Jefferson County Fairgrounds

For Washingtonians, the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Port Townsend offers a uniquely practical and convenient camping option, especially for those looking to explore the vibrant maritime city or attend one of its many celebrated events. While perhaps not a traditional wilderness retreat, this campground provides essential amenities and an excellent base from which to experience the charm of Port Townsend and the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. It's an ideal choice for RV travelers, event participants, or anyone seeking an affordable and accessible place to stay with basic comforts.

The Fairgrounds campground prides itself on being a family-friendly destination, offering a mix of full hook-up, partial hook-up, and primitive sites. Under new management, there's a clear commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring guests have a comfortable stay. Despite some of the older infrastructure, the focus remains on delivering clean facilities and a convenient location, distinguishing it as a valuable resource for local travelers and visitors to the area.

In this detailed guide, we will explore what makes Jefferson County Fairgrounds a suitable camping choice for Washington locals. We'll cover its strategic location and accessibility, the services and amenities it provides, its key features and highlights, and important contact information. Ultimately, we'll discuss why this campground serves as an excellent launchpad for your Port Townsend adventures.

The Jefferson County Fairgrounds is strategically located at 4907 Landes St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA. This places it on the outskirts of Port Townsend, offering a balance between being close to town amenities and still providing a sense of space.

Accessibility to the fairgrounds is straightforward, typically via well-maintained roads in Port Townsend. From the downtown area, it's just a short drive of approximately 2 miles, making it incredibly convenient for accessing the city's shops, restaurants, and historic waterfront. Perhaps even more appealing is its proximity to Fort Worden State Park, a mere 8-minute walk away. Fort Worden is a sprawling, historic park with extensive beaches, trails, batteries, and cultural venues, offering endless opportunities for exploration and recreation right at your doorstep.

The campground's location also serves as an excellent gateway to the wider Olympic Peninsula. From here, campers can easily embark on day trips to explore state parks like Fort Townsend Historical State Park, Fort Flagler Historical State Park, and Fort Casey, as well as the diverse landscapes of the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park. For those without private vehicles, Jefferson Transit services the Fairgrounds via Routes 2 & 3, providing a public transportation option for getting around Port Townsend. While some reviews mention limited cell service for certain carriers like Verizon, community Wi-Fi is available, and phone coverage is generally present. This blend of easy access and proximity to both urban amenities and natural attractions makes the Fairgrounds campground a highly practical choice for Washington locals.

The Jefferson County Fairgrounds Campground provides a range of essential services and amenities, primarily catering to RV and tent campers seeking convenience and a straightforward stay:

• Campsites: The campground offers over 50 sites, including full hook-up sites (power/water/sewer), partial hook-up sites (power and water only), and primitive tent/no hook-up sites. While some sites can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet, site sizes can vary, and some may be unlevel or narrow, so having proper leveling equipment is recommended. There are also specific sites for walk-in/bike-in campers.
• Electrical Hookups: A mix of 20-amp and limited 30-amp service is available. Campers should be aware that some electrical connections may require adapters or special arrangements, and it's advisable to check compatibility before arrival. No 50-amp service is typically available.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides indoor heated restrooms with showers. Access to these facilities is secured by a code, which is provided upon renting a space. While some reviews mention variable water pressure, the showers reportedly provide hot water for as long as desired.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Community Wi-Fi is available, providing internet access, which is a valuable amenity, especially given the potentially spotty cell data service in the area.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs, offering a convenient service for waste disposal.
• Garbage and Recycling: Trash dumpsters and recycling bins for clean paper, plastic bottles, glass, and metal cans are provided, encouraging responsible waste management.
• On-site Camp Host: An on-site camp host is available, contributing to a friendly and well-managed environment. Reviews often highlight the friendliness of the staff and hosts.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the campground but must be kept on leashes at all times, and campers are required to clean up after their pets.
• Reservation System: Camping fees are paid online, and reservations are recommended. Overnight camping is generally allowed in conjunction with an event or pen and stall rental.

The Jefferson County Fairgrounds Campground offers several notable features and highlights that enhance the camping experience, particularly for those looking for a practical and community-oriented stay:

• Event-Centric Camping: A significant highlight is the opportunity to camp directly at a venue that hosts numerous special events throughout the year. This includes the annual Jefferson County Fair (typically in August), horse shows, dog shows, car shows, festivals, and more. Staying at the Fairgrounds means you're right in the heart of the action, offering a unique and often lively camping experience.
• Proximity to Port Townsend Attractions: The campground's location is a major draw. It's just a short walk (8 minutes) to the vast and historic Fort Worden State Park, which offers beaches, trails, a marine science center, and cultural venues. Downtown Port Townsend, with its Victorian architecture, unique shops, diverse restaurants, and vibrant arts scene, is also just minutes away by car or public transit.
• Affordability: Compared to some other camping options in the popular Olympic Peninsula region, the Jefferson County Fairgrounds offers a more affordable price point, making it an accessible choice for a wider range of campers.
• Year-Round Availability (with limitations): The campground generally operates year-round, offering flexibility for off-season visits, though tent camping may be restricted during very wet winter months (February-March) when the ground becomes unusable.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The Fairgrounds is described as a family-friendly campground, providing a welcoming environment for all ages.
• Community and Social Opportunities: Due to its nature as a fairgrounds, there's often a sense of community among campers, especially during events. Reviewers frequently note the friendliness of fellow campers and hosts.
• Basic Comforts: While not luxurious, the availability of showers (with hot water), flush toilets (with code access), electricity, and water hookups provides essential comforts that enhance the camping experience, particularly for RVers.

For current information, reservations, or specific inquiries regarding the Jefferson County Fairgrounds Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address:4907 Landes St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA

Phone:(360) 385-1013Mobile Phone: +1 360-385-1013

Website:For the most up-to-date information on camping rates, availability, rules, and upcoming events, it is highly recommended to visit the official Jefferson County Fairgrounds website (www.jeffcofairgrounds.org). Reservations can often be made directly through their online system. Given that camping is sometimes tied to event participation or stall rental, checking their official website for specific rules and booking procedures is crucial.

The Jefferson County Fairgrounds Campground is an incredibly suitable option for Washington locals, especially those residing in the Puget Sound area or on the Olympic Peninsula, who are looking for a practical, affordable, and conveniently located base for their adventures. While some might comment on its "no frills" appearance or older infrastructure, its true value lies in its functionality and strategic positioning.

For Washington residents, the ability to camp within easy walking distance of Fort Worden State Park and just minutes from the charming downtown of Port Townsend is a significant advantage. This accessibility means less time traveling and more time enjoying the area's rich history, diverse arts scene, unique shops, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're coming for a specific event like the Jefferson County Fair, the Wooden Boat Festival, or one of the many other gatherings, or simply looking for an overnight stop while exploring the Olympic Peninsula, the Fairgrounds provides a hassle-free solution.

The availability of essential hookups for RVs, combined with access to clean restrooms and showers, offers a level of comfort that makes camping more enjoyable without being overly luxurious. The affordability also makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Ultimately, the Jefferson County Fairgrounds Campground serves as a highly functional and friendly base camp, allowing Washingtonians to fully immerse themselves in the unique culture and breathtaking landscapes of Port Townsend and the surrounding Olympic Peninsula without breaking the bank or venturing too far off the beaten path. It's a place where convenience meets community, offering a memorable and practical stay for local adventurers.

Jefferson County Fairgrounds

4907 Landes St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA