Best Campgrounds near Spanaway, WA

Spanaway, Washington provides access to a range of camping areas within a short drive of the city. Nearby options include Dash Point State Park Campground in Federal Way, which accommodates tent camping, RVs, and glamping, and Holiday Park Military - Lewis McChord Base in Tacoma, which offers RV sites and cabins. The region includes several state parks with developed campgrounds as well as military-affiliated camping areas that serve as convenient bases for exploring Mount Rainier National Park and the surrounding Cascade Mountains.

Many campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when visitation peaks. Most state parks require a Washington Discover Pass for day use, while overnight camping fees vary by location and amenity level. Weather conditions remain mild year-round, though winter brings increased rainfall and cooler temperatures. Campgrounds like Millersylvania State Park and Penrose Point State Park operate throughout the year, providing access to both forest and water recreation. Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with some areas offering reliable coverage while others have limited connectivity. As one camper noted about Dash Point State Park, "This campground is hidden in the middle of a major Western Washington city. Once in the campground, you would have no idea that you are surrounded by a sprawling metropolitan area."

Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites at several locations near Spanaway. Penrose Point State Park Campground on the Key Peninsula provides beach access and boat-in camping options, while Dash Point offers forest trails leading to shoreline areas. Mixed-use campgrounds like Lewis North Travel Camp feature amenities including electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables, making them suitable for various camping styles. Several visitors mentioned appreciating the balance of natural settings with proximity to urban conveniences. The campgrounds closest to Spanaway tend to be more developed with full amenities, while those farther out provide more secluded experiences. Noise levels vary by location, with some campgrounds experiencing highway sounds while others offer more peaceful settings among tall evergreens.

Best Camping Sites Near Spanaway, Washington (271)

    1. Dash Point State Park Campground

    72 Reviews
    Federal Way, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $20 / night

    ""Firstly, I just have to say what a positive and amazing experience I had at this campground. The volunteers were friendly, kind and absolutely awesome to interact with."

    "The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Ours had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table."

    2. Holiday Park Military - Lewis McChord Base

    7 Reviews
    Spanaway, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 982-5488

    "Excellent location for those with military access to the base - active duty, retired or family. 30/50 amp hookups. Beautiful views of American Lake. Pet friendly."

    "It is in the wilderness, on the lake, but it is also fairly close to stores and gas stations. Long term max is 28 days per spot."

    3. Lewis North Travel Camp - Joint Base Lewis McChord

    6 Reviews
    DuPont, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 967-7744

    $12 - $35 / night

    "Very friendly next to the lake plenty of things to do walking, biking, hiking, fishing, Military museums, not to far off of I-5. Full hookups laundry shower facilities. Cabins too."

    "Unfortunately the restrooms right next to our site were closed so it was a slight walk to the nearest restroom. Restrooms were heated and well taken care of."

    4. Game Farm Wilderness Campground

    15 Reviews
    Auburn, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 931-3043

    $40 / night

    "Just like building and exploring in Minecraft for PC, you can craft your perfect outdoor adventure here, surrounded by nature, and enjoy endless fun and exploration."

    5. Penrose Point State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    $32 / night

    "Pros: group camp is very close to beach front area, GREAT CLAMMING AND OYSTERING!"

    "Penrose Point State Park is a great place close to Seattle to go camping in a small or large group. It's tent or camper friendly with plenty of spots for busier seasons."

    6. Camp Murray Beach

    4 Reviews
    DuPont, WA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 584-5411

    $8 - $32 / night

    "Need to reserve your site online with the JBLM MWR or go to the adventure center building nearby on base. Nice access to American Lake and fishing nearby as well."

    "This is a great spot on American Lake to camp with many sites on the waterfront. I would highly recommend this location to eligible military ID Card holders."

    7. Riverbend Campground

    7 Reviews
    DuPont, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 491-2534

    "Super peaceful, great fire pit location, water at the site entrance, portable restrooms away (but close), and best of all right at the river’s edge."

    "We needed something close to the city, but didn’t want to feel like we were in the city, this fit the bill. People are very friendly and accommodating. The park is really clean."

    8. Camp Lakeview

    7 Reviews
    Eatonville, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 879-5426

    "This campground has super friendly staff, decent bathrooms and showers, laundry facility, access to a lake, fishing is welcome, swimming allowed, great playground for kids, allows pets, has a small store"

    "It was a larger site that sits next to the small creek. It was very pleasant and quiet. The bath house isn’t too far and was usually well stocked and clean."

    9. Alder Lake Park

    31 Reviews
    La Grande, WA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2778

    "It's about an hours drive from Paradise, which makes it less ideal than Cougar Rock if that's your destination, but the reservations do not fill up nearly as quickly."

    "Walking distance to the day use beach area. Very clean showers. Well maintained sites and fire wood for sale with the camp host. A great spot for exploring near Mt. Rainer."

    10. Elkamp Eastcreek

    36 Reviews
    Mineral, WA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 492-3104

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Rainier as it is within minutes of the Nisquilly entrance.  The majority of the campsites were amid tall trees. "

    "The sites are situated amongst beautiful tall trees, spacious and private. A beautiful creek runs through with a foot bridge with access to a beautiful meadow."

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Recent Reviews near Spanaway, WA

1404 Reviews of 271 Spanaway Campgrounds



Guide to Spanaway

Camping near Spanaway, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Many campers enjoy the trails and wildlife. One visitor at Dash Point State Park Campground said, "Love coming here to hike with the dogs and kids. Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs."
  • Water Activities: If you love water sports, Alder Lake Park is a great spot. A reviewer mentioned, "A lovely lake is within a short walk and has a playground, a designated swim area and a large dock."
  • Exploring Nature: Campers at Millersylvania State Park Campground enjoy the old-growth forest. One camper noted, "Just 20 minutes south of Olympia, WA you can pull off I-5 and pitch a tent beneath towering old growth Douglas Fir and Hemlock trees."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms are convenient. Our sites had views of the lake and access to a lake trail."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A reviewer at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park mentioned, "The campground is nice and clean... The sites are all heavily wooded, providing good separation between the sites."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Belfair State Park Campground are great for families. One camper shared, "Camping here was so much fun for my family. The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Penrose Point State Park Campground warned, "People don't come here to camp, they come here to party and there is a big difference."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Alder Lake Park noted, "No sewer or showers, pit toilets."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground mentioned, "The salmon were swimming upstream and jumping the rapids which was really cool to watch!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities for kids. A reviewer at Belfair State Park Campground said, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds have strict quiet hours. A visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground noted, "The rangers cruised by periodically which seemed to help with quiet hours."
  • Pack for Rain: Washington weather can be unpredictable. A camper at Twanoh State Park Campground mentioned, "It was pretty wet and muddy so opt for hiking boots over tennis shoes."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park said, "We have a 32 ft 5th wheel and were in spot 1 (pull-through), right next to the entrance."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric hookups. A camper at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are very generous in size with LONG paved driveway pads."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A visitor at Dash Point State Park Campground advised, "If you’re going on a weekend, we highly recommend making a reservation."

Camping near Spanaway, WA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Spanaway, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Spanaway, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 271 campgrounds and RV parks near Spanaway, WA and 36 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Spanaway, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Spanaway, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 72 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Spanaway, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 36 free dispersed camping spots near Spanaway, WA.