Camping Washington State

Exploring the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest means choosing between beaches and deserts, forests and volcanos, lakes and prairies. Camping in Washington is a chance to greet nature up close and sleep in some of the most beautiful land in North America. The biggest challenge? Deciding where to start.

The Cascade Mountains run down the center of Washington like a spine. A handful of highways cross the crest in parallel lines, all running from the evergreens of the west side to the wide open grasslands of the east. Camping in Washington is available along every route, like the state parks that dot I-90 and North Cascades National Park that hugs Highway 20.

Take Highway 2 over Stevens Pass to find old-growth trees around each spot at Money Creek Campground, plus a view of a classic metal train trestle. Fill each day with hikes through the Cascade forest, perhaps on a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail where it passes the Stevens Pass Mountain Resort ski area. Head east of Stevens Pass to verdant Lake Wenatchee State Park for wooded campsites near the shores of a placid mountain lake and a stable inside the park offering trail rides through the summer. BYO kayak or rent one here.

Sometimes camping in Washington means getting off the beaten track to explore the quiet corners of the state. Take a forest road in Olympic National Park to find a green haven of mossy logs and curious chipmunks, or head north around Mount Baker, the Cascades’ northernmost volcano, for boat-in campsites around Baker Lake. In winter, the snowy expanse of Artist Point near Mount Baker' offers killer views of rugged glaciers for intrepid snow campers and backcountry skiers.

There are spectacular overnights to be had in the Pacific Northwest’s national and state parks, not to mention the remote U.S. Forest Service lands that blanket this corner of the country. Stock up on s’mores and firewood (when and where rules allow) and pitch a tent under the stars and go camping in Washington for the trip of a lifetime.

Best Camping Sites in Washington (1,940)

    1. Kalaloch Campground - group — Olympic National Park

    103 Reviews
    301 Photos
    1307 Saves
    Taholah, Washington

    Overview

    Kalaloch Campground is on the reservation system May 16, 2025 - September 15, 2025. Important changes to the reservation booking windows: To better serve visitors, Kalaloch Campground will be releasing campsites in a series of three staggered block releases by loop. These block releases will be 6 months in advance, two weeks in advance, and 4 days in advance. A and B loop campsites will be available for reservation 6 months in advance. Campsites A14, A16, A18, and A19 will currently not be reservable due to substantial bluff erosion. If these sites are deemed safe for camping after assessment or repairs, they will be released for online reservations within the 6 month booking window. This can be as late as spring/summer of 2025. C and D loop campsites will be available for reservations two weeks in advance. Please be aware that D Loop has experienced substantial erosion damage to the road and campsites along the ocean bluff. It is possible some popular bluff sites may be closed for the summer 2024 reservation season. E and F loop campsites will be available for reservations 4 days in advance. During the rest of the year, it is on a first-come, first-served basis. During winter (November - April), some campground loops are closed, but camping is still available. Kalaloch Campground is located on the southwest coast of the Olympic Peninsula in Olympic National Park, on a high bluff adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. Although campsites are not directly on the beach, several of them overlook the water and there is beach access within the facility. The campground is large and set amidst a peaceful, coastal forest that thrives on the region's high annual rainfall. Rain or shine, it is one of the most visited areas of the park.

    Recreation

    Near the campground and lodge, trails and steps descend about 40 ft. to the beach. There are several beaches, tide pools, scenic overlooks and trails to explore. The Kalaloch Creek Nature Trail is a mile-long walk through the forest along Kalaloch Creek, which drains into the ocean. There are accessible lookout points at Ruby Beach and Beach 4.Kalaloch is known for birding; species such as western gulls and bald eagles are frequently sighted. Visitors may even spot a puffin. Fishing and shellfish harvesting is allowed under state and park regulations.Swimming is possible, however the Kalaloch area is known for large drifting logs that can pose a threat to swimmers as they wash ashore. Swimmers should also be aware of potentially dangerous rip tides.

    Natural Features

    Kalaloch has no shortage of natural areas to explore. The Pacific shoreline just below provides ample habitat for marine life: tide pools reveal crabs and sea urchins at low tide; sea otters float on the surface of submerged kelp beds; shorebirds nest on beaches; and whales and dolphins occasionally emerge offshore. Beyond the national park's 73 miles of coastline lie three national wildlife refuges and one marine sanctuary.

    Nearby Attractions

    Olympic National Park has much to explore, including temperate rain forests, ocean shores, sub-alpine mountains, lakes and more. The lush Hoh Rain Forest, as well as the towns Quinault and Forks are within a 45-minute drive.Visiting the Hoh Rain ForestOlympic National Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $24 - $48 / night

    2. Deception Pass State Park Campground

    104 Reviews
    405 Photos
    637 Saves
    Anacortes, Washington

    Deception Pass State Park is a 4,134-acre marine and camping park with 77,000-feet of saltwater shoreline, and 33,900-feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass.

    The park has 167 tent sites, 143 utility spaces, five hiker / biker sites, two dump stations, 20 restrooms (four ADA), and ten showers (four ADA). Camping is located at three locations in the park, 18 tent sites and two utility sites are at Bowman Bay, seven tent sites and 54 utility sites at Quarry Pond, and 147 tent sites and 83 utility sites are at Cranberry Lake. Maximum site length is 60-feet (limited availability).

    In addition there are four campsites on Hope Island north shore bay, the pay station is near the east campsite, a vault toilet is in the woods 100-feet south of the campsites. The rest of the island is a natural area preserve and off limits to recreational use. Standard primitive campsite rules apply.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $40 / night

    3. Cape Disappointment State Park Campground

    85 Reviews
    242 Photos
    842 Saves
    Ilwaco, Washington

    Cape Disappointment is a 2,023-acre camping park on the Long Beach Peninsula, fronted by the Pacific Ocean and looking into the mouth of the Columbia River. The park offers yurts, cabins and unique historic vacation homes to meet travelers' diverse lodging needs. Cape Disappointment has 137 standard campsites, 50 full-hookup sites, 18 partial-hookup sites with water and electricity, five primitive hiker/biker campsites first come first served, 14 yurts, three cabins, one dump station, eight restrooms (two ADA) and 14 showers (four ADA). Maximum site length is 45 feet (limited availability). Camping is available year-round. Check-in time is 2:30 p.m. Check-out time is 1 p.m.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    4. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground — Olympic National Park

    64 Reviews
    136 Photos
    506 Saves
    Sol Duc Hot Springs, Washington

    Overview

    For up to date pool schedule information, please visit our website here. Pool access fees are $18 for adults, $12 for children ages 4-12 and $12 for seniors over 62 years old per session. Towel rentals are $5. You may bring your own towel. Lockers are available, but locks are not provided. Located along the Sol Duc River, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground is on the "edge of the backcountry in the heart of the Olympic National Park" with hot spring pools and access to many hiking trails. In the late 1800s, settlers found the hot springs and called them "Sol Duc" a mispronunciation of the Quileute word for sparkling waters. The first hotel was built at Sol Duc in 1912 but burned down in 1916. The resort was rebuilt on a more modest scale in the 1920s, and completely rebuilt in the 1980s, which reflects how the resort looks today.Recreation.gov offers reservations for 76 of the resort's 82 tent sites and for all 17 of the resort's RV campsites, all nestled under a lush green canopy of old growth forest. Reservations for the remaining 20 tent sites are made directly at the campground as walk in reservations. Advanced reservations are recommended to guarantee a campsite. Multiple hiking trails are accessible directly from the property, with the most popular taking guests to spectacular Sol Duc Falls.Book tent and RV campsites here on Recreation.gov (using the buttons on the right to view sites and availability). Visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort website to book reservations for the cabins.

    Recreation

    Reinvigorate your spirit: Hike through dense, old-growth forest to Sol Duc Falls or explore the famous Lover's Lane Loop Trail. The Olympic Peninsula is prized for its wide assortment of hiking trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Multiple treks are available, such as a 1.6 mile (2.6 km) round-trip hike to Sol Duc Falls from the resort. Watch salmon fight their way up the Sol Duc River at the Salmon Cascades Overlook during autumn. Relax: Soak in the Mineral Hot Springs located at the resort. Swim in the large swimming pool, also located at the resort.

    Natural Features

    Sol Doc offers three mineral hot spring pools heated between 98-107F (37C - 40C) and a large freshwater swimming pool that ranges from 50-85F (10C - 29C). Sessions can be purchased at the front desk of the main lodge. Mineral Water Wading Pool: approximately: 98F / 37C / 6-8' deep Large Mineral Fountain Pool: approximately 101F / 38C / 3' deep (meets accessibility standards) Medium Mineral Pool: approximately 104F / 40C / 3' deep Freshwater Pool: Varies seasonally between 50F - 85F / 10C - 30C / 3' - 10' deep (universally accessible)

    Nearby Attractions

    Guests can visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Center and Port Angeles. Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park: Experience self-guided hikes at Marymere Falls Trail, Mt. Storm King, or the Moments in Time Trail, or makes plans for a guided kayak tour, or a meal at the lakefront restaurant. Log Cabin Resort, Olympic National Park: Park visitors can rent a canoe/kayak, stand up paddle boards, and bicycles. Hurricane Ridge: From this area, enjoy hiking, food and beverage services and spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Lake Quinault Lodge: Plan to join a rain forest tour and finish the day with lakefront dining. Forks: Movie buffs will enjoy this town -- the setting of the famed Twilight series, as well as the Timber Museum. Ruby Beach: Don't miss a Pacific Coast beach walk with tide pools and sea stacks.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations must be submitted atleast 72 hours prior to arrival.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $33 - $58 / night

    5. Dash Point State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    131 Photos
    434 Saves
    Federal Way, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    6. Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    56 Reviews
    198 Photos
    619 Saves
    Longmire, Washington

    Overview

    Cougar Rock Campground, on the southwest side of Mt. Rainier National Park, is conveniently located near Paradise. Individual campsites are reservable on this page. Group campsite reservations can be made via Cougar Rock Group Campground. Paradise is the most popular destination in the park, with a lodge and visitor center, many miles of hiking trails and a commanding view of the mountain-the highest in the state and Cascade range. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park is the mountain itself, a massive glacier-clad volcano, peaking at 14,411 ft. and dominating the skyline for hundreds of miles. Visitors travel through majestic old-growth forests, past tumbling waterfalls and historic buildings to reach sub-alpine meadows, where world-famous wildflower displays bloom through July and August. Popular activities in the park include sight-seeing, hiking, rock climbing and camping.Cougar Rock campground is located at an elevation of 3,180 feet. Summers are dry and cool with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. Weather throughout the park can be variable, so visitors should come prepared.

    Recreation

    From the facility, experienced hikers and backpackers can access the well-known, strenuous and beautiful Wonderland Trail, which encircles the park for 93 miles. For those who enjoy learning more about the park's natural and cultural history, there is an on-site amphitheater where interpretive programs are held.

    Natural Features

    Cougar Rock Campground has one lookout point from which campers can view Mt. Rainier. Although it is peaceful now, the still active volcano last erupted in the mid 1800s. The campground is adjacent to the Nisqually River and is surrounded by thick forests. A short drive to Paradise in summer reveals fields of lush wildflowers.

    Nearby Attractions

    Mount Rainier National Park is about 50 miles southeast of the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    If a camper does not check-in at the ranger station by 12:00pm check-out time the day after the scheduled arrival date, their reservation will be cancelled, the camper will incur a $10.00 service fee, and forfeit the first night's camping fee.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 / night

    7. Salt Creek Recreation Area

    50 Reviews
    159 Photos
    967 Saves
    Joyce, Washington

    Salt Creek Recreation Area County Park has national park aesthetics, with County Park amenities. The 196-acre Park includes upland forests, rocky bluffs, rocky tide pools, sand beach, Salt Creek access, campsites, and panoramic views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Crescent Bay, and Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Salt Creek is a regional park that draws visitors from all areas of the northwest and is another one of Clallam County's premier parks. Many colleges and schools from all over the United States visit the Park to study and observe the marine life.

    The campground is open year round. There are 92 premium campsites, which include two camp host sites, located on a bluff above the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Approximately 73 of the 92 campsites have a view of the water.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 / night

    8. Mora Campground — Olympic National Park

    51 Reviews
    182 Photos
    739 Saves
    La Push, Washington

    Situated in a coastal forest, some sites offer views views of the Quillayute River. Mora is located two miles from Rialto Beach. Mora Campground offers 94 campsites, including one accessible site. Potable water and flush toilets are located throughout the campground. Each campsite contains a fire ring (with a fire grate) and picnic table. No electrical hookups are available at any campsites, but there is a RV dump station available (summer only) for $10 fee ($5 for Senior or Access Passes). The dump station fee is not included in the camping fee. There is no WiFi in the campground, but there is some cell service depending on the cellular provider. The nearest convenience store and restaurant is located three miles away (5 minute drive). Otherwise, the town of Forks is 13 miles (20 minute drive) and La Push is 9.5 miles (15 minute drive). A small ranger station is within walking distance of the campground and there is an outdoor amphitheater where evening ranger presentations are provided on summer weekends. Contact Forks Outside for campsite set-up service at Rialto Beach: https://forksoutside.com

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 / night

    9. Fairholme Campground — Olympic National Park

    50 Reviews
    164 Photos
    1084 Saves
    Sol Duc Hot Springs, Washington

    Overview

    The reservation season the 2025 summer season for Fairholme Campground is May 23, 2025 - September 15, 2025. Important information about booking windows: To better serve visitors, Fairholme Campground will be releasing campsites in a series of three staggered block releases by loop. These block releases will be 6 months in advance, two weeks in advance, and 4 days in advance. B loop campsites and the majority of the walk-to sites will be available for reservation 6 months in advance. C loop campsites and most of the remaining walk-to sites will be available for reservations 2 weeks in advance. A loop campsites and walk-to site 85 will be available for reservations 4 days in advance. The campground may open on a first-come, first serve basis during the spring depending on weather before the reservation season. Fairholme Campground is located next to Lake Crescent on the north side of the Olympic Peninsula in Olympic National Park. The campground sits in an old-growth forest surrounded by steep mountains. Fairholme Campground features walk-in lakefront campsites and several drive-in campsites that provide views of Lake Crescent. The campground is large and set amidst a peaceful forest that thrives on the region's high annual rainfall. Rain or shine, it is one of the most visited areas of the park.

    Recreation

    Numerous day hiking opportunities are available near the Lake Crescent area. Please follow the link to Olympic NPS page for more information - Lake Crescent Area Brochure - https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/lake-crescent-area-brochure.htm Paddling and boating opportunities are available within minutes from the campground. Lake Crescent boat launch is located adjacent to the campground. Please follow the link to learn more - Boating - https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/boating.htm Fairholme Olympic Discovery Trailhead is located about 2 miles west of Fairholme Campground on US Highway 101. Bicycling, road cycling, and hiking are available at this access point. Please follow the link to learn more - https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/olympic/recreation/bicycling/recarea/?recid=80688&actid=26

    Natural Features

    Lake Crescent, a cold, clear, glacially carved lake, owes its existence to ice. Its azure depths, which plummet to 624 feet, were gouged by huge ice sheets thousands of years ago. As the ice retreated, it left behind a steep valley that filled with the clear blue waters of Lake Crescent.

    Nearby Attractions

    Olympic National Park has much to explore, including temperate rain forests, ocean shores, sub-alpine mountains, lakes and more. The towns of Port Angeles, Forks, and Beaver are within a 30 to 60-minute drive. Fairholme Campground is along the shores of Lake Crescent, which is a big attraction for visitors to the park. Additionally, access to the Sol Duc Valley, with its popular Sol Duc Falls trail and Sol Duc Hotsprings Resort nearby. A moderate drive from the campground also provides access to the Marymere Falls and Mount Storm King trails. Fairholme Campground is a good base camp to explore Olympic National Park, as it is located between Port Angeles (Hurricane Ridge) and popular western locations such as Rialto Beach, Hoh Rainforest, and Kalaloch/Ruby Beach.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Camping reservations cancelled the day before and day of arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee If you need to cancel or modify your reservation after 12:00 am Eastern Time on the day of arrival you must contact campground staff. Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $24 / night

    10. Ohanapecosh Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    43 Reviews
    121 Photos
    473 Saves
    Paradise, Washington

    Overview

    Ohanapecosh Campground, on the southeast side of Mount Rainier National Park, is surrounded by old growth forest and crossed by an exceptionally beautiful snow-fed river. Close to Ohanapecosh are popular hikes to Silver Falls and the Grove of the Patriarchs. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park is the mountain itself, a glacier-clad volcano of immense proportions. At 14,411 ft., it dominates the skyline for hundreds of miles. Visitors travel through majestic old-growth forests, past tumbling waterfalls and historic buildings to reach sub-alpine meadows, where world-famous wildflower displays are seen in July and August. Popular activities in the park include sight-seeing, hiking, climbing and camping. Ohanapecosh campground has an elevation of 1,914 feet. Weather is dry, cool and sunny in the summer with daytime temperatures in the 60 to 80-degree range. Even though the eastern side of the park can be sunnier than other areas, weather can be variable and visitors should come prepared.

    Recreation

    The most popular campground in the park, Ohanapecosh is convenient to both the Paradise and Sunrise areas. Numerous hiking trails originate both in and nearby the facility, including the Grove of the Patriarchs trail, which leads hikers through stands of old growth forest, and several trails that lead to Silver Falls waterfall. For visitors who would like to learn more about natural and cultural history, the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center is close by as well.

    Natural Features

    Ohanapecosh is thought to be a Taidnapam Indian word for "standing on the edge" of the Ohanapecosh River. The river itself is lined with mossy boulders and drains cold, clear water down from higher elevations. Its banks are lined with thick, old growth Douglas fir trees and other evergreens. There is no view of Mt. Rainier directly from the campground, though the mountain dominates the landscape in nearby areas of the park.

    Charges & Cancellations

    __If a camper does not check-in at the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center at the campground window by 12:00pm check-out time the day after the scheduled arrival date, their reservation will be cancelled, the camper will incur a $10.00 service fee, and forfeit the first night's camping fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 1,940 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Washington

7346 Reviews of 1940 Washington Campgrounds



Guide to Washington

Camping in Washington offers a mix of stunning landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore the lakes: Many campgrounds, like Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, provide access to beautiful lakes. One camper mentioned, “The only sounds that could be heard were the wrestling of leaves, the gentle lapping of waves, and the nightly screaming of elk in the distance.”
  • Hiking and biking: Trails abound in places like Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “This is a good basecamp for exploring the North Cascades.”
  • Water activities: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, one reviewer said, “We did a lot of kayaking early and later in the day and had a wonderful time.”

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One said, “The scenery is amazing with lots of river and mountain views” at Johnny Creek Campground.
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds, like Lincoln Rock State Park Campground, are noted for their cleanliness. A camper remarked, “Bathrooms are clean and showers are hot.”
  • Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA offer playgrounds and activities. One family shared, “There was a great shallow area for the kids and Dog to swim around.”

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: At Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, one camper warned, “The amount of mosquitoes were off the chart.”
  • Crowded during peak season: Some campgrounds, especially KOAs, can get packed. A visitor at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA noted, “If you were looking for a quiet experience, this place is not for you.”
  • Limited privacy in some areas: Campers at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park mentioned, “The camping itself is the standard state park experience, sites close together, not much for privacy.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places like Lake Chelan State Park Campground, which has a playground and swimming area. One parent said, “Great for families. Everyone around seemed very respectful of the quiet times.”
  • Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Alta Lake State Park Campground advised, “Bring a lot of water and finish hiking before 10:00 am in the summer!”
  • Look for spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room for kids to play. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground noted, “Most sites are relatively private.”

Tips from RVers

  • Book early for the best spots: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A reviewer at Beckler River Campground said, “Get there early or it will be hard to find a spot for an RV.”
  • Check site dimensions: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA mentioned, “The sites were so tight that we could barely fit the provided picnic table next to our trailer.”
  • Utilize amenities: Many campgrounds have electric hookups and dump stations. A visitor at Lincoln Rock State Park Campground appreciated, “Full hookups and all the opportunities and drawbacks that come with such a place.”

Camping in Washington state is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Washington offers a wide range of camping options, with 1940 campgrounds and RV parks in Washington and 194 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Washington is Kalaloch Campground - group — Olympic National Park with a 5-star rating from 103 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 194 free dispersed camping spots in Washington.

  • What are the best parks in Washington?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 465 parks in Washington that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.