Campgrounds near Ferndale, Washington range from shoreline settings to farm stays, offering diverse accommodations between Mount Baker and the Salish Sea. Winter temperatures average 35-45°F, while summer brings 70-80°F days with typically dry conditions from July through September. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with varying levels of service during the off-season.
What to do
Shellfish gathering: 15-minute drive to Birch Bay State Park Campground for clamming and crabbing during low tide. "This has to be one of my all time favorite places for Shell Fishing and Crabbing! Don't forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious!" - Dani H.
Hiking to viewpoints: 30 minutes south to Larrabee State Park Campground for trails with ocean views. "There are hiking trails and bike trails nearby. The Park is right next to a train track: and the trains go by frequently. Could be cool for kiddos. Could be a nightmare at bed time." - Izzy H.
Farm experiences: Visit working farms with camping options like Oostema Farmstead where guests can interact with farm animals. "Lisa gave us a tour and let our children pet/feed the cows, goat, and pig. The kids loved it!" - Christina B.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Midway Campground — Moran State Park offers sites close to swimming areas. "We had a spot right on the water with a very shallow area for about 20 yards out. My 2 year old spent the entire weekend wading around the shallows." - C M.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer vegetation barriers between campsites. "I love the hedges between spots so you're not eating lunch at the table, staring at your neighbors sewer hose and power box." - Kathy A. about The Cedars RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms were so clean though, and it is a beautiful bay." - Beth E. about Birch Bay State Park. "Best part is that the restrooms are clean and the showers are free." - Toni J.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds, especially those with water access. "We were lucky enough to take an afternoon ferry and snag the LAST camp spot available here on a Sunday." - Kaysha R.
Wildlife interactions: Local campgrounds have resident wildlife that may visit your site. "Just be aware that it has some nosy raccoon residents who feel very comfortable coming right up to camp to investigate your food situation." - wisepig about Larrabee State Park.
Transportation noise: Mountain Lake Campground — Moran State Park offers secluded settings, but some campgrounds experience transportation noise. "Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs." - Daryl N. about Larrabee State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Ferndale: Most campgrounds welcome pets with designated walking areas. "Lots of places to walk my dogs." - M S. about Bellingham RV Park.
Playground access: Certain campgrounds cater specifically to families with play areas. "Great newer looking playground for kids: bonus for families!" - Izzy H. about Larrabee State Park.
Swimming opportunities: Look for campgrounds with protected swimming areas for children. "We also took advantage of the hiking trails nearby. One downfall is the heavy train traffic that runs straight thru the camp." - Carlyn N.
Recreation amenities: Lynden-Bellingham KOA offers multiple activities for children. "Great Amenities…. Swimming pool, mini golf, arcade games, paddle boats. Lots of trees and shade! I love how it's tucked away and you forget your right in Lynden." - Renee R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Reserve pull-through sites when available for easier access. "Plenty of pull thru spots. Full hook ups. There are several back in spots around the perimeter with a bit more room (length)." - Kathy A.
Level considerations: Some campgrounds have sites with challenging slopes. "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." - Jason W.
Pet-friendly RV campgrounds: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Ferndale offer designated pet areas for RV campers. "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." - Jesse C.
Space between sites: Varies significantly between campgrounds. "The campground was full of kids making it seem like a day care." - Jason W. about Larrabee State Park. "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." - Christina B. about Oostema Farmstead.
