Best Camping near University Place, WA

Searching for the best camping near University Place, WA? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are University Place campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your University Place camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near University Place, WA (256)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground

    1. Dash Point State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    131 Photos
    428 Saves
    Federal Way, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground

    3. Millersylvania State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    88 Photos
    272 Saves
    Tenino, Washington

    Millersylvania State Park offers fun for everyone. Spend a summer day splashing in Deep Lake. Gather with friends in an historic kitchen shelter.

    Conveniently located between Olympia and Centralia, this large, well-visited park beckons to adults and children alike.

    Many of the park structures, including the kitchen shelters, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, making the park a great place to see and admire the hallmark artisanship of that era.

    With two swimming beaches, miles of forested hiking and biking trails, watercraft launches, non-motorized watercraft rentals (kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats) and abundant fishing, Millersylvania will keep you busy for a satisfying weekend or an extended outdoor vacation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dosewallips State Park Campground

    4. Dosewallips State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    135 Photos
    303 Saves
    Brinnon, Washington

    Dosewallips State Park, only 60 miles north of Olympia, is the eastern gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. The region is made up of forests, mountains, rivers, beaches and deltas – and surrounded by sound and sea. This freshwater/saltwater park makes a perfect day or weekend trip. It can also serve as a base from which to explore the historic forts and charming small towns to the north, or the first night on a grand road trip around the peninsula.

    The park's moss-carpeted forest and glacial river slope down to a shell-strewn delta on Hood Canal, a delight for clam-diggers, anglers, boaters, birders and beach explorers. The park features riverside campsites, cabins and five-person platform tents.

    Guests may share space with the local elk herds that wander through camp. (Stay back 100 feet, and never offer food.) Bald eagles have been seen on the beach and great blue herons flock to the river.

    The evening may find you grilling up a shellfish dinner and retiring to your cabin or tent, where you'll fall asleep to the sound of the river, enchanted by this lush, green corner of the country.

    PARK FEATURES Dosewallips State Park is a 1,064-acre, year-round camping park with 5 miles of shoreline on Hood Canal and the Dosewallips River. All camp areas are grassy and located in scenic, rustic settings.

    All campsites are on the reservation system. The campground has 37 tent spaces, 58 utility sites, twelve cabins, one dump station, four restrooms (one ADA), and two showers (one ADA). Maximum site length is 40 feet (limited availability). During winter months (November 15 through March 1), the campground is winterized and only sites 21-29 have water. Winter water supply is still available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park

    5. Kanaskat-Palmer State Park

    27 Reviews
    46 Photos
    462 Saves
    Ravensdale, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Belfair State Park Campground

    6. Belfair State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    81 Photos
    159 Saves
    Belfair, Washington

    Puget Sound is made of wetlands, pebble beaches, tidal flats, and salmon runs. You will find those features and more at Belfair State Park.

    Located on Hood Canal between Shelton and Bremerton, the park's gentle breezes offer ideal conditions for kite-flying, windsurfing and kicking back on a warm summer day. Anglers can choose from fresh and saltwater fishing, and kayakers can push off onto the Cascadia Marine Trail and explore the Puget Sound waterways.

    Belfair State Park is a 94-acre, year-round camping park on 3,720 feet of saltwater shoreline at the southern end of Hood Canal in western Washington.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park

    7. Alder Lake Park

    31 Reviews
    97 Photos
    369 Saves
    La Grande, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek

    8. Elkamp Eastcreek

    35 Reviews
    111 Photos
    267 Saves
    Mineral, Washington

    Elkamp Eastcreek allows visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors. Located near the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this campground provides easy access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, river rafting, kayaking and wildlife watching. The campsites are nestled among the trees and offer plenty of privacy, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat whether that be in a tent or more luxurious cabin. Elkamp Eastcreek also features modern amenities, including clean restrooms, showers and laundry facilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground

    9. Twanoh State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    70 Photos
    119 Saves
    Tahuya, Washington

    The park has the feel of an old-time camping resort but with modern amenities. It's known for its warm saltwater swimming, scenic beauty, and abundant shellfish.

    Kayakers and paddlers share space with seals, and boaters motor out in search of the perfect crabbing or fishing spot. At low tide, oyster shuckers emerge, carrying pails and hand tools. Fishing or shellfish harvesting licenses are required to take part in those activities.

    Washington Discover Pass is required for parking which is sold on-site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Game Farm Wilderness Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Game Farm Wilderness Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Game Farm Wilderness Campground

    10. Game Farm Wilderness Campground

    12 Reviews
    3 Photos
    31 Saves
    Auburn, Washington

    Open year round, this campground gives campers access to a wilderness area within the Auburn City limits. Bordered on one side by the Stuck River, the park has a wooded, meadow and riverside area. The camping area is designed to accommodate recreation vehicles, trailers and tents. With 18 individual campsites (PDF), there are also water and electricity hookups (30 amps), picnic tables, and a fire pit. There is a shared picnic shelter and an RV dump site for park users. The day camp area is ideal for scouting, church or other group activities.

    Reservations start the first working day in January and can be made by calling 253-931-3043 or can be made in person by visiting the Auburn Community & Event Center, 910 9th Street SE during regular office hours. Reservations are accepted in person, mail, fax or phone and must be accompanied with full payment. Cash, Check, Visa or MasterCard are accepted forms of payment.

    water not available December 1-February 28

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $40 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 256 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near University Place

Recent Reviews in University Place

1200 Reviews of 256 University Place Campgrounds


  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Beach State Park Campground
    Jan. 15, 2025

    Scenic Beach State Park Campground

    Pretty Great

    This was wonderful in terms of a car campground. The sites are all secluded and tucked into the woods. The beach access, though, small offers standard gorgeous PNW views. And the day area was nice to explore. Few other campers but I barely saw them. Enjoyed my stay.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Jan. 15, 2025

    Twanoh State Park Campground

    No Privacy

    The campsites are all cramped together right next to the roadway. There’s no vegetation so you can see just about every site/camper from any site you choose. The beach access across the road is nice - you do have to cross the road. And a pleasant trail meanders through the forest. Can’t imagine coming here during peak season.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Manchester State Park Campground
    Jan. 11, 2025

    Manchester State Park Campground

    Great camping spot

    We decided to check this camp ground out after our friends had stayed there. Nice wooded campground with access to the water. Plenty of opportunities for day hikes and not far from port orchard Washington. Some sites have hookups and others are dry camping. Most spots are level. The shower house restrooms are very clean . Firewood is available for purchase.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Dec. 30, 2024

    Penrose Point State Park Campground

    Pretty Nice

    I thought it was quaint. Only one other camper, which is always nice. I don’t think I’d camp here peak season due to the potential congestion. Trails were pleasant as were the shoreside views of the Sound.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Dec. 30, 2024

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Only If You’re Desperate

    Went over night on 12/9. There were only a few other campers, which is always nice. Can’t imagine camping here in peak season. Rangers circled frequently. Walk to the beach has housing complexes in view.

  • Nicholas G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2292 Dispersed
    Dec. 12, 2024

    FS-2292 Dispersed

    There was a ton of dispersed sites on this FR

    The road was a little rough but my suv made it fine. No signal and got a little snow on the roof in the morning but it was a good spot with a great view.

  • Christina F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Millersylvania State Park Campground

    Chilly Thanksgiving

    After months of trying to get reservations for this popular campground, we finally got one for Thanksgiving weekend! The park is on their winter schedule so only sites 1-7 and 226-248 were open. It made for a nice, quiet weekend even though the open sites were 80% full. We had a pull-through site right across from the dumpster, bathrooms, and camp host. We had decent service for Verizon. There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake, which is not far from the campground. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up. The thin layer of mud on the pavement made things quite slick as I was trying to get leveling blocks down.

  • Amber G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    Amazing

    Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night. It’s December so of course it’s a bit cold at night and I’d recommend at least AWD to get up here. Will be back.

  • Jenny D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sasquatch Farm
    Dec. 1, 2024

    Sasquatch Farm

    Weekend Getaway

    We were warmly greeted by Fank and Amy. They took us around the farm and showed us the animals. We have a 38-foot trailer and had plenty of room to back in. At the end of the day, soaking in the hot tub was the best! Thank you, Frank and Amy, for being excellent hosts! We will be back!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    Great spot, plenty of room for Big Rigs

    This is my favorite dispersed site so far. Plenty of room for larger rigs, very close to a river and lots of woods to explore nearby.  Close enough to Mt. Rainier NP and nearby towns for supplies.   Vault toilets if needed, and the airstrip was only used twice in the 4 nights we stayed, i think (heard one mid-day, and saw another late morning).  

    There is a single-lane bridge when turning in that could be tricky for a motorhome that is towing, but not enough traffic to cause us any issues getting in. For larger rigs - take the second left (at a Y-intersection, and then keep to the left and you won't have any trouble getting in. Going to the right at the Y takes you to an area that big rigs might have trouble finding spots or turning around, but still doable.

  • Abrianna M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Beautiful but creepy

    Nice area by a creek, very peaceful and quiet during the day, a ton of people around and lots of passerby’s. As soon as it got dark, someone decided to sneak around my campsite with a flashlight and stand outside my tent for some time. Packed up quick and zoomed out of there, very uncomfortable and would not recommend for solo campers.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    Nice free boondocking between Port Angeles and Forks

    Not a bad find that doesn't require any permit of any kind which was great! Would stay here again I pitched a tent which was nice and found a spot right by the river.

  • Samuel H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Campground
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Fall Creek Campground

    Neat Spot

    You are supposed to have a Washington State Discovery pass to stay here, also they want you to fill out self registration once you arrive, fyi there are no pens onsite to do so.

    This was a nice spot to stay the night, clean, nice picnic tables and fire pits, one pit toilet.

  • Brandon K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fay Bainbridge Park
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Fay Bainbridge Park

    Puget Sound visit

    Good place for families that looks to be kept really clean. The spaces are packed in fairly tight with no dividing barriers of trees. Campsite 10 looks to be the best as it has a little canopy tree and is in the corner without obstruction for a view of the Puget Sound. Water and electric hookup, picnic table, fire pit at each site with additional bathroom with a shower for the grounds. There is a ship playground for the kids and beach volleyball court. It is nestled back through an area of homes that back up to sites 1-8.

  • Frank B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Kanaskat-Palmer State Park

    Quiet Park

    Really liked the park. Everything was good about it. The only thing for me was that we have a rv, and there is electrical hookups but no water hookups.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Schafer State Park Campground
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Schafer State Park Campground

    Great little place by the river

    Just about 10 miles north of highway 12 near Elma. Got a great site right by the river. Nice toilets & showers (in old building so was pleasantly surprised!) wifi by information center, cell coverage limited (1 bar t-mobile with Weboost)

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200

    Beautiful morning view of Mount Rainier

    Our daughter told us about this place. You have to climb up a narrow gravel road to get here. A drive leads out to a flat area with a fire pit It was raining when we pulled in, so views were limited. In the clear morning, we got a beautiful view of Mount Rainier. We got decent Starlink signal with a bar of Verizon. Spot would be perfect except prior campers left toilet paper around a bush.

  • Nikki R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant RV Park
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Lake Pleasant RV Park

    Sweet spot just out of the city

    We stayed at this park on a trip to Seattle. It was only about 30 minutes to downtown, but almost felt like you were out in the country.

    We did not use the bathrooms, but enjoyed the walking trails, playground for the kids, and watching the resident ducks in the pond.

  • Zarek A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Best. Spot. Ever.

    Went here for a social event and had a blast. Big sites with lovely paths between, wonderful shop with firewood available at any hour (just square up when the place is actually open), clean plumbed bathrooms and a coin operated shower at $0.50/minute. There’s a beautiful meadow, a creek, huge trees. The owners are incredibly friendly and the place is very dog friendly.

  • Jonathan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Game Farm Wilderness Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Game Farm Wilderness Campground

    Arrived just a few min too late...

    This looked like a pretty good campground. I could see open tenting spots from the road, even! But I was unable to get in early in the evening with nowhere else to go. Too strict!

  • Sue O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Travel Inn RV Resort - KM Resorts
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Travel Inn RV Resort - KM Resorts

    Guide

    Travel Inn RV Resort offers a welcoming and convenient option for travelers seeking a comfortable stay. Located in a serene environment, this resort provides essential amenities such as full hookups, clean restrooms, and recreational facilities. Whether you're looking for a short getaway or an extended stay, Travel Inn RV Resort ensures a pleasant experience with its friendly staff and well-maintained grounds. For those planning a trip and needing to sort out documentation like an NBI clearance, it's essential to schedule an NBI online appointment for renewal for clearance in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. By doing so, travelers can focus on enjoying their stay at the resort, knowing their paperwork is in order.


Drive Time


Guide to University Place

Camping near University Place, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Dash Point State Park Campground, have miles of trails. One visitor mentioned, "Love coming here to hike with the dogs and kids," highlighting the area's family-friendly nature.
  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at places like Dosewallips State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The beach itself is fairly large with plenty of space to stretch out."
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Alder Lake Park is perfect for fishing and kayaking. One camper shared, "A lovely lake is within a short walk and has a playground, a designated swim area and a large dock."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground said, "Super clean bathrooms and showers."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A reviewer at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park mentioned, "The campground is nice and clean... the sites are level and are a mix of back-in and pull-through."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Belfair State Park Campground are great for families. One camper noted, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during peak times. A visitor at Penrose Point State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground was kind of noisy and loud."
  • Limited Privacy: Campsites can be close together. A camper at Alder Lake Park noted, "The campsites in the main loop are much too close together and lack sufficient isolation via greenery."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly. A reviewer at Dosewallips State Park Campground advised, "Probably need to reserve far in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Elkamp Eastcreek, where one reviewer said, "The meadow is a perfect spot to walk your dog (or kid), have an evening cocktail, or star gaze."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A camper at Fay Bainbridge Park mentioned, "Lots of space to fly kites and walk."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep kids happy with snacks on hand. A visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground appreciated the nearby cafe and ice cream shop during summer.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park noted, "We have a 32 ft 5th wheel and were in spot 1 (pull-through)."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Dash Point State Park Campground. One camper said, "I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water."
  • Stay Connected: Check cell service availability. A visitor at Dosewallips State Park Campground mentioned, "T-Mobile was 2 bars of 4G LTE reception."

For those seeking the Best Camping near University Place, WA, these campgrounds offer a variety of experiences that cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near University Place, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, University Place, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 256 campgrounds and RV parks near University Place, WA and 22 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near University Place, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near University Place, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 65 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near University Place, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 free dispersed camping spots near University Place, WA.

  • What parks are near University Place, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near University Place, WA that allow camping, notably Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Forest.