9 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Campgrounds surrounding Acme, Washington provide options for a variety of camping styles across northwestern Washington state. The area features established campgrounds like Larrabee State Park and Deception Pass State Park alongside more primitive sites such as Pine and Cedar Lakes. Accommodation types range from developed RV sites with full hookups to rustic tent-only areas accessible by hiking trails. Many campgrounds in the Acme region offer cabin rentals, including Bay View State Park, Burlington-Anacortes KOA, and Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, creating alternatives for those seeking shelter-based camping experiences.
Camping availability remains consistent year-round at most established sites near Acme, though weather conditions significantly impact comfort levels during winter months. Most state parks maintain services throughout all seasons, with several private campgrounds like Burlington-Anacortes KOA and Oostema Farmstead also operating year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for sites with amenities like showers, electric hookups, and sewage disposal. Primitive camping areas typically require hiking to reach sites, with Pine and Cedar Lakes accessible only by trail. "This is a great campsite. It's at the end of a short but steep hike. There are a few campsites along the lakes, but the best one is on the island at Pine lake. There is a boardwalk that gets you there," noted one visitor about the Pine and Cedar Lakes primitive camping area.
Waterfront access represents a significant feature in many campgrounds surrounding Acme. Larrabee State Park and Birch Bay State Park provide saltwater shoreline camping, while inland lakes like Pine Lake and Cedar Lake offer more secluded water-adjacent sites. Campers report varying levels of privacy between locations, with primitive sites generally offering greater seclusion than developed campgrounds. "It's a high hike. Straight up. There are two sites. One north and one south of the lake. A few good level sites and some built in benches. No fires permitted and a few fishing spots if you are daring," explained one camper regarding Cedar Lake. Facilities range from basic to comprehensive, with KOAs and state parks typically offering the most amenities including showers, flush toilets, and dump stations, while primitive sites provide minimal or no facilities, requiring visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.
"Larrabee State Park is a publicly owned recreation area located on Samish Bay, six miles (10 km) south of the city of Bellingham, Washington."
"There is a train very close to the campground! It didn't bother us, but some might find that useful. We stayed 1 night here. It was pretty nice."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $12 - $70 / night
"Some trails walking distance from the campsite to gorgeous beaches while others we drove to get to other trails and scenic lookouts. I loved every minute staying there."
"This is one of the most popular locations in Washington State and easy to see why. Both fresh and salt water experiences are within a few steps away with amazing sunsets and breathtaking views."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $144 / night
"Beach walks and a county path nearby. There is also a marine center with small aquarium nearby."
"Our spot backed up to beautiful trees and was nicely situated to not feel crowded."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $72 / night
"There is a creek that goes by the campground and it makes it for a nice walk with dogs or without dogs :) There are a lot of trees there, which provide shade for part of the day, which is great."
"Large sites are surrounded by woods and farmland. This is a great weekend getaway."
"Great trails in and near this park we enjoy walking the dogs and riding bikes and watching birds if you like any of these activities this is the place and fairly quiet as well."
"The water hookups were shut off during the time, but we were able to fill up our water tank near the entrance without any trouble."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $327 / night
"They do have "proximity" sites next to the restrooms. The roads and sites are gravel, but seem to be maintained. There are a few hills that might be a problem for larger Class A's with a trailer."
"I live full-time in my RV and travel between Thousand Trails properties regularly."
"Lynden KOA was the perfect nearby campground. Tent sites in the back are rather dusty (no grass)… but then again we’re camping so who cares. Grassy sites are around the pond and book up quickly."
"This part of Washington is beautiful. We have been a few times, but never hiked or camped. The weather was perfect for us, so much sunshine and warm weather!"
from $60 - $120 / night
"Close to Bellingham, no bay views but nice scenery, little lake, and dense forest nonetheless. Good steep trails nearby and charming boardwalks."
"Steep but short hike, but hey, it's close to town! A 15 minute drive from downtown Bellingham and you get yourself a secluded, quiet lake."
"Do have to bring tote up to bo w location. Great showers."
"Benefits of this site are the facilities and the 15 minute drive to the ferry terminal. Super conveneient. Only open May-Oct!"
"This was our first trip in a new trailer, and the park is close to home for us, so perfect for our maiden voyage. Shaded sites, some hookup (water/electric), but most unserviced."
"Beautiful campground located right next to the bay awesome walking distance from our site to the bay and not too noisy either! Would definitely stay again perfect for small children as well!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $12 - $113 / night
GuideThis is just beyond the North Cascades NP visitor center. We were camped in loop C, site 103 (a pull thru). What a beautiful location this was! Quiet and peaceful, surrounded by such beautiful scenery. We really apppreciated how dog friendly NOCA is. A rarity for national parks, and our good girl BARK Ranger goldens appreciated being able to participate in our walks.
RangerThis campground is tucked away just off of the North Cascades Highway and is a great west of the national park campground. Almost all its spots are right on the water, just up a berm. But it is small. Maybe 8 ish spots? So its not likely to be available during high season. I was there mid week in mid October and it was still nearly full.
GuideI was there in the offseason. I don't know if it's free all the time. It was very hard to get a spot, but what a wonderful area with the little peninsulas, the picnic tables, and the sites right by the river. It's fantastic.
GuideThis historical campground has a great deal of history. It is one of the few forts that actually has 2 guns still in place. The campground is showing it's age but still a great place to be. Some of the sites are not private, others are slightly more private. The water flow can be a bit temperamental. There are lots of trails, a beach, bunkers to explore and a museum. During the summer there are kayak rentals, a little store and even paragliding. Fun place for all ages.
TravelerWe stay at bay view when ever we are in the area. Staff is great & the views are beautiful.
GuideWhat a wonderful spot for boating and hiking. There are several trail options and the boat put in (electric or paddle only) is steps away. The loop is small and sites and the sites are fairly close together, but it is worth it for the access. If you can get an outer loop site you will have a lake view out your door. The first few sites around the loop has some sun this time of year and the rest are mostly shade, but that is the northwest! Note that mice are pesty here - I had 3 make themselves at home in my van so be careful if you have any access holes (I will be fixing mine from where the heater was installed) or if you plan to leave the doors open. Pit toilets are really clean, and there is water, garbage and recycling.
When I made my reservation all the sites were taken, but the first night there were only 3 of us in the loop. Last night is was nearly full, but thankfully the sites right next to me were both open. It was pretty smoky from the fires and you could hear everything fellow campers were up to, so if it was packed and there were any loud groups it would be pretty miserable.
ScoutBeautiful spot on Orcas Island. Do be aware there is a ferry ride and you need a reservation and it can be expensive depending on the size of your rig. Water and 30 amp electric. Clean bathrooms and showers. Cute café and the best sunset on the island.
ScoutMy review is from my own experience but there are numerous other reviews that express my same sentiments. I was there 7 years and only had infractions during one month. (all from the same ranger) and one speeding infraction.
Port Susan Camping Resort has been a bad experience for me and presently turned to bitter. I sold my lot but the check got lost in the mail. I asked the sales agent to replace the check and I have waited approximately 35 days! I finally asked the board to intervene. This is bad business. This is a sample of the treatment or abuse I was given at Port Susan from the sales office. Replacing a check is easy and the money is not even drawn on Port Susan, it comes from the buyer. What would happen if I were paid but the buyer could not access the lot or wasn't given a gate pass or if the sales had to wait for their commission for 35 days after the sale? I was treated so unfairly! They showed me lots for sale with BLACK MOLD.I would think I am being targeted once again but there are many complaints that have been filed about poor management, unfair fines and being targeted if you speak up. The only recourse you have is to go to Tribal court since Port Susan Camping resort is Tribal owned. If you ask me this is a conflict of interest? Bottom line, absolute power leads to absolute corruption. Port Susan is like living under communist rule: The board took a vote to install 50 amp service, the members voted against it because most trailers use 30 amp. The 50 amp was installed any way and members have to pay for it. I spoke up on Campers Chat, but PSCC has the right to determine what will be allowed to be viewed. Freedom of Speech, NOT sat Port Susan. Members have to be careful who they speak to, if they speak against unfair fines to one of"them" they will be targeted. I have been targeted by one ranger who gave me 1200.00 worth of fines in one month. There used to be one ranger who patrolled lots 24 hours a day now there are 2 or 3. You are under constant survelience and fined for violations. Port Susan changes the rules constantly. One example, the road going downhill to the laundra mat and mailbox changed the speed limit to 5 miles per hour. Try going down a hill at 5 miles per hour. I was fined 200.00 at 5:00 am. This was thrown out because no one could do this but later going down hill to the front gate is a radar controlled system. I accidentally was going 17 mph in a 15 mph and was fined 400.00 for going over the speed limit for a 2nd infraction! no where in this country has fines like this but PSCC has unlimited power and no jusidiction. If you take it Tribal Court,( they lease the land to Port Susan you can be held liable to pay the attorney fees against Port Susan. There is less than 30 years on the lease so your membership is a poor investment. Not to mention that they have water pipe problems and boil water warnings posted periodically. If they decide to change all the water pipes the members will pay. I had rats get into my trucks. One was towed to Toyota and they found a rat. The rats got into the cab. I replaced this truck with a brand new Honda and during an oil change was notified that rat tracks were found all over my distributor cover and it was only at my site for 2 weeks!!! Many members tell the truth once they leave and abuse and mistreatment is the norm. THIS IS A FEAR BASED COMMUNITY Good luck with your purchase
GuideNice campground, roads aren’t bad and not too busy in October. We stayed in the loop with spots 14-19 and could hear some road traffic.
North of Bellingham and east of Interstate 5, camping opportunities near Acme, Washington offer secluded forest sites within driving distance of both mountain trails and saltwater shores. The area sits between the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and the Puget Sound, with elevations ranging from sea level to several hundred feet in the foothills. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though North Cascades Highway closures can limit eastern access during winter months.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Pine and Cedar Lakes Primitive Camping provides access to two small lakes after a challenging uphill trek. "It's a high hike. Straight up. There are two sites. One north and one south of the lake. A few good level sites and some built in benches. No fires permitted and a few fishing spots if you are daring," explains a camper about Cedar Lake.
Beachcombing for marine life: Birch Bay State Park Campground offers extensive shoreline exploration opportunities. "You can walk along the beach for what seems like forever, up and around Birch Bay, but some of it is probably private property so be careful where you college clams and crabs," notes one visitor. The park also features designated swimming areas where "the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos."
Train watching: Several campers mention the railroad tracks running through Larrabee State Park Campground. "Love this location. Right on the water. Right in the mountains. Can't ask for better sites. They have running water, bathrooms, etc. Close to Beautiful Bellingham and amazing hikes. There is however, a train that runs right by the campground and it is loud!" shares one reviewer.
Secluded island camping: Among the best places to camp near Acme are sites requiring short hikes. "There are a few campsites along the lakes, but the best one is on the island at Pine lake. There is a boardwalk that gets you there," notes a visitor about the primitive camping experience.
Farm-to-table camping: Oostema Farmstead offers a unique agricultural camping experience. "Lisa gave us a tour and let our children pet/feed the cows, goat, and pig. The kids loved it!! We like that there isn't rows of RVs and Trailers stacked on top of each other, you have space to wonder and spread out," writes one camper.
Waterfront activities: Deception Pass State Park Campground provides multiple water-based recreation options. "We ended a two week long sea kayaking expedition here in the fall. It's a large park with a lot of room. We even spent a few hours playing in the current that rips through Deception Pass," reports a camper.
Noise considerations: Train traffic affects several campgrounds in the region. "Lovely area and views. We visited in the winter, so it was quiet. Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs," notes one Larrabee State Park visitor.
Seasonal changes: Winter camping near Acme presents different challenges and experiences. "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay," explains a camper.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Bay View State Park Campground receives praise for cleanliness. "Bathrooms and showers were spotless," notes a recent visitor. In contrast, primitive sites like Pine and Cedar Lakes have no facilities, requiring visitors to pack out all waste.
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "With young children we loved that Larrabee had a playground area and easy access to the beach. We also took advantage of the hiking trails nearby," shares one parent.
Consider recreation amenities: Burlington-Anacortes KOA offers multiple family-friendly features. "Beautiful clean well kept. Gated and safe. Pancake breakfast and ice cream socials on the weekend. Large pull through sites. Cabins and a teepee," reports a camper. The campground also features a pool, which families appreciate.
Check swimming options: Shallow water areas provide safer swimming for children. "Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos," notes a Deception Pass visitor. This allows families with younger children to enjoy water activities with less concern.
Watch for leveling challenges: Some sites require significant adjustment. "The site was extremely unlevel front to back so much so my rear stabilizers barely touched the ground," warns an RVer about Larrabee State Park. "When I went to leave and dump our trailer at our site I had to pull the trailer forward so the waste would flow because the site is so unlevel."
Consider site privacy: Many RV campers note proximity issues. "This is a beautiful place and beach, worth a day trip. The campground is so compact with no privacy though. I can see RVers liking it, but this tent camper can't handle the amount of feeling like you are camping on top of your neighbors," shares a visitor to Birch Bay.
Note Wi-Fi availability: Thousand Trails Mount Vernon receives mixed reviews for connectivity. "If you need wifi to plan your next days this location is not for you. Wifi available at the lodge only and very slow," reports one RVer, highlighting the importance of having alternate connectivity options when planning routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Acme camping grounds?
Camping options near Acme offer varying amenities to suit different preferences. Deception Pass State Park Campground provides both freshwater and saltwater access, breathtaking views, and numerous recreational activities. For those seeking more comforts, Mt. Baker Lodging offers cabins with modern amenities including fireplaces, WiFi, and even EV chargers. Many campgrounds in the area feature clean pit toilets, trash/recycling services, and boat launches, though water availability varies by location. RV campers will find Chom's RV Campground conveniently located near State Route 20 with easy access to nearby attractions.
Do I need reservations for camping in Acme?
Reservations are highly recommended for most campgrounds near Acme, especially during peak season (late spring through early fall). Moran State Park on Orcas Island is particularly popular for its lakeside sites and requires advance booking. However, some primitive options like Point Doughty offer non-reservable sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. For the best camping experience, secure your spot several months in advance for summer weekends, or consider mid-week stays when competition for sites is less intense.
Where are the best Acme camping spots located?
The best camping near Acme, Washington is found throughout the scenic northern Cascades region. Swift Creek Campground offers excellent access to northern Cascade trails with beautiful scenery. For those seeking water activities, Gorge Lake Campground provides a quiet spot on Gorge Lake with boat launch access. The Acme area is strategically positioned to explore Mount Baker, the San Juan Islands, and North Cascades National Park, making it an ideal base for outdoor adventures throughout northwestern Washington.
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