RV camping near Lynden, Washington provides convenient access to diverse camping opportunities within Whatcom County, where summers average 75°F and winters drop to around 35°F. The region sits at the northwest corner of Washington state, approximately 15 miles south of the Canadian border. Most campgrounds in the area operate on gravel pads requiring leveling blocks, with varying degrees of privacy between sites.
What to do
Kayaking access: Thousand Trails La Conner offers water access with a beach area for launching kayaks and paddleboards. "We've camped here a couple times, and love it. Bathrooms are kept clean, mini golf is fun, and the walks to 'Lone Tree' at sunset are amazing," notes a camper who visits regularly.
Beach activities: The shallow waters at Beachside RV Park in Birch Bay provide warm-water swimming and beachcombing opportunities within walking distance. "Quiet in town and on the unbelievably warm waters of the shallow Birch Bay just across the street," reports one reviewer who appreciated the proximity to water activities.
Trail exploration: Some campgrounds feature small nature trails suitable for short walks and wildlife viewing. At Thousand Trails Birch Bay, campers mention enjoying "the pool and small nature trails around camp. There is a lot to do around town all within biking distance."
What campers like
Privacy features: The Cedars RV Resort in Ferndale receives positive feedback for its site layout. "I love the hedges between spots so you're not eating lunch at the table, staring at your neighbors sewer hose and power box," mentions one camper, highlighting the thoughtful separation between sites.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Bellingham RV Park, campers note that "registration process was super-easy. Park felt safe and restrooms, area around the RVs were all very clean and homey."
Pet-friendly amenities: Some parks offer designated pet areas. The Cedars RV Resort provides a "good dog park" according to reviewers, though availability of pet relief areas varies significantly between campgrounds.
What you should know
Site variability: Site quality can differ dramatically within the same campground. At Thousand Trails Birch Bay, reviewers note significant differences between sections: "2 phases for RVs - phase 1 spots are so close you could very well 'spare a square' of TP to your neighbor. Phase 2 has a lot more room to spread out and it's nice."
Maintenance issues: Some campgrounds struggle with upkeep. At Thousand Trails La Conner, a camper observed: "Our last visit here there were many spaces where the electricity wasn't working and the dump station was out of order."
Reservation systems: Not all parks guarantee specific sites even with reservations. One camper warned about Thousand Trails Birch Bay: "First, they take reservations but do not reserve a spot for you; rv spots are first come first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: During summer months, campgrounds with pools provide relief from heat. The Cedars RV Resort features a "big pool" that families appreciate, while Thousand Trails Birch Bay has a pool that's popular with visiting children.
On-site activities: Some parks offer recreational facilities for children. At Friday Creek Campground, families appreciate the creek access: "Creek in the backyard, nice and secluded," though they note you may "have to bring tote up to location."
Campground layout: When camping with children, consider site proximity to facilities. Thousand Trails Mount Vernon offers "proximity sites next to the restrooms" that can be convenient for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many RVers mention needing leveling blocks at campgrounds throughout the region. Bellingham RV Park features "gravel pull-throughs with full hook-ups," but preparation for uneven sites is recommended.
Big rig considerations: For larger RVs, accessibility varies between parks. At Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, campers warn "there are a few hills that might be a problem for larger Class A's with a trailer," while The Cedars RV Resort is noted as accommodating for larger rigs.
Laundry access: Bellingham RV Park provides laundry facilities in the office/lodge area, though capacity may be limited during busy periods. The Cedars RV Resort and other parks may charge additional fees for laundry services.