Camping near Ashford, Washington ranges from secluded forested sites to riverside locations at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs reaching 85°F and winter overnight lows dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds provide limited cell service in valleys while maintaining good connectivity on ridgelines.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Thousand Trails Paradise RV Campground features two stocked fishing ponds popular with younger campers. "My grandson loves coming here with us the two ponds they stock with fish," notes camper John O., who also mentions some overgrown vegetation that "could use some trimming."
Swimming options: The swimming facilities at Thousand Trails Paradise RV Campground provide multiple water recreation options beyond standard pools. "This campgrounds has an awesome swimming area with three pools, one 8ft deep, on 6ft, and one wading pool. Also has a large spa," reports Pamela H.
Mountain access: For early morning access to Mt. Rainier's Paradise area, Gateway Inn RV and Camping serves as a strategic basecamp. "We were planning on snowshoeing at Paradise so we stayed here for a night to get an early start without the long drive," explains Jill T., who appreciated the convenient location despite noting there were "no private at all...right off the road."
What campers like
Convenient town access: Packwood RV Park & Campground offers walkable access to multiple services. "Great quiet place. There's a lot of things around walking distance (all within a couple min walk). Also has great showers bathrooms and laundry ($1.75 per load)," writes Melita B., who lists nearby amenities including "Coffee/breakfast near by, Brewery across the campsite, Gas station, Grocery store, Gift shop, Visitors center."
Pet amenities: Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor includes specialized facilities for dogs. "Clean, friendly and helpful staff. Pet friendly, but not many attractions for children (no playground, no pool)," states Joseph I., who has stayed there "numerous times over the past few years." Another camper, Jacob P., mentions "a dog run, exterior dog bath" among the amenities.
Tent camping options: While primarily an RV destination, Sun Outdoors Gig Harbor includes tent camping areas. "This is definitely a RV resort, but there are 5 or 6 tent camping sites under some big trees which provide shade almost all day," notes Jacob P., who also mentions "Waterfront is right down the street."
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Campgrounds in the region can experience variable water pressure during peak usage periods. A camper at Cascade Peaks Family Campground reported "low water pressure" and found it to be "really bad, but there are not many sites in the area."
Noise considerations: Cascade Peaks Family Campground receives mixed reviews regarding noise levels. "We found this park to be really peaceful. The owner was truly helpful telling us how best to get to see Mt Rainier and what routes," notes Vik H., contrasting with others reporting less positive experiences.
Long-term residents: Several campgrounds include permanent or semi-permanent residents. Kimberley M. observed at Cascade Peaks that "a number of spots look like they've been set up as permanent housing. Instead of being a campsite, it looks like a small village."
Facility maintenance: Bathroom and shower conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. Aloha M. found at Cascade Peaks that "bathrooms were glorified porta-potties" and noted "trash overflowing," suggesting "some attention is needed by the staff."
Tips for camping with families
Multi-day activities: Thousand Trails Chehalis offers structured activities for children throughout the day. "Kids are helping review campgrounds we visited this summer. They loved that there was scavenger hunts for pigs in morning, tractor rides in afternoon, face painting, slushees, movie in lodge, crafts," reports Nicole R., who found "the experience was phenomenal."
Swimming facilities: Families appreciate the swimming options at various campgrounds. Kris M. "Extended our stay because there was so much to do for the kiddos" at Thousand Trails Chehalis, while another camper noted the "large swimming pool" among the clean facilities.
Mini-golf course: Thousand Trails Chehalis includes a mini-golf course that appeals to children despite its condition. Corinna B. observed "the kids didn't mind that half the mini golf course was falling down...in fact they kind of liked it that way."
Tips from RVers
Maneuvering space: Majestic Mobile Manor & RV Park can present challenges for larger rigs. "It took a long time to get set up because of the ridiculously small amount of space I had to maneuver my 33ft RV and my 8ft extended cab truck," reports Savannah H., noting the park "obviously has a lot of full timers."
Electrical reliability: Power quality can vary at certain campgrounds. One RVer at Thousand Trails Chehalis reported concerning electrical issues: "the power was really variable. Sometimes it would spike to 130 volts and then drop suddenly to 110," necessitating running on battery and generator instead.
Site selection considerations: When RV camping near Ashford, Washington, researching specific site dimensions becomes crucial. At Maple Grove RV Resort, a camper noted "RV spots were mostly level with gravel pads and grass surrounding. The mature trees are nice shade but are large so maneuvering in ways that won't impede doors or awnings can be tricky."
