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Camping near Mount Rainier National Park

1,338 Reviews

Mount Rainier National Park has good camping spots for both tent and RV setups. Cougar Rock Campground sits on the southwest corner of the park and comes with flush toilets and water spigots, though you won't find showers here. Your campsite includes basic amenities like a picnic table, bear box, and fire pit. The campground sits among thick forests that make the area feel peaceful and quiet. From Cougar Rock, you can hop onto the Wonderland Trail for some solid hiking. Keep in mind there's no cell service around here, so you'll need to plan ahead. When camping near Mount Rainier, always remember to store food properly in the provided bear boxes since wildlife does come through the area. The trails and quiet camping make this a great place to spend a few days outdoors.

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Best Camping Sites Near Mount Rainier National Park (307)

    1. Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    58 Reviews
    Longmire, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-6626

    $20 / night

    "If you are looking for an volunteer opportunity while in the park, check out the Washington Train Association also know as the WTA."

    "Large campground located near the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier. Many sites tucked into large trees. Some loops close to main toad so the noise can be an issue, but overall beautiful!"

    2. Ohanapecosh Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    42 Reviews
    Paradise, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    $20 / night

    "Great location, so close to the park entrance. An hour or so away from Paradise Inn and Sunrise Lodge. Hiked Silver Falls Trail which was right across from our campsite (E10)."

    "Rainer is a must for anyone living in the PNW and this campground allows you to stay in the park but gives you access to plenty of trails, waterfalls and is just a short distance from entrance to the Wonderland"

    3. White River Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    18 Reviews
    Paradise, WA
    5 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "There is also a man who drives around with firewood since you can't bring your own from the outside, and it's very inexpensive."

    "Great trail access to the wonderland trail. September is warm by mid day and in the morning and evening there is that cool PNW mountain breeze. Stayed in the A loop."

    4. White River Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "It was an absolutely beautiful location, about 10-15 minutes away from the Sunrise Entrance. The first night, I got there after 9pm and there were still plenty of spots available."

    "The campsites are absolutely beautiful—tucked among the trees with stunning views and the soothing, constant sound of the roaring White River nearby."

    5. La Wis Wis Campground

    29 Reviews
    Packwood, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $22 - $115 / night

    "We loved that we were only 5 minutes from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, and about the same distance to Packwood WA for access to amenities if needed."

    "Obviously the river spots are the prime locations but we recently had to branch out and stayed in the more wooded Loop B at site B4. We found we had plenty of space and privacy for a party of 5."

    6. Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    13 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    "One reason we wanted to stay here was to be close to lots of beautiful hiking near Mt. Rainier. One of the days we went to Sunrise Visitor Center and did a few hikes within the park."

    "My husband and I just spent a weekend at Mowiche Campground located in Ashford, Washington. We chose this campground because we wanted to be close hikes near Mt. Rainier."

    7. Silver Springs Campground

    18 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $37 - $84 / night

    "We had a dry camping, asphalt parking site next to the restrooms at the end of the loop (near the camp hosts). It was very quiet here and the area is just beautiful."

    "This is my new favorite spot to camp in Washington. The spaces are well distributed, the location right next to the river is beautiful and the site staff were extremely gracious."

    8. Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    10 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    "If you are ever in the edge of whether or not you want to travel to Washington and hike, I highly recommend coming. This campground was in the perfect location, too, for some hiking!"

    "Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington States greatest attractions. This waterfall is breath taking."

    9. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 783-6000

    "We drove to the end where the bathroom is and decided to turn around, though it seems that the camp spots do continue after that point."

    "We drove to the end where the bathroom is and decided to turn around, though it seems that the camp spots do continue after that point."

    10. The Dalles Campground

    13 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $32 - $68 / night

    "Beautiful spot but it's right off the highway. Mostly wanted to review to add that there's no VZW service for miles."

    "To be honest I thought the complaint of road noise was a little silly as that is always the trade off when located conveniently off the hwy. However it was so much worse than road noise."

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Recent Camping Photos near Mount Rainier National Park

544 Photos of 307 Mount Rainier National Park Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mount Rainier National Park

1338 Reviews of 307 Mount Rainier National Park Campgrounds

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Lake Easton RV Resort

    Nice Stop to Explore State Parks, Trails, Forest Service Land, Roslyn

    This park is bounded on three sides by Lake Easton State Park. They were full, so I booked this place. It's a large park, gravel roads and pads, underneath a canopy of firs and some pine trees. The fourth side of the park is along the frontage road and I-90. During the day, I-90 is loud, evening not so much but can still hear it. This park has an agreement with the State Park which allows access through a small gate in the chain link fence, right into the park (no vehicles allowed through this access). Access to the State Park, and Lake Easton by vehicle by driving the frontage road for about 1,000 feet, to the entrance. Lake Kachess is right across the freeway and down a Forest Service road for a mile or two. Roslyn is close, with all its history and charm. Cle Elum is also close for any supplies. T-Mobile works, Starlink worked. Laundry, pool, playground, game/TV room, showers, restrooms all available. Open all year.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Beautiful grounds, meticulous maintenance

    There aren’t many campgrounds to which I would award six stars out of five, but Elkamp Eastcreek is certainly one of them. Every square inch is meticulously maintained (and that includes the two spacious and sparkling clean restrooms). The campsites are far enough apart that they feel relatively private, and most appear completely level. Trees abound. Dogs are welcome! 

    You couldn’t ask for more courteous and caring hosts than Tom and Brian. They run a classy gift shop with merchandise that includes art, apparel, books, games, gifts and gear.(Plus firewood, ice and propane.) Brian is also the barista at the KampGrounds espresso wagon, and he makes a fabulous mocha. 

    Eatonville is reasonably close, and the Mill Haus Cider Co. is worth the drive. The food is excellent— order the Basque cheesecake if it’s on the menu that day— and the outdoor patio(with a working waterwheel) is stunning. And, of course, you’re only a few miles from the Nisqually Gate of Mt. Rainier National Park, which needs no introduction. If that’s not enough, Tom and Brian will have additional ideas for you. 

    If you don’t happen to have an RV or a tent, you can rent Elkamp’s Airstream by the night. And while I don’t see a link on the website, there’s also a cabin you can rent. 

    What would improve Elkamp? It would be great to have a dump station. Sewer hookups would be even better. But that’s a small inconvenience in exchange for staying at a gorgeous campground just a short drive from the Seattle metro area. 

    We will definitely be back. Probably every year.

  • Frank B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Ike Kinswa

    Quiet

    One of the nicest State campgrounds. Very clean and quiet.

  • Emma C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Salmon la Sac Road Dispersed Camping

    Multiple Spots, All Great

    there are truly endless amounts of sites along this road- most along the river. they are super fun and each one is pleasantly different. couldn’t recommend this road more for dispersed camping

  • Emma C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites

    Never Dissapoints

    i’ve camped at different sites along this road so many times and keep coming back because they are just great!! the river being close is wonderful and every site has fun quirks and lots of space

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Mounthaven Resort

    Nice 3 night stay

    This is a great small campground for exploringMt Rainier. We stayed here with friends from Colorado and explored the park and did some great hiking outside of the park. It’s a small mostly quiet campground with around 17 sites and 10 cabins. I would stay again if going to explore the mountain. Very clean showers and restroom building. There is ice available for purchase and firewood if no burn ban. Very enjoyable stay.

  • Zachary H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Small Site but Million $ View!

    Solid spot for capable vehicles

    I drive a 2010 tacoma and made it up the mtn road fine, but it was a little janky in spots. Got to camp around 8pm so the “prime” spot was taken and it was hard to turn around at the top since they had a party of three cars parked, but beautiful views of Rainier and there were a few other pull offs on the road with good views.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Salmon La Sac

    Salmon La Sac

    Very busy campground on the weekend, but found one of the last first come, first serve sites on Friday around noon. Pit toilets were clean but stronger than normal smell. Good family oriented campground with swimming hole at bottom of loop.

  • Elena M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Kachess Lake Lakebed

    Beautiful but dirty

    Beautiful view, but very dirty, dusty and noisy, dirt bikes are everywhere.

Guide to Mount Rainier National Park

Camping near Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying stunning views and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique charm.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails around the area. At Cougar Rock Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Pretty big site that is a short drive to paradise. Many hiking trails nearby."
  • Fishing: Enjoy some fishing in the nearby rivers. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground noted, "The river is beautiful and lots of trails around the site."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Ohanapecosh Campground shared, "Absolutely lovely place to stay in Mt Rainier National Park."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One happy camper at La Wis Wis Campground said, "The trees and the river were beautiful."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Alder Lake Park mentioned, "The bathrooms are very nice. They charge a nominal fee for the showers but they have great water pressure and hot water."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment. A reviewer at Tinkham Campground noted, "This is a great quiet campground convenient to Paradise."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have basic facilities. A camper at Cougar Rock Campground pointed out, "There are several restrooms around the campground and convenient trash and recycling bins, but the dump station was closed."
  • Tight Spaces: Many sites can be cramped, especially for larger RVs. One reviewer at Tinkham Campground said, "The spots were not the most level and a little tight."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park mentioned, "We had a great one-night stay at this park with short notice."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. A family at Ohanapecosh Campground enjoyed, "There is an awesome playground for kids to play at."
  • Safety Precautions: Always be cautious around water. A camper at Iron Creek Campground advised, "The river was moving quite fast and seemed turbulent."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A visitor at Lake Easton State Park shared, "Activities for children such as the Jr. Ranger program."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Cougar Rock Campground cautioned, "We had to be cautious parking our 23 ft. van."
  • Water Availability: Be aware of water access for RVs. A camper at Tinkham Campground noted, "There was no water available for filling RVs - just personal bottles."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect the campground's quiet hours. A visitor at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park mentioned, "It was surprisingly quiet!"

Camping near Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it's essential to be prepared and informed about what to expect. Happy camping!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year to camp at Mount Rainier National Park?

Summer is the optimal time to camp at Mount Rainier National Park, typically from late June through early September when most campgrounds are fully operational. Weather can still be unpredictable, with some campers reporting cool and wet conditions even in July. Silver Springs Campground offers beautiful riverside sites during the summer months with well-spaced campsites. For those seeking to avoid crowds, consider early June or mid-September when temperatures remain pleasant but visitor numbers decrease. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers, but requires proper gear and preparation for snow conditions. Always check current park conditions before your trip, as seasonal road closures may affect access to certain areas.

Can I find camping near specific areas of Mount Rainier like Paradise or Sunrise?

Yes, you can find camping options near both Paradise and Sunrise areas of Mount Rainier. For the Sunrise area, Granite Creek Camp serves as an excellent base, offering direct access to the Wonderland Trail and hiking to Sunrise Point. Near Paradise, La Wis Wis Campground is a fantastic option located just 5 minutes from a park entrance with beautiful old-growth forest and riverside sites. For those seeking a more challenging adventure near Paradise, Camp Muir offers the highest camping in Washington with spectacular views, though it requires a difficult hike to reach. Remember to make reservations well in advance for summer stays.

What are the best campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park?

Mount Rainier offers several outstanding campgrounds, with Ipsut Creek Camp being a favorite for those who enjoy a moderate 5-mile trek along the Carbon River to reach a peaceful, wooded setting. For those preferring drive-in options, White River Campground provides excellent facilities with water and toilets in a convenient location. If you're willing to stay just outside the park boundaries, The Dalles Campground offers beautiful sites, though be aware it's close to the highway and cell service is limited. For maximum privacy and river access, many campers recommend choosing lower-numbered sites at campgrounds throughout the area, particularly those between sites 2-10 when available.

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