Camping near Sumner, Washington offers diverse terrain with densely forested sites ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet elevation. The area receives 40-50 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush surroundings for campers but requiring proper rain gear from October through May. Most campgrounds maintain year-round accessibility with varying amenities depending on seasonal conditions.
What to do
**Beach exploration: At Penrose Point State Park Campground, the shoreline provides a unique day activity with warm swimming areas. "The beach is a medium-length walk and very warm and swimmable for NW standards," notes Adrienne Q., highlighting accessible water recreation without traveling far from camp.
**Hiking trails: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offers river-adjacent hiking opportunities that connect to larger trail systems. "The campground loop is a nice walk or cruise on a bike. There is easy access to a beautiful stretch of the Green River, with picnicking areas and walking trails," shares Shay F., describing the accessible nature paths.
**Evening programming: Dash Point State Park Campground sometimes features ranger-led programs during summer months. "Facilities were good and trails around are fun and easy enough for me and 2 kids. The beach and its tides are why we came," explains Ingrid M., mentioning the educational opportunities available.
What campers like
**Privacy between sites: Penrose Point State Park Campground offers natural screening between campsites. "Sites were reasonably private and quiet at night (except for a brief invasion of 6 raccoons at our site one night!)," describes Rachel, indicating the wildlife encounters possible while maintaining separation from neighbors.
**Access to water: Campers appreciate waterfront camping options available seasonally. "Campsites are just a short walk from a calm cove of Puget Sound and our family had a great time playing in the water each day," says Sarah H., highlighting water recreation as a key attraction.
**Forest setting: The wooded environment provides natural shade and hammock opportunities. "We really loved the forest setting of this park. There are great hammock trees at nearly every site," notes Mike, describing practical amenities for relaxing outdoors.
What you should know
**Shower access: Some parks charge for shower facilities. "There's only 1 shower per bathroom, and you have to pay to make it work. One night, the meter in the men's shower was broken, so I had to take a cold shower. Also, it's tokens, not quarters," warns Mike about Penrose Point State Park Campground.
**Reservation requirements: Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park and similar locations have specific vehicle policies. "It looks really nice but they don't allow drop-ins or vehicles older than 20 yrs," notes Madeline W., explaining access limitations for certain RV models.
**Airport noise: Locations closer to Seattle experience air traffic. "Commercial jets landing at Sea-Tac fly directly above us at a low altitude and are VERY loud and VERY frequent (every 3-5 minutes)," reports Travis P. about Saltwater State Park Campground, providing important noise considerations.
Tips for camping with families
**Junior ranger programs: State parks often provide educational activities. "The grounds, including bathrooms, were well maintained and the kids enjoyed taking part in the junior ranger program," shares Sarah H. about her experience at Penrose Point.
**Playground access: Some parks feature dedicated play areas for children. "Really cute camp spot and play area!! Pet friendly and dog park!" mentions Carla S. about beach amenities that keep younger campers engaged.
**Quiet enforcement: South Prairie Creek RV Park provides a more controlled environment for families needing consistent sleep schedules. "The owner Dwight is awesome and Jessie is fantastic... Grounds are very nice," notes LMG L., highlighting the management's attention to campground conditions.
Tips from RVers
**Leveling challenges: Terrain at some campsites may require additional equipment. "We went here in October and dry camped with our 30' Motorhome so not the typical experience others would have in a true RV site. I only took away a star because it was advertised as ok for a Motorhome but the gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground," explains Cody F. about Kanaskat-Palmer State Park.
**Water access points: Gig Harbor RV Resort provides full hookups and reasonable pricing. "The campground is quiet, except for the nearby construction. The staff is super friendly and accommodating. I didn't use the bathroom/shower rooms. But the laundry facilities are clean and reasonably priced," shares Kari P. about the practical amenities.
**Spacing between sites: Pet friendly camping near Sumner, Washington varies in site proximity. "I was impressed by how spread apart the sites were, I think they could have fit another in between each of them!" notes Katie S. about spacing that benefits those traveling with animals who need more room.
