Kimberlee H.
Scout
ScoutRainbow RV Resort
What?
First they said they had available spaces then they said they didn't.We drove 50 miles to come out here and they didn't have a space all of a sudden!
Camping near Carbonado, WA
303 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping near Carbonado, Washington ranges from developed tent and RV campgrounds within national park boundaries to primitive backcountry sites along nearby rivers and forests. Cougar Rock Campground provides tent and RV sites within the national park boundaries, while Mowich Lake and Ipsut Creek offer more primitive backcountry camping experiences. The region includes a mix of frontcountry and backcountry camping with varied levels of development and amenity access, particularly along the White River and American River corridors.
Road access and seasonal conditions significantly affect camping availability throughout the area. Many campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park, including Cougar Rock, operate only from late May through early October due to snow conditions at higher elevations. White River Dispersed Camping areas provide alternatives when park facilities are full or closed. The proximity to Mount Rainier results in variable weather patterns even during summer months. Most national park campgrounds prohibit pets and have strict food storage requirements due to wildlife. Several campgrounds require advance reservations during peak season. A camper noted, "Mount Rainier didn't disappoint. If you are ever on the edge of whether or not you want to travel to Washington and hike, I highly recommend coming. This campground was in the perfect location for some hiking."
Waterfront access represents a primary draw for many campgrounds in the region. Silver Springs Campground features sites positioned along the White River, offering natural sound barriers between campsites. Several visitors specifically seek riverside locations for their ambiance and recreational opportunities. As one reviewer described Silver Springs, "Most of the sites are larger than average and mostly separated from the other sites" with "close access to several hiking trailheads, the White River itself." Campgrounds within the national park boundaries typically feature more regulations but provide direct access to park trails and features. Campers report mixed experiences regarding privacy between sites, with backcountry options generally offering more seclusion than developed campgrounds. The national park campgrounds remain especially popular during summer weekends, often filling completely by Friday morning.
Best Campgrounds near Carbonado (303)
1. Dash Point State Park Campground
"Firstly, I just have to say what a positive and amazing experience I had at this campground. The volunteers were friendly, kind and absolutely awesome to interact with."
"The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Ours had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table."
from $31 - $91 / night
Check Availability2. 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 $31 - $254 / night
Check Availability3. Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
"If you are looking for an volunteer opportunity while in the park, check out the Washington Train Association also know as the WTA."
"Large campground located near the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier. Many sites tucked into large trees. Some loops close to main toad so the noise can be an issue, but overall beautiful!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability4. Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
"One reason we wanted to stay here was to be close to lots of beautiful hiking near Mt. Rainier. One of the days we went to Sunrise Visitor Center and did a few hikes within the park."
"My husband and I just spent a weekend at Mowiche Campground located in Ashford, Washington. We chose this campground because we wanted to be close hikes near Mt. Rainier."
5. Alder Lake Campground
"It's about an hours drive from Paradise, which makes it less ideal than Cougar Rock if that's your destination, but the reservations do not fill up nearly as quickly."
"Walking distance to the day use beach area. Very clean showers. Well maintained sites and fire wood for sale with the camp host. A great spot for exploring near Mt. Rainer."
from $35 - $265 / night
Check Availability6. Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
"If you are ever in the edge of whether or not you want to travel to Washington and hike, I highly recommend coming. This campground was in the perfect location, too, for some hiking!"
"Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington States greatest attractions. This waterfall is breath taking."
7. Netties Mountain View Retreat
"Convenient drive to Mt Rainier and Summit lake trail as well. Definitely worth every penny! "
"Convenient location near Mt. Rainier."
from $40 - $60 / night
Check Availability8. Carbon River
"I go every year, but unfortunately the only bridge to gain access to camping is closed until further notice"
"I put up my hammock around 7pm, nobody's else there. Around 9-11pm a few people including a 5th wheel arrived and spent a bunch of time moving that around."
9. Elkamp Eastcreek
"Rainier as it is within minutes of the Nisquilly entrance. The majority of the campsites were amid tall trees. "
"The sites are situated amongst beautiful tall trees, spacious and private. A beautiful creek runs through with a foot bridge with access to a beautiful meadow."
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability10. Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park
"There are several dump stations nearby. Very quiet and low key. It is situated next to a H.S. stadium so the game nights get a little bit loud but really not that bad. Showers are available too."
"All with picnic tables but you will be sitting right next to your neighbors if you choose the sites in middle section of park. No view of Rainier but views r very nearby."
from $35 - $50 / night
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Drive Time
- 1 hr 2 min from Seattle, WA
- 1 hr 3 min from Olympia, WA
- 1 hr 9 min from Bremerton, WA
- 2 hrs 5 min from Longview, WA
Recent Camping Photos near Carbonado, WA
543 Photos of 303 Carbonado Campgrounds
Paul Y.
Grove Getaways
Flare9
Carbon River
mary F.
Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park
Danielle S.
Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
Wayne T.
WildHare Retreat
Debbie H.
Big Backyard
Kier S.
Eagles Roost Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
Jessie T.
Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
Danielle S.
Carbon River Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
Katie K.
Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites — Mount Rainier National Park
Danielle S.
Yellowstone Cliffs Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
Sarah R.
Lake Sawyer Resort
Recent Reviews near Carbonado, WA
1545 Reviews of 303 Carbonado Campgrounds
- Christina F.
GuideTaidnapam Park
Sassy gnomes
However you camp, tent or RV, there is a site for you here. Taidnapam is the second Tacoma Power park where I have camped. There are two sides to this campground--the older side which are sites 1-52 are a mix of full hook-ups and partial hook-ups. The newer, larger loop is almost all full hook-ups with a few exceptions that are partial. There are tent spots in-between the two sides. They also have 2 group sites--one with 22 spots of full and partial hook-ups and one primitive group site. We stayed in site 9 with full hook-ups on the older loop. This loop is one big circle with a dividing road so it's kind of like two loops. The rest rooms and playground was in the middle of the first loop. My site had a short trail right to the restrooms/playground area. The playground was pretty awesome! On the far end of the second loop, there is a trail that takes you to the day-use area where there is a second fantastic playground. There was also a sprinkler system there, but we didn't know how to make it work. This area is right next to the river/east end of Riffe Lake. There are no swimming areas however because the lake has lowered over the years. We did ask if there were any swimming areas nearby or a way to get down to the water and they did have a list in the office. We checked out a few of the closer places, but since I have a 4 years old, I did not feel that any of the places were safe enough for her to get down to the water and I did not want to drive miles to get to the next park. One of the fun things about this park are the gnomes up in the trees! I didn't find out until the night before we left, but I guess you can do like a scavenger hunt type of thing to find all the gnomes.
Tonya S.
TravelerThousand Trails Chehalis
Large pines at this beautiful campground
If you depend on starlink, this may not be the place for you. Our Tmobile worked “okay” but not in all areas. Big sites with lots of shade but there are some sites with partial view of the open sky. Staff is helpful and friendly. Fire ban going on right now. No sewer at our site but I saw two dump stations. We will be back but will request a site with more starlink options.
Sabriena E.TravelerTinkham Campground
Beautiful and secluded, but noisy
We had a great time and really enjoyed how secluded and spaced out many of the spots are. Having gone mid week, there were very few other campers, and it was lovely walking around the campground and strolling along a short 1 mile long trail to a mossy and wooded swamp. The temperature was great, had easy access to the river, and had plenty of shade and space at our site.
I will not that being so close to the highway does of course mean non-stop road noise, but I found it easy to tune out if I imagined the noise as a close by waterfall :)
Additionally the “potable water” consisted of one hand cranked pump that took quite a bit of work to get any water out of. Not to mention any water that did come what was rust stained and smelled of iron. That is truly my biggest grievance with this site. If I go again, I will be bringing extra fresh water. I should also note that the bathrooms were very dark, even during the day, and smelled pretty bad, but that’s to be expected from an out house.
Overall I would go again! It was gorgeous and any noise was easily made up for by the trees and moss and isolated sites ❤️
- LLindsay C.Traveler
Dash Point State Park Campground
Perfect for those new to camping
We took our 5 & 6 year olds on their first camping trip. We spent 4 days, 3 nights and all had a great time. We were in a tent site. The only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is that some of the sites are quite small or very close to the neighboring spots. Our site was wonderful. We loved that it’s so close to the beach and trails for hiking. Best of both worlds.
- Martin S.Traveler
Dry Creek Campground
Amazing spot
I’d consider this one of my top 3 free camping spots ever, right next to a lake and surrounded by the Cascade Mountains. Spectacular setting and lots of space for folks to set up in this mostly dispersed campsite.
Lyz F.GuideFR74 dispersed
This could be a perfect camping spot
You park your car at an upper level and then there’s a small trail that takes you down to a quiet and private river. The lower level hang out spot is right next to the river and would be way cooler if people stopped putting their toilet paper and used up poo powder in the fire circle. I would’ve liked to be able to use the fire circle on the upper level instead, but there was a mound of trash in there as well.
There is a small memorial right next to the upper fire circle that had some offerings left at the base.
Alex R.TravelerRanger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
It’s what you think it is
We tried this spot as our first Boondocking experience. We wanted a place that we could try our equipment out for a couple nights without it being too far and this was perfect. Open area spots are good for 30-40ft rigs no problem, and there are way more tent camp spots for those who want it. Just remember, first come first served…All the other reviews and pictures are pretty accurate so you can trust them. Except for the “road to bumpy”… yea, it’s not a Walmart parking lot.
Kasey B.GuideOpen Space on Forest Road 7320
Last spot
This is the VERY last spot on this NF road. So, if someone is there, you’ll have to back track all the way back down to the bottom. There are several sites at the bottom that look pretty level with fire pits by the creek. There were quite a few mosquitoes up at the top as well, so be aware.
Guide to Carbonado
Mount Rainier dominates the landscape around Carbonado, Washington, rising to 14,410 feet and creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. The Carbon River Valley near Carbonado receives approximately 70-90 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush temperate rainforest conditions. Most campgrounds in this region close seasonally due to snowpack, with limited winter camping options.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: Mowich Lake Campground provides direct access to several trails including Tolmie Peak, which offers spectacular views. A camper noted, "We hiked Tolmie Peak and the trailhead is straight off the campground which is super nice. Would definitely go back here and try to spend more time exploring the surrounding area."
Visit nearby Deep Lake: Campers at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park appreciate its proximity to additional recreation. One visitor mentioned, "10 minute drive from Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding."
Watch kayakers from riverside sites: The Green River offers opportunities to observe skilled paddlers. A visitor to Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground described, "The road slowly meanders uphill alongside the Carbon River for 5 miles, giving campers majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks... You might catch a kayaker in the river, I hear this stretch take a lot of skill!"
What campers like
Clean bathrooms with showers: State parks in the region maintain well-kept facilities. A Kanaskat-Palmer visitor explained, "It has 6 very clean individual (one person) bathrooms with a shower in each." Another camper shared, "The bathrooms were always clean. There's designated dish washing station and potable water station."
Privacy between sites: Dash Point State Park Campground offers well-separated sites. A camper observed, "I was impressed by how spread apart the sites were, I think they could have fit another in between each of them!" Another reviewer mentioned, "This campground is remarkable in the privacy between each of the camping spots, the bird life, the wild and deep forest vibes."
Nearby swimming options: Multiple campgrounds provide water access for summer heat relief. A visitor to Camp Lakeview reported, "People were fishing, paddle boarding and swimming. I would absolutely go stay there again!"
What you should know
Advance planning required: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. For Cougar Rock Campground, a camper advised, "Get your reservations in the winter before your trip. Spots fill up fast."
Road conditions vary: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved roads. A Mowich Lake visitor warned, "The gravel road to get up there, it's like 15 miles long and it's rough. Not the worst road I've ever been on but it wasn't fun and it felt like you had to drive it forever."
Bear safety measures: Many campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage. At Mowich Lake, "Each spot had a raised platform for your tent, bear box, and picnic table."
Ranger presence: Park staff actively monitor campgrounds. One Kanaskat-Palmer camper noted, "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day. I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quite as myself and three 9 year old girls were talking too loud."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. A Camp Lakeview visitor mentioned, "There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court. A small beach with a large dock was available for use during the day as well as a boat launch and fishing dock."
Consider temperature fluctuations: Even summer camping can be cold at higher elevations. At Mowich Lake, a camper advised, "Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be."
Check pet policies: Elkamp Eastcreek welcomes dogs while national park campgrounds typically don't. A reviewer noted, "Dogs are welcome! You couldn't ask for more courteous and caring hosts than Tom and Brian."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven parking areas. A visitor to Kanaskat-Palmer reported, "I only took away a star because it was advertised as ok for a Motorhome but the gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground."
Utility hookup limitations: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups only. A camper at Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park noted, "Nice older park at the base of Mt. Rainier. Water and Electric (50 amp) only. There are several dump stations nearby."
Size restrictions: Not all sites accommodate large rigs. At Cougar Rock, a camper mentioned, "There are no fire pits, and the driveways are kind of small, but all of that is incredibly worth it."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Carbonado, WA?
What camping is available near Carbonado, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Carbonado, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 303 campgrounds and RV parks near Carbonado, WA and 47 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Carbonado, WA?
Which is the most popular campground near Carbonado, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carbonado, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 75 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carbonado, WA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carbonado, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 47 free dispersed camping spots near Carbonado, WA.
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