Best Campgrounds near Bow, WA

Camping areas near Bow, Washington span from established state parks to private RV resorts, with several options offering cabin accommodations. Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, located directly in Bow, provides year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Nearby Bay View State Park Campground in Mount Vernon features waterfront access with similar accommodation types, while Deception Pass State Park Campground, approximately 20 miles west, represents one of the region's most popular destinations with diverse camping options including cabins, tent sites, and RV spaces.

Many campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though seasonal considerations affect amenities and accessibility. "Creek in the backyard, nice and secluded. Great showers," notes one visitor about Friday Creek Campground, which operates from May through November. Most established campgrounds provide water and electrical hookups, with several offering full sewer connections for RVs. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. The region experiences typical Pacific Northwest weather patterns with mild, wet winters and pleasant summers, making late spring through early fall the most comfortable camping season. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage near larger towns like Burlington and Mount Vernon.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Bow area. Several campgrounds provide direct water access, including Bay View State Park along Padilla Bay and Washington Park Campground in Anacortes with its saltwater shoreline. According to one camper, Deception Pass State Park offers "both fresh and salt water experiences within a few steps away with amazing sunsets and breathtaking views." Visitors frequently mention the region's scenic beauty, with opportunities for hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing. While some campgrounds like Deception Pass can become crowded during peak season, others provide more secluded experiences. Noise levels vary by location, with some reviewers noting highway sounds at certain campgrounds while others highlight the peaceful natural settings found throughout the area.

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Best Camping Sites Near Bow, Washington (296)

    1. Deception Pass State Park Campground

    109 Reviews
    Anacortes, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 675-2417

    $12 - $40 / night

    "Some trails walking distance from the campsite to gorgeous beaches while others we drove to get to other trails and scenic lookouts. I loved every minute staying there."

    "This is one of the most popular locations in Washington State and easy to see why. Both fresh and salt water experiences are within a few steps away with amazing sunsets and breathtaking views."

    2. Larrabee State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Bellingham, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 676-2093

    "Larrabee State Park is a publicly owned recreation area located on Samish Bay, six miles (10 km) south of the city of Bellingham, Washington."

    "There is a train very close to the campground! It didn't bother us, but some might find that useful. We stayed 1 night here. It was pretty nice."

    3. Bay View State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Anacortes, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 757-0227

    $12 - $75 / night

    "Our spot backed up to beautiful trees and was nicely situated to not feel crowded."

    "Beach walks and a county path nearby. There is also a marine center with small aquarium nearby."

    4. Burlington-Anacortes KOA

    10 Reviews
    Bow, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 724-5511

    "There is a creek that goes by the campground and it makes it for a nice walk with dogs or without dogs :) There are a lot of trees there, which provide shade for part of the day, which is great."

    "Large sites are surrounded by woods and farmland. This is a great weekend getaway."

    5. Washington Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Anacortes, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 293-1918

    $30 - $37 / night

    "Washington Park is a nice clean park with 3 loops. 1 loop for non hookups. Most of these sites are on the outside of the campground and provide good privacy."

    "Great medium size campground surrounded by saltwater, short trails, and grassy picnic areas. Great views of islands and sunsets. Boat launch with large paid parking area."

    6. Thousand Trails La Conner

    11 Reviews
    La Conner, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Bathrooms are kept clean, mini golf is fun, and the walks to “Lone Tree” at sunset are amazing. The hosts are ALWAYS so friendly!"

    "Beautiful location and campground but confusing to find your way around inside"

    7. Thousand Trails Mount Vernon

    5 Reviews
    Bow, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "They do have "proximity" sites next to the restrooms. The roads and sites are gravel, but seem to be maintained. There are a few hills that might be a problem for larger Class A's with a trailer."

    "Close to the freeway. It’s convenient but you can definitely hear the freeway. It’s very safe and clean."

    8. La Conner RV

    8 Reviews
    La Conner, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 466-3558

    "Great campground this was hands down one of our favorite thousand trails in Washington you will enjoy this campground Great location great campground would go back"

    "A Thousand Trails facility. Not all services are available at each site. Wonderful setting with either woods or water views. 

    A quiet place to get away from it all. "

    9. La Conner Marina RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    La Conner, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 466-3118

    "Nice location conveniently located near the Marina, close to everything.

    Premium sites are double wide and have a spot to park your RV AND Vehicle. Discount for Good Sam Club members."

    "Easy short walk to town."

    10. Friday Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Bow, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Do have to bring tote up to bo w location. Great showers."

    "Benefits of this site are the facilities and the 15 minute drive to the ferry terminal. Super conveneient. Only open May-Oct!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 296 campgrounds

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Recent Reviews near Bow, WA

1130 Reviews of 296 Bow Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Shaw Island County Park

    Uneven ground

    The camping spots are quiet but uneven. The park ranger is very friendly.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    Peaceful, but somehow also crowded

    Spots are not near each other so you get privacy that way. A lot of through traffic because of the hikes nearby and the sites are right on the road. A TON of mosquitos so bring your spray!

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    NF 33 Dispersed Camping

    NF 33 Dispersed Camping

    A handful of dispersed sites along this national forest road. A couple sites are near the river/creek, but most are just off the road. Not great, but nice in a pinch or if you're looking to hike the Cougar Divide at the end of this road. The road does get much rougher the further you go, so not big-rig friendly nor for low-clearance vehicles or vehicles with bald/old tires. No amenities nor cell service.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Bay View State Park Campground

    Beach with panoramic Bay views

    Lovely beach with panoramic view of the bay, a short hike away. Friendly people. Good facilities. Fire risk high so no wood or charcoal fires.

  • Molly L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Dungeness Recreation Area

    Dungeanous Camp Info

    Great sites, roomy and clean. Very pretty trails all around. A bluff that looks over to Vancouver Island. Warm showers, flushing toilets, sparkling clean restrooms.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Rhododendron Campground

    Rhododendron Park & Campground

    Currently $15/night. Beautiful wooded area with space between most sites. A couple Port-O-Potties and garbage cans. Half occupied or less on a Wednesday night. Next to a dog kennel or shelter, so there was quite a bit of barking when we arrived late afternoon, but was quiet when they were put in for the evening/night. Military jets flew back and forth for an hour starting at 8PM--these aren't normal airplane sounds. It's frighteningly LOUD. For a solid hour. Very faint road noise in the morning. So basically, don't expect peace and quiet if you visit... but it's a nice, cheap spot for a quick overnight while traveling through.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Bay View State Park Campground

    Bay View State Park Campground

    Had a nice, quick stay. Quiet, clean restrooms, hot shower, and good cell service--everything I wanted after a full day of hiking near Mount Baker.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Howard Miller Steelhead County Park

    Howard Miller Steelhead County Park

    Quite expensive for a county park ($40/night) but the hosts are sweethearts, the bathrooms/showers were clean, and the park itself is well-maintained and cared for. Also, good cell service.

  • Eric O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Panorama Point Campground

    Absurd price and no running water

    $37 per night for a standard campsite. No running water at the moment.


Guide to Bow

Camping near Bow, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Deception Pass State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The hike to see Deception Pass Bridge is awesome," making it a must-do for nature lovers.
  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at Larrabee State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Close to Bellingham, Spots are veryyyy Close together, Walk to Beach and the View Priceless."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife at Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground. One camper shared, "Witnessed a beautiful sunset camping on the bluff...great camping spots," highlighting the area's natural beauty.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Birch Bay State Park Campground said, "Hot showers and nice restroom facilities."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A reviewer from Rasar State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are clean and well spaced out for a bit of privacy."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpful park staff. One guest at Fort Casey Campground noted, "The park staff were super helpful with our late evening questions."

What you should know:

  • Site Size: Some campgrounds have smaller sites. A camper at Bay View State Park Campground mentioned, "Site is small, on the website it states it can fit 3 tents, but it only can fit one."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or trains. A visitor at Larrabee State Park Campground said, "The positives: close to Bellingham... The negatives: road noise, train noise."
  • Reservation System: Some campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground advised, "During the summer months reservations are required."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby beaches and trails. A family at Birch Bay State Park Campground enjoyed, "Short walk to the beach for some stunning sunsets."
  • Play Areas: Choose campgrounds with open spaces for kids to play. A reviewer at Rasar State Park Campground mentioned, "The playground is an easy walk from all sites."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and beach days. One camper at Deception Pass State Park Campground suggested, "Bring bug spray as mosquitoes were vicious."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Larrabee State Park Campground noted, "Most of the back in sites are medium to smallish."
  • Power Availability: Be aware of power availability at your site. A camper at Fort Casey Campground mentioned, "If there’s a storm in the forecast be ready for some wind."
  • Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A reviewer at Rasar State Park Campground shared, "The tank dump site was free as well for those with a reservation."

Camping near Bow, Washington, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Bow campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Bow offer diverse amenities to suit different camping styles. Chom's RV Campground provides convenient access to State Route 20 and is just minutes from the national park entrance. This family-owned site has an on-site manager available at specific times. At Burlington-Anacortes KOA, you'll find water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites that can be reserved in advance. For those seeking luxury in nature, cabin rentals like those at Mt. Baker Lodging include modern conveniences while still providing that woodland experience.

Where can I find camping spots in Bow, NH?

Bow, Washington offers several excellent camping options. Thousand Trails Mount Vernon is conveniently located near Bow with reservable sites and full hookups for RVs. For a more natural setting, Friday Creek Campground provides secluded sites with the bonus of a creek running through the property, though you'll need to bring water to the bow location. Both campgrounds serve as great basecamps for exploring the surrounding Skagit Valley and Cascade Mountains region.

When is the best time of year to go camping in Bow?

The prime camping season near Bow is late spring through early fall (May-September) when temperatures are mild and trails are accessible. Swift Creek Campground offers great access to Northern Cascades trails during this period with beautiful scenery. Deception Pass State Park Campground is enjoyable year-round, with some campers noting it's their "go-to family camping area for October-June trips" as it's never too cold and offers beach access with tide pools. Summer provides the warmest conditions, though campgrounds are busiest during this peak season.