Camp Lakeview

For Washington locals considering a camping getaway on the shores of Lake Tanwax, Camp Lakeview in Graham presents itself with a broad range of offerings, from tent and RV sites to cabin rentals, set across 300 acres of forest with access to two lakes. The official description paints a picture of a serene retreat in the beautiful Cascades, with opportunities for fishing, swimming, hiking, and even serving as a venue for group gatherings, weddings, and church events. It emphasizes amenities like a general store, restrooms with showers, laundry facilities, a boat launch, and even high-speed Wi-Fi.

However, recent unfiltered reviews from real customers present a stark contrast to this idealized vision. For Washington residents researching potential camping spots, understanding these experiences is crucial to setting realistic expectations and planning accordingly. The aim here is to provide a factual, balanced perspective based on both the campground's stated offerings and the firsthand accounts of those who have visited.

The immediate impression upon arrival for some visitors has been less than stellar. One reviewer recounted, "We stayed at this campground super last minute and after seeing the website we were super excited. After arrival our excitement dwindled. Our campground spot was covered in trash. Everywhere... We decided to shrug it off and headed to the lake and it is open for day use and just had a lot of really sketchy characters there.. at night the whole property smelled like weed and I couldn't sleep a blink... It was definitely an experience." This review points to significant issues with cleanliness and a concerning social atmosphere that could severely impact the tranquility of a camping trip.

Another particularly troubling account details a complete breakdown in the camping experience: "We Left After 2 Hours. We’ve been camping for years and this was easily the WORST campground. Filthy, overcrowded, terrible check-in experience, and narrow sites. The women’s bathroom was so filthy and wet we didn’t want to use it. We found all the dumpsters overflowing. When we finally found our very narrow site (camp map was wrong and there were 2 sites with the same number!) there were several cars parked in it plus a deputy. The campground had already called a sheriff’s deputy to help move the cars, but nothing he could legally do he said. They were fully booked and couldn’t offer another site. So we waited for 2 hours and then left. They gave us a full refund." This comprehensive negative experience highlights critical operational and maintenance failures, including cleanliness, site management, and potentially safety concerns with law enforcement involvement. While a full refund was provided, it doesn't negate the wasted time and frustration for the campers.

These reviews collectively paint a picture of a campground that, at least for some visitors, falls far short of expectations, particularly in terms of basic hygiene, site organization, and overall atmosphere. The presence of a deputy, conflicting site numbers, overflowing dumpsters, and a perceived lack of security are all serious red flags for families and individuals seeking a safe and pleasant outdoor experience. While the official descriptions promote the lake and forest activities, the reality of the on-the-ground conditions, as reported by these customers, suggests that the management and upkeep may not always meet the advertised standards. For Washington locals, these candid accounts are invaluable in making an informed decision about whether Camp Lakeview aligns with their camping preferences and expectations for a peaceful and clean environment.

Camp Lakeview is located at 32919 Benbow Dr E, Graham, WA 98338, USA. This places it in Pierce County, within the South Puget Sound region of Washington State. Its position on the shores of Lake Tanwax offers a scenic lakeside setting. For Washington locals, the campground is accessible via established roads. From Graham, it's a relatively straightforward drive, placing it within a reasonable distance for day trips or weekend getaways from larger population centers like Tacoma (approximately 32 miles away) and Seattle (about 54 miles away).

The accessibility from major metropolitan areas is a key advantage, making it a potentially convenient escape for many Washingtonians. Road conditions leading to the campground are generally paved and well-maintained, typical of county roads in this area, allowing for easy access for all types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers. The campground itself is situated on 300 acres with 1,500 feet of shoreline on Tanwax Lake, suggesting ample space within the property. However, as some reviews indicate, the internal layout and site allocation might lead to a perception of overcrowding or narrow sites, even within a large property. Visitors should be prepared for varying levels of site privacy and ensure they have accurate directions to their specific site, given the reported issues with conflicting site numbers on the camp map.

Camp Lakeview advertises a range of services designed to accommodate various camping styles, from rustic tent sites to more amenity-rich RV and cabin options. Based on information from their official website and other public sources, the listed services include:

• 65 Campsites: A mix of RV hookup sites (some with full hookups) and traditional tent sites. (Note: Some sources indicate 51 total RV spaces, with 20 available for recreational patrons and many rented long-term, and 17 recreational campsites, plus countless dry camping spaces).
• 20 RV Hookups: Including 20-Amp, 30-Amp, and 50-Amp options for vehicles up to 60 feet long.
• 7 Rustic Cabins: Available for rent, some featuring kitchens, electricity, heat, and gas fireplaces.
• The Cedar Lodge: A large, two-story lodge with 14 bedrooms (sleeping up to 53 people), a commercial kitchen, and dining area, often used for group retreats and events.
• The Timber Lodge: A restored venue for events, receptions, and gatherings, capable of hosting up to 175 guests.
• The Little Black Chapel: A charming venue for weddings.
• Restrooms with Free Showers: Public facilities available for campers.
• Coin-op Laundry Facility: For overnight guests.
• General Store: For essential camping supplies and provisions.
• Boat Launch: Provides access to Tanwax Lake for boating.
• Swimming Area: A designated area for swimming in the lake.
• Fishing Dock: For fishing on Lake Tanwax.
• High-Speed Wi-Fi: Available to stay connected.
• Volleyball Court & Horseshoe Pits: Recreational amenities.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Generally available at campsites (fire pits are subject to park rules and potential burn bans, with portable propane fire pits, BBQs, and camp stoves permitted).

While these services are advertised, the customer reviews raise concerns about the actual cleanliness and maintenance of facilities, particularly the bathrooms, and the overall management of the property, including issues with overflowing dumpsters and site availability. This suggests that while the services exist on paper, their consistent quality and availability might vary.

Despite the operational challenges noted in some reviews, Camp Lakeview's location and stated offerings provide several inherent features and highlights that could appeal to Washington locals:

• Lakeside Location: Situated directly on Lake Tanwax, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, and various water activities.
• Access to Two Lakes: Boasts access to Tanwax Lake and an "exclusive Byron Lake" for additional exploration and fishing.
• Diverse Accommodations: Caters to a wide range of preferences, from basic tent camping to RVs with hookups and rustic cabins, making it potentially suitable for different group sizes and comfort levels.
• Event Facilities: With the Cedar Lodge, Timber Lodge, and Little Black Chapel, it offers unique venues for large group gatherings, weddings, and corporate retreats.
• Outdoor Activities: Provides access to hiking trails through 300 acres of emerald forest, as well as opportunities for boating, paddleboarding, and other lake-based recreation.
• Year-Round Operation: Camp Lakeview is open year-round, allowing for seasonal fishing and other activities on Tanwax Lake.
• Proximity to Mount Rainier National Park: Located approximately an hour's drive from Mount Rainier, offering a base for exploring one of Washington's most iconic natural landmarks.

These features highlight the potential for Camp Lakeview to be a hub for outdoor recreation and group events, provided that the operational and maintenance concerns raised in customer reviews are addressed to ensure a consistently positive visitor experience.

For reservations, inquiries, or to report any issues related to your stay at Camp Lakeview, use the following contact information. Given the nature of some reviews, it would be prudent for Washington locals to consider contacting the campground directly to inquire about specific site conditions, availability, and any measures being taken to address reported concerns, especially regarding cleanliness and overcrowding, before making a reservation.

Address: 32919 Benbow Dr E, Graham, WA 98338, USA

Phone: (360) 879-5426

Mobile Phone: +1 360-879-5426

Their official website, www.camplakeview-at-tanwax.com, is also a key resource for checking rates, booking accommodations, and reviewing campground rules and policies (such as quiet hours, pet policies, and check-in procedures). It is advised to familiarize yourself with these policies thoroughly before your visit to ensure a smoother experience.

In conclusion, Camp Lakeview on Lake Tanwax in Graham, WA, presents a complex picture for Washington locals seeking a camping destination. While it offers a promising array of accommodations – from tent and RV sites to cabins and large group lodges – and a picturesque lakeside setting with various recreational opportunities, recent customer experiences highlight significant challenges regarding cleanliness, site management, and overall atmosphere. For Washingtonians, this means that while the campground holds potential, it may come with caveats.

Those considering Camp Lakeview should manage their expectations and be prepared for a potentially rustic and less-than-pristine environment based on the recent reviews. It might be suitable for locals who prioritize lake access and a wide range of accommodation types over meticulous upkeep and consistent tranquility, or for those who are willing to proactively communicate with staff about their concerns. However, for campers who value impeccable cleanliness, strict adherence to site assignments, and a consistently peaceful environment above all else, the reported issues suggest that thorough pre-trip communication with the campground management is essential, or exploring alternative options in the region might be a more suitable choice for a truly relaxing Washington outdoor escape.

Camp Lakeview

32919 Benbow Dr E, Graham, WA 98338, USA