Tahuya camping areas sit in a rainy microclimate that receives over 70 inches of precipitation annually, significantly more than nearby Seattle. The forest terrain surrounding Tahuya includes second-growth evergreens with thick understory vegetation of salal and sword ferns. Campgrounds in this region range from sea level to about 800 feet elevation, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations during summer months.
What to do
Shellfish harvesting: Beach access at Belfair State Park permits oyster and clam collecting during season. "Often our first or last trip of the year, due to its proximity to the greater Seattle area. Most of the folks we meet are from western Washington," notes camper Doug.
Hiking: Mountain trails near Staircase Campground connect to Olympic National Park's backcountry. "Great place to camp. All walkup sites so make sure to get there early. Saw two bald eagles on the way in," writes Mat G. The campground serves as access point to multiple day hikes.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening offer prime opportunities for spotting Roosevelt elk at Dosewallips State Park. "Campground has elk that walk through it and is right on the river. There are several hiking trails that start from the campground," according to Dean.
What campers like
Off-season camping: Fewer crowds make winter camping more peaceful. "Depending on the time of year you come here will determine what kind of time you'll have. In the summer it's hard to get a spot and it's very crowded. But if you come in the spring and fall is a very lovely place to be," reports Tyler S. from Potlatch State Park.
Riverside sites: Soothing water sounds create relaxing camping atmosphere. "Located right off highway 106, the campsites are really private due to the vegetation. There isn't a lot of traffic during off-season so all I heard was the sound of the canal and the creek even closer," notes Saraj B. about Twanoh State Park.
Mature forests: Natural screening between many sites provides privacy. "We camped here on a Thursday night—got in late and Staircase was full but Big Creek had tons of space available. Great campground, well spaced sites, very clean with new facilities," explains Elizabeth K.
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies significantly: "The sites are a bit close together, but those that abut my site were empty. There was some road noise, but not much," describes Daniel G. about Potlatch State Park. Waterfront loops typically have less privacy than forest loops.
Seasonal closures affect facilities: "There are pit toilets and no water available during the off season. Flush toilets and potable water are available in the on season," notes Carrie J. about facilities at Big Creek Campground.
Reservation requirements change seasonally: Most state parks require advance reservations during peak summer months but offer first-come, first-served sites September through May. Arriving early Thursday or Friday morning improves chances of securing walk-up sites during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Shallow, warmer water at Twanoh State Park offers safer swimming. "Sweet little campsite for a weekend getaway with my fiancé. We had a large corner site facing the creek and the bridge to the trails. The campsites are nice and spacious but very open with no real separation or brush between. A quick walk across the road to the beach was absolutely beautiful," shares Holly.
Campsite selection: Creek-adjacent sites keep children entertained. "This place is Perfect for families with all size children. There is a small stream running through the side of Some of the camp spots that the kids can play. It's directly across the Street from the beach," recommends Vikky S. at Potlatch State Park.
Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities available at Penrose Point State Park. "Our family of four tent camped for three nights in this happy go lucky campground. The grounds, including bathrooms, were well maintained and the kids enjoyed taking part in the junior ranger program," shares Sarah H.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites and restrooms were clean. We had a great time exploring the beaches. Sites were reasonably private and quiet at night (except for a brief invasion of 6 raccoons at our site one night!)" explains Rachel about Penrose Point State Park.
Limited hookup availability: Only select campgrounds offer full services. "Two sites have hookups. Clean restrooms with shower," notes Mark W. about Jarrell Cove State Park.
Tree coverage affects solar power: "At the campground you're really in the woods, so if you need sunlight for your solar panels, you may be out of luck," warns Thomas B. about Twanoh State Park. Plan accordingly with battery backups if relying on solar.
