Best Campgrounds near Vashon, WA
Campgrounds near Vashon Island provide a mix of waterfront and forested experiences throughout the Puget Sound region. The area features established campgrounds like Dash Point State Park in Federal Way and Saltwater State Park in Des Moines, both offering beach access within a short drive of Vashon. Several sites accommodate various camping styles, with facilities supporting tent camping, RV hookups, and glamping options. Blake Island Marine State Park stands out as a boat-access-only destination with primitive tent sites, while developed campgrounds like Manchester State Park and Penrose Point offer more amenities within reach of Vashon by car or ferry.
Reservations are required at most established campgrounds in the Puget Sound region, particularly during the peak season from May through September. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter visitors should expect wet conditions and fewer facilities. The proximity to Seattle means several campgrounds experience urban influences such as airport noise, especially at Saltwater State Park. Water access varies significantly between locations, with some offering direct beach frontage while others provide nearby shoreline trails. Campground amenities typically include drinking water, toilets, and fire pits, with hookup availability differing between locations. As one camper noted, "Commercial jets landing at Sea-Tac fly directly above us at a low altitude and are VERY loud and VERY frequent, so if you don't mind the noise, or love airplanes, this is an awesome campground."
State park campgrounds in the region generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness and beach access despite their proximity to urban areas. Visitors frequently mention appreciating the water views and hiking opportunities, particularly at Dash Point and Penrose Point. Several campers highlight the surprising privacy between sites at certain campgrounds, with one noting, "The spots we saw felt more isolated from each other than other campsites we've been to." Sites with water hookups and electric service are limited and fill quickly during summer weekends. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some campgrounds experiencing consistent aircraft traffic while others offer more secluded experiences. The combination of forest settings and saltwater beaches creates distinctive camping environments throughout the Vashon area, though proximity to Seattle means most campgrounds maintain some urban character.
