Stacel Point Campground

For those of us in Washington who cherish the quintessential lakeside camping experience, Stacel Point Campground at Alder Lake Park stands out as an exceptional choice. Operated by Tacoma Power Parks, this "very nice well kept area" offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and an abundance of recreational opportunities, making it a beloved destination for families, groups, and solo adventurers alike. From enjoying "awesome views of surrounding nature" to splashing in the lake or launching a boat, Stacel Point provides everything you need for a memorable outdoor getaway. As locals, we appreciate places that offer both relaxation and active pursuits, and this campground truly delivers on all fronts, inviting you to create lasting memories by the water's edge.

Stacel Point Campground is strategically located at 9820 Alder Lake Park Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328, USA. This puts it directly on the northern shores of Alder Lake, a large and picturesque reservoir created by the Alder Dam on the Nisqually River. The campground is part of the extensive Alder Lake Park system, which is managed by Tacoma Public Utilities and encompasses several distinct camping and day-use areas.

Access to Stacel Point Campground is straightforward via well-maintained paved roads from Eatonville and other major routes in Western Washington. The main entrance to Alder Lake Park leads directly to the Stacel Point area. Its convenient location also provides "easy access to the natural wonders of the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park," making it a great base camp for exploring one of Washington's most iconic landscapes. While the park is generally very accessible, its popularity, especially "on the weekend," means it can be "loud and busy." One review noted, "Arrived Thur around 5 pm and all the river sites were occupied," indicating that prime spots, particularly lakeside, fill up quickly during peak season. Day-use parking can also reach capacity, sometimes resulting in additional visitors being turned away until spaces become available. Despite the potential for busyness, the ease of access and the wealth of amenities make it a highly desirable destination for locals.

Stacel Point Campground provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors.

• Campsites for RVs and Tents: Stacel Point offers a variety of campsites. Within the broader Alder Lake Park, there are 173 individual campsites across four campgrounds, including sites with full water, electric, and sewer hookups, as well as sites with water and electric only, and tent-only sites. Specific to Stacel Point, while primarily known for day-use amenities, it also hosts camping.
• Restrooms with Showers: The campground provides clean restrooms with flush toilets. Showers are available, typically requiring "50 cents for showers," a common practice to manage utility usage. One reviewer noted that "Bathrooms were a little on the dirty side but that's to be expected with how busy the area was," suggesting they are maintained but heavy usage can impact cleanliness.
• Potable Water: Drinking water taps are available throughout the park for easy access.
• Picnic Facilities: Stacel Point is particularly well-equipped for picnics, boasting "plenty of grills for barbecuing with tables nearby." There are "20 picnic sites with tables and grills" and a large "picnic shelter" (log picnic pavilion) available for rent, capable of seating up to 100 people and including a restroom, generator, grills, and a fireplace.
• Boat Launch and Moorage: For boaters, there are two boat launches at Alder Lake Park. The main boat launch is near the park entrance, and a convenient "20-slip boat moorage dock at the Stacel Point day-use area" is available on a first-come, first-served basis for overnight moorage by campers.
• Day-Use Areas: Stacel Point is one of two primary day-use areas (along with Sunny Beach Point), offering swimming beaches, picnic areas, and ample space for recreational activities.
• ADA Accessibility: The park is committed to accessibility, featuring ADA-accessible campsites and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ensuring that visitors with limited mobility can comfortably enjoy the park's facilities.
• Reservations: Campsites at Alder Lake Park (which includes Stacel Point) can be reserved up to nine months in advance for dates between May 15 and September 15. Individual unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis outside of this peak reservation window.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available within the larger park system for RVs, offering a convenient way to dispose of wastewater.

Stacel Point Campground, as a central hub within Alder Lake Park, offers numerous features and highlights that contribute to its high appeal among Washington locals.

• Beautiful Lakefront Location: The primary highlight is its direct access to "the beautiful lake with awesome views of surrounding nature." The "snowy mountains in the distance and rolling hills of evergreen forests" create a stunning Pacific Northwest backdrop.
• Swimming Beach: Stacel Point features a "small beach by the beautiful lake" that provides a designated area for swimming and enjoying the water, though no lifeguards are on duty. Sunny Beach Point also offers a swimming beach.
• Multiple Playgrounds: For families, the presence of a "nice little playground" at Stacel Point, plus "a trail to the right of the beach to another playground," ensures ample opportunities for children to play and burn off energy.
• Boating and Water Sports Hub: With easy access to a boat launch and the moorage dock, Stacel Point is an excellent base for various water sports, including motorized boating, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, and fishing. The lake is well-stocked with various fish species.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Consistently described as a "Very nice well kept area," the campground reflects the diligent efforts of Tacoma Public Utilities in maintaining clean and pleasant facilities.
• Proximity to Mount Rainier: The park offers "easy access to the natural wonders of the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park," making it an ideal "home base" for those looking to explore this iconic Washington landmark.
• Ideal for Picnics and Gatherings: With abundant grills, tables, and a large rentable pavilion, Stacel Point is particularly well-suited for day trips, family reunions, and larger group gatherings.
• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Beyond water activities, visitors can enjoy gentle walks on the park's paved roads or explore nearby trails, as well as engage in birdwatching given the diverse local wildlife.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information, Stacel Point Campground is part of Alder Lake Park, managed by Tacoma Public Utilities.

• Address: 9820 Alder Lake Park Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328, USA
• Park Office Phone: (360) 569-2778
• Campsite Reservations Phone: (833) 290-8180 (or MyTPU.org/Parks)
• Fishing and Recreation Line: (888) 502-8690
• For the most current information on fees, availability, specific rules, and any advisories, it is always recommended to visit the official Tacoma Public Utilities website for Alder Lake Park or call the reservation and park office numbers directly.

For us Washington locals, Stacel Point Campground at Alder Lake offers a truly ideal setting for a quintessential Pacific Northwest outdoor escape. Its comprehensive array of amenities, coupled with its stunning lakeside location, makes it a perfect choice for nearly every type of camper. Whether you're a family with young children seeking a safe and fun playground and swimming beach, an RVer looking for full hookups and easy access to the water, or simply someone who appreciates "beautiful lake with awesome views of surrounding nature," Stacel Point delivers.

The accessibility and proximity to both Alder Lake's recreational offerings and the grandeur of Mount Rainier National Park means you can pack a wide range of activities into your visit without extensive travel. While its popularity, especially "on the weekend," means it can be "busy," this is a testament to its quality and the enjoyable experiences it provides. The diligent maintenance by Tacoma Public Utilities ensures a pleasant environment, even if the bathrooms occasionally reflect high usage. For a vibrant, well-equipped, and conveniently located campground that truly embraces the spirit of Washington's outdoor lifestyle, Stacel Point is a top-tier destination right in our own backyard.

Stacel Point Campground

9820 Alder Lake Park Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328, USA