Best Tent Camping near University Place, WA
Tent camping options in the University Place area of Washington range from boat-in campsites on nearby islands to secluded walk-in tent areas. Hope Island Marine State Park offers first-come, first-served tent sites on a scenic island with hiking trails and beaches. Blake Island Marine State Park Campground provides walk-in tent sites with views of Seattle's skyline, accessible only by boat with beaches, hiking trails, and toilets.
Most tent campgrounds around University Place feature picnic tables and fire rings, though fire bans are common during summer months. Vault toilets are available at established sites like Green Mountain and Blake Island, but many require campers to bring their own drinking water. The region's maritime climate means tent campers should prepare for rain even in summer months. Boat-in campgrounds on Hope Island and Blake Island maintain primitive tent sites with limited facilities but spectacular water access. Many sites lack potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supplies or filter from natural sources.
Tent campers at Blake Island Marine State Park enjoy relative seclusion despite proximity to Seattle. The island setting provides unique tent camping experiences with waterfront sites and forest camping options. Sites are generally well-spaced, offering privacy even during peak summer periods. While most established tent campgrounds maintain quiet hours at 10 pm, the surrounding water dampens noise from neighboring sites. Areas farther from the mainland offer deeper forest immersion and wildlife viewing opportunities, including deer and various bird species. A camper noted that "It is a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle with gorgeous views of the city."
