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."
