Tent camping near Vaughn, Washington offers several primitive sites accessible primarily by water, hiking trails, or forest roads. The surrounding area sits in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains with elevations ranging from sea level to 2,400 feet at peaks like Green Mountain. Most dispersed sites lack potable water and have primitive or no toilet facilities, requiring campers to pack in supplies and practice proper waste disposal.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lena Lake Campground features a moderate 3.5-mile trail to reach tent sites. "A gorgeous 3.5 mile hike through a forest, plenty of places to rest or to pull over and take pictures. There is camp sites scattered along the lake as well," notes Camiren R. The area attracts weekend crowds but offers greater solitude midweek.
Island exploration: At Blake Island Marine State Park Campground, visitors can hike around 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," shares Christi R. The park requires boat access and enforces strict 10 pm quiet hours.
Wildlife viewing: Forest areas near NF-2419 offer opportunities to spot birds and small wildlife. "Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories," mentions Trevor M. The forest road has multiple unmarked pullouts with fire rings for camping.
What campers like
Island seclusion: Hope Island Marine State Park Campground provides a boat-in wilderness experience. "We kayaked here from Boston Harbor on a beautiful summer week-end. Boat-in sites are first-come, first serve so we did not arrive early enough to snatch the few that are right on the water but nonetheless the ones tucked in the forest were still beautiful," explains Emma A.
Mountain views: Tent campers appreciate the alpine scenery at Upper Lena Lake after the challenging climb. "Amazing place to visit. Be prepared for a difficult climb. Well worth the effort however!" writes Paula G. The campground remains snow-covered through most of June, with bear wires provided for food storage.
Private sites: Tent campers seeking more privacy can find secluded spots at Macie's Brook. "Jake from the Dyrt here! Macie's Brook is new to the Dyrt and has a great spot for those looking to setup their tents in an awesome spot," notes Jake C. The site allows tent camping near water with fires permitted but no drinking water or toilet facilities available.
What you should know
Access limitations: Many camping areas near Vaughn require specialized transportation. "To access take Hwy 101 to Taylor Town and drive out to Arcadia Point. There is a gravel parking lot. Kayak the short jont east to the island. Note that there isn't a spot to launch your kayak from Steamboat Island," explains a reviewer about accessing Hope Island.
Road conditions: Forest service roads can be challenging for some vehicles. NF-2419 has varying road conditions but remains passable for most passenger vehicles. "My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem. Bring in water and plenty of fire wood," suggests Trevor M.
Fire restrictions: Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead and other areas often have seasonal fire bans. "Overall I had a nice quiet stay. This spot isn't anything too awful special. There are about four pull outs to set up for the night. The bathrooms are located in the trailhead parking lot," notes Beamus R. Cell service varies greatly between camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access spots: Families with younger children might prefer Green Mountain for its accessibility. "Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads. Trails are open to hiking horseback riding and motorcycles," writes Ivy K. The campground features five tent spots with picnic tables and fire pits.
Wildlife encounters: Create memorable experiences by watching for wildlife at dawn or dusk. "We were pleased to be greeted by a couple of somewhat overly friendly mountain goats on the way, and saw fish surface for bugs on the lake as the sun went down," shares Lance R. about Lena Lake Campground.
Noise considerations: Be aware of traffic patterns when selecting campsites. "NF-2419 is a very busy road at all hours. 2 or 3 cars drive by all day and all through the night. As far as we could find there aren't many spots that are more secluded they are mostly just turn outs," warns Spencer L.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead parking: Some trailhead parking areas accommodate smaller RVs but have restrictions. "The parking lot has many signs saying no camping. On the way into the parking though, there are three spots on the side of the road. Set up camp there," advises Wyatt H. about Malaney Creek Farm.
Size limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Vaughn have tight access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. "Not suitable for anything wider than a class B. In my opinion this area is not suitable for winter camping," cautions Margaret G. about Rock Candy Mountain roads. Most forest service roads require careful navigation for any vehicle wider than a standard pickup truck.
