Best Campgrounds in Washington

Exploring the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest means choosing between beaches and deserts, forests and volcanos, lakes and prairies. Camping in Washington is a chance to greet nature up close and sleep in some of the most beautiful land in North America. The biggest challenge? Deciding where to start.

The Cascade Mountains run down the center of Washington like a spine. A handful of highways cross the crest in parallel lines, all running from the evergreens of the west side to the wide open grasslands of the east. Camping in Washington is available along every route, like the state parks that dot I-90 and North Cascades National Park that hugs Highway 20.

Take Highway 2 over Stevens Pass to find old-growth trees around each spot at Money Creek Campground, plus a view of a classic metal train trestle. Fill each day with hikes through the Cascade forest, perhaps on a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail where it passes the Stevens Pass Mountain Resort ski area. Head east of Stevens Pass to verdant Lake Wenatchee State Park for wooded campsites near the shores of a placid mountain lake and a stable inside the park offering trail rides through the summer. BYO kayak or rent one here.

Sometimes camping in Washington means getting off the beaten track to explore the quiet corners of the state. Take a forest road in Olympic National Park to find a green haven of mossy logs and curious chipmunks, or head north around Mount Baker, the Cascades’ northernmost volcano, for boat-in campsites around Baker Lake. In winter, the snowy expanse of Artist Point near Mount Baker' offers killer views of rugged glaciers for intrepid snow campers and backcountry skiers.

There are spectacular overnights to be had in the Pacific Northwest’s national and state parks, not to mention the remote U.S. Forest Service lands that blanket this corner of the country. Stock up on s’mores and firewood (when and where rules allow) and pitch a tent under the stars and go camping in Washington for the trip of a lifetime.

Best Camping Sites in Washington (1,940)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 1,940 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Washington

7353 Reviews of 1940 Washington Campgrounds



Guide to Washington

Camping in Washington offers a mix of stunning landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore the lakes: Many campgrounds, like Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, provide access to beautiful lakes. One camper mentioned, “The only sounds that could be heard were the wrestling of leaves, the gentle lapping of waves, and the nightly screaming of elk in the distance.”
  • Hiking and biking: Trails abound in places like Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “This is a good basecamp for exploring the North Cascades.”
  • Water activities: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, one reviewer said, “We did a lot of kayaking early and later in the day and had a wonderful time.”

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One said, “The scenery is amazing with lots of river and mountain views” at Johnny Creek Campground.
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds, like Lincoln Rock State Park Campground, are noted for their cleanliness. A camper remarked, “Bathrooms are clean and showers are hot.”
  • Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA offer playgrounds and activities. One family shared, “There was a great shallow area for the kids and Dog to swim around.”

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: At Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, one camper warned, “The amount of mosquitoes were off the chart.”
  • Crowded during peak season: Some campgrounds, especially KOAs, can get packed. A visitor at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA noted, “If you were looking for a quiet experience, this place is not for you.”
  • Limited privacy in some areas: Campers at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park mentioned, “The camping itself is the standard state park experience, sites close together, not much for privacy.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places like Lake Chelan State Park Campground, which has a playground and swimming area. One parent said, “Great for families. Everyone around seemed very respectful of the quiet times.”
  • Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Alta Lake State Park Campground advised, “Bring a lot of water and finish hiking before 10:00 am in the summer!”
  • Look for spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room for kids to play. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground noted, “Most sites are relatively private.”

Tips from RVers

  • Book early for the best spots: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A reviewer at Beckler River Campground said, “Get there early or it will be hard to find a spot for an RV.”
  • Check site dimensions: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA mentioned, “The sites were so tight that we could barely fit the provided picnic table next to our trailer.”
  • Utilize amenities: Many campgrounds have electric hookups and dump stations. A visitor at Lincoln Rock State Park Campground appreciated, “Full hookups and all the opportunities and drawbacks that come with such a place.”

Camping in Washington state is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Washington offers a wide range of camping options, with 1940 campgrounds and RV parks in Washington and 194 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Washington is Kalaloch Campground - group — Olympic National Park with a 5-star rating from 103 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 194 free dispersed camping spots in Washington.

  • What are the best parks in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 465 parks in Washington that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.