![\"Manchester](\"http:\/\/wabikes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Manchester-State-Park.jpg\")
<\/a>\nThe bodies of water and mountains that surround the Seattle-area are an incredible asset to the cyclists living and riding here. Even a mundane ride feels special when you grab a glimpse of Mount Rainier, snow-capped Olympic peaks, or the Puget Sound\u2019s beautiful expanse on a sunny day. Those immovable geographic boundaries are also a boon for bike campers. A quick ferry ride across the Sound or a short ride towards the Cascades leads to a half dozen or more places to camp, some as little as 8 miles from downtown Seattle!<\/p>\n
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Manchester State Park<\/a> falls into that category of easy to access, but still lovely campgrounds near Seattle. It sits right on the water in theKitsap Peninsula and has beach access and hiking trails through the woods, has 3 first come first served hiker-biker campsites, 35 reservable sites, and bathrooms with potable water. As such, it makes for an excellent intro to bike camping for novices or easy escape for seasoned pros. You could even head out after work on a weeknight and make it back to your desk at the regular time the next morning.<\/p>\n There is a small convenience store on the right as you get off the Southworth ferry. It has snacks and drinks and beer, but not much in the way of real food. There are no grocery stores on route, so you\u2019re better off stocking up on groceries before you head out. If you do need real groceries, you can detour a few miles on the appropriately named Mile Hill Rd into Port Orchard where there is an Albertsons and a QFC.<\/p>\n The ride starts after taking the Washington State Ferry from Fauntleroy in West Seattle<\/a> to Southworth<\/a>. After getting off the ferry head straight on SE Southworth Ferry Dr. At mile 3.1 take a right onto Yukon Harbor Rd and enjoy a little beachside riding on a quiet neighborhood road. At mile 4 take another right onto Colchester Dr SE. At mile 5.4 take a left onto Main St then your immediate next right on to Beach Dr. Stay on Beach for about 2 miles, then take a right on E Hilldale Rd into Manchester State Park.<\/p>\n