The best camping near Dash Point State Park

It’s hard to find a better spot for an impromptu weekend getaway. Set along the shoreline between Seattle and Tacoma, Dash Point State Park has plentiful year-round tent and RV sites, along with 11 miles of hiking trails and eight miles of mountain biking trails. While there’s plenty to keep families occupied in the campground and trail system, it’s the beach that’s the star. When the tide is in, kick back to watch osprey, heron, and bald eagles intermingle with the kites flying high in the sky. When it washes out again, search for starfish, crab, and sand dollars or engage in one of the park’s most popular activities: skimboarding, a hybrid of surfing and skateboarding. 

1. Best for privacy: Area A has spread-out campsites for campers using tents. 
2. Best for RVs: Area B features all the amenities that campervans expect. 
3. Best for extended family: The group camp consists of 12 smaller sites around a shared area for a group of up to 96.

1. While the beach is often crowded with day users in summer, campsites are usually available, including on weekends.
2. Reservations are recommended for RV campers, as the spots that accommodate larger vehicles fill up more quickly than those for tents.
3. Seven heated cabins are available for rent (for up to five people).

While the beauty of Dash Point shines through the rains of fall, the early twilight of winter, and unpredictable meteorological swings of spring, the summer is when this beachy park is at its best. To avoid the crowds, pick a weekday overnight, which are typically less crowded. But whatever the time of year, just be sure to be on the beach in the evening to watch the sunset over the peninsula.

1. Dash Point State Park is 25 miles from Seattle and 10 miles from Tacoma. 
2. Check for interpretive events in summer, as well as evening amphitheater programs on Fridays and Saturdays.
3. Horse clams can be harvested here with a permit. Check the health status on the day of harvest at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 
4. Showers are available in the campground restrooms.
5. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach (but is allowed in the campground for those 21 and over).