Tahuya sits on the Kitsap Peninsula with nearby Hood Canal offering a saltwater fjord ecosystem that attracts diverse marine wildlife. The area receives around 60 inches of annual rainfall creating lush, dense forests interspersed with numerous freshwater streams and rivers. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 200-800 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night.
What to do
**Shellfish harvesting: Access public tidelands at Dosewallips State Park Campground where campers can collect oysters and clams in season. "Been coming to this state park for as long as I can remember. There's so many activities to do; clamming, shrimping, hiking, hunting for oysters," notes Shariah T. about Dosewallips State Park Campground.
**River exploration: Wade into the Hamma Hamma River at multiple access points. "On a warm summer day there are some great swimming holes that are actually warm enough to enjoy! The sites are mostly private, and large," reports Melissa J. from Hamma Hamma Campground.
**Lake swimming: Visit Deep Lake at Millersylvania where the shallow swimming area works well for families with young children. "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," shares Ellen T. from Millersylvania State Park.
What campers like
**Forest isolation: Camp among old-growth trees for true wilderness atmosphere. "Spacious secluded campsites along the gorgeous green glacial waters. We had a fantastic time this weekend and will definitely be back again and again!" writes Holly about Staircase Campground.
**Beach access: Camp within walking distance of Hood Canal beaches. "Very popular spot on the canal. Lots of pull through sites. Hook ups with dump station. Not too far from the cities and just outside of town," notes Richard M. from Belfair State Park Campground.
**Yurt camping: Book elevated yurt accommodations at Coho Campground for solid platforms and canvas walls. "We walked by the yurts, will definitely have to book those next time!" says Doris W. about her experience at Coho. For those interested in yurt camping near Tahuya, Washington, reservations should be made 9-12 months in advance for summer weekends.
What you should know
**Weather preparation: Plan for variable conditions even in summer months. "It rained one of the mornings and ended up with a puddle under our text but it was the last day so no loss. I think next time I'll try and rent a cabin when I stay here," advises Becky R. about Belfair State Park.
**Remote locations: Stock up on supplies before heading to campgrounds far from services. "Coho campground is a wonderful spot but it is a 35 miles off of the highway. If you go, pack everything you need. There are no stores or gas stations once you hit the paved road to the campground," warns Jeff C.
**Campsite privacy: Research specific site layouts before booking. "The campsite was clean. The hook ups were easy. Quiet. We went mod week, but the neighbors were basically un-heard. Very respectful neighbors," reports Courteney S. from Belfair State Park.
Tips for camping with families
**Kid-friendly swimming: Choose campgrounds with gradual-entry beach access. "The beach was great, water is rather warm for in the sound, it's also pretty shallow which is great for the kids to play in," suggests Leah H. from Belfair State Park Campground.
**Wildlife viewing: Visit Dosewallips State Park's observation platforms in early morning or evening. "Every night, my husband and I would walk to the wildlife viewing platform to see lots of birds, or walk down by the river and see lots of elk and bald eagles," explains Amy & Stu B. from Dosewallips State Park.
**Budget activities: Take advantage of ranger programs and self-guided nature walks. "The grounds were well-kept and there were plenty of things for children and families to do in the immediate vicinity," reports Amber H. about Staircase Campground.
Tips from RVers
**Site selection: Check exact dimensions before booking RV sites. "Even when the campground is full on the weekend it doesn't seem crowded. Lake noise from powerboats, even though there is no speed limit on the lake, is rarely an issue," shares Jeff C. about Coho Campground.
**Hookup variety: Choose full-hookup options at Dosewallips for longer stays. "RV sites are blacktop and level. Some sites have partial hookups w/o septic. Dump station is on site," notes James and Susan K.
**Seasonal considerations: Book waterfront sites at Belfair between May-September for best experience. "Often our first or last trip of the year, due to its proximity to the greater Seattle area. Small sites with little privacy but very well kept for a heavily used park," mentions Doug about the waterfront loop at Belfair State Park.
