RV camping near Vashon, Washington presents unique challenges as this island destination typically requires a ferry crossing. Most nearby RV accommodations are located on the mainland in surrounding areas like Gig Harbor, Bothell, and Poulsbo, where parks offer varying amenities for travelers. Winter camping options remain available with several parks maintaining year-round operations despite the Pacific Northwest's typical rainfall patterns from November through March.
What to do
Explore local waterways: Vashon visitors can enjoy easy access to Hood Canal and surrounding bodies of water. "You cannot beat this location! Close to Seattle, feels secluded, but you can walk or take a short drive to restaurants, groceries, anything you could want or need" notes a camper about Lake Pleasant RV Park.
Visit nearby trails: The region offers hiking options within short driving distances from most campgrounds. One reviewer at Tall Chief Campground shares: "We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region. It's super close (like 7 min drive) from one of my favorite coffee shops, Aroma Coffee Co."
Take day trips to Seattle: Many campers use mainland RV parks as base camps for Seattle excursions. "This is a perfect place for dropping your mobile hotel room and explore Seattle and the surrounding areas," states a visitor at Trailer Inns RV Park, noting it's only "10-15min to downtown Seattle."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom and shower cleanliness as a highlight. A visitor to Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor noted: "Lovely RV park in Gig Harbor. Very clean. Friendly and helpful staff. I've stayed here numerous times over the past few years and this place is consistently amazing."
Wildlife viewing: Many parks feature ponds and natural areas with resident wildlife. One camper at Lake Pleasant RV Park observed: "Lots of geese, ducks, and bunnies are around the property. Great privacy hedges between spots. The areas were paved and level. A great place to walk around and enjoy during your stay."
Convenient shopping access: Most RV parks in the region provide easy access to groceries and supplies. "Across the street from a Safeway which was very convenient. Also very close to some excellent restaurants in Bothell," reports a camper about the location advantages at Lake Pleasant.
What you should know
Long-term rentals dominate: Several parks prioritize extended stays over short visits. "Called and talked to the team at midway today inquiring about guests coming into town. They're a long term only location with 6 months or more as the minimum stay," explains a potential guest at Midway Village RV Park.
Reservation requirements: Demand for sites requires advance planning. A visitor to Blue Sky RV Park shared: "We were able to grab a last minute reservation thanks to a FT resident leaving for service. The park looks to mostly be full timers and understandably so."
Highway noise: Location convenience sometimes comes with traffic noise. A reviewer at Issaquah Village RV Park noted: "I'll start with the thing to be aware of: you'll be camping 200' from I-90. But we found our ear plugs did a good job of quieting that noise enough for us to get a good sleep."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Not all parks offer amenities for children. A reviewer at Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor mentions: "Pet friendly, but not many attractions for children (no playground, no pool)," highlighting the importance of checking for family-specific features.
Consider activity options: Some parks offer recreational facilities that appeal to families. A camper at Tall Chief Campground recalled: "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy."
Privacy levels vary: Family camping often benefits from more spacious sites. "Great camp site for all sizes. Mostly no sewer. But if you enjoy a little distance between sites without sacrificing camp size line up here," recommends a visitor to Tall Chief.
Tips from RVers
Cell reception considerations: Mobile connectivity varies significantly within parks. A Tall Chief camper advised: "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it."
Leveling challenges: Some parks require equipment for comfortable parking. At Eagle Tree RV Park, a camper noted: "Our site was next to the highway and had some noise," pointing out positioning challenges at some locations.
Alternative dump options: Not all parks offer sewer hookups. A Tall Chief visitor explained: "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it imo," while another mentioned: "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station."
