Places to Camp near Mount Rainier National Park

Best Camping Sites Near Mount Rainier National Park, WA (275)

1. 

   1.

   Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

   53 Reviews

   168 Photos

   530 Saves

   Longmire, Washington

   Overview

   Cougar Rock Campground, on the southwest side of Mt. Rainier National Park, is conveniently located near Paradise. Individual campsites are reservable on this page. Group campsite reservations can be made via Cougar Rock Group Campground.__ Paradise is the most popular destination in the park, with a lodge and visitor center, many miles of hiking trails and a commanding view of the mountain-the highest in the state and Cascade range. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park is the mountain itself, a massive glacier-clad volcano, peaking at 14,411 ft. and dominating the skyline for hundreds of miles. Visitors travel through majestic old-growth forests, past tumbling waterfalls and historic buildings to reach sub-alpine meadows, where world-famous wildflower displays bloom through July and August. Popular activities in the park include sight-seeing, hiking, rock climbing and camping.Cougar Rock campground is located at an elevation of 3,180 feet. Summers are dry and cool with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. Weather throughout the park can be variable, so visitors should come prepared.

   Recreation

   From the facility, experienced hikers and backpackers can access the well-known, strenuous and beautiful Wonderland Trail, which encircles the park for 93 miles. For those who enjoy learning more about the park's natural and cultural history, there is an on-site amphitheater where interpretive programs are held.

   Facilities

   Cougar Rock is relatively rustic, but has drinking water, flush toilets and picnic tables at all 173 campsites. This facility is one of only two campgrounds in the park with campsites that can be reserved. Visitors must use extra caution with food storage, as foxes and other animals have been known to frequent the campground looking for food.

   Natural Features

   Cougar Rock Campground has one lookout point from which campers can view Mt. Rainier. Although it is peaceful now, the still active volcano last erupted in the mid 1800s. The campground is adjacent to the Nisqually River and is surrounded by thick forests. A short drive to Paradise in summer reveals fields of lush wildflowers.

   Nearby Attractions

   Mount Rainier National Park is about 50 miles southeast of the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.

   Charges & Cancellations

   If a camper does not check-in at the ranger station by 12:00pm check-out time the day after the scheduled arrival date, their reservation will be cancelled, the camper will incur a $10.00 service fee, and forfeit the first night's camping fee.__

   • Fires
   • RVs
   • Tents
   • Group
   • Standard (Tent/RV)
   • Trash

   $20 / night

2. 

   2.

   Ohanapecosh Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

   38 Reviews

   115 Photos

   418 Saves

   Paradise, Washington

   Overview

   Ohanapecosh Campground, on the southeast side of Mount Rainier National Park, is surrounded by old growth forest and crossed by an exceptionally beautiful snow-fed river. Close to Ohanapecosh are popular hikes to Silver Falls and the Grove of the Patriarchs. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park is the mountain itself, a glacier-clad volcano of immense proportions. At 14,411 ft., it dominates the skyline for hundreds of miles. Visitors travel through majestic old-growth forests, past tumbling waterfalls and historic buildings to reach sub-alpine meadows, where world-famous wildflower displays are seen in July and August. Popular activities in the park include sight-seeing, hiking, climbing and camping. Ohanapecosh campground has an elevation of 1,914 feet. Weather is dry, cool and sunny in the summer with daytime temperatures in the 60 to 80-degree range. Even though the eastern side of the park can be sunnier than other areas, weather can be variable and visitors should come prepared.

   Recreation

   The most popular campground in the park, Ohanapecosh is convenient to both the Paradise and Sunrise areas. Numerous hiking trails originate both in and nearby the facility, including the Grove of the Patriarchs trail, which leads hikers through stands of old growth forest, and several trails that lead to Silver Falls waterfall. For visitors who would like to learn more about natural and cultural history, the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center is close by as well.

   Facilities

   This large campground has 188 individual sites for RV or tent camping situated among the ancient trees. There is drinking water, but no electric hookups. Visitors must use extra caution with food storage, as bear and other animals inhabit the area around the campground.

   Natural Features

   Ohanapecosh is thought to be a Taidnapam Indian word for "standing on the edge" of the Ohanapecosh River. The river itself is lined with mossy boulders and drains cold, clear water down from higher elevations. Its banks are lined with thick, old growth Douglas fir trees and other evergreens. There is no view of Mt. Rainier directly from the campground, though the mountain dominates the landscape in nearby areas of the park.

   Charges & Cancellations

   __If a camper does not check-in at the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center at the campground window by 12:00pm check-out time the day after the scheduled arrival date, their reservation will be cancelled, the camper will incur a $10.00 service fee, and forfeit the first night's camping fee.__

   • Pets
   • Fires
   • RVs
   • Tents
   • Group
   • Standard (Tent/RV)

   $20 / night

3. 

   3.

   La Wis Wis Campgroundm- TEMPORARILY CLOSED

   27 Reviews

   111 Photos

   457 Saves

   Packwood, Washington

   Overview

   Situated at the confluence of three waterways near Mount Rainier, La Wis Wis is nestled under a canopy of towering Douglas firs and red cedars. The handful of sites that dot the riverbank enjoy the most sunshine. With an abundance of activities nearby, La Wis Wis is a popular destination for long-stay camping. Its proximity to Mount Rainier National Park makes it an excellent base for exploring all of the area's natural wonders.

   Recreation

   Hikers can easily access the Blue Hole Trail and Purcell Falls Trail from La Wis Wis. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and whitefish at either Butter Creek or Skate Creek.

   Facilities

   La Wis Wis is ideal for tents, car campers and truck campers with a slide-in. The Hatchery Loop sites can accommodate RVs, but navigation through other parts of the campground may be difficult due to narrow roadways and large trees. The campground features 122 sites, including walk-in tent camping. Both vault and flush toilets are available. Picnic tables, picnic shelters and grills are provided. Drinking water is available on-site at the main part of the camp. Campers staying at the Hatchery Loop need to bring potable water or get water at the main site.

   Natural Features

   Located in southwest Washington State, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest encompasses 1.3 million acres and includes the 110,000-acre Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, established by Congress in 1982. La Wis Wis is located in the Tatoosh Wilderness area of the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District. The campground sits where the Ohanapecosh River, Cowlitz River and Purcell Creek meet. The campground features old-growth forest and opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife.

   Nearby Attractions

   La Wis Wis is located near the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. The popular Henry M Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise within Mount Rainier National Park is 28 miles away.

   contact_info

   This location has limited staffing. Please call (360) 686-3008 for general information.

   Charges & Cancellations

   Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.__ A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Group Sites Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): A visitor who cancels a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.____ Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.__ In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

   • Pets
   • Fires
   • RVs
   • Tents
   • Group
   • Standard (Tent/RV)

   $20 - $22 / night

4. 

   4.

   Elkamp Eastcreek

   31 Reviews

   102 Photos

   196 Saves

   Mineral, Washington

   Elkamp Eastcreek allows visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors. Located near the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this campground provides easy access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, river rafting, kayaking and wildlife watching. The campsites are nestled among the trees and offer plenty of privacy, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat whether that be in a tent or more luxurious cabin. Elkamp Eastcreek also features modern amenities, including clean restrooms, showers and laundry facilities.

   • Pets
   • Fires
   • Electric Hookups
   • Phone Service
   • Reservable
   • ADA Access

   $25 - $40 / night

5. 

   5.

   White River Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

   16 Reviews

   53 Photos

   460 Saves

   Paradise, Washington

   Overview

   White River Campground is available on a first come first serve basis. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. The campround sits at 4,440 ft in elevation, 1200 ft higher than any other campground with amenities in Mount Rainier National Park. For this reason, winter lingers long and comes early. White River often opens at the end of June or early July and stays open in late September. The campground has are 88 campsites that cost $20 a night. There is a 27 ft RV limit and an 18ft trailer limit. Use the Recreation.gov Mobile App to pay the nightly camping fee when you arrive at the campground. Prior to arriving at the campground download the Recreation.gov App to your mobile device and create a Recreation.gov account.

   Recreation

   There are plenty of hiking opporunities as well as rich ecological sytems that will interest amateur botanists and mycologists.

   Facilities

   White River Campground has flush toilets, fire grates in the campsites and access to potable water. There is no dump station, laundry, Wi-Fi or cellphone service at this time. The maximum size for an RV is 27 feet and 18 ft for a tralier.

   Natural Features

   This high elevation campground is located near the White River and in a lovely forest. Trails crisscross the campground, including the Wonderland, Burrough Mountain and Glacier Basin Camp Trails.

   Nearby Attractions

   Trails: Glacier Basin, Burroughs Mountain, the Wonderland and the River Trail.__ The White River Ten miles to Sunrise Five miles from Highway 410 Four miles to the a Ranger Station

   Charges & Cancellations

   Currently White River is a first-come, first-served campgrounds so there are no cancellations.

   • RVs
   • Tents
   • Group
   • Standard (Tent/RV)
   • Trash
   • Firewood Available

   $20 / night

6. 

   6.

   Silver Springs Campground

   15 Reviews

   54 Photos

   230 Saves

   Greenwater, Washington

   Overview

   Silver Springs Campground is situated on the banks of the scenic White River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, just outside Mt. Rainier National Park's North Arch entrance. Silver Springs offers visitors stunning scenery and access to a multitude of recreational activities.

   Recreation

   The White River sustains populations of salmon and trout, making it a great spot for fishing. A natural spring flows through the campground as well. Hiking and climbing top the list of recreational activities in the surrounding area. The 0.5-mile, accessible John Muir Nature Trail begins at nearby Dalles Campground. Visitors enjoy gazing up the "Big Tree," at an old-growth Douglas fir tree inside Dalles. This giant measures 9.5 feet in diameter and is over 700 years old. The tree stands at the beginning of the Dalles River View Trail, originating at the west end of the campground loop. Local Crystal Mountain Trail begins about five miles southwest of the campground. It climbs 1,600 feet in elevation through clear-cut areas and second-growth forest before breaking out to expansive views of the White River Valley and Mt. Rainier. The trail continues to climb along the ridge, showcasing wildflowers in early June and huckleberries in early August.

   Facilities

   Silver Springs Campground offers both standard and accessible sites and accommodates tents or RVs. A group picnic shelter is also available. Picnic tables and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are flush and vault toilets and drinking water. No electrical hookups are available.

   Natural Features

   The campground's widely-spaced sites are scattered in a beautiful section of old-growth forest, where many sit on the banks of the White River, which is sourced by flowing water from ice caves at the base of Emmons Glacier on Mt. Rainier. The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests. Several designated wilderness areas surround the forest. Mt. Rainier, the highest peak in Washington and the Cascades Range, dominates the landscape on clear days. The volcano rises to an elevation of 14,411 feet and is perpetually snow-capped, boasting a total of 36-square miles of snowfields and glaciers. Wildlife in the area ranges from mountain goats in the higher elevations to porcupines and pine martens in the forests. Migratory birds and native fish find ample habitat in the varied ecosystems.

   contact_info

   For facility specific information, please call (530) 932-0242.

   Nearby Attractions

   Mount Rainier National Park offers fantastic glimpses of glaciers, subalpine ecology and volcanic landscapes. Hiking trails and scenic drives crisscross the park. Visit or stay in one of the historic lookouts in the area. Lookouts are tangible symbols of Forest Service heritage, perched on high peaks with unobstructed views where they have been used throughout the years to detect fires in remote forest lands.

   Charges & Cancellations

   Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

   • Pets
   • Fires
   • Phone Service
   • RVs
   • Tents
   • Group

   $38 - $40 / night

7. 

   7.

   Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

   13 Reviews

   58 Photos

   84 Saves

   Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

   The campground at Mowich Lake is the smallest of the four camping areas within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park. The road is unpaved after the first three miles and may be rough. Also, this is a walk-in campground only and fires are not allowed. With all that said, however, it just may be the most pristine and beautiful place to pitch a tent you’ll ever come across, with one of the most magnificent views of the mountain that you’ll find anywhere.

   • ADA Access
   • Tents
   • Group
   • Trash
   • Picnic Table
   • Toilets
8. 

   8.

   Tinkham Campground

   43 Reviews

   54 Photos

   257 Saves

   Snoqualmie Pass, Washington

   Overview

   Tinkham Campground is located along the South Fork Snoqualmie River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. It offers some of the most stunning scenery in Washington's North Cascades, as well as easy access to an abundance of recreational activities.

   Recreation

   The surrounding area is a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall. In winter, visitors can take advantage of skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. A handful of hiking trails lie within a short driving distance, making Tinkham an ideal setting for both individual and family camping excursions. The 0.5-mile Tinkham Discovery Trail is an easy, family-friendly nature path. It weaves through fallen, moss-covered trees to a small pond. Children love investigating the insects, wildflowers and fungi along the trail.

   Facilities

   Tinkham Campground offers single-family sites, a few of which are accessible. Picnic tables and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are vault toilets and drinking water. No electrical hookups are available.

   Natural Features

   The campground sits alongside the river, in a towering canopy of Douglas fir, cedar and western hemlock, providing abundant shade. Rugged peaks, scenic rivers and abundant wildlife define the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and surrounding designated wilderness areas. On a clear day visitors can see Mt. Baker, which rises to an elevation of 10,781 feet. The active volcano is perpetually snow-capped. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Wildlife in the area ranges from mountain goats in the higher elevations to coyotes and pine martens in the forests. Migratory birds and native fish find ample habitat in the varied ecosystems as well.

   contact_info

   For facility specific information, please call (530) 932-0242.

   Nearby Attractions

   Mount Rainier National Park is about an hour away. This beautiful park offers fantastic glimpses of glaciers, subalpine ecology and volcanic landscapes. Hiking and scenic driving are the area's most popular activities.

   Charges & Cancellations

   Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

   • Pets
   • Fires
   • Phone Service
   • RVs
   • Tents
   • Group

   $30 - $32 / night

9. 

   9.

   Alder Lake Park

   31 Reviews

   97 Photos

   351 Saves

   La Grande, Washington

   • Pets
   • Fires
   • Electric Hookups
   • Phone Service
   • Reservable
   • ADA Access
10. 

    10.

    Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    10 Reviews

    15 Photos

    88 Saves

    Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

    Tents only. Backcountry camping permits are available from the Carbon River Ranger Station (360) 829-9639.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets