Tent camping near Mead, Washington offers options from primitive forest sites to lakeside recreation areas within a 30-mile radius. The region features elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet with seasonal temperature fluctuations that allow camping from May through October. Most campgrounds close during winter months when snowfall makes access difficult and overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities at Nine Mile Recreation Area: Located on Long Lake with swimming areas and boat launch facilities. Campers can rent kayaks and paddleboards during summer months. "The resort is right on Long Lake, there is an area to swim, and it's a good spot for waterskiing. There are picnic pavilions and a boat launch, and lots of camping sites," notes camper Jim T. at Nine Mile Recreation Area.
Hiking near Killarney Lake: Several trail networks surround the camping area with terrain suitable for beginners and intermediate hikers. "This area is beautiful! It has restroom access. It would not be nice to travel here in the snow though due to the gravel roads," reports Megan K. about Killarney Lake Picnic Site.
Fishing opportunities: Skookum Creek and surrounding waterways provide trout fishing from spring through fall. "Right on Skookum Creek and very quiet. Nice spots spaced quite far apart. Grassy with fire rings and tables. Lots of area to the NE to hike," notes Janet R.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural vegetation barriers. "It is a very nice place to camp, since there probably won't be any people outside your own group. The owner was very responsive to texts and was helpful with all of my questions," reports Ethan V. about Extraordinary Camping.
Natural settings: Many tent sites provide direct creek or lake access with natural terrain. "We stayed here for one night and were absolutely thrilled at how peaceful and quiet the space was. You're right off the water and get an amazing view of the sunset," writes Taesagh M.
Amenities at established sites: Campgrounds like Camp Gifford provide more facilities while maintaining natural surroundings. "Inclusive children's camp," notes Rachel A. about Camp Gifford at Deer Lake, which offers drinking water, showers, and toilets.
What you should know
Access challenges: Forest roads to camping areas can be steep and sometimes difficult to navigate. "It is a steep but well maintained forest road. There was one clear pull off early and it had someone in it. Wanted some privacy so I kept going," explains Teresa T. about Lakes Divide Road.
Reservation requirements: Several tent sites near Mead require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. "We stayed here on a whim for a road trip stop. It ended up being one of the best nights of the road trip. Robin was unbelievably accommodating with our situation," reports aaron S. about Amongst The Pines.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds close between October and April. "Drove up a winding road for 20 min to find the park was closed," warns Michael S. about Nine Mile Recreation Area.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is unreliable at many camping areas. "No Reception! We didn't find it since there is no reception anywhere nearby and ended up at Bumblebee," shares Dusty W. about Breakwater Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreational facilities: Some campgrounds include playgrounds and open spaces for children. "Great camping spot for families or anyone! Swing sets and slide for youngsters, horseshoe pit (when camp host is present), for older kids, large grass field for frisbee or football," recommends TBone at Mica Bay Boater Park.
Consider farm experiences: Certain private campgrounds offer unique features. "Robin was unbelievably accommodating with our situation and even introduced my daughters to all the farm animals. On top of that, the space was perfect for a couple young kids to run around and explore," says aaron S. about Amongst The Pines.
Check water access quality: Waterfront conditions can vary significantly. "Took our waverunners out there for the day so much seaweed couldn't launch them. Thought maybe spend the day at the beach but so much goose poop couldn't get to water without stepping in piles," warns Pat S. about Nine Mile Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces and leveling: Many tent-focused campgrounds have limited improvements for RVs. "I may have a new favorite inland northwest campground. First- it's a free DNR campground. A site doesn't cost a dime. However, each site has a nice fire ring, large picnic table, and loads of elbow room," reports Henry H. about Skookum Creek Campground.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow entry roads unsuitable for larger vehicles. "The entry road is narrow, it is not paved, and meanders through private property, so slow down!" advises Jim T. about Nine Mile Recreation Area.
Hook-up availability: Limited electric and water connections exist at tent-focused sites. "The RV/camper sites have full or partial hook-ups. All back in. The campsite is clean and very friendly. Make sure you have cash or check when you check in unless you made a reservation on the website," notes Aaron P.
