Glenoma, Washington camping sites sit between 800-1200 feet elevation, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range. The area receives approximately 70 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest environments with moss-covered trees and fern undergrowth. Campsites near Glenoma offer varied terrain options from lakefront properties to deep forest settings within a 25-mile radius.
What to do
Riverside exploring: Iron Creek Campground provides access to the Cispus River where campers can enjoy water activities in summer months. "Sites are large, and absolutely beautiful. I would love to go back again. Lots to do in the area," notes Cassie B. Many visitors appreciate the easy water access for kayaking or fishing.
Hiking forest trails: Winston Creek Campground offers free camping with trail access through dense forest areas. "It was free to stay, you just have to have a reservation to stay," explains a camper. Trails range from 1-5 miles and connect to larger regional trail systems with moderate difficulty ratings.
Lake activities: Mossyrock Park on Riffe Lake provides water recreation opportunities from April through October. "This spot is great for lake access. We stayed in the north side of the Main campground which was great because we had tons of extra space and were backed up right to beach access," shares Perla H. Boat rentals are available at nearby marinas starting at $75 for half-day rentals.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Ike Kinswa State Park Campground offers well-spaced campsites with natural screening. "The sites are large, shaded and quiet. Many are pull through. If you want a water view you will find full hook up sites in loop A, or no hook up sites on loop C," explains Lisa K. Sites average 40-60 feet apart with vegetation between most sites.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at Cowlitz Falls Campground. "Nice, clean bathrooms with showers in every loop. Very attentive staff regularly driving around cleaning and checking on the campground," reports Angela S. Restrooms are typically cleaned twice daily during peak season.
Wildlife viewing: The forest settings provide opportunities to see native wildlife. "There is a nice, short loop trail leading to the river," says Tyler D. about Iron Creek Campground. Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife viewing times when deer and smaller mammals are most active.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds in the Glenoma area require advance booking, especially during summer months from June through September. "Make reservations early," advises Rick S. about Ike Kinswa State Park. Sites typically open for reservation 9 months in advance.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant rainfall, even during summer months. "The campground is like fairy wonderland with so much moss and greenery," notes Gayle K. about Iron Creek. Temperatures range from 45-80°F during camping season with occasional rain showers common even in summer.
Road conditions: Alder Lake Park and surrounding areas may have challenging access roads. "I really wished I had a rack with me to carry around the loop to fill them in," mentions one camper about Winston Creek's potholes. Forest service roads often require higher clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cowlitz Falls Campground features play areas for children. "With small kids in our group, it was convenient to have the path to the playground right between sites A6 and A8," shares Allyson U. The playground is centrally located and suitable for children ages 3-12.
Swimming options: Mossyrock Park offers designated swimming areas with gradual entry points ideal for children. "There is a dedicated swim area off to the west side of the grounds, but also pretty pebbly. More fun with sandals," recommends Perla H. The swim area is roped off and ranges from 1-5 feet deep.
Spacing considerations: Cowlitz Falls Campground provides well-organized camping loops with family-friendly layouts. "4 loops to choose from. 2 with electric and water, 2 geared to tent or dry trailer camping," explains Angela S. Loop A tends to be most popular for families due to its proximity to amenities and level sites.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Winston Creek Campground has limited space for larger rigs. "Site #5 was a bit tight to get our Jayco 174BH backed in due to the angle of the site and the path around the campground is very narrow. I would not want to come in here with anything much bigger than our little 20 footer," advises Doug. Most sites accommodate RVs up to 25 feet comfortably.
Hookup availability: Elkamp Eastcreek offers various utility options for RVers seeking glamping near Glenoma, Washington. "Very accommodating owners who are super sweet. Ice and wood available on site (even delivered to your site)," reports Jae M. Water and electric hookups are available at most sites, with some offering sewer connections.
Dump station location: "What would improve Elkamp? It would be great to have a dump station. Sewer hookups would be even better," notes William B. Most campgrounds in the area provide dump stations, though not all sites offer full hookups. RVers should plan accordingly for 2-3 day stays without sewer connections.
