Best Campgrounds near Tenino, WA

Camping near Tenino, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and well-maintained campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Millersylvania State Park Campground, have trails that wind through old-growth forests. One visitor noted, “The trails are well mapped, and signed making it nearly impossible to get lost.”
• Water Activities: If you enjoy water sports, Alder Lake Park is a great spot for kayaking and swimming. A reviewer mentioned, “The lake is beautiful for kayaking, fishing, swimming in approved areas, canoeing, as well as water skiing.”
• Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Penrose Point State Park Campground offer opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. One camper shared, “We caught a bunch of little trout (catch and release) with the kids and kayaked around while ospreys dove.”

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A visitor at Elkamp Eastcreek remarked, “The bathrooms are actually very nice (dare I say upscale!) and clean.”
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites. A reviewer at Mossyrock Park said, “We were lucky and snagged a beautiful private-ish spot. We had a view of the lake and a lush forest.”
• Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. One camper at American Heritage Campground noted, “The staff was super friendly and we got a really nice spot.”

What you should know:

• Reservations Recommended: Especially during peak seasons, it’s wise to book your spot in advance. A visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground mentioned, “If you’re going on a weekend, we highly recommend making a reservation.”
• Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Alder Lake Park pointed out, “Only con is road noise from Hwy7.”
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A reviewer at Lake Sylvia State Park Campground noted, “The bathroom is showing its age though the shower is free.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One parent at Mossyrock Park said, “Our kiddo really liked the playground and getting ice cream at the concession stand after dinner.”
• Safety First: Choose sites that are away from busy roads for peace of mind. A camper at Millersylvania State Park Campground mentioned, “The campground is clean and well maintained.”
• Plan for Rain: Washington weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. A visitor at Twanoh State Park Campground advised, “It can get busy here in the summer months, but since it’s still early, I only saw two other couples the entire day.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site before booking. A reviewer at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground noted, “The sites are very generous in size with LONG paved driveway pads.”
• Be Prepared for Leveling: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A camper at Mossyrock Park shared, “The spot was paved with a picnic table and fire ring with a BBQ grate and a view of the lake through the trees. It was not very level though.”
• Use Campground Amenities: Take advantage of amenities like firewood sales and dump stations. A visitor at American Heritage Campground mentioned, “Management is fantastic and offerings are simple but spot on.”

Camping near Tenino, Washington, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!