RV parks near Steilacoom, Washington provide convenient access to Puget Sound waters and nearby attractions while offering varying levels of hookup options. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations under 500 feet, with typical summer temperatures reaching 75-85°F and winter lows around 35-45°F. Cell service can be intermittent at forested locations despite proximity to urban centers.
What to do
Waterfront access: From Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, campers can easily reach waterfront areas. "Waterfront is right down the street. Costco, Home Depot, Albertsons and other shopping close by," notes Jacob P., highlighting the convenient location.
Stadium events: When staying at Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park, be prepared for occasional noise from the neighboring high school stadium. "It is situated next to a H.S. stadium so the game nights get a little bit loud but really not that bad," mentions Marque W. about the otherwise quiet park.
Casino entertainment: Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park offers on-site dining options. "Very nice hotel and casino with reasonably priced food at the cafe," reports Allen, while another camper mentions "the best seafood bar in the area" as a key attraction when staying at this location.
Hiking opportunities: Camp near Olympic National Forest for day hikes. "Nice location for hiking or boating in the Hood Canal area," shares a camper about Cove RV Park & Country Store, which provides a convenient base for outdoor activities along Hood Canal.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies between rv parks in Steilacoom, Washington and surrounding areas. "Bathrooms are usually found to be immaculate. The main bathrooms have a great 'spa' feeling to their design and make you feel like you are glamping," notes Brodie D. about Tall Chief Campground.
Helpful staff: Many campgrounds have attentive management. "We first arrived with only knowing the basic and Mike the grounds master was more than happy to help us park and hook up. He was super nice and answered all of our questions," shares Matt B. about their experience at Cove RV Park.
Tree coverage: Tall Chief Campground offers shaded sites. "It's super close (like 7 min drive) from one of my favorite coffee shops, Aroma Coffee Co. Try it! You won't be disappointed!" adds Brodie D., who also notes: "We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region."
Extras and amenities: Some parks provide unexpected perks. "Camp hosts are great and made for a wonderful holiday. Free Saturday night ribs and chicken made a great surprise!" reports a camper about Cove RV Park, highlighting the social atmosphere.
What you should know
Site spacing: Campground layouts vary significantly. "Great camp site for all sizes. Mostly no sewer. But if you enjoy a little distance between sites without sacrificing camp size line up here," explains Richard D. about Tall Chief Campground.
Utility considerations: Many parks require additional equipment. "The sewer and electric, make sure you got enough tubes and extensions. All connections are in the back so imagine hooking up at a parking lot at the concrete stoppers," warns Joe C. about Washington Land Yacht Harbor.
Signal strength: Cell reception varies widely, even within the same campground. "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," advises Brodie D.
Pet accommodations: Most parks welcome pets with restrictions. "Pet friendly, but not many attractions for children (no playground, no pool)," notes Joseph I. about Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, indicating the park's limitations for families with young children.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Choose parks with recreational facilities. "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy," shares Isabel G. about Tall Chief Campground's family-friendly amenities.
Space selection: At South Prairie Creek RV Park, site layout affects experience. "Pretty nice park for a quick stopover or base camp. No picnic tables and only a small outdoor area. Almost everyone at this campground just stayed in their campers all day," reports Katie O., suggesting families might prefer more spacious locations.
Age restrictions: Some parks have vehicle age policies. "It looks really nice but they don't allow drop-ins or vehicles older than 20 yrs," notes Madeline W. about Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park's restrictions that might affect families with older RVs.
Site privacy: Privacy varies between sites at the same park. "Very nice small park with basic amenities and large private or cramped sites based on what you choose and pay for. Some have fire rings. All with picnic tables but you will be sitting right next to your neighbors if you choose the sites in middle section of park," advises mary F.
Tips from RVers
Extended stays: For longer visits, inquire about monthly options. "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station," shares David O. about Tall Chief Campground.
Parking considerations: Vehicle space varies by site. "Make sure you get a site that is large enough for both the RV and your vehicle as there is no extra parking. We picked a 50 ft site which allowed us to park the RV and still have room for our towed car," advises a camper about Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park.
Reservation requirements: Some parks have changed their policies. "Called and talked to the team at midway today inquiring about guests coming into town. They're a long term only location with 6 months or more as the minimum stay," reports Jennifer H. about Angle Lake RV Park, noting that shorter stays aren't available.
Airport proximity: For travelers flying in or out, certain locations offer convenience. "Close to the airport if you need to leave your RV for a bit and fly out," mentions Jennifer H. about Angle Lake RV Park's strategic location.
