Established Camping
Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
About
National Park Service
The campground at Mowich Lake is the smallest of the four camping areas within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park. The road is unpaved after the first three miles and may be rough. Also, this is a walk-in campground only and fires are not allowed. With all that said, however, it just may be the most pristine and beautiful place to pitch a tent you’ll ever come across, with one of the most magnificent views of the mountain that you’ll find anywhere.
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
ScoutAmazing View!
The view was nice and same goes for everyone there. The campground was pretty rough, so make sure to bring a sleeping mattress or something soft to lay on.
GuideGreat spot inside the park
I loved this spot! The lake is absolutely beautiful and there are so many different trails branching off of it. 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. Most of the people there were backpackers and everyone was very quiet and respectful of the fact that it was a small campground with no privacy and close proximity to everyone else. Each spot had a raised platform for your tent, bear box, and picnic table. Bathroom was basic but seemed decently clean. It definitely gets cold up there even in mid August so pack warm! My only complaint was the gravel road to get up there, it’s like 15 miles long and it’s rough. Not the worst road I’ve ever been on but it wasn’t fun and it felt like you had to drive it forever. Make sure you have a National park pass for your car but besides there are the first come first serve spots with no permit or fee. We did the Tolmie Peak trail and the trailhead is straight off the campground which is super nice. Would definitely go back here and try to spend more time exploring the surrounding area
- (4) View All
TravelerThe view is worth it
Okay so there are a few things to know before making the trek here:
You don’t need a permit or anything to stay but you DO have to pay $30 to park your car on the premises and the pay station is in the middle of the road on your way in. So DONT pass it like we did.
Some sites are reserved for back country campers but it isn’t super obvious. It was hard for us to get a site, so plan to arrive on the earlier side.
Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be.
But all in all this location was so reclusive and relaxing. I’ve never felt so close to nature and would absolutely recommend it in the future.
Location
Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park is located in Washington
Coordinates
46.93271104 N
121.86292618 W