Campsites near Ashford, Washington sit between 1,500-2,500 feet elevation in the foothills of Mount Rainier, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak season. Winter camping requires preparation for snow and temperatures that can drop into the 20s. The area experiences significant seasonal visitation fluctuations with most campgrounds reaching capacity during July-August weekends.
What to do
Hike from your campsite: Iron Creek Campground offers direct access to river exploration and nearby forest trails. "There is a nice, short loop trail leading to the river," notes camper Tyler D., adding that the campground features "lots of sites...spaced apart from each other allowing for plenty of privacy."
Lake activities: Alder Lake Park provides multiple water recreation options about 30 minutes from Ashford. "The water is that beautiful blue/green glacier water color. The campground we stayed at did not have designated fire rings, but did have a metal BBQ that we used for the kids to make s'mores on," reports Nicole P. The lake has designated swimming areas and boat launch facilities.
Wildlife viewing: Cowlitz Falls Campground offers excellent wildlife watching opportunities in a managed forest setting. "Very spacious sites in the forest. Not much light and forest kept camp smoke nearby. Bathrooms clean. Paid shower. Some sites near playground in full sun. Nice nature trail. Boat launch near day use area," according to Kim G., making it suitable for combining outdoor activities.
Winter snowshoeing: Yurt Snowshoe provides a challenging backcountry yurt camping experience near Ashford, Washington during winter months. "With several feet of deep snow, this 12.5 mile snow hike was no joke. Took us 8 hours to get to the yurt. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of daylight to get up there," advises Ethan H. The yurt features a warm fireplace, sleeping accommodations and nearby vault toilet.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Ike Kinswa State Park Campground offers secluded camping spaces. "The sites are large, shaded and quiet. Many are pull through. If you want a water view you will find full hook up does in loop A, or no hook up sites on loop C," notes Lisa K., highlighting the campground's thoughtful layout.
Clean facilities: Mounthaven Resort maintains exceptionally clean restrooms and shower facilities. "It is beautiful in the woods. The bathhouse is fine with two small bathrooms. There is one washer and one dryer at $5 per load. Ouch," explains Andrew, noting the campground's natural setting despite some facility limitations.
Playground access: Cowlitz Falls Campground provides family-friendly recreation options. "With small kids in our group, it was convenient to have the path to the playground right between sites A6 and A8," shares Allyson U., adding "Staff was wonderfully friendly and helpful, and the grounds have some fun amenities like the playground and ball field."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Ashford, Washington offers a unique overnight option with some creature comforts. "Warm fire place and plenty of furniture or ground space for sleeping arrangements. You can reserve the yurt to have it all to yourself," explains Ethan H. regarding the Yurt Snowshoe experience, which represents one of the area's specialized glamping options.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-September), campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. Reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends at popular sites like Elkamp Eastcreek. "The staff were very accommodating when we wanted to stay an extra night last minute because we liked it so much! Only an hour from Mt. Rainier NP," reports Sarah Claire B.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "I have Verizon and was able to call and text my husband and occasionally use messenger. I had one or two bars. Probably would have been better with a cell booster," explains Christina F. about her experience at Mossyrock Park. Similarly, Andrew from Mounthaven Resort notes, "WIFI works well; cell service not so much (Verizon)."
Water conditions: Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach quality. "Usually when water is at normal level the beach is all sand and water is clean and clear. Some camping sites have a steep walkway to them," reports Natashinka C. about Alder Lake Park, highlighting how conditions can change throughout the season.
Limited supplies: Most campgrounds have minimal on-site provisions. "There is no real store nearby so have what you need before you get here," advises Andrew from Mounthaven Resort. Some campgrounds sell firewood and ice, but comprehensive groceries require driving to nearby towns.
Tips for camping with families
Choose playground-adjacent sites: Iron Creek Campground offers spacious sites that work well for families with children. "The camp sites were large spacious and private. I would highly recommend this campground!" notes Josh W., highlighting the combination of space and natural setting that appeals to families.
Look for swimming areas: Alder Lake Park provides designated swimming areas ideal for children. "There is a large swimming area, hiking trails, playgrounds, boating, fishing just to name a few," explains Rick S., noting the park's versatility for family activities.
Consider cabin options: Multiple campgrounds offer cabin accommodations as alternatives to tent camping for families. "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," mentions William B. about Elkamp Eastcreek, which provides more weather-protected sleeping options.
Pack for variable weather: Even summer nights can get cold at higher elevations near Ashford. Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night occur regularly in this region, requiring appropriate clothing layers and sleeping gear for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Camp Lakeview has specific RV accommodation limitations. "Limited fire pits and spots are first come first serve and field is not regularly monitored," reports Tyler B., highlighting the need to research exact site specifications before arrival.
Hookup availability varies: While some campgrounds offer full hookups, many have only partial connections. "Partial hookup site... roads coming in are narrow. Staff is very friendly and beautiful lake access with swimming and fishing docks," notes Curtis B. about Camp Lakeview, emphasizing the trade-offs between amenities and location.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dump stations. "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," shares William B. about Elkamp Eastcreek.
Tree clearance challenges: Many campgrounds have significant tree coverage that may impact larger RVs. "The campground is heavily wooded which is really nice for shade, though it can make it tricky to get into a spot if you have slide outs," explains Christina F. about Ike Kinswa State Park, highlighting a common consideration for RVers in forested campgrounds.
