Seattle is the state of Washington's biggest city and the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. With a population of over 3.8 million, it sits on a strip of land between Puget Sound and Lake Washington. It has an incredible view of both the mountains and sea from almost any vantage point. Seattle is home to some of the most renowned attractions in Washington. Founded in 1869, Seattle is an eclectic mix of cultures and lifestyles and remains one of the most dynamic cities in the country.
When RVing around Seattle, there are endless attractions to explore. Visit some of the world's best museums, take a ride on Washington State Ferries, or just relax in one of the many city parks. You could start your journey in downtown Seattle where you can find interesting attractions such as Pike Place Market, the Museum of Flight, the Seattle Aquarium, and the iconic Space Needle. Be sure to check out Seattle’s maritime heritage by visiting the waterfront along Elliot Bay or exploring The Museum of History and Industry, which is also located in downtown Seattle. From there, you can visit some of the nearby towns, like Edmonds or Bellevue, for a taste of small-town charm.
Seattle has also carved a place in history with its musical influence. Bands such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam all originated here in the '90s. Take a stroll through the Fremont District to experience music venues and local eateries that have been around since those early days. If you're into pop culture, be sure to check out the nearby EMP Museum, which pays tribute to science fiction and popular culture.
One of the most notable things about Seattle is its close proximity to some of the most beautiful places in Washington state and beyond. You can easily drive a couple of hours from downtown Seattle and find yourself in a number of gorgeous state and national parks.
Campgrounds Near Seattle, Washington
Tall Chief RV and Camping Resort is located at the edge of the Seattle metro area. The resort is located on the shore of Lake Sammamish and offers a variety of amenities such as full hookups for your RV, cable TV, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, and hot tubs. Lush Pacific Northwest foliage gives these campsites a cozy, private feel. They have plenty of open spaces and a playground for the kids, so it's a great place for the whole family to explore.
Plenty of RV parks in the Seattle area offer more amenities such as showers and electric hookups. Lake Pleasant RV Park is another excellent option in the area with its convenient location off Highway 5, close to downtown Seattle and other attractions. It offers full hookup sites, showers and restrooms, a playground, and even a pool. For those who enjoy golf, they also have a putting/chipping green. While this campground feels as though it's out in the country, there are many shopping and dining options conveniently located within walking distance.
Located on the shores of Lake Sammamish, Vasa Park Resort is a great option for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This family-friendly resort offers RV sites, cabins, and a playground for kids. It also includes plenty of waterfront activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. If you didn't come with your own water sports gear, don't worry! They have plenty of rental options available, so you can make the most of your time at the lake. In case you're looking to stick around for a while, they also offer off-season long-term camping rates.
State Parks Near Seattle, Washington
Manchester State Park is located on the western edge of Puget Sound and offers amazing views of the Olympic Mountain range. With plenty of nature trails, access to the beach, and camping sites, Manchester State Park is a great place to spend a day - or longer! It also has a boat launch and plenty of opportunities for fishing, crabbing, and clamming.
Meanwhile, at Saltwater State Park, you can take in sandy beaches before settling down to savor a delicious picnic. The park also features a marine life center and interpretive displays.
Illahee State Park is a great spot for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. Just south of Olympia, Illahee State Park encompasses over 25 miles of trails and features two large ponds that are ideal for swimming on hot summer days. Motorized boats are also permitted, so you can enjoy a refreshing day out on the water regardless of what the weather is. The park maintains a campground with hookups as well as primitive camping areas. This makes the state park a favorite for those seeking more than just a day-use area.
National Sites Near Seattle, Washington
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is just a short drive away from Seattle and offers a glimpse into the past. The park gives visitors a chance to explore what life was like during the Gold Rush era, including panning for gold. You'll also find the story of Seattle's role in the Klondike stampede. Visitors can also find a replica of a gold miner's cabin, complete with century-old artifacts. Stop by the visitor center to get a better understanding of the area's history and enjoy interactive activities.
Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is a great place to explore the area's past and take in the natural beauty of Puget Sound. The reserve was established as an important World War II-era defense site, and today it's filled with diverse wildlife habitats, serene farmlands, and more than 400 acres of protected bluffs. These bluffs are the perfect spot to watch the sunset, and you can even camp right on the reserve's beaches. The reserve has many trails to explore. It also has a museum that offers tours and activities that will help you appreciate the area's past role in our nation's defense.
San Juan Island National Historic Park is another gem in the area. Located on San Juan Island, which is one island in a group called the San Juan Islands, this park is a great place to explore nature. You can go whale watching and kayaking in the clear waters of Puget Sound. The island is also home to several historical sites that date back to the War of 1812. Don't miss out on visiting American Camp with its old fortifications and buildings. You can also visit British Camp where you can learn about the island's role in the Pig War. San Juan Island also offers plenty of outdoor activities and stunning views, so be sure to bring your camera! Bird habitat tours are also available, and you won't want to miss out on seeing the birds of prey that call the island home. The park also hosts a Whale Museum and Lime Kiln Point State Park, both of which offer amazing views and great learning opportunities. Advanced planning is wise if you want to take your RV to the San Juan Islands as there are limited campsites available. Don't forget to factor in the cost of oversized vehicle ferry charges to avoid any surprises.
National Forests Near Seattle, Washington
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a stunning expanse located just two hours away from Seattle and offers plenty for RVers. You can find trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. This forest is home to breathtaking views such as Mount Shuksan, the Glacier Peak Wilderness area, the North Cascades National Park Complex, and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. It's also a great place to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, mountain biking, and camping. If you're looking for some more of the outdoorsy experience but don't have time to explore the whole forest, consider visiting one of its many developed recreation sites such as Boulder River Wild and Scenic River or Big Four Mountain.
Olympic National Forest lies just a few hours away from Seattle and is home to some of the Pacific Northwest's most beautiful landscapes. It has areas that range from glacial carved valleys, rivers, ancient stands of trees, rainforests, and even rocky beaches. If you're looking for a place to hike or camp in an old-growth forest, this is the place for you. The forest is home to spectacular rivers like the Hoh and the Elwha and a wide variety of wildlife. You can also enjoy activities such as rafting, kayaking, and fishing at the Sol Duc River. There are plenty of campgrounds to choose from in Olympic National Forest, including primitive and developed sites with amenities like bathrooms and electric hookups in case you'd like to stay awhile.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a great place to explore nature and get in touch with the wilderness. This forest has plenty of trails for hikers and mountain bikers. There are also plenty of opportunities for camping, rafting, fishing, and horseback riding. The breathtaking views include Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and the Columbia River Gorge. This forest is also home to some unique wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for elk, deer, and small mammals as you explore Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Be sure to make reservations in advance for campgrounds if you plan on staying the night.
