Within a one-hour drive of Kent, Washington, tent camping options range from secluded forest sites to alpine lakeside spots. The region's varied terrain includes elevations from sea level to over 5,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates across camping areas. Summer nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F at higher elevation campgrounds, requiring extra layers even during July and August.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: At Pratt Lake Hike In Campsite, visitors can find excellent fishing opportunities. "The lake is full of fish so make sure you bring your Pole, beautiful trout were jumping. There is potable water here but campfires are not allowed close to the lake," notes Alex T.
Island exploration: Blake Island Marine State Park offers unique boat-in camping with trails circling the entire island. "Hike the perimeter trail for views all around the island. It's a great place to stay in the summer months and relax," suggests Christi R.
Waterfall visits: Near Eagles Roost Camp, water sources double as natural attractions. As Danielle S. describes, "Shortly after the campsite is where we got our water - an incredible waterfall. Also great for a bracing dip."
What campers like
Proximity to Mount Rainier trails: Many tent camping sites near Kent serve as gateways to Mount Rainier National Park. At Eagles Roost Camp, "Either direction you go when you leave this spot you have hiking - up towards Rainier or back to Mowich Lake, for more cold swimming with beautiful views," according to Danielle S.
Riverside serenity: White River Dispersed Camping provides waterfront sites with natural soundscapes. Reagan S. describes, "Spots by the river looked kind of close together, so we drove a little further in and found a large secluded spot in the woods. A little road noise but it's drowned out by the sound of the creek."
Secluded tent platforms: Mowich Lake Campground offers raised tent platforms in a loop configuration. "Each spot had a raised platform for your tent, bear box, and picnic table. Bathroom was basic but seemed decently clean," notes Megan H.
What you should know
Early arrival essential: Most tent sites near Kent operate on first-come, first-served systems and fill quickly. For Mowich Lake, Megan H. advises, "We got there at like 3pm on a Tuesday and got one of the last 2 spots, it definitely fills up fast even during the week."
Road conditions vary: Access to several campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. White River Dispersed Camping requires careful navigation. P J. warns, "The road can be a bit thin, so I would be careful with extra large vehicles. It is also a bit of a challenging road, so low clearance vehicles wouldn't be treated well."
Temperature fluctuations: Even summer camping requires preparation for cold nights. Kasey reports from Mowich Lake: "Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be."
Tips for camping with families
Simple day hikes: Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground offers accessible hiking on former roads. "The road into camp is easy, either by foot or bicycle. The road slowly meanders uphill alongside the Carbon River for 5 miles, giving campers majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks," explains Marley B.
Quiet campgrounds: For families seeking peace, smaller campgrounds offer better experiences. At Hollyhock Farm, Rio B. found that "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest, the toilet was clean and fairly close to the sites, parking was easy and the host was a total gem!"
National Park access: Tent camping near Kent provides affordable access to Mount Rainier. Adeline T. shares, "We have an America Beautiful pass which I highly recommend because it pays off quickly. We were actually able to use that pass for the campground so it only costed $5 a night."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance concerns: For those considering tent camping near Kent in vehicles rather than with backpacks, ground clearance matters. At Mowich Lake, Laura F. advises, "Bit of a rough ride to get up there but totally worth it. Get gas before you go up, the town has signs saying last chance for gas and make sure you have everything you need including water."
Alternative parking options: When established campgrounds fill, some tent campers park at nearby day-use areas. Rich P. suggests regarding White River Dispersed Camping, "Great place to stay if you can't get a spot at White River / Ohanapecosh."
Self-contained preparation: Many tent camping areas near Kent lack facilities. Laura F. warns about Mowich Lake, "make sure you have everything you need including water because you will be all by yourself and there is nothing out there."
