Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Mount Rainier National Park

Home to what is, by far, the tallest peak in Washington, Mt. Rainier National Park is a majestic sight to behold. Southeast of Seattle, WA, this is a respite for the city or a destination in and of itself.

Camping in Rainier National Park is straightforward, with one major campground in each section of the park. Ohanapecosh Campgrounds has the greatest number of individual campsites. Mowich Lake Campground in the northwest is the only tent-exclusive primitive camping option. The others offer RV camping, with Cougar Rock Campground having the largest length maximum at 35 feet (27 feet for trailers). The best camping near Mount Rainier National Park during the busy season is in any of the surrounding US Forest Service Land. With options in three directions, you won’t be short on places to camp. Tahoma State Forest near Ashford, WA, is a good option as well.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Mount Rainier National Park (182)

    1. Ohanapecosh Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    42 Reviews
    Paradise, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    $20 / night

    "Lots of trails to hike, pet friendly, and the river is a sight to see. Beautiful."

    "Great location, so close to the park entrance. An hour or so away from Paradise Inn and Sunrise Lodge. Hiked Silver Falls Trail which was right across from our campsite (E10)."

    2. White River Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "It was an absolutely beautiful location, about 10-15 minutes away from the Sunrise Entrance. The first night, I got there after 9pm and there were still plenty of spots available."

    "The campsites are absolutely beautiful—tucked among the trees with stunning views and the soothing, constant sound of the roaring White River nearby."

    3. La Wis Wis Campground

    29 Reviews
    Packwood, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $22 - $115 / night

    "I've been coming here since I was a little kid and it's still one of my favorite campgrounds (with leashed pets allowed)."

    "We loved that we were only 5 minutes from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, and about the same distance to Packwood WA for access to amenities if needed."

    4. Silver Springs Campground

    18 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $37 - $84 / night

    "We had a dry camping, asphalt parking site next to the restrooms at the end of the loop (near the camp hosts). It was very quiet here and the area is just beautiful."

    "This is my new favorite spot to camp in Washington. The spaces are well distributed, the location right next to the river is beautiful and the site staff were extremely gracious."

    5. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 783-6000

    "We drove to the end where the bathroom is and decided to turn around, though it seems that the camp spots do continue after that point."

    "We drove to the end where the bathroom is and decided to turn around, though it seems that the camp spots do continue after that point."

    6. The Dalles Campground

    13 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $32 - $68 / night

    "Beautiful spot but it's right off the highway. Mostly wanted to review to add that there's no VZW service for miles."

    "To be honest I thought the complaint of road noise was a little silly as that is always the trade off when located conveniently off the hwy. However it was so much worse than road noise."

    7. Elkamp Eastcreek

    37 Reviews
    Mineral, WA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 492-3104

    $25 - $40 / night

    "This is a great place to stay, clean, creek access, tons of space for dogs to play in the field, nice little trail access from the field next to the campground."

    "We stayed at site #10 it is a fantastic pull through site super close to the creek(if you want to be real close check out site #3). Super dog friendly and nice big sites."

    8. Big Creek Campground

    11 Reviews
    Ashford, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $25 - $45 / night

    "I chose to stayed here because of its location. It’s close to the entrance into Rainier NP and there’s plenty of Amazing hikes nearby. I camped alone (I’m a female) and I felt safe."

    "Located a short distance from Mt Rainier NP, this is the perfect springboard for any NP adventure or chillax getaway."

    9. NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Puyallup, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1103

    "We found an awesome walk in spot a little bit earlier on on the forest road before these actual coordinates."

    "Got here around sunset. Looks like some good camping spots to walk into. Beautiful view of Rainier. There was a little bit of traffic but nothing crazy. Would stay here again."

    10. Bumping Lake Campground

    17 Reviews
    Goose Prairie, WA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $24 - $48 / night

    "Our go to spot, love walking the dogs around the lake and along the gravel road. It’s very quiet and peaceful. The part is clean and the camp hosts are very friendly and helpful."

    "There was a woodsy area behind the site where kids could play. The bathrooms are fancy out houses no place to wash hands. Lots of bugs in the evening."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 182 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Mount Rainier National Park

1337 Reviews of 182 Mount Rainier National Park Campgrounds


  • molly N.
    Sep. 16, 2022

    Camp Lakeview

    Great spot

    This campground has super friendly staff, decent bathrooms and showers, laundry facility, access to a lake, fishing is welcome, swimming allowed, great playground for kids, allows pets, has a small store in the office with some essentials if you forget something. It is about a 1 Hour drive to the entrance of Mount Rainier National Park.

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2016

    La Wis Wis Campground

    Long time favorite

    I've been coming here since I was a little kid and it's still one of my favorite campgrounds (with leashed pets allowed). It's cute, wooded, with a moss covered old growth forest, fairly private camps, with one large group site available. Obviously the river spots are the prime locations but we recently had to branch out and stayed in the more wooded Loop B at site B4. We found we had plenty of space and privacy for a party of 5. At this location we had piped water between us and site B5, and we were conveniently located a short walk from restrooms and Purcell Falls. There are plenty of options to keep you busy inside the campground such as visit to one of the many rivers or creeks, the blue hole or a hike to Purcell falls.
    If you choose to use the campground as a base camp your close to many other options as well; Ohanapecosh campground and amphitheater, hike naches peak loop, visit the town of Packwood or Mount Rainier National Park (no pets allowed).

  • J
    Jun. 30, 2024

    La Wis Wis Campground

    Beautiful campground among the trees

    The facilities, while only vault toilets, were always kept clean. The trees and the river were beautiful. We loved that we were only 5 minutes from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, and about the same distance to Packwood WA for access to amenities if needed. I’d recommend trying to get a site along the river. There was no cell phone signal (T-Mobile) for miles around.

  • S
    Oct. 15, 2019

    Silver Springs Campground

    Beatiful, Quiet Camping

    We made reservations here 9/3-9/5. We had a dry camping, asphalt parking site next to the restrooms at the end of the loop (near the camp hosts). It was very quiet here and the area is just beautiful.

    The roads through this campground are a bit tight and have a few low-hanging trees, so be aware if you have a larger rig. Our 32’ fifth wheel was fine but I wouldn’t want to go much longer than that.

    There are plenty of hiking, fishing, and sight-seeing available in the area. This campground was a great jumping-off point for visiting nearby Mount Rainier National Park.

    The campground has both dry camping and water/electric hookups, but no dump station. Flush toilets and pit toilets were located in the campground; the flush toilets we were next to were clean. There are several water spigots scattered throughout the dry camping loop, although they weren’t threaded so we couldn’t run a hose to them. Washing dishes at the spigots and in the restrooms was discouraged.

    Nearby Enumclaw had everything we needed. The drive through the forest to get there was nice and we spotted several moose in the trees.

    Verizon signal was spotty.

  • Shay F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2020

    Hells Crossing Campground

    Great if you can get a river site

    Summer has been cool and wet so far this year in western Washington. We decided to take a long 4th of July weekend and head over to the east side towards Mount Rainier National Park. 

    There are many National Forest managed campgrounds and dispersed camping spots to choose from along Highway 410 in Washington. The American River runs along this road and there are many places to hike. Naches is about 45 miles away and has a great pizza place/brewery. We booked somewhat last minute so we did not have many open sites at campgrounds in that area to pick from. 

    Hells Crossing has two loops, one on either side of the American River. Several sites border the river, the others border the highway which can be very busy. There are vault toilets on both loops. They started on Thursday very clean and pleasant but by Sunday they were pretty smelly and the toilet paper was running dangerously low. We did not see anyone come to check them over the whole weekend. The website says there is potable water, but it appeared that the water was either broken or still shut off as we had to go to another campground down the road to fill our 5-gallon jug when we started to get low. Fires were still permitted and you can buy wood at several other spots between this area and Naches. 

    Our site (6) was heavily shaded and bordered the highway. There were many trees, great hammock spots, and plenty of space between us and the other campers. We have a small 16 foot trailer but we tow with a quad cab, long bed old Dodge truck. I think it's longer than our trailer. This campground is tight. We had to move the large log that was separating our parking area from the rest of the camp site back a few feet just so we could fit the trailer in and pull the truck in front. All traffic had to stop until we could level and unhook as there was no space to go around. The ants were terrible but if we wear shoes and prop your feet up when sitting, they are a minor annoyance. 

    The river is lovely and very cold. It's a nice walk around the loops and there are a couple trails across the highway to explore. There are a few sites that are better than the one we had (10 is primo!) so with better panning this would be a place we would return.

  • Julie P.
    Aug. 24, 2017

    Granite Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    So many great hikes!

    Hiking is one of my favorite things to do when I am not working. I spend a lot of my free time doing this. Granite Creek Campground is a great place to camp- but it is also a great starting point to hike. You can start at Granite Creek Campground and hike to Sunrise Point which is in the Wonderland trail in the Mount Rainier National Park. It takes me about 5 hours to do a roundtrip loop from one point to the next and back. It is about 8 miles roundtrip, and I would say it was "middle' level experience. The scenery, wild life, and greenery are to die for. My favorite time of year to do this hike is in the spring time because there are so many gorgeous flowers that are blooming. I almost feel like I am in some sort of flower painting, because everywhere you look there is a different color flower. I have yet to stay at Granite Creek Campground but it is on my list to do at some point. Going through the campground in the summer, it is ALWAYS busy. So many RV's and tents all around- I would definitely say this was a great sign and tells you a lot about how much people like staying here. It is always clean too. There are bathrooms on site (I usually use them before and after my hike)! They are clean, and always stocked with toilet paper and toilet seat covers. I would highly recommend coming here! To camp or to hike!!!

  • Carla S.
    Jul. 31, 2016

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Dash Point Beach

    Really cute camp spot and play area!! Pet friendly and dog park! Went here on our trip to Tacoma north of the city. Very nice beach and area!! There's also a light house to check out while you are here!

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2017

    Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    Crowded yet Cozy

    Ipsut Creek Campground is a relatively easy 5 mile trek or bike ride with a 700’ elevation gain, down a closed road (due to the road wash out about 3 miles in) to a wooded campground nestled along the Carbon River.

    Located at the trailhead are two bathrooms, a covered picnic area and a handful of parking stalls with additional parking located along the road. 

    The trail begins behind the closed gates into the shade of the old growth forest. The trail then alternates between the shade of the forest and sunny skys with river views and wildflowers along the way.

    There are a few side trips off the main Carbon River Trail even before reaching the Ipsut Creek Camp;

    1. Mini Rainforest Loop, 0.25 miles

    2. Old Mine Trail, 0.6 miles round trip

    3. Green Lake & Ranger Falls trail, 3.6 miles round trip

    Note: Sadly, the trail to Chenuis Falls has washed out, so now there is just a log bridge into the water to nowhere.

    Once you reach the campground, it has about 20 campsites with about half the sites located on the river. We were lucky enough to swoop up site number 15 though, strangely, another family decided to share it with us for our easy river front access.  Thankfully the river is pretty loud and drowned out the noise of our close campers. We did choose to camp on the high-profile weekend of the 4th of July, so all the cool campsites along the river were obviously full, which is why we think we had “friends” join us. There was a large fallen tree sort of splitting the camp site in half, so we took the left half, with the smaller 1 picnic table option, while the strangers took the right half with 2 picnic tables. 

    The trees in camp are great for setting up hammocks. We set up a hammock triangle upon arrival in camp near the river for lazy afternoon naps. My siblings both slept in their hammocks fulltime, while my husband and I set up a tent in a small clearing on the opposite side of the picnic table, closer to the bear lockers (bear lockers are a huge plus, meaning a bear canister isn’t necessary if you’re not heading deeper into the backcountry). 

    The campground had a decent amount of wildlife running around.  We had a number of chipmunks running around our camp cleaning up any scraps left daily; we found a live mouse chilling in a water bottle one morning upon setting up for breakfast, and deer came through the camp just about anytime it was quiet.  

    The campground does have two restrooms but they smell like the bog of eternal stench, so bring strong essential oils, a scented hanky, or a shovel to dig cat tracks in the woods far from camp and water sources. 

    The campground is a good base camp to explore the surrounding Carbon Glacier/ Mowich Lake area. We visited Ipsut Falls, which was less than a half mile round trip out of camp, making for a sweet little trip to break up the day in camp. 

    We also chose to make the adventure up to the Suspension Bridge and to the Carbon Glacier view point. Our morning started off cool in heavy fog, which burned off throughout the day, giving way to magnificent views of the mountain and glacier. The trail was covered in wildflowers, cairns, creeks and mini waterfalls. It made for a beautiful day trip out of camp with plenty of opportunities to go further into the backcountry closer to Winthrop Glacier, out to Tolmie peak area or back out along the Wonderland Trail. Backcountry options seemed endless. 

    Though the trail and camp (and site) were crowded, the hike to the glacier made the entire trip worth our cozy campsite. The Carbon Glacier is a bit dirty looking but to be standing in front of something so ancient and magnificent is truly amazing.  My husband, sister and I have now added a new item to our bucket lists and that is to see as many glaciers as we can before they melt, here’s to our first. =) 

    Note: The campground is located within Mount Rainier National Park (no pets are allowed) so you’ll need to stop by the Carbonado Ranger Station for a Wilderness Permit and National Park Day Pass or Annual Permit to display for parking. No campfires within the campground.


Guide to Mount Rainier National Park

If you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend, there are several pet-friendly camping options near Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and activities that cater to both you and your pets.

Pet-friendly campgrounds include Ohanapecosh Campground

  • Located in an old-growth forest, Ohanapecosh Campground allows pets and features clean facilities, making it a great choice for families.
  • This campground is situated right by the river, providing a scenic backdrop for your camping experience while your pet enjoys the fresh air.
  • With picnic tables and fire pits, you can enjoy meals outdoors while your pet relaxes by your side.

Dog owners appreciate La Wis Wis Campground

  • La Wis Wis Campground offers a beautiful setting among towering trees and is just minutes from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park.
  • The campground features vault toilets and a sanitary dump station, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your pet.
  • With access to walking trails nearby, you can take your dog on adventures right from your campsite.

Tips for camping with dogs near Mount Rainier National Park

  • At Eastcreek Campground, you’ll find spacious sites and friendly owners who welcome pets, making it a perfect spot for a family getaway.
  • Bring along a leash and ensure your dog is well-behaved, as many campgrounds, including Silver Springs Campground, have rules regarding pet control.
  • Always clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area and ensure a pleasant experience for all campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed in Mount Rainier National Park?

Dogs are allowed in Mount Rainier National Park but with significant restrictions. They are permitted only in developed areas like parking lots, campgrounds, picnic areas, and roads. Dogs are NOT allowed on trails, in wilderness areas, or in park buildings. They must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Just outside the park, La Wis Wis Campground is pet-friendly and located only 5 minutes from the park entrance, making it a good base for park visits with pets. Consider leaving your dog at a boarding facility when planning extended hiking in the park.

Where are the pet-friendly campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park?

All developed campgrounds within Mount Rainier National Park allow pets with restrictions. Pets must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times and cannot be left unattended. They're only permitted in campgrounds, parking lots, and on paved roads - not on trails or in the backcountry. Just outside the park, Silver Springs Campground is a pet-friendly option with beautiful riverside sites. The campground offers clean facilities and spacious sites that accommodate pets well. Hells Crossing Campground is another nearby pet-friendly option along Highway 410 near the park.

What RV parks near Mount Rainier allow pets?

Several RV parks near Mount Rainier welcome pets with varying amenities. Camp Lakeview is a pet-friendly private campground about an hour from Mount Rainier with lake access, bathrooms, showers, and a small store. Whispering Pines RV Campground is another pet-friendly option near the park that accepts phone reservations. For RVers with pets seeking more extensive recreation options, Ike Kinswa State Park Campground offers standard pull-through and back-in sites with good privacy, plus a dedicated dog park on the water at the day use area.