206 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The northwestern corner of Washington state surrounding Custer offers diverse camping experiences within a short drive of the Canadian border. State parks dominate the landscape, with Birch Bay State Park and Larrabee State Park providing year-round access to both saltwater beaches and forest settings. Private options range from working farms like Oostema Farmstead to full-service RV resorts such as Lynden-Bellingham KOA and The Cedars RV Resort. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with many offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort while exploring the coastal and mountain landscapes.
Reservations are essential during summer months when campgrounds throughout Whatcom County reach capacity quickly. As one camper noted, "Whatcom County has a lot of campgrounds, but they are booked up all summer long." Weather patterns vary significantly by season, with mild but wet conditions common from October through May. Coastal campgrounds like those at Birch Bay experience strong winds at times, while inland sites offer more protection. Cell service can be limited in rural areas, particularly near the Canadian border. Noise considerations include passing trains at Larrabee State Park and occasional highway sounds at campgrounds near major roads.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. "Short walk to an amazing beach," reports one Birch Bay visitor, highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere of coastal campgrounds. Inland sites often feature lake or river access, with swimming areas that appeal to families with children. Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds and even within the same park. Larrabee State Park offers walk-in sites with better privacy than drive-up locations, while Birch Bay provides shaded sites with varying levels of seclusion. Wildlife viewing opportunities include eagles, seals, and sea otters at coastal locations, particularly at Deception Pass State Park slightly south of the immediate Custer area. Winter camping remains available but requires preparation for consistently wet conditions.
"This was our first trip in a new trailer, and the park is close to home for us, so perfect for our maiden voyage. Shaded sites, some hookup (water/electric), but most unserviced."
"Beautiful campground located right next to the bay awesome walking distance from our site to the bay and not too noisy either! Would definitely stay again perfect for small children as well!"
from $12 - $113 / night
Check Availability"Lynden KOA was the perfect nearby campground. Tent sites in the back are rather dusty (no grass)… but then again we’re camping so who cares. Grassy sites are around the pond and book up quickly."
"This part of Washington is beautiful. We have been a few times, but never hiked or camped. The weather was perfect for us, so much sunshine and warm weather!"
from $60 - $120 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $12 - $70 / night
Check Availability"It is located on a working farm. There were chickens, cows, calves, a heron (I think it was nesting near the driveway), a raspberry field, a garden and even a cat wandering around. "
"It's close to Lynden, Bellingham and the coast right near the Canadian border. If you have time drive east to Emerson or Demming - great ride through the farmlands...."
from $35 - $65 / night
Check Availability"There are several back in spots around the perimeter with a bit more room (length). There are spaces with sufficient width for tip outs and those without."
"We were able to see some Canadian family in Blaine, while the border was closed, and stay nearby. Great area with Birch Bay just across the street."
"Lots of places to walk and bike to. Kayaking? That, too, of course."
"Our nephews came to visit and enjoyed the pool and small nature trails around camp. There is a lot to do around town all within biking distance. We paddle boarding in the bays!!"
"Nice place, friendly staff best Thousand Trails so far."
"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."
from $12 - $167 / night
Check Availability"I was able to snag one of the amazing sites on the lake. It sits down from the road and an embankment so there is a level of privacy from the road, but not your neighboring sites."
"It’s right above the main road and a freshwater lake. It’s pretty steep, sprained my ankle right before the trip. They were very helpful at the entrance and gave me a lower site."
from $31 - $51 / night
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GuideThe sites were large, the bathrooms nice, even in the middle of summer it was pretty quiet considering how many people were camping there. Day use is on the shore and easy to access and town is just a walk or bike ride away! The sunset view was incredible from the day use area.
GuideWe stayed here 2 nights on our road trip, tent camping. The road is a bit of a far drive from the highway, but there seems to be many spots to camp along the way. There are also a few paid for campgrounds in the area. But the free dispersed spots are the furthest down the road. The view of the lake and mountains in the distance are beautiful. The water is so clear and blue, fishing, and boating is common. No amenities near the free camping, but there are toilets and dumpsters along Baker Lake road. Not too many mosquitoes when we were there, but be aware of the mice. It rained the first night, but on the second, we had a wonderful view of the moonrise. We also spotted some toads by the lake at night. Signs say there are bears in the area, but we didn't have a problem with that. My only complaints are we could not park our car right next to camp, but it wasn't far, campfires were not allowed, and people cannot seem to clean up after themselves. There were areas that were clearly used as bathrooms; toilet paper scattered around, and piles of poop. Please have the decency to bury your feces. But overall, I would definitely recommend this campsite!
ScoutNot a ton of great spots but not crazy busy on a friday night. Had to drive kind of far to find something that would work for me. The better spots were all taken.
GuideThis is a busy campground and day use area, but it’s awesome. You can kayak and swim in cranberry lake, watch the sunset from either north beach or west beach, and hike many different trails all from the campground.
ScoutVery friendly and helpful camp hosts. Big dog park, clean bathroom & showers. Paved. Some sites are narrow and shady but overall a very nice park.
GuideWe needed a place for the night before hitting North Cascade NP, we were able to pull into the rest areas last spot. A lot of semi's so it's loud if you're in between them but you get used to it after some time
ScoutHikes and beach walking distance from campground, but you hear the road and train at all hours
GuideLeft for the evening for dinner got back and someone stole our stuff smart enough to not leave anything too valuable homeless living in area?
GuideHIGHLY recommend site 33 as it is secluded! Once in the site, I could not really see my neighbors. And this site was huge! I was in the Forest loop, which was lovely. Probably not for big trailers like 5th wheels or longer bumper pulls as the road through is very narrow and campsites are between big trees. It was perfect for my little 18 foot teardrop though. No playground. Good cell service. Here's the thing though, this is pretty much right next to NAS Whidbey so if jet noise bothers you, don't camp here. They were not doing night ops while we were there, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen.
Camping sites near Custer, Washington offer unique coastal experiences with elevation ranging from sea level to 250 feet along the Strait of Georgia shoreline. The region experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F during camping season while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop to the low 30s. Several campgrounds provide waterfront access with varying levels of protection from prevailing northwest winds.
Shell fishing opportunities: At Birch Bay State Park, campers can harvest shellfish during appropriate seasons with proper licensing. "Don't forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious!" advises Dani H. The park provides beach access for clamming and crabbing activities.
Paddle sports: The protected waters of Birch Bay create ideal conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding with rental options available seasonally. "We paddle boarding in the bays!! Great blues bands in town," reports Kathe M. from Beachside RV Park.
Mountain hiking: For more elevation gain, Mount Constitution in Moran State Park offers trails with panoramic island views. "We camped on a lake that had easy trailhead access to the peak of Mt. Constitution, a easy/moderate hike with excellent views. At the summit there is a tower with information on the natural and human history of the island," notes Matthew G.
Rural farm experience: Oostema Farmstead provides a working farm atmosphere with livestock and vegetable gardens. "This is a working farm with beef cattle and an extensive garden. I opted to pay $3 to fill a basket from the garden and my yield included tomatoes, carrots, peppers, and fresh herbs," shares Lee D. Many campers appreciate the connection to local agriculture.
Beach sunsets: Birch Bay locations offer prime sunset viewing opportunities over the Strait of Georgia. "If you're the type that loves walks along the beach and breath taking sunsets... Brich Bay State Park is the place to be!" explains Brandon M. Evening colors reflected on calm waters create memorable camping experiences.
Wildlife viewing: Raccoons and marine wildlife frequent many campgrounds in the region. "Nice campground with great views of the water. Just be aware that it has some nosy raccoon residents who feel very comfortable coming right up to camp to investigate your food situation," warns one Larrabee State Park visitor.
Train noise considerations: Larrabee State Park experiences frequent train traffic throughout the day and night. "There is however, a train that runs right by the campground and it is loud!" cautions Danielle S. First-time campers should consider bringing earplugs if train noise might disrupt sleep patterns.
Site selection at RV parks: At The Cedars RV Resort, vegetation provides visual barriers between sites. "I love the hedges between spots so you're not eating lunch at the table, staring at your neighbors sewer hose and power box," notes Kathy A. These privacy features distinguish certain RV sites from more open layouts.
Tent camping limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate tent campers equally. "If you are camping with a trailer or motorhome, this place is great but it is not for tent campers. I was surprised to learn when I checked in that there are no actual designated tent sites, just a big open grassy area with picnic tables and fire rings," reports Laura Beth N. about The Cedars RV Resort.
Playground access: Lynden-Bellingham KOA offers dedicated play areas for children within secure camping grounds. "The lynden KOA is a small piece of camping paradise in the heart of lynden, kids can ride their bikes and fish and parents don't have to worry," notes Jesse C. These facilities provide contained recreation for various age groups.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with gentle water entry points. "Went hiking twice, and loved every second of it. As you can see from my pictures, flowers were in full bloom and were absolutely gorgeous," describes Melani T. about Deception Pass State Park.
Educational opportunities: Working farms in the area introduce children to agricultural practices and animals. "Lisa gave us a tour and let our children pet/feed the cows, goat, and pig. The kids loved it!!" shares Christina B. about their Oostema Farmstead experience.
Site levelness variance: RV campers should request information about site grade before arrival. "We had site T6 which is full hook up pull through. The site was extremely unlevel front to back so much so my rear stabilizers barely touched the ground," warns Jason W. from Larrabee State Park. Bringing additional leveling equipment is recommended.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric and sewer connections book quickly during summer months. "Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!! Dump station at the front of the park. Campsites are gorgeous and relaxing!!" shares Ben C. about Birch Bay State Park.
Spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and proximity to neighbors. "We like that there isn't rows of RVs and Trailers stacked on top of each other, you have space to wonder and spread out," explains Christina B. about Oostema Farmstead. This spacing factor significantly affects camping experience quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Custer, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Custer, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 206 campgrounds and RV parks near Custer, WA and 12 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Custer, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Custer, WA is Birch Bay State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 35 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Custer, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Custer, WA.
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