Camping options near Union, Washington range from established state parks to secluded forest sites. The area's temperate climate averages 45-70°F in summer months with precipitation increasing in fall. Sites along Hood Canal offer access to shellfish harvesting while forested campgrounds provide shade and cooler temperatures during peak summer heat.
What to do
Oyster and clam harvesting at Hood Canal: Bring shellfish licenses and harvesting tools when staying near the water. At Mike's Beach Resort, campers report excellent shellfish access. "If you like oysters and clams, this place is perfect. It's not fancy, tent sites don't have privacy between them. However, we had a blast here," notes Allysa.
Hiking from Staircase area: Trails range from easy riverside walks to challenging mountain climbs. Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park serves as a gateway to numerous trails. "Great place quiet sound of the river roaring. Never super crowded," says Tyler S. The campground connects to "an easy attached hike to a large-bouldered river area, and right by the fantastically challenging and beautiful Mt. Ellinor hike," according to Bjorn S.
Boating on Wynoochee Lake: Launch from designated areas and enjoy motorized or non-motorized water activities. Coho Campground provides direct lake access. "The campground is next to Wynoochee Lake, which offers swimming, boating and fishing," explains Norma Y. "In July the water was comfortably warm for swimming," adds Lady L.
What campers like
Secluded forest camping: Sites within old-growth forests provide natural separation from neighbors. Campers at Millersylvania State Park appreciate the forested setting: "Nice state forest with old growth. Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free," notes Anna P. The park offers "Super easy to get our trailer in and out of the spaces and there was lots of extra parking for our larger group."
Riverside sites with natural soundscapes: Several campgrounds feature sites adjacent to running water. At Staircase Campground, campers report "Spacious secluded campsites along the gorgeous green glacial waters." Another visitor describes the experience: "The Steilacoom River rushing past our campsite was a soothing sound at night."
Variety of accommodation types: From tent sites to cabins and unique structures. Beyond traditional camping, Belfair State Park offers multiple accommodation types. "There's a beach loop for RVs and a woods loop for tents & smaller RVs," explains Leah H. Millersylvania provides "glamping! Or as the campground calls it: pampered camping... The canvas tent option was one I didn't know about until I got there. The tents are cabin shaped and have a few chairs and BBQ grill outside it."
What you should know
Seasonal variations affect availability: Most campgrounds operate with reduced services in winter months. At Hamma Hamma Campground, "The campground is seasonal with its amenities. There are pit toilets and no water available during the off season. Flush toilets and potable water are available in the on season." Mike's Beach Resort typically operates from May through October.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer modern facilities while others have basic options.
Legend
