained, "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All hookups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station."
