Tent camping opportunities near Kelso, Washington range from riverside forest settings to sites with mountain views. The region sits at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains with elevations from 100 to 2,000 feet across camping areas. Weather patterns vary significantly with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night, while spring and fall bring frequent rain showers that campers should prepare for.
What to do
Fishing at Merrill Lake: Located near Cougar, WA, Merrill Lake Campground offers fly fishing in a non-motorized lake environment. "This is a great little campground, on the lake shore amidst a grove of Old Growth Cedar. Only 8 spaces for tents... Fisherman come and go during the day, but I never saw more than 3 vehicles at the boat launch," notes camper Dan M.
Hiking on local trails: The Brooke Creek Walk-In Campground provides direct access to numerous hiking trails. "This area is beautiful and there are many trails around to go hiking and horseback riding on," reports Melissa N. The campground requires a quarter-mile walk from the visitor center to reach the tent sites.
Paddling opportunities: Several lakes in the area restrict motorboats, creating ideal conditions for kayaking and paddle boarding. "Great for paddle boarding or kayaking. There's a boat launch. Best of all, it's free!" writes a camper about Merrill Lake. The calm waters are especially suited for beginners and those seeking quieter water experiences.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at certain locations. At Cougar Park & Campground, one visitor notes, "We got site #36 site with some trees, no real noise of the road, felt fairly private. The sites are somewhat far apart though I could see into my neighbor's campground."
Lake access: Proximity to water ranks high among camper preferences. "The campground is right on a lake, which means I went for a swim at dusk - it was spectacular," writes Danielle S. about Cougar Campground. Many sites offer direct or close access to lakes, providing swimming and paddling options.
Ancient trees: The old-growth forests surrounding some campgrounds create a distinct camping atmosphere. "This is a great little campground, on the lake shore amidst a grove of Old Growth Cedar," writes a reviewer about Merrill Lake. These mature forests provide natural shade and habitat for local wildlife.
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Road conditions vary significantly by season. For Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping, a camper warns, "The road coming in the last 10 miles is rough in many spots. It's hard to see the bumps and dips in the road in the early evening." Another notes finding their intended site "under 2 feet of snow" in late April.
Site reservations: Most tent sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. "We stayed 4 nights, and will definitely book again. The site is along the road but still feels private," reports a camper about Healing Ponds Farm Retreat. Some campgrounds allow reservations while others don't, requiring early arrival during peak season.
Limited facilities: Prepare for minimal amenities at most tent sites. "Bathrooms, bring your own toilet paper they are always out, but there are two port-a-potties," advises Shannon B. about Merrill Lake. Many dispersed sites have no facilities at all, requiring complete self-sufficiency.
Tips for camping with families
Consider accessibility needs: When camping with children, site location matters. At Sand Island Marine Park Campground, one camper cautions, "Can be a long haul from the boat to the camp site. Lots of dock space. Sites are back from the water. Could use a map of the island and sites."
Pack appropriate gear: Weather changes quickly in this region. "I was on a 4 day backpacking trip and stayed at this campsite with a group of people. The weather does change very fast in the park so bring extra layers," advises Kevin T. about Cougar Park Campground.
Check site sizes: Confirm site dimensions before arriving with multiple tents. "Some sites are larger than others, but in ours we were able to fit two 6-person tents and one 2-person tent," reports a camper about tent options near Mount St. Helens.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Most tent camping near Kelso restricts RV access. At Gnat Creek Campground, "there is a sign that says no RVs, campers or trailers. I was a bit nervous that I would be asked to leave in my van, but never saw a ranger or anyone official," reports Kathy B.
Alternatives for smaller vehicles: Some sites accommodate small vans despite RV restrictions. "I met up with some folks who were in tents and occupied the tent spots and spent the night in the parking lot in my van. Several other folks did this as well. You're just a little ways from the campsites that have picnic tables and fire pits," shares a camper about Four Directions Retreat.
Satellite locations: RV campers seeking full hookups should consider locations slightly farther from Kelso. "The rv park is next to the river. It's small but the spots are spread out more than a lot of other rv campgrounds," notes Madeline W. about Woodland Shores RV Park, offering an alternative for those needing more amenities.
