Primitive camping options abound near Bow, Washington, nestled in the northern region of the Puget Sound. Unlike developed campgrounds, most tent sites in this area require visitors to hike or paddle in with minimal amenities. With elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet, campers can experience diverse ecosystems from coastal beaches to forested mountain trails.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Cypress Island Natural Resources Conservation Area offers tent campers unique water-based activities. "There are incredible hikes on the island including one to Eagle Cliffs that has the best sunset views. Eagle Cliffs is closed for parts of the year to allow Peregrine Falcons time to nest in peace," notes Kelsey M. who visited by sailboat.
Hiking opportunities: Cedar Lake Campsite provides access to challenging trails. "It's a high hike. Straight up. There are two sites. One north and one south of the lake. A few good level sites and some built in benches," explains Duane and Janey D., highlighting the demanding terrain.
Wildlife viewing: At James Island Marine State Park, campers can observe native wildlife. "Beautiful views of Blake Island on one side and Mt. Baker framed on the other. There are hiking trails, beautiful bluffs to view sunrise and sunset," according to Joel T., who noted the island is only accessible by water.
What campers like
Island seclusion: Obstruction Pass State Park on Orcas Island offers walk-in camping with coastal access. "The campsite is walk-to, about a 1/2 mile, making it a backpacking kind of overnight for kids or friends who don't want to be too far from a car and civilization," explains Kim B., who found it felt secluded despite being popular in August.
Lake swimming: Mountain Lake Campground at Moran State Park features freshwater recreation options. "It sits on Lake Moran which is a fun lake to kayak and cliff jump. If you follow the road up to Mt. Constitution, there is a lookout tower that resembles a castle," shares Rich M. about the popular swimming area.
Beach access: Odlin County Park on Lopez Island combines forest and beach camping. "Great bay with beach sites and tree lined sites. Quiet, beautiful, peaceful. We had deer in our campsite everyday," reports Neil T., who stayed in spot 16 surrounded by massive trees.
What you should know
Water challenges: Most primitive sites require campers to bring or filter water. At Lily and Lizard Lakes, Sean M. notes "the only water source is from the lakes which is not the cleanest water so bring a good filter."
Variable accommodations: Clark Island Marine State Park offers boat-in only camping with some sites close to the landing area. Jill R. explains, "Some sites are right off the beach so land the kayak and just a short walk to the campsite." However, noise can be an issue: "Clark can be noisy as it is right on a major shipping channel."
Accessibility limits: Sites like Cedar Lake Campsite demand physical effort. "It's a high hike. Straight up," warns Duane and Janey D., indicating the strenuous approach needed for the best tent camping near Bow, Washington.
Seasonal considerations: Obstruction Pass State Park receives heavy summer use. Don recommends to "check for burn bans (so you know if you should bring fire wood) and arrive early as these sites are first come first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking: Obstruction Pass State Park offers an ideal first backpacking experience for children. "My twelve year old wanted to try backpacking, but not hike too far. My wife didn't want us to get eaten by bears. The solution? Obstruction Pass!" shares Don, noting the flat trail with moderate terrain changes.
Water activities: Mountain Lake at Moran State Park provides family-friendly lake amenities. Jessica B. explains, "There is a lovely 3 mile hike around the lake with a fun bridge to jump off of to swim. There is fishing and a sandy beach area also."
Wildlife encounters: Odlin County Park on Lopez Island offers consistent wildlife viewing opportunities for children. Neil T. mentions, "We had deer in our campsite everyday," while the campground also provides access to trails and beaches directly from campsites.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Most primitive camping areas near Bow restrict vehicle access. Mountain Lake Campground at Moran State Park is one exception, with Tonya L. noting a particular loop has "no room for RV's or campers" despite other areas of the park accommodating them.
Water hookups: Odlin County Park offers water hookups for RVs, making it a rare option for those seeking tent camping near Bow with some amenities. Ann-Marie C. shares, "I had a class B and probably could not fit into some spaces (too short and/or low tree branches)," indicating size limitations for larger rigs.
Site selection: For RV campers at Moran State Park, Gia R. advises, "The way the campsites are tiered allows for a sense of seclusion even with neighbors on all sides," suggesting selecting elevated sites for more privacy despite the developed nature of the campground.
