N
Natasha S.
Scout
ScoutLiberty Recreation Site
Free and nice
Good spot for free camping. Vault toilet was nice. Ppl left trash in fire pit which is sad. Nice stream noise. T-Mobile has full service. Only 2/7 spots taken on a Saturday
Camping near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
309 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Dispersed camping opportunities and established campgrounds surround Snoqualmie Pass in Washington's Cascade Mountains, offering a mix of developed and primitive sites for outdoor enthusiasts. The South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site provides free camping with minimal facilities, while established options like Denny Creek Campground offer amenities including drinking water, toilets, and electric hookups for RVs. Several campgrounds in the area feature a combination of tent and RV sites, with Lake Easton State Park even providing cabin accommodations approximately 15 miles east of the Pass. Mixed-use campgrounds like Kachess and Middle Fork accommodate both tent and vehicle camping with varying levels of amenities.
Campground accessibility around Snoqualmie Pass follows seasonal patterns, with most established sites operating from May through mid-September. Winter snow closure affects many forest roads, limiting dispersed camping options during colder months. Several campgrounds, including Tinkham and Denny Creek, require reservations during peak summer periods when demand exceeds capacity. Road conditions vary significantly, with some dispersed sites requiring higher clearance vehicles to navigate rough forest service roads. Keechelus Lake dispersed camping area experiences periodic closures related to water levels and endangered fish protection. A visitor noted, "Says when water gets below 2840 ft to protect the fish they close the road and no camping is permitted."
Campers report high satisfaction with sites offering creek and river access, particularly valuing the natural soundscape. Denny Creek Campground receives positive reviews for its proximity to hiking trails and natural features like Franklin Falls, though some visitors mention traffic noise from nearby Interstate 90 as a drawback. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campgrounds closer to the highway tend to be busier but offer better accessibility for travelers. "Clean, green and watery! Most of the spaces have full or partial shade. The creek runs fast in the spring but dries up as the summer progresses," noted one camper about Denny Creek. Sites farther from the interstate generally provide more solitude but may have fewer amenities, presenting travelers with a trade-off between convenience and wilderness immersion.
Best Campgrounds near Snoqualmie Pass (309)
1. Tinkham Campground
"Although the Camp Ground and facilities are great at Tinkham, my advice would be to get into your lifted Off-Roader and hit the mountain roads for this camping trip of a lifetime!"
"It is a small Forest Service campground next to the south fork of the Snoqualmie river. The site well shaded and fairly privet for the most part."
from $32 - $36 / night
Check Availability2. Kachess Campground
"Great campground just past snoqualmie pass. Large campground broken up in to 5-6 loops, offering good privacy and some large sites. Two swimming beaches and a gorgeous river run along the campground."
"Pros Close to Seattle about 1.5 hr - 2 hrs away depending on traffic.
- It has numbers of walk-in sites with great access to the lake.
- Lots of loop for kids to ride bike and explore.
- Great"
from $27 - $158 / night
Check Availability3. Denny Creek Campground
"Quick handy campground 50 miles out from Seattle just off I90 and a couple miles east of Snoqualmie pass. Classic forest camp sites set in mature 2nd growth."
"contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70256) • Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington Standard Tent to RV Sites - $20-32.00
Group Sites - $84
When you pull off HWY 90 into Snoqualmie Pass you’re going to be"
from $38 - $140 / night
Check Availability4. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
"Lovely area such beautiful surroundings."
"Very cool spot with new generation trees growing out of old generation stumps, close to river for water, very popular spot so found a lot of trash but loved the sites and hiking trails nearby"
5. Middle Fork Campground
"The river is only a five minute walk away, and we spent most of one day there. I was very surprised by how quiet it was for only being an hour outside of Seattle."
"The campground was quiet, not too crowded (Sunday - Tuesday) and so close to many trails. A quick walk to the river was a nice way to finish the day."
from $32 - $96 / night
Check Availability6. Lake Easton State Park Campground
"Nice state campground, well kept, beautiful lake if you can get one of the lakeside spots. We had site#11, and the road noise was just too too loud for me."
"Nice state campground, well kept, beautiful lake if you can get one of the lakeside spots. We had site #11, and the road noise was just too too loud for me."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability7. Salmon La Sac
"The growl of water flowing quickly downstream over huge granite boulders can be heard from most sites, with some sites nicely placed adjacent to river’s edge."
"All sites look nice but we probably get one of the nicest, just next to the river(#46)."
from $27 - $54 / night
Check Availability8. Keechelus Lake
"Great spot to land after long day of driving."
"Not the most privacy due to the open space but plenty of room to distance yourself from others."
9. Owhi Campground
"Cooper Lake is absolutely stunning and admittedly the campsites are situated pretty well for views and privacy but there are definitely Pros and Cons to this campground."
"Cooper Lake hosts non-motorized-only boats which makes for a peaceful camping experience. The lake is absolutely beautiful, as is the surrounding Alpine Wilderness overlooking it."
from $14 / night
Check Availability10. Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
"There is good system of trails, tons of picnic tables along the river, and good river access to the Green rivers. Campground is well maintained, clean bathrooms and showers available."
"It's close proximity to our house allows us to hook up the trailer after work and include a Friday night in our camping weekend!"
from $20 / night
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Drive Time
- 47 min from Seattle, WA
- 1 hr 22 min from Yakima, WA
- 1 hr 26 min from Bremerton, WA
- 1 hr 34 min from Wenatchee, WA
Recent Camping Photos near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
538 Photos of 309 Snoqualmie Pass Campgrounds
Marasha L.
Keechelus Lake
Cheryl G.
Denny Creek Campground
Lillie P.
Annette Lake
Mario E.
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
ashley E.
Tinkham Campground
Jada P.
Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites
Dene H.
Kachess Campground
Megan C.
Pete Lake Backcountry Camping
Marie L.
Owhi Campground
Dan P.
Middle Fork Campground
Laura M.
Kachess Lake Lakebed
Savannah S.
Salmon la Sac Road Dispersed Camping
Recent Reviews near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
1388 Reviews of 309 Snoqualmie Pass Campgrounds
- A
Andre L.
GuideBridge Creek Campground
Convenient camping near Colchuck
The sites were $24 each with water and pit toilets. I wouldn’t recommend drinking the water. When we emptied our water bottles we noticed it was a little brown. You are right along the creek so that is a plus. There were only around 6-8 sites here so get here early on weekends.
- AAndre L.Guide
Old Cascades Highway Dispersed
Hidden gem
This place is the best free camping in Washington. Coming from the Skykomish direction I believe it’s the turnoff to the right, right before the bridge. The old Cascades Highway road is barely travelled at all and there is rushing river right along the campsite. There is service and other pull offs along the highway if this spot is taken. There’s some large rocks that you have to maneuver around but my Subaru Forester got around it just fine.
Sally T.GuideNason Creek Campground
Quiet by the Water
Two sections. Not sure what it is called. Site 3 right on the water. Level. Stayed on a Monday night. Only a few other campers here. Trees around this pull in made it feel even cozier.
Edward R.GuideDash Point State Park Campground
Tight for big rigs
Stayed on site 38. Perfect for Van camping. Electric,water and sewer. Some sewer locations may need an extension hose. Power ran about 118 to 120 voltage. Cell service where we were at ...ATT had 3 bars and Verizon at 1 or 2 bars at best. Very dated park. But paved narrow roads and tight sites. Reserved on phone, same day of arrival. At 3:18 pm and checkin was closed. So we just went to site. Our loop restroom was very dated and needed some repairs. X1 shower in men's and women's. Men's side had tile missing but had hot water. Overall....just a very dated park. Airport noise noticeable. But spaces are somewhat spaced out with some privacy.
- MMekenzie K.Guide
Lake Sena Campground
Quaint spot in the trees!
We loved this spot! We had the entire grass area pretty much to ourselves. We explored all of the trails we could find and got in just over 9k steps one day with our toddler on his bike, all on the gravel roads and wooded paths.
The entire area is clean and well maintained, including the roads, sites, and bathrooms (warm with one shower).
There are a lot of types of sites to choose from (regular tent, primitive tent, big rig, wooded, grass, trail side, sun, and shade).
The lake is little and cute and has a large spacious dock and big rainbow trout. Unfortunately it wasn’t warm enough on our visit to get in but if it had been, I would have!
A great alternative to all of the packed RV parks in the area. We would definitely come back here.
- LLela M.
TravelerRed Bridge Campground
Small, simple, private
Me and my boyfriend had a lovely weekend camping here at site #9…this site in particular has a little trail leading to a quiet creek behind where the fire ring is at. The site also came with 2 tent pads, even though I paid regular price. Absolutely gorgeous! We highly recommend Big Four ice caves about 30 minutes from the campground. Only downside is that you are right off the highway at this campground. If you are on the outer edge of the loop (not on the river) you can see guard rails depending where you are at lol
- DDan B.Traveler
South Fork Sauk River
Great Spot
Plenty of variety! Some are right on the road, others are tucked away. For the ones that are more tucked away you definitely need a high clearance 4WD vehicle but it’s case by case. Right along the river so you had white noise all night. 0 cell service so a great way to disconnect. As we left on Saturday morning there were still plenty of other spots as we continued down the road. Will definitely be coming back.
- GGhost G.Traveler
Table Mountain A-Frame
Easy booking
Easy booking. Nice directions. Mowed and kept up nicely. Toilets was surprisingly clean as well.
Guide to Snoqualmie Pass
Camping spots near Snoqualmie Pass, Washington remain accessible through various forest service roads, though weather conditions significantly impact availability. Located at 3,022 feet elevation in the Cascade Range, this area experiences heavy snowfall averaging 400+ inches annually, creating seasonal limitations for many dispersed sites. While most established campgrounds operate May through September, several offer unique amenities including lake access and hiking trail connectivity.
What to do
Paddle on Cooper Lake: At Owhi Campground, non-motorized boats rule the waters. "Pristine waters, state fish stocked lake... A boat launch is available but motors are not allowed on the lake," notes Donald C. The restriction creates a peaceful paddling experience with mountain views.
Hike to alpine lakes: Annette Lake offers a moderate 4-mile hike to a backcountry camping area. "The 4 mile hike in was just enough of a challenge for our first time with weight in our packs. We went left where the trail splits at the lake. There are campsites both sides," reports Lillie P. Toilet facilities are limited to one vault toilet.
Fish for trout: Fishing opportunities abound in the area's lakes and rivers. At Cooper Lake, Brian B. confirms "Fishing is excellent" while stocking programs maintain healthy populations in several nearby lakes. Morning and evening hours typically yield better results.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers at Salmon La Sac appreciate the campground layout. "Old growth forests abound, camp sites were spacious and private. Fishing is available from two rivers the Cooper and the Cle-Elum both within walking distance from the site," writes Donald C. The campground features both wooded sites and riverside locations.
Convenient trail access: Tinkham Campground sits near multiple hiking trails. "This campground is close to Seattle but feels like your hundreds of miles away. Easy to get to. Well maintained and you can reserve online. Beautiful views of the cascades and right on the river!" explains Zach B. Sites with river access rate highest among reviewers.
Natural soundscapes: Many campers value the sound of moving water. "We had a beautiful experience at this campground. At the sound of the river rushing behind us the entire time. Woke up to a beautiful sunrise. Easy to get to, clean, bathrooms are clean, and nice fire pits," shares Brandy D. about her Tinkham Campground stay.
What you should know
Road quality varies significantly: Access to South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site requires careful driving. "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance," warns Parker C. Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles.
Cell reception exists in unexpected places: For remote workers, some dispersed sites offer surprising connectivity. "I travel and work remotely so I'm always looking for free places that have cell reception and this place hits the jackpot... I have Verizon and have 2-3 bars of service," reports Austin R. about South Fork Snoqualmie River sites.
Keechelus Lake closures: Water level management affects camping availability. Joanna W. reports: "Says when water gets below 2840 ft to protect the fish they close the road and no camping is permitted." Call ranger stations for current status before planning trips here.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kachess Campground provides amenities for children. "We had a lot of fun riding our bikes throughout the campground. The views from out site were awesome," Christopher F. mentions. The shoreline offers swimming opportunities during summer months.
Simpler alternatives: For families wanting less rugged experiences, Trevor M. suggests Lake Easton State Park: "Small playground with a basketball court by the bathrooms. Lovely river walk trail follows the Yakima River. Activities for children such as the Jr. Ranger program."
Swimming holes: Multiple campgrounds feature river access points with natural swimming areas. "The campground offers a boat launch... Cooper Lake hosts non-motorized-only boats which makes for a peaceful camping experience," notes Megan C. about Owhi Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Denny Creek Campground offers some electrical connections for smaller RVs. "Big, relatively close to Seattle, great access point for local trails, close enough in to local towns for quick runs to the store if you need to," explains Stephanie S. about nearby campgrounds. Most sites accommodate vehicles under 30 feet.
Highway noise consideration: Interstate proximity affects some campgrounds. "The sites and location are amazing, truly gorgeous views of the mountains nestled into the trees. However, if you're in a tent you'll hear the I-90 traffic...bring ear plugs," advises Elliott B. regarding Denny Creek.
Early arrival essential: Popular RV sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Show up early to get a good spot because things get crowded fast. Plenty of space for setting up tents and beautiful views along the river, but my preference is for fewer people," warns Brit B. about campgrounds near Snoqualmie Pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go RV camping near Snoqualmie Pass?
Can I go RV camping near Snoqualmie Pass?
Yes, RV camping is available near Snoqualmie Pass at several campgrounds. The Dalles Campground is located right off the highway, making it easily accessible for RVs, though be aware that Verizon service is limited in the area. Silver Springs Campground is another excellent option with well-distributed spaces and beautiful riverside locations. Sites numbered 2-10 are particularly desirable as they're closest to the river. Tinkham Campground is also big-rig friendly with reservable sites. Most developed campgrounds in the area can accommodate smaller to medium-sized RVs, but always check specific site dimensions when making reservations, especially for larger rigs.
Where can I find campgrounds near Snoqualmie Pass?
Where can I find campgrounds near Snoqualmie Pass?
Several excellent campgrounds are located near Snoqualmie Pass. Denny Creek Campground is just 50 miles from Seattle and a couple miles east of the pass, offering classic forest sites in mature second-growth. Kachess Campground is another great option just past the pass, featuring five to six loops that provide good privacy and some large sites, plus two swimming beaches and a scenic river. For those seeking alternatives, consider Tinkham Campground with drive-in access and toilet facilities, or explore dispersed camping along the South Fork Snoqualmie River. The area provides access to numerous hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.
What amenities are available at Denny Creek campground near Snoqualmie Pass?
What amenities are available at Denny Creek campground near Snoqualmie Pass?
Denny Creek Campground offers both standard tent and RV sites ranging from $20-32, plus group sites for $84. Located in the Snoqualmie National Forest just off I-90, this campground provides toilet facilities and access to several hiking trails, including paths along Denny Creek to Franklin Falls or up into the Cascades. The campground features mature second-growth forest setting that creates a classic outdoor experience. While there is some freeway noise due to its proximity to I-90, the convenience of being just 50 miles from Seattle makes it a popular destination. The campground doesn't offer hookups or showers, so campers should come prepared. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months when the campground fills quickly.
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