Best Campgrounds near Tumwater, WA

Camping near Tumwater, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Many campers enjoy exploring the trails. One visitor at Dash Point State Park Campground mentioned, "Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs." This makes it a great spot for families who love nature.
• Water Activities: If you’re into water sports, Alder Lake Park is perfect for kayaking and fishing. A reviewer said, "A lovely lake is within a short walk and has a playground, a designated swim area and a large dock."
• Beach Fun: At Millersylvania State Park Campground, you can enjoy swimming and picnicking by the lake. One camper noted, "The lake was crowded from 11-5/6 but early mornings or late afternoon it really quieted down."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms are very nice. They charge a nominal fee for the showers but they have great water pressure and hot water."
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A reviewer at Lake Sylvia State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites along the water didn’t have hookups but they were like your own personal beach!"
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Penrose Point State Park Campground are great for families. One camper shared, "Our kids were only one of many groups of roving kids so it's a very family-friendly setting."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Potlatch State Park Campground noted, "The campsites are dramatically close, so there is little to no privacy if it was busy."
• Road Access: Many campgrounds are near roads, which can lead to some traffic noise. A camper at Belfair State Park Campground mentioned, "The grounds and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained, but you can hear the cars zooming by."
• Reservation Recommendations: It’s wise to book ahead, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at Twanoh State Park Campground advised, "For off-season campers, if you’re going on a weekend, we highly recommend making a reservation."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and safe swimming areas. A parent at Alder Lake Park said, "The campgrounds seem very well maintained and also you don’t feel like you’re close to the city."
• Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground mentioned, "Hiking and trailing running in the park is wonderful."
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Lake Sylvia State Park Campground noted, "It’s so peaceful, we stayed two nights."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground said, "The sites are very generous in size with LONG paved driveway pads."
• Look for Hookups: If you need electricity and water, check for sites with these amenities. A visitor at Belfair State Park Campground mentioned, "This campground is located right on the Hood Canal which is filled with oyster beds."
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Rainbow Falls State Park Campground noted, "Great spot for meeting between Portland and Seattle! Only 20 minutes off the freeway but you feel way out in the country."

Camping around Tumwater, Washington, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Enjoy the great outdoors!