Tent campsites near Kingston, Washington typically remain open from late spring through early fall, with the most reliable weather occurring between June and September. The area sits at the edge of the Olympic rain shadow, receiving about 30 inches of precipitation annually - considerably less than the western Olympic Peninsula. Local forests consist primarily of western red cedar, Douglas fir, and western hemlock, creating dense woodland camping environments with moderate undergrowth.
What to do
Explore historic military sites: Fort Ebey State Park Campground offers extensive WWII-era structures to discover. According to camper Margaret S., "There are old (but well maintained) battery and concrete gun emplacements from WW2 when the Fort was used to defend the West coast. There are so many fun walking paths around the bluffs as well as a beautiful hike around Lake Pondilla with interpretive signage naming the native moss and lichen."
Fishing opportunities: Tent sites at Dungeness Forks Campground provide direct river access. One camper shares, "Right next to the creek/water which was beautiful with wild salmon that we spent the morning fishing for!" The campground sits at the confluence of two rivers, creating multiple fishing spots.
Mountain biking: Trails around Green Mountain accommodate various skill levels. A reviewer notes, "Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads. Trails are open to hiking horseback riding and motorcycles." The trail system connects with nearby forest roads for extended riding options.
Beach exploration: Many tent campsites near Kingston allow for coastal activities. "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island," recommends a Blake Island Marine State Park visitor. The shoreline offers opportunities for beachcombing, wildlife observation, and water access.
What campers like
Secluded water access: The walk-in tent sites at Woodlands at Lake Stickney receive praise for their privacy. One camper notes, "The tent sites at Hearth Street Properties offer secluded spots near the water, with conveniences like restaurants nearby." Another mentions, "It was my first time camping on a private residential property. I've grown so used to sites like KOA that it was strange to have friendly owners serving us rather than paid staff."
Family-friendly spaces: Paine Field Community Park offers accessible tent camping with kid-friendly amenities. According to a visitor, "We visit this park frequently as it is great for the kids. It's clean and has bathrooms available!" Another camper adds, "A great clean safe place in the city and surrounded by trees and nature."
River soundscapes: The natural ambient noise at Dungeness Forks Campground enhances the camping experience. "The campground is bordered on two sides by rivers and you will be lulled to sleep by the sound of the water," shares one camper. Another describes it as "Nestled in the valley in between two beautiful rivers."
Forest immersion: Fort Ebey State Park provides woodland camping with strategic site placement. "The campsites are generally large and well separated by foliage, even in winter," notes a reviewer. Another mentions, "The campground was really nice, and was located in a densely forested area. Most of the campsites have a lot of privacy and are not very close together."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Tent camping around Kingston requires preparation for variable conditions. At Dungeness Forks, a camper warns, "In March we woke up to snow just fair warning." Another camper experienced "rain for almost 2 weeks" during a November stay, noting "it was pretty frigid rain."
Campground regulations: Each area has specific rules that affect the camping experience. At Fort Ebey State Park Campground, "As this is considered a state park don't forget to bring your discovery pass! They also sell them at the front check-in station," advises one camper. Some locations prohibit alcohol, with one visitor noting certain parks are "VERY strict about this policy."
Limited amenities: Many tent sites offer minimal facilities. A Green Mountain camper reports it "Has about 5 tent spots with picnic tables and fire pit. Had a bathroom but no other amenities- drinking water, shower, firewood/ice for sale." Similarly, at Dungeness Forks, expect "toilets, but no safe water, no trash collection."
Campsite availability: Several tent areas fill quickly during peak season. For Dungeness Forks, a camper advises, "Mid week camping might be luckier to find a spot than weekend camping, because there are only 9 sites." Another visitor arrived "at 1pm on a Friday and just 2 spots left out of about 10. Filled up quickly after and lots of cars stopping to check for spaces."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Fort Ebey State Park offers educational opportunities beyond typical tent camping. "There are old bunkers and batteries to explore right next to the campground," notes one visitor. Another recommends "Don't miss: Sunset on the bluff, Exploring the old battery, Walk to the beach."
Safety considerations: When camping with children at Big Country, note its accessibility to natural areas. A reviewer mentions it's "secluded yet close to the Possession Sound Preserve," providing supervised nature exploration opportunities while maintaining proximity to facilities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy animal sightings at local campgrounds. One Fort Ebey camper shares, "We've camped here a few times, and we've seen wildlife each time, mostly deer. It's a good place to make memories!" Many tent sites throughout the Kingston area offer opportunities to observe local fauna.
Noise levels: Consider quiet hours when planning family camping trips. Tent campsites have varying enforcement policies, which affects bedtimes for children. At some locations, rangers actively patrol during evening hours to maintain peaceful conditions.
Tips from RVers
Alternative RV parking: When established tent campgrounds are full, consider Tulalip Casino for overnight stays. "Great free camping for up to three nights. Just call security (number is on the sign) to register when you arrive," advises one RVer. Another notes, "Security drives by regular."
Accessibility challenges: Some tent camping areas have limited RV access. For Dungeness Forks, a visitor warns, "The drive to the site was accurately steep with little room on either side. Our 19ft campervan made it up and down but a car did need to pull off to the side for us and back up a ways for us to squeeze by. We did not tow anything behind us and I wouldn't recommend it."
Site selection considerations: When camping in larger vehicles, evaluate each location carefully. "The first thing you notice about this campground is that the sites are tightly packed. There is not a lot of privacy," notes a Fort Ebey visitor, though they add, "the sites are bigger than expected, they are level and could accommodate 2 medium size tents."
