Tent camping near Ashford, Washington offers access to primitive backcountry sites within 15-20 miles of Mount Rainier National Park's entrances. Summer temperatures at higher elevation campgrounds can drop to the 40s overnight, even in July, requiring proper cold-weather gear. Most dispersed sites feature natural settings without amenities, while established campgrounds provide bear boxes and tent platforms.
What to do
River access for cooling off: Paradise Pines offers a private entrance to the river that campers describe as "peaceful and private." One camper noted, "There is also a cool entrance to the river. Which was so peaceful and private! It was wonderful!"
High-elevation hiking: At Mowich Lake Campground, campers can access mountain trails directly from their sites. A visitor mentioned, "We hiked Spray Fall which was gorgeous. Mowich Lake is close by and the water is so clear and beautiful! Definitely nice to have the lake close by to jump in on a hot day!"
View wildlife: Morning deer sightings are common at some campsites. According to a Paradise Pines review, "The site was clean, and the wildlife (deer) that wandered through every morning was delightful."
Search for Mt. Rainier views: While driving NF-52 road, look for spots with mountain visibility. A camper shared, "We found an awesome walk in spot a little bit earlier on on the forest road before these actual coordinates. While we didn't have the comfota of our car parked right next to us, we had spectacular views of Mt. Rainier, easy access down to the river, and a fire pit."
What campers like
Proximity to park entrances: White River Dispersed Camping sits just outside Mount Rainier National Park. Campers value this location, with one noting it's "about 10-15 minutes away from the Sunrise Entrance" and another calling it "a great place to stay if you can't get a spot at White River / Ohanapecosh."
Private camping experiences: Many campers seek secluded sites away from crowds. At Paradise Pines, a visitor observed, "We loved the quiet nature of the site. Even though there's a few cabins, it felt really private and peaceful."
Multiple tent pads: Larger groups appreciate sites with additional tent spaces. As one Paradise Pines visitor reported, "We loved having 2 tent pads for our big group."
Waterfall proximity: Eagles Roost Camp provides access to a nearby waterfall for water collection and cooling off. A camper explained, "Shortly after the campsite is where we got our water - an incredible waterfall. Also great for a bracing dip."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some Forest Service roads require high-clearance vehicles. At White River Dispersed Camping, campers warn the road is "a bit of a challenging road, so low clearance vehicles wouldn't be treated well" and "4x4 / high clearance vehicles recommended - saw some subarus trying to navigate into a cleared area and it was pretty scrape-y."
Toilet availability is inconsistent: While some established sites maintain facilities, others have none. At NF-52 Dispersed Camping, campers note "Forest Service has installed 6 temporary toilets for the third year in a row to assist with human waste issues."
Bugs can be problematic: Insect activity varies by location and season. One camper at NF-52 warned, "there can be a lot of bugs," while another encountered "ants ALL OVER! Maybe the big trash pile but they seemed bigger (Carpenter?)."
Site quality varies widely: Not all dispersed sites meet expectations. One NF-52 camper reported, "I don't know where on 52 people are finding sites with views, but we drove the entire length of it and didn't see one spot worth stopping at. I suppose if you don't mind sleeping five feet from a busy paved road, fine."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established campgrounds: Cougar Rock Group Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor described, "Sites have tables, bear boxes and fire pits. Restrooms have flush toilets and sinks for dishes."
Arrive early for best sites: Family-appropriate spots fill quickly, especially on summer weekends. A Paradise Pines visitor with children advised, "Our family loves staying in private camp sites. With little kids you really can't beat it!"
Water access considerations: Rivers provide recreation but require supervision. At White River Dispersed Camping, a camper warned, "Be careful of getting too close to the river because it looks like the earth can erode and break away into the river (why the trees collapse)."
Pack cold weather gear: Even summer nights can get cold at higher elevations. One Mowich Lake camper warned, "You cannot build a fire here so it does get really cold at night time because there are glaciers in the park."
Tips from RVers
Dispersed sites with RV access: NF-52 accommodates some RVs, but site quality varies. According to one camper, "The one spot that looked ok had a haul trailer and was strewn with laundry and garbage."
Parking limitations: Most backcountry sites require parking away from camp areas. A Mowich Lake visitor noted, "You will have to carry your gear up you cannot park next to your site."
Site leveling challenges: Finding flat spots for larger vehicles can be difficult. At White River Dispersed Camping, "Each site is pretty small…maybe enough for 2-3 tents," suggesting limited space for larger vehicles.
Seasonal road closures: Forest Service roads may close during winter months. A Mowich Lake visitor advised, "Get gas before you go up, the town has signs saying last chance for gas and make sure you have everything you need including water because you will be all by yourself."
