RV camping near Yelm, Washington typically requires navigating a mix of forested and open sites, with elevation changes affecting both access and weather conditions. Camping options range from spacious pull-through sites to more compact back-in spots, creating varying experiences depending on RV size and configuration. Most campgrounds in the region experience significant seasonal crowding during summer weekends, requiring advance planning.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: Thousand Trails Paradise provides two stocked fishing ponds that keep families entertained. "My grandson loves coming here with us the two ponds they stock with fish," notes one visitor at Thousand Trails Paradise RV Campground, though they mentioned "some of the vegetation is overgrown and could use some trimming."
Swimming in multi-depth pools: Access varied swimming facilities with options for different ages and abilities. "This campgrounds has an awesome swimming area with three pools, one 8ft deep, on 6ft, and one wading pool. Also has a large spa," writes a camper about Thousand Trails Paradise.
Indoor recreation during rain: Many parks offer indoor alternatives when weather turns wet. At Thousand Trails Chehalis, visitors enjoy "billiards, two lodges, and two pools" with organized activities like "Bingo was being played in one of the lodges."
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently note facility upkeep as a priority. At Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor, a visitor writes, "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."
Organized activities for children: Parks with structured activities earn praise from families. One Thousand Trails Chehalis visitor reported: "Kids are helping review campgrounds we visited this summer. They loved that there was scavenger hunts for pigs in morning, tractor rides in afternoon, face painting, slushees, movie in lodge, crafts."
Natural separation between sites: Tree coverage creates privacy at select locations. A camper at Harmony Lakeside RV Park observed, "Campsite has lots of trees and shade (unless you are in lot across the road). Water is clean and the power is consistent."
What you should know
Water system issues: Several campgrounds experience water challenges. At Thousand Trails Paradise, visitors reported having to "boil water" due to system problems, while another noted "some sort of water issue and the restrooms had to be closed, forcing the use of very few port-a-potties."
Variable power quality: Electrical systems can be unreliable at certain locations. One visitor at Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park appreciated "Full hookups for the RVer. Sites to 70 ft. No firepits is a downside but the upside is the best seafood bar in the area."
Limited privacy at some parks: Site spacing varies significantly. "The spaces are very close together, but there are a lot of trees and it's very well kept," noted one Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor camper, who added, "I stayed for almost three weeks and it was quiet and relaxing, despite how close together the sites are."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing gear requirement: If planning to fish the stocked ponds, bring appropriate tackle. "Here is an update. There is a security issue at this park. We had a grill stolen. The park provides no security at all," warned a Thousand Trails Paradise camper, suggesting secure storage for equipment.
Pack for pool activities: Swimming facilities require appropriate gear. "Pool area there was a deteriorating ledge under one of the pool filter caps that I feel needs to be replaced," noted one visitor, emphasizing the need for water shoes and careful supervision.
Research site layout beforehand: Understanding the physical layout prevents disappointment. "We really enjoyed our time in this RV park it was easy to find and finding a camping spot was easy backing in was easy it was not hard to negotiate at all," shared a Thousand Trails Chehalis visitor.
Tips from RVers
Extend utility connections: Hookup placement varies by park and requires planning. "All sites are back in. All connections are in the back so imagine hooking up at a parking lot at the concrete stoppers. Sewer and electric, make sure you got enough tubes and extensions," advised a Washington Land Yacht Harbor visitor.
Size-appropriate site selection: Larger RVs need careful site selection. "Make sure you get a site that is large enough for both the RV and your vehicle as there is no extra parking. We picked a 50 ft site which allowed us to park the RV and still have room for our towed car," recommended a Little Creek Casino Resort RV Park camper.
Be prepared for leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling effort. At Majestic Mobile Manor & RV Park, a camper noted, "It took a long time to get set up because of the ridiculously small amount of space I had to maneuver my 33ft RV and my 8ft extended cab truck."
