The best camping near Manchester State Park

Don’t let the leafy maples and stately Douglas firs fool you—Manchester State Park is more than a forested coastal retreat. The brick structure in the northern reaches once housed firing triggers for a vast field of underwater landmines (torpedoes), established in the early 20th century to protect the nearby Bremerton shipyard. Other relics of this bygone history—including an unused gun battery and one of the warehouses that stored the torpedoes—are sprinkled throughout the park and used now as event space for weddings and events. The park beach (that’s what you’re here for, right?) is a wild coastline rather than a sandy expanse, complete with barnacle-covered boulders, tide pools, and the occasional bark of a sea lion (it’s also popular with scuba divers). Views out across Rich Passage showcase Seattle and Bainbridge Island.

1. Best for weekend warriors: The upper camp loop has spread-out campsites and plenty of amenities for RVs.
2. Best for reunions: The group camp features 12 RV hookups, two restrooms with showers, and a horseshoe pit.
3. Best for paddlers: Cascadia Marine Trail sites are reserved for those arriving on wind- or human-powered boats.

1. Reservations are available up to 9 months advance for May 15 through September 15 (all other times are first-come, first-served). 
2. Three hiker-biker sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
3. Aside from the group camp, there are several sites in the park that must be reserved in tandem for larger groups. 
4. Campers requiring hookups should make reservations well in advance, including on weekdays.
5. While weekday tent sites are often available, the weekends tend to fill up fast. Make reservations in advance.

Aim for a summer visit, when the winter rains will be less, as the rockiness of the beach here keeps the typical crowds of summer at bay. Shoulder season visitors will enjoy the historic buildings and shoreline, as well as the migratory birds that travel through. Fishers may also choose to camp in winter, when resident salmon can be caught in Puget Sound. 

1. The rocky beach is frequently slippery with seaweed that the tides wash ashore. Appropriate shoes are a must. 
2. The Torpedo Warehouse Picnic Shelter can be reserved for day use from April 1 through October 31 (other picnic shelter uses are first come, first-served). 
3. While there is no dock, kayaks and other small boats can be carried down to the rocky beach (15 minute parking is available for this purpose).
4. Hot showers are available in the campground.
5. Overnight parking is available for campers kayaking to Blake Island.
6. The park has two minimally signed miles of trails. Be aware of poison oak while hiking.