Camping opportunities near Eatonville, Washington provide access to elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,400 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. The area sits at the transition zone between lowland forests and subalpine terrain, with campgrounds receiving an average of 70-100 inches of precipitation annually. Most established campgrounds in the region remain snow-free from May through October.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: The area offers diverse fishing opportunities at several campgrounds within 30 minutes of Eatonville. At Camp Lakeview, "Staff was so friendly and helpful, and the place was clean. They have a little store in case you forget something and firewood that's way cheaper than buying elsewhere. People were fishing, paddle boarding and swimming," according to Kira M.
Hiking from forest campgrounds: Trails adjacent to camping areas provide hiking options without driving to Mount Rainier. Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp offers "an ADA trail is level for walking the dog. Shooting range is close by, doesn't bother me but it's pretty noisy," as noted by Fern, who adds the campground is "free WITH your Discover Pass, 7 day limit in a 30 day period."
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to see deer and other wildlife in natural settings. Dash Point State Park Campground has "beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites... It was quiet at night and bathrooms were clean... The beach is a short walk from camp, just long enough to make you feel like you earned your sunset view," as Saraj B. describes.
What campers like
Private campsites: Several campgrounds offer sites with good separation from neighbors. At Ike Kinswa State Park Campground, "Large sites that are pretty private. Lots of shade and trees. The bathrooms work well and were clean. Our site had a beautiful water view, but there was a trail that went by right next to the site limiting privacy," reports Caitlyn R.
Creek access: Sites along creeks are highly sought after. Big Creek Campground has sites that provide direct water access, as Audrey E. explains: "Camp sites are very spacious and much more private than Cougar Rock. Site#6 was right on the creek(it looked like 1-6 were). Pit toilets were smelly but very clean for what they are(but bring hand sanitizer!)."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate clean bathrooms and showers. Elkamp Eastcreek gets high marks for "very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced. The shower is coin-operated so bring quarters if you wish to use," notes Shannon H., who adds it's "within minutes of the Nisquilly entrance" to Mount Rainier.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Different campgrounds have varied reservation policies. Rocky Point Campground is "great for everyone who is looking for a decent, no-frills campground. Located a short distance from Mt Rainier NP, this is the perfect springboard for any NP adventure or chillax getaway," according to Kristyn E.
Campsite terrain: Not all sites are level, which affects tent placement and RV parking. Eugene C. at Alder Lake Campground notes, "Our site had a slope so the table and tent was on a tilt. Water nearby, bathrooms clean, trash picked up regularly, water was hot!"
Seasonal differences: Many campgrounds change significantly with water levels throughout the year. Natashinka C. describes how at Alder Lake Campground "the dam in Tacoma was partially drained causing a 'low tide' which exposed the dirt and poor beach area... usually when water is at normal level the beach is all sand and water is clean and clear."
Tips for camping with families
Play areas: Several campsites near Eatonville offer dedicated spaces for children. According to Nicole P. at Alder Lake Park, "There are trails to explore, a sandy beach area that is also for public access, a boat launch and boat dock. The water is that beautiful blue/green glacier water."
Kid-friendly swimming: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation. Ashley Y. notes Alder Lake Park is "close to Northwest Trek and Mt. Rainer. Excellent location to do both! However there's enough scenery and wildlife to enjoy yourself just at Alder lake. The park is large with a play ground and beach area."
Creek exploration: Small children enjoy shallow creek access at several sites. Marcus M. describes Big Creek Campground as a "Great place to camp for our summer trips to Mt. Rainer! We have 2 little ones, so the close proximity to a small creek was great for the kids. Manager of camp was friendly and even entertained my kids Bigfoot questions!"
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow roads that make maneuvering difficult. At Alder Lake Campground, Cande D. notes "Roads are a touch narrow in places. The 1-to-40 sites campground is laid out in a loop. The turn at the end is very tight for 35-foot motor home towing."
Site leveling: Many RVers report needing to level their vehicles. Cande D. continues, "Our site#10 dropped 13 inches between the rear and front axle. A few Lego blocks and jack pads addressed the problem. The campground is on a small hill. Few of the sites are level."
Solar considerations: Shade affects solar panel effectiveness at many campsites near Eatonville. At Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, Fern explains, "I depend 100% on solar. There is deep shade in all camp spots, I chose a fairly sunny spot, but it wasn't enough to charge my batteries. Just a heads up."
