275 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Steilacoom, Washington offers diverse camping opportunities, with state parks and military recreation areas providing the majority of established campgrounds in the area. Dash Point State Park, located 15 miles north in Federal Way, offers forested campsites with beach access, while Penrose Point State Park on the Key Peninsula provides waterfront camping with views of Puget Sound. Military personnel have access to specialized facilities at Joint Base Lewis-McChord's Holiday Park and Camp Murray Beach. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of hookups and amenities. The proximity to both urban areas and natural settings creates a distinctive camping landscape where convenience and natural beauty coexist.
Washington State Parks in the region typically require a Discover Pass for day use, which costs approximately $30 annually. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though some like Joemma Beach State Park maintain seasonal schedules from March through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. Weather conditions remain mild but wet during winter months, with summer bringing drier, warmer camping conditions. As one camper noted about Dash Point State Park, "The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. It was quiet at night and bathrooms were clean." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though coverage can vary by carrier and specific location.
Campers consistently highlight the contrast between urban proximity and natural settings as a defining feature of the Steilacoom area. Sites along waterways receive particularly positive reviews, with many visitors appreciating the ability to access beaches and shorelines. A reviewer of Dash Point mentioned, "Civilization is only about 15 minutes away. There's a grocery store, takeout options, and even coffee if you're feeling soft." Road noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly those near highways or major thoroughfares. Privacy between sites varies significantly across campgrounds, with state parks generally offering more separation than private RV parks. Facilities are typically well-maintained, with most state parks providing clean restrooms, showers, and basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.
"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."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $35 - $58 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $12 - $35 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Close by stores, trails, parks, harbor. Tacoma across bridge (10 minutes - $6.25 toll)."
"Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by."
from $57 - $104 / night
Check Availability"We arrived little later around 6 p.m. And being such a nice day there were only few sites left."
"Conveniently located right next to the bathroom with an area for parking two vehicles. I have AT&T and had good service in this spot."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $8 - $32 / night
Check Availability"The location is great, so close to the water, Penrose and other peninsula activities."
"Great location if you want to relax and take long walks at nearby state parks and beaches. Robyn is a spectacular host who was great to communicate with. We will be coming back."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"This is a very nice, typical Washington state park with plenty of trees, greenery, hiking, pathways and even a lake."
"This is a beautiful park located on Deep Lake just outside of Olympia. The park itself is huge offering lots of options for campers. "
from $12 - $45 / night
Check Availability
TravelerThe views by the lake were stunning. Not too many people and even less mosquitoes. I would go back, but the tent sites are brutally uneven and rugged. Pack some extra grit or a thicker air mattress.
Scoutthe camping spots along this road are very nice, with plenty of space for cars and tents. the only downside is people aren't the best about burying their waste, so watch where you step. otherwise, couldn't ask for more. the sound of the river in the background is so soothing, and the sites offer plenty of shade.
GuideStayed on site 38. Perfect for Van camping. Electric,water and sewer. Some sewer locations may need an extension hose. Power ran about 118 to 120 voltage. Cell service where we were at ...ATT had 3 bars and Verizon at 1 or 2 bars at best. Very dated park. But paved narrow roads and tight sites. Reserved on phone, same day of arrival. At 3:18 pm and checkin was closed. So we just went to site. Our loop restroom was very dated and needed some repairs. X1 shower in men's and women's. Men's side had tile missing but had hot water. Overall....just a very dated park. Airport noise noticeable. But spaces are somewhat spaced out with some privacy.
GuideAs cyclists, we really enjoyed this state park. The hiker/biker sites are in a wooded area removed from the other sites which makes them peaceful. Good bathroom and shower amenities, picnic tables by the hiker/biker sites and in the day use area, and a lovely ocean view. Love the cheap, first come first serve option for those arriving by human power! There is also access to a store with supplies and firewood nearby. We enjoyed this spot because we could bike from our home in North Seattle, take the ferry from Edmonds and do a quick one-nighter over here.
GuideGorgeous location. We saw one staff person working SO hard cleaning the campground of weekend trash. The bathroom was ghastly! Big door doesn’t close, the one shower stall so old I don’t think cleaning could help. Totally unsafe with just a couple curtains - no lock. Don’t go in there alone. If you play Pickle Ball you’re in luck - the Founders Course s are wonderful and the Club Members very welcoming!
ScoutVFW 969 Rec Park is clean and quiet. It's run by the VFW and has until recently been just for veterans and active military. They have now opened it to civilians for RV camping at just $50/day, tent camping at $20/day and up to 7 days. It is located right on the Carbon River with a couple awesome swimming holes. Nested between South Prarie and Orting. There is a biking/walking/running path that goes all the way between both towns and then some. There is onsite showers/toilets and coin operated laundry. Full court basketball, softball/kickball field, children's playground/swingset. There is guest parking first come first serve. Guests are allowed to use the clubhouse as long as they clean up after themselves. There is a big screen TV and comfy couch for movie nights and there are also board games and books. The clubhouse can also be rented out for events. (Speak to management for pricing) This place is a little slice of heaven tucked back out of the way of the hustle and bustle of the metro areas surrounding it. There is so much to do around the PNW and this is the perfect base camp.
ScoutBeautiful and clean campgrounds! Everyone was very respectful and the nights are very nice and quiet. No loud music was heard during our stay! Just real traditional camping. Very clean bathrooms that were cleaned twice a day! There are three facilities to buy firewood if needed around the campgrounds, and lake access was very close by!
GuideIt is first come first serve in may and it was not even half full. Gorgeous trees and secluded drive up rv spots. Big metal fire pits and picnic tables. Bear boxes if you can’t leave food in your vehicle. So cool to wake in the morning and just hike from where you are!
GuideWe could not find an rv park willing to rent to us for 1 day before returning our van the next morning to roadsurfer and flying out of SeaTac. This one did and they were so nice. Last minute on our way from mt ranier called and got a 1 night full hookup for the van. We could fill up water and dump before our return. Also took showers in their shower house and bathrooms. They have laundry as well. Everything is clean and everyone was super nice. Lots of nice campers stored and people who have made this their temporary home away from home. It’s old and right next to the highway. No fire pits and just a little grass but we couldn’t be happier!
Camping near Steilacoom offers access to both freshwater and saltwater environments within short driving distances. Most campgrounds in this region of Pierce County operate on seasonal schedules, with peak season running April through September when rainfall averages under 2 inches per month. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures averaging 35-45°F with occasional freezing conditions from November through February.
Waterfront exploration: At Penrose Point State Park Campground, visitors can access shorelines and coves. "Views are rolling wooded hills, with some shorelines to explore. It's not the most exceptional park in this area if you're looking for classic PNW experiences, but it is a great camping site if you just want to take your boat out," notes Harry H.
Hiking trails: The forested setting at Millersylvania State Park Campground provides numerous trail options for day hikes. "There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake, which is not far from the campground," reports Christina F. Another camper mentioned, "Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free."
Fishing opportunities: American Lake at Lewis North Travel Camp provides fishing access for military ID holders. "Great place! Very friendly next to the lake plenty of things to do walking, biking, hiking, fishing," notes TTFischer. The nearby rivers also offer seasonal fishing options with proper licensing.
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention site separation at Dash Point State Park Campground. "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes, and the walking trails," according to Brittany D. Another camper noted, "I was impressed by how spread apart the sites were, I think they could have fit another in between each of them!"
Clean facilities: Facility maintenance receives consistent positive reviews. At Joemma Beach State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the upkeep: "Overall, the sites were nice and well maintained with park staff out daily looking for litter," reports Austin R. Another camper mentioned the "Clean facilities as well!"
Proximity to urban amenities: The contrast between natural settings and nearby services is valued. "Civilization is only about 15 minutes away. There's a grocery store, takeout options, and even coffee if you're feeling soft," says one camper. Another mentions being "Close to I-5" and having "Very nice access to the sound & creek."
Military-only facilities: Several campgrounds near Steilacoom restrict access to military personnel. Camp Murray Beach serves military ID holders with specific amenities. "This review is for the JBLM Travel camp that is not listed on this map. 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," advises Robert K.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. Millersylvania State Park often fills completely: "After months of trying to get reservations for this popular campground, we finally got one for Thanksgiving weekend!" reports Christina F.
Discovery Pass requirement: Washington State Parks require either a daily ($10) or annual ($30) Discover Pass for vehicle access. "There were signs posted upon entry saying a Discover Pass is required. I wasn't sure if that applied to campers too, but I already had one and didn't want to ruin my weekend trying to interpret Washington State Parks signage," notes one camper.
Lake activities: Shallow swimming areas provide safe recreation for children at several parks. At Millersylvania, "The beach is the main attraction and it is hopping. We went early in the morning and staked a claim and were happy all day. There is a nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock. The lake is small and great for letting kids go out in kayaks or other boats," explains Ellen T.
Junior Ranger programs: State parks offer educational activities for children. At Penrose Point State Park Campground, "The grounds, including bathrooms, were well maintained and the kids enjoyed taking part in the junior ranger program. Our family camps often, and Penrose stands out as one of our top experiences," shares Sarah H.
Group camping options: For family reunions or larger gatherings, designated group areas offer more space. "We stayed in the group camp and I can highly recommend it. It had it's own bathrooms. It was set back in the woods with tons of places for tents. The shelter was large and had water and power," notes Ellen T.
Hookup variations: Full-service RV sites are limited at state parks but available at private campgrounds. "Full hookups available, showers are older but clean. Need to buy tokens for the shower," notes Kate B. about Dash Point State Park.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations even when sites lack sewer hookups. "The site had water and electrical, but no sewer connections. They do have a nice dump station," explains Doug about Riverbend Campground.
Site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly in size and angle. At Riverbend Campground, "This site does is a back in, but the slab is at a 90 degree angle from the drive. So you will have to back your trailer around a corner if you plan to park it on the slab. Didn't see other sites like this," explains Doug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping in Steilacoom, WA?
While Steilacoom itself doesn't have campgrounds within town limits, several excellent options are nearby. Dash Point State Park Campground offers clean, beautifully laid-out campsites about 15 minutes north of Steilacoom with friendly staff and volunteers. For military families, Holiday Park Military - Lewis McChord Base provides convenient camping just minutes from Steilacoom. Other nearby options include Penrose Point State Park and Joemma Beach State Park on the Key Peninsula, both within 45 minutes of Steilacoom and offering waterfront camping experiences.
What parks in Steilacoom offer camping facilities?
Steilacoom's parks don't offer camping directly within town limits, but several parks in the surrounding area provide excellent camping facilities. Penrose Point State Park Campground is located near Lakebay, offering boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets. Another nearby option is Joemma Beach State Park Campground, which features drive-in and walk-in campsites with water and toilet facilities. Both are within a reasonable drive from Steilacoom and provide beautiful waterfront camping experiences.
What family-friendly activities are available while camping in Steilacoom?
Families camping near Steilacoom can enjoy numerous kid-friendly activities. At Staircase Campground — Olympic National Park, families will find clean, quiet campsites with plenty of activities in the immediate vicinity, including riverside exploration and hiking trails suitable for children. Dosewallips State Park Campground offers well-maintained grounds with easy access to hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, perfect for family outings. In the Steilacoom area itself, families can enjoy beach activities at Sunnyside Beach Park, visit the Steilacoom Historical Museum, or take the ferry to Anderson Island for additional outdoor adventures.
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