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Best Tent Camping near Hamilton, WA

1,070 Reviews

Several backcountry tent camping options surround Hamilton, Washington in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest region. Tent campers can choose from established sites like Baker Lake BackCountry Campsites with their 5-star ratings, or explore the more primitive dispersed campsites along Baker Lake Road. Cedar Groves Rural Campground offers 4 designated tent sites with vault toilets approximately 20 miles southwest of Hamilton.

Most tent campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient campers. Baker Lake dispersed sites require campers to pack in water or filter from the lake, while established sites like Maple Grove Campsites include picnic tables and fire rings. Access varies significantly—some sites involve a 4-mile hike along the Baker Lake Trail, while others allow drive-up access directly from forest roads. Toilet facilities range from clean vault toilets at Maple Grove to no facilities at all in dispersed areas. Forest Service permit requirements apply at several backcountry locations, particularly during peak season from June through September.

The tent camping experience near Hamilton offers remarkable mountain views and lakeside settings unattainable with larger camping setups. Sites at Watson Lakes provide lake-side camping with views of surrounding peaks, though campers should be prepared for potentially buggy conditions in summer months. Tent campers frequently use the area as a base for exploring nearby hiking trails, including routes to Park Butte and Anderson Point. Areas farther from developed campgrounds offer deeper seclusion but require more preparation. A review of the Baker Lake Road dispersed sites noted, "If you think all the spots are taken, keep driving. So many spots along Baker Lake Road." Campers seeking solitude should consider mid-week visits, as weekend periods can bring higher visitor numbers to the most accessible sites.

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Best Tent Sites Near Hamilton, Washington (85)

    1. Blue Lake BackCountry Campsites

    2 Reviews
    Concrete, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (206) 625-1367

    "We were looking for a short destination that would introduce my 5 and 7 year old boys to the wonderful world of backpacking. Blue Lake was perfect. It is a very short hike to the lake ~1.5 miles-ish."

    "You can park there and walk across it or ride a bicycle or an e-bike or maybe a small ATV but they are not planning to repair it at all."

    2. Maple Grove Campsites

    5 Reviews
    Concrete, WA
    18 miles

    $20 - $60 / night

    "These campgrounds are about a 4 mile hike in from the trailhead. Plenty of wild berries, flowers, and ferns along the way. We had fun just relaxing under the Big Leaf Maple trees."

    "If you're like me and not from Washington, remember to get a discovery pass (~$10 per day) if you're parking at the Baker Lake Trailhead. The hike in to Maple Grove is approx. three and a half miles."

    3. Cedar Groves Rural Campground

    1 Review
    Sedro-Woolley, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 420-3999

    $20 - $80 / night

    "Cedar Groves has some great tent sites surrounded by tall dense trees, with tons of wildlife all around you!  Check them out and share some pics from your stay on the Dyrt!"

    4. Squire Creek Park & Campground

    11 Reviews
    Darrington, WA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 436-1283

    "This Snohomish County Park is close to Darrington, WA which makes it perfect for exploring the North Cascades and the Mountain Loop Hwy."

    "We had a site away from the road so minimal road noise. Good connectivity on verizon"

    5. Park Butte Trailhead

    1 Review
    Concrete, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 856-5700

    "There are a few tent sites at this location. We chose to stay at one that had more exposure but was closer to the fire lookout, with the hopes that we could stay in the fire lookout the next night."

    6. Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    6 Reviews
    Concrete, WA
    22 miles

    "Stayed at one that was overlooking the lake. Lots of spots with easy lake access. Pros: free, good views, easy to get to, plenty of spots (even on Labor Day), fire rings."

    "Stopped here in the month of September and there were very few people around the lake. Quiet and beautiful views!"

    7. Anderson Point Campsite

    1 Review
    Concrete, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 856-5700

    "After a short and easy hike on the Baker Lake trail you arrive at Anderson Point, an area of scattered camp sites next to Baker Lake with stunning views of Koma Kulshan (Mt. Baker)."

    8. Lily and Lizard Lakes

    2 Reviews
    Bow, WA
    19 miles

    "Spent one night at Lizard Lake. Only 4 campsites there and all really close to each other. All the sites had a fire ring, bench and a flat area to set up your tent."

    "A good one or two night backpacking experience. There is no overnight parking at the top lot that is half way up the trail, so you have to park on Chuckanut drive."

    9. Anderson and Watson Lakes Hike-In

    2 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    21 miles
    Website

    "To get to this camp, you have to be ready to hike-in. Before that you have to drive 10 miles up a pot-hole strewn road, and before that, you have a lengthy drive just to get to the dirt road."

    "There are only two downsides to this campground--bugs during the summer and prohibitions on fires at Watson Lakes."

    10. Baker Lake / Middle Fork Nooksack

    1 Review
    Concrete, WA
    14 miles
    +1 (360) 488-8253
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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Hamilton, WA

71 Photos of 85 Hamilton Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Hamilton, WA

1070 Reviews of 85 Hamilton Campgrounds

  • B
    Jul. 9, 2017

    Marble Creek Campground

    Peaceful beauty!

    We stayed here on a Thursday through Sunday and enjoyed every day. Important to note there is no running water and no electricity and smaller RVs and smaller trailers will fit and that's it. It's really more of a tent camping place. There are 23 sites about three-quarters are reservable the rest first come first served $14 a night $7 for extra cars. Fire Rings picnic tables and nice pads for your tent in every site. The best ones of course are on the river side with number 9 and 12 being the prime reservable spots. There are two sets of bathrooms for the entire Loop so depending where you stay it can be quite a walk in the night! They are pit Vault toilets and original out houses complete with natural smell. The campground host keeps everything nice and clean. Firewood is sold in the camp ($6) but several places on the way in sell it for less from local people.

  • Andrea R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2019

    Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Ranger Review: IceMule Cooler at Colonial Creek Campground.

    Campground Review: Colonial Creek Campground

    https://thedyrt.com/camping/washington/washington-colonial-creek

    https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255201

    Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake Washington, is the prettiest place I've been to in Washington! Half the campground is reservation only, the other half is walk in. There is something like 176 total campsites, if I remember correctly. Each campsite is equipped with a large bear box, fire pit, picnic table and tent pad. The restrooms are large with flush toilets and sinks. There are no showers. Large bear proof trashcans, and water spigots are spread through each side of the campground. Thunder knob Trail starts on the south Campground and Thunder Creek trail is on the North campground. There is a fishing dock and a boat launch on the North campground. We stayed in site #15 which was great during the week. I felt this site offered zero privacy, the fire ring was positioned so you had to watch the road, the rest of the large site had a creek, but the trail went past our campsite, so a ton of people, familes, dogs, would all walk past our site. There is parking for the walk in sites right next to you, but those also take the trail. There is also nobody on the other side of you. So it gave a sense of privacy on a Wednesday, but not Friday-Sunday. At $16 a night, I felt it was great compared to other campsites. The beauty of this Campground and surrounding area is unparalleled. Would defiantly be back, but I would probably try for a more secluded site.

    Ranger review: Icemule Cooler

    https://icemulecoolers.com/collections/pro-coolers/products/the-icemule-pro-large

    As a ranger for the Dyrt, I sometimes get products in exchange for an honest review. Icemule coolers are perfection! This is the Large and it is huge! I was very surprised at the quality and size for the price. I love this cooler because it is super easy and comfortable to carry. No more big, heavy, bulky coolers to cart around. On this trip I used it as my main cooler. I froze 14 bottles of water to use as ice. I kept bacon, sausage, chicken, ground beef, hotdogs, butter, syrup and coffee creamer plus all the water bottles and soda in this bag. It was heavy, but held up to the challenge! It kept those bottles of water for 3 days before I had to buy ice. There is a compartment on the front for picnic supplies. I have also used this just as a dry bag. It's got great versatility and it even floats. I am 100% an Icemule cooler fan and recommend to anyone, whether a car camper or hiker, you will enjoy this cooler.

  • Douglas S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2019

    Red Bridge Campground

    Awesome campground in the beautiful Mount Baker National Forest

    The Red Bridge campground is on the very scenic Mountain loop Rd in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. It's a very beautiful drive. Nestled in some great trees, there are 13 sites with shade, right along the river. The camp host was very nice and sold firewood on site. There are no hook ups, and no water spigots so be sure to plan accordingly. There are bear proof trash cans and vault toilets available. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. This campground provides ample hiking, fishing and I saw people kayaking plus its not far to a hike to some glacier caves! Also check out the old red trestle bridge just outside of the campground. At $15 a night you have to see this place. 
    I highly recommend Red Bridge campground.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 19, 2023

    Newhalem Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Great NPS campground

    General: Camping in three loops plus walk-in tent sites and a group site (closed when we were there). No hookups of any kind. I was surprised that we had such good cell coverage (Verizon) but am guessing the proximity to the town of Newhalem is why. 

    Site Quality: Nicely wooded with decent separation. Some were back in, and some were pull-through. All were level with a paved camper pad. The sites in Loops A and B have tent platforms (didn’t see them in Loop C); all have a fire pit (but there was a burn ban), a large picnic table, and a bear box. 

    Bathhouse: The one in the A loop was very clean. There are no showers. No paper towels or air dryer so make sure to bring your towel. 

    Activities: Daily programs at Visitor Center 12:30 and 4:00 pm. It is about a half-mile walk via the River Loop to get to the Visitor Center (farther from Loop C) where you can get information on hikes and there is a small store and interpretive center. The proximity of the Visitor Center was appreciated due to the recent fires and not knowing what was open and what was not. The River Loop is approximately 2 miles and is accessed between the A and B Loops. You can also hike to Ladder Creek Falls. The gardens have been neglected for some time, but the falls are worth it. (You can also drive to the town of Newhalem to get to the falls). 

    We have been in many National Park campgrounds that have been outsourced and have been disappointed, so we were very glad to find this one still maintained by the NPS and at a very reasonable rate ($12 with senior pass).

  • H
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp

    Quiet camp with great views

    Arrived around 4pm on a Friday and there were a few spots left. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables available. No water. Got a spot with lake and Mountain View’s. Very small, quiet, stunning campground. Felt safe. We have a rooftop tent, not many sites with large enough spots to park trailers or vans. Mostly tent sites that are walk in. Mostly open, some sites in the forest. Had one bar of Verizon service. Would stay again!

  • Elise M.
    Aug. 11, 2020

    Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023

    Quiet and Lots of Space

    Great place to bring your LQ (any size rig) and camp with your horses. There are a few non-equestrians, but we need to keep this a place for equestrians because we are losing more and more campsites.  Trails are well maintained and extensive.

    No water or electric at the camp, but you can drive down to a creek and pump or collect water for your horses. You will be boondocking.

    High-line poles are available to high-tie your horses. We set up a portable corral and were fine. Picnic tables and fire rings are also available.

    No manure pile or wheel barrow. There is a vault toilet and I got cell service on my phone.

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2017

    Cougar Island — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Stunning!

    The recreation area has a number of backcountry camping options and at times, sites can get busy in the peak season but the permitting system will provide peace of mind that you'll have a spot for the night. Some sites are right on the lake while others are a bit tucked in. Most sites have fire rings, picnic tables and a few have grills. There's plenty of space to pitch a tent at each spot.

    As for all waste, pack it in and pack it out. There are a lot of mice roaming around these campsites so be sure to secure your food appropriately as well as any overly salty clothing (turns out mice really love salt soaked fabric). Some sites have heavy duty bear boxes for food storage.

    The great thing about these sites is that you can get to them by foot or by boat. We spent several days traveling along the lake, ending in Hozameen and taking a boat ride the length of Ross Lake back to our vehicle at the end.

    There are also several day hike options if you are canoeing/boating to your site or from site to site. Desolation Peak is one of my favorites and has some cool ties to Jack Kerouac. This spot is a gem and totally worth spending a few days here.

  • Karen L.
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Maple Grove Campsites

    Peaceful, lakefront campgrounds with views of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan

    These campgrounds are about a 4 mile hike in from the trailhead. Plenty of wild berries, flowers, and ferns along the way. We had fun just relaxing under the Big Leaf Maple trees. Each campground has a flat tent site. Some also have fire pits with grills and picnic tables, but not all. There is a pit toilet and urine diverter on site. There are also a couple bear boxes to share, as bear (and deer!) roam this area. The lake is lovely, though it was a bit too cold in June to swim. There is a small floating dock on the lake. Spectacular views of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan - be sure to watch the sunset. Boaters frequent this lake so there is a bit of motor noise, but this doesn't bother me. Dog-friendly campsite. This made for a very relaxing overnight backpacking trip!

  • Eric O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    All things considered, good spot

    Many pull offs along the gravel road. Stayed at one that was overlooking the lake. Lots of spots with easy lake access.

    Pros: free, good views, easy to get to, plenty of spots (even on Labor Day), fire rings.

    Cons: some spots have lots of trash (please remember leave no trace), most spots are along the gravel road so there are cars passing by every once in a while and sometimes they go by quite quickly kicking up lots of dust.

    All things considered, pretty good spot and would stay again.

Guide to Hamilton

Tent camping near Hamilton, Washington offers a variety of scenic locations perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Tent campers should check out Squire Creek Park & Campground

  • This campground features a peaceful atmosphere with sites that allow for campfires, making it a great spot for evening gatherings.
  • Located just a short drive from Seattle, Squire Creek Park & Campground provides easy access to hiking trails and a serene creek for wading.
  • With amenities like drinking water and picnic tables, it’s a convenient choice for families and groups.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Maple Grove Campsites

  • Maple Grove Campsites offers a unique experience with lakeside sites that can be accessed by hiking or boating, perfect for those seeking adventure.
  • The campground is equipped with fire rings and bear boxes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
  • Although there’s no drinking water available, the stunning views of Mount Baker and the surrounding old-growth forest make it worthwhile.

Tent campers like these nearby activities at Pine and Cedar Lakes

  • The short but steep hike to Pine and Cedar Lakes leads to secluded campsites surrounded by dense forest, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
  • Fishing and swimming opportunities abound in the lakes, providing fun activities for campers looking to relax by the water.
  • The area is known for its charming boardwalks and scenic trails, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hamilton, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hamilton, WA is Blue Lake BackCountry Campsites with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Hamilton, WA?

TheDyrt.com has all 85 tent camping locations near Hamilton, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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