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Camping near Bellingham, WA

261 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Campgrounds near Bellingham provide options along the Puget Sound coastline and inland forest areas. Larrabee State Park Campground, located on Samish Bay about six miles south of Bellingham, offers both tent and RV camping with hookups in a forested setting near the shoreline. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Pine and Cedar Lakes Primitive Camping provides hike-in tent sites accessible by trail. The region includes several state parks with cabins and developed facilities, including Birch Bay State Park north of the city and Deception Pass State Park to the south. KOA campgrounds in Lynden and Burlington supplement these public lands with additional amenities for RV travelers.

    Many campgrounds in the Bellingham area require advance reservations, especially during summer months when sites fill quickly. Larrabee State Park and other developed facilities typically offer amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and showers, while primitive sites at locations like Pine and Cedar Lakes have minimal infrastructure. Weather conditions remain mild year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for rain and cool temperatures. Most state park campgrounds in the region operate throughout the year, providing camping opportunities regardless of season. A recent review noted that "Clean campground in the rainforest along Chuckanut Drive...While it's a beautiful forest campground, the campsites are pretty close together and not very private."

    Noise from passing trains represents a common issue at Larrabee State Park, with several visitors mentioning the disruption in reviews. According to one camper, "The trains aren't kidding. They are loud and they are all night." Campsites at Pine and Cedar Lakes provide a more secluded experience, requiring a "steep but short hike" to reach the primitive camping areas. These lakeside sites offer greater solitude but lack facilities. Beach access represents a highlight at coastal campgrounds, with tide pools and shoreline exploration opportunities at Larrabee State Park. Proximity to mountain biking and hiking trails adds recreational value to many of the campgrounds in the region, particularly those along Chuckanut Drive. The combination of coastal and forest settings gives Bellingham-area campgrounds distinct character compared to other camping regions in Washington.

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    Best Campgrounds near Bellingham (261)

    Filters    Tent onlyRVDispersedCabinGlampingPetsEquestrian

      1. Larrabee State Park Campground

      3.9(41)7mi from Bellingham99 sitesRVs, Tents

      "We have not camped at Larabee State Park, but we did scope it out during a recent visit to Bellingham. Here’s what we saw: Great newer looking playground for kids: bonus for families!"

      "Larrabee State Park is a publicly owned recreation area located on Samish Bay, six miles (10 km) south of the city of Bellingham, Washington."

      from $12 - $70 / night

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      2. Deception Pass State Park Campground

      4.4(111)26mi from Bellingham349 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Some trails walking distance from the campsite to gorgeous beaches while others we drove to get to other trails and scenic lookouts. I loved every minute staying there."

      "This is one of the most popular locations in Washington State and easy to see why. Both fresh and salt water experiences are within a few steps away with amazing sunsets and breathtaking views."

      from $12 - $167 / night

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      3. Birch Bay State Park Campground

      4.5(34)17mi from Bellingham172 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This was our first trip in a new trailer, and the park is close to home for us, so perfect for our maiden voyage. Shaded sites, some hookup (water/electric), but most unserviced."

      "Beautiful campground located right next to the bay awesome walking distance from our site to the bay and not too noisy either! Would definitely stay again perfect for small children as well!"

      from $12 - $113 / night

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      4. Bay View State Park Campground

      4.0(33)18mi from Bellingham93 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Beach walks and a county path nearby. There is also a marine center with small aquarium nearby."

      "Our spot backed up to beautiful trees and was nicely situated to not feel crowded."

      from $12 - $99 / night

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      5. Lynden/Bellingham KOA

      4.1(18)14mi from BellinghamRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Lynden KOA was the perfect nearby campground. Tent sites in the back are rather dusty (no grass)… but then again we’re camping so who cares. Grassy sites are around the pond and book up quickly."

      "This part of Washington is beautiful. We have been a few times, but never hiked or camped. The weather was perfect for us, so much sunshine and warm weather!"

      from $60 - $120 / night

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      6. Oostema Farmstead

      5.0(8)14mi from Bellingham5 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "It's close to Lynden, Bellingham and the coast right near the Canadian border.  If you have time drive east to Emerson or Demming - great ride through the farmlands...."

      "It is located on a working farm. There were chickens, cows, calves, a heron (I think it was nesting near the driveway), a raspberry field, a garden and even a cat wandering around. "

      from $35 - $65 / night

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      7. Pine and Cedar Lakes Primitive Camping

      4.7(3)4mi from BellinghamTents

      "Close to Bellingham, no bay views but nice scenery, little lake, and dense forest nonetheless. Good steep trails nearby and charming boardwalks."

      "Steep but short hike, but hey, it's close to town! A 15 minute drive from downtown Bellingham and you get yourself a secluded, quiet lake."

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      8. Burlington-Anacortes KOA

      4.1(10)15mi from BellinghamRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "There is a creek that goes by the campground and it makes it for a nice walk with dogs or without dogs :) There are a lot of trees there, which provide shade for part of the day, which is great."

      "Large sites are surrounded by woods and farmland. This is a great weekend getaway."

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      9. The Cedars RV Resort

      4.3(4)10mi from BellinghamRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "There are several back in spots around the perimeter with a bit more room (length). There are spaces with sufficient width for tip outs and those without."

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      10. Bellingham RV Park

      3.3(3)4mi from BellinghamRVs

      "Flew in to the Bellingham airport, picked up a vehicle and arrived at Bellingham RV Park at about dusk (if you can't tell from the photos). Registration process was super-easy."

      "Cute RV-only park not far from the Canadian border. Parking spots are pretty straight-forward, as it’s just a lot for RVs. Advanced reservations are highly recommended. No tent camping available."

      Check Availability
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    Recent Camping Photos near Bellingham, WA

    254 Photos of 261 Bellingham Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Bellingham, WA

    1005 Reviews of 261 Bellingham Campgrounds

    • Christina F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 17, 2026

      Deception Pass State Park Campground

      Surprisingly secluded

      HIGHLY recommend site 33 as it is secluded! Once in the site, I could not really see my neighbors. And this site was huge! I was in the Forest loop, which was lovely. Probably not for big trailers like 5th wheels or longer bumper pulls as the road through is very narrow and campsites are between big trees. It was perfect for my little 18 foot teardrop though. No playground. Good cell service. Here's the thing though, this is pretty much right next to NAS Whidbey so if jet noise bothers you, don't camp here. They were not doing night ops while we were there, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen.

    • Kelly H.
      Jul. 16, 2026

      Kayak Point County Park

      Campground review

      Had everything for camping especially a quick walk to the water!

    • Sierra R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 16, 2026

      Swift Creek Campground

      Beautiful Group site. Great day use area

      Our first visit. We had a beautiful group site near center. Lots of room and fairly private. Fire pits, tent boxes clean and picnoc tables in good shape. Easy access Pit bathrooms, trails and day ise lake area. We did have a bear wonder by.. but didnt stay long. The trees have larve enough canopy thelat they shelter a bit from the rain.

    • Eliot P.
      Jul. 16, 2026

      Beachside RV Park

      I count myself incredibly lucky to have found this park

      I travel for a living and spend multiple months—or even years—at different parks. This one was amazing. The staff and the people were incredibly friendly, which actually made it hard to leave when it came time to move to another park in a different state. I would definitely consider moving back here when I reach retirement.

    • M
      Jul. 13, 2026

      NF Dispersed Camping

      Quiet and Peaceful

      The river sounds were the highlight of this spot. Beautiful sunrise in the morning aswell

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 12, 2026

      Doe Bay Resort & Retreat

      Beautiful Retreat

      Beautiful location and lots of services available on site and strong WiFi through the grounds. Camp for two days here on the weekend.

    • Michelle M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 10, 2026

      Skagit River RV & Camping

      Good and clean facilities, crowded

      This place has great toilets, showers, laundry, and is very clean but the sites are pretty packed in

    • olivia V.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 10, 2026

      NF Dispersed Camping

      Nice, but fairly busy

      Spent one night here while in the Cascades and we would recommend :) some spots were bigger than others. We found a spot with plenty of room for our sprinter van Pros- close to the park, off the beaten path Cons- spots filled up fast, some spots are not overly spacious.

    • Kasey B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 9, 2026

      NF 33 Dispersed Camping

      Nice Mountain View

      Not many sites on this road. Our site was at least 5 miles back and I think we only saw 3-4 sites on our way up. The road itself is good, can get back with 2WD alone. The further back you go we noticed more and more potholes. There is a trailhead all the way at the end so there are some people headed back to do that. We got some good views of Mount Baker.

    Guide to Bellingham

    Camping near Bellingham offers diverse lakeside and forest camping experiences within a short drive from the city. Situated in Whatcom County with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,000 feet, the area experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 70°F with cool nights in the 50s. Winter camping requires preparation for frequent rainfall, with December through February averaging 5-7 inches of precipitation monthly.

    What to Do

    Paddle sports on Mountain Lake: At Moran State Park, visitors can enjoy kayaking on the calm lake waters. "This is a large campground on Orcas Island. It sits on Lake Moran which is a fun lake to kayak and cliff jump," notes Rich M., highlighting the water activities available.

    Hiking at Pine and Cedar Lakes: The trails offer a challenging but rewarding experience with a "steep but short hike" to reach the primitive camping areas. "Close to Bellingham, no bay views but nice scenery, little lake, and dense forest nonetheless. Good steep trails nearby and charming boardwalks," reports Harry H.

    Wildlife watching: Many campgrounds around Bellingham provide opportunities to spot local fauna. At Larrabee State Park Campground, campers might encounter "furry neighbours" as one reviewer warns: "Just be aware that it has some nosy raccoon residents who feel very comfortable coming right up to camp to investigate your food situation."

    What Campers Like

    Lakeside camping spots: At Mountain Lake in Moran State Park, campers appreciate waterfront sites. "We were in site 22, right on the water (but also right next to the access road.) There is a lovely 3 mile hike around the lake with a fun bridge to jump off of to swim," shares Jessica B.

    Beach access: Birch Bay State Park Campground offers excellent beach recreation opportunities. "Grab a meal at the near by Doe Bay resort, you wont be disapointed!" recommends one visitor, while another notes, "If you're the type that loves walks along the beach and breath taking sunsets... Brich Bay State Park is the place to be!"

    Private wooded sites: Several campgrounds feature secluded sites. At Deception Pass State Park Campground, one camper found "Feeling safe and secure" noting, "Set way back from the road the campsite was surrounded by wilderness with a cute trail to the bathroom."

    What You Should Know

    Train noise: Multiple reviews mention the railway near Larrabee State Park. "Lovely area and views. We visited in the winter, so it was quiet. Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs," reports Daryl N.

    Military jet sounds: Campers at Deception Pass should prepare for overhead noise. "Definitely worth a stay with it's proximity to the beach, stargazing, hiking. The whole area feels magical. Plus Anacortes is a fun town just a few minutes away. The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis."

    Limited privacy at some sites: Many reviewers note the close quarters at popular campgrounds. One camper at Bay View State Park Campground observed, "Just 20 minutes from Mount Vernon/Burlington, near the water front/slough. Small campsites (some really tiny) with picnic tables, pit toilets and potable water."

    Tips for Camping with Families

    Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "We stayed during Memorial weekend and had a blast! With young children we loved that Larrabee had a playground area and easy access to the beach," shares Carlyn N.

    Kid-friendly amenities: Lynden-Bellingham KOA offers numerous activities for children. "Great Amenities…. Swimming pool, mini golf, arcade games, paddle boats. Lots of trees and shade! I love how it's tucked away and you forget your right in Lynden," notes Renee R.

    Farm experiences: Unique accommodations like Oostema Farmstead provide educational opportunities. "Lisa gave us a tour and let our children pet/feed the cows, goat, and pig. The kids loved it!! We like that there isn't rows of RVs and Trailers stacked on top of each other," reports Christina B.

    Tips from RVers

    Site leveling challenges: Prepare leveling blocks at some campgrounds. One RVer at Larrabee noted, "We had site T6 which is full hook up pull through. The site was extremely unlevel front to back so much so my rear stabilizers barely touched the ground."

    Hookup options: Most state parks offer partial hookups. At Birch Bay, "Ewuipment: 30' Travel Trailer. Stayed in South Campgrounds. Road through campsites are a little tight, but we fit!! Dump station at the from of the park."

    Reservations essential: During peak season, advance booking is critical. "We were able to secure two spots next to each other. Busy place, but the spots are partitioned off by natural trees and shrubs," notes one family camper at Deception Pass State Park.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What amenities are available at Bellingham campgrounds?

    Swift Creek Campground provides excellent access to Northern Cascades hiking trails with beautiful scenery. This makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the wilderness. Oostema Farmstead offers grassy sites with updated hookups, picnic tables, and level camping areas. They also sell meat from their grass-fed cattle for a farm-to-table experience. Many campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like running water and restrooms. Some locations offer coin-operated showers, playground equipment for children, and proximity to beaches. Amenities vary by campground, with more developed sites providing electric hookups, while primitive sites focus on natural surroundings with fewer facilities but more seclusion.

    Where are the best camping locations near Bellingham, Washington?

    Bellingham offers excellent camping options for nature lovers. Larrabee State Park Campground is located on Samish Bay just 6 miles south of Bellingham, offering fishing, boating, mountain trails for hiking and biking across its 2,683 acres. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Pine and Cedar Lakes Primitive Camping provides a tranquil setting close to Bellingham with scenic trails, charming boardwalks, and sites surrounded by dense forest with lake views. Other notable options include Swift Creek Campground with its great access to Northern Cascades trails, and Oostema Farmstead which offers pastoral views over raspberry fields. Each location provides unique experiences, from oceanfront settings to mountain vistas.

    Are there oceanfront camping options in the Bellingham area?

    Larrabee State Park Campground offers prime oceanfront camping on Samish Bay just south of Bellingham. The park features a charming beach with beautiful views, clean grounds, and bathroom facilities with coin-operated showers. Campers can enjoy quick access to both the beach and local amenities in Bellingham. The waterfront location provides an ideal setting where the mountains meet the sea, though be prepared for occasional train noise as tracks run near the campground. For additional oceanfront options, Bay View State Park Campground near Mount Vernon offers drive-in sites with water and toilet facilities. These coastal campgrounds provide stunning sunset views and water recreation opportunities while still maintaining proximity to urban conveniences.

    Is RV camping available near Bellingham, WA?

    Yes, RV camping is readily available near Bellingham. Bellingham RV Park is a dedicated RV-only facility with straightforward parking spots, convenient location near the Canadian border, and proximity to gas stations and the Bellingham Airport. The park features a lodge with laundry facilities and showers, and advanced reservations are highly recommended. No tent camping is available at this location. For those seeking alternatives, Birch Bay State Park Campground offers big-rig-friendly sites with water and toilet facilities. Some campgrounds offer electric hookups, though it's worth noting that at certain locations like Larrabee State Park, power may be shut off at specific hours. Most RV parks in the area require reservations, especially during peak season.

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