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Camping near Bellingham, WA

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    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.

    Best Campgrounds near Bellingham (268)

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      1. Larrabee State Park Campground

      3.9(43)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(114)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 - $144 / night

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      3. Birch Bay State Park Campground

      4.5(35)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(32)18mi from Bellingham93 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

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

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

      from $12 - $72 / 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. Burlington-Anacortes KOA

      4.2(11)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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      7. 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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      8. 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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      9. Thousand Trails Mount Vernon

      3.8(8)14mi from BellinghamRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "They do have "proximity" sites next to the restrooms. The roads and sites are gravel, but seem to be maintained. There are a few hills that might be a problem for larger Class A's with a trailer."

      "I live full-time in my RV and travel between Thousand Trails properties regularly."

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      10. 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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    Recent Camping Photos near Bellingham, WA

    260 Photos of 268 Bellingham Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

    Recent Reviews near Bellingham, WA

    1055 Reviews of 268 Bellingham Campgrounds

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 27, 2026

      Mountain Lake Campground — Moran State Park

      Fabulous location

      What a wonderful spot for boating and hiking. There are several trail options and the boat put in (electric or paddle only) is steps away. The loop is small and sites and the sites are fairly close together, but it is worth it for the access. If you can get an outer loop site you will have a lake view out your door. The first few sites around the loop has some sun this time of year and the rest are mostly shade, but that is the northwest! Note that mice are pesty here - I had 3 make themselves at home in my van so be careful if you have any access holes (I will be fixing mine from where the heater was installed) or if you plan to leave the doors open. Pit toilets are really clean, and there is water, garbage and recycling.

      When I made my reservation all the sites were taken, but the first night there were only 3 of us in the loop. Last night is was nearly full, but thankfully the sites right next to me were both open. It was pretty smoky from the fires and you could hear everything fellow campers were up to, so if it was packed and there were any loud groups it would be pretty miserable.

    • stacy J.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 25, 2026

      West Beach Resort

      Beautiful spot on Orcas Island. Do be aware there is a ferry ride and you need a reservation and it can be expensive depending on the size of your rig. Water and 30 amp electric. Clean bathrooms and showers. Cute café and the best sunset on the island.

    • sue M.
      Oct. 23, 2026

      Port Susan Camping Club

      Port Susan Camping Resort Warning

      My review is from my own experience but there are numerous other reviews that express my same sentiments. I was there 7 years and only had infractions during one month. (all from the same ranger) and one speeding infraction.

      Port Susan Camping Resort has been a bad experience for me and presently turned to bitter. I sold my lot but the check got lost in the mail. I asked the sales agent to replace the check and I have waited approximately 35 days! I finally asked the board to intervene. This is bad business. This is a sample of the treatment or abuse I was given at Port Susan from the sales office. Replacing a check is easy and the money is not even drawn on Port Susan, it comes from the buyer. What would happen if I were paid but the buyer could not access the lot or wasn't given a gate pass or if the sales had to wait for their commission for 35 days after the sale? I was treated so unfairly! They showed me lots for sale with BLACK MOLD.I would think I am being targeted once again but there are many complaints that have been filed about poor management, unfair fines and being targeted if you speak up. The only recourse you have is to go to Tribal court since Port Susan Camping resort is Tribal owned. If you ask me this is a conflict of interest? Bottom line, absolute power leads to absolute corruption. Port Susan is like living under communist rule: The board took a vote to install 50 amp service, the members voted against it because most trailers use 30 amp. The 50 amp was installed any way and members have to pay for it. I spoke up on Campers Chat, but PSCC has the right to determine what will be allowed to be viewed. Freedom of Speech, NOT sat Port Susan. Members have to be careful who they speak to, if they speak against unfair fines to one of"them" they will be targeted. I have been targeted by one ranger who gave me 1200.00 worth of fines in one month. There used to be one ranger who patrolled lots 24 hours a day now there are 2 or 3. You are under constant survelience and fined for violations. Port Susan changes the rules constantly. One example, the road going downhill to the laundra mat and mailbox changed the speed limit to 5 miles per hour. Try going down a hill at 5 miles per hour. I was fined 200.00 at 5:00 am. This was thrown out because no one could do this but later going down hill to the front gate is a radar controlled system. I accidentally was going 17 mph in a 15 mph and was fined 400.00 for going over the speed limit for a 2nd infraction! no where in this country has fines like this but PSCC has unlimited power and no jusidiction. If you take it Tribal Court,( they lease the land to Port Susan you can be held liable to pay the attorney fees against Port Susan. There is less than 30 years on the lease so your membership is a poor investment. Not to mention that they have water pipe problems and boil water warnings posted periodically. If they decide to change all the water pipes the members will pay. I had rats get into my trucks. One was towed to Toyota and they found a rat. The rats got into the cab. I replaced this truck with a brand new Honda and during an oil change was notified that rat tracks were found all over my distributor cover and it was only at my site for 2 weeks!!! Many members tell the truth once they leave and abuse and mistreatment is the norm. THIS IS A FEAR BASED COMMUNITY Good luck with your purchase

    • John G R.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 18, 2026

      Point Hudson Marina & RV Park

      Full Hookups at the waters edge at a marina with great views. But packed together with no picknic table or fire pit. Next to restaurants and shopping. It’s different

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 16, 2026

      Odlin County Park Camping - Lopez Island

      A real gem

      I had the great fortune of being here off season, and there were very few fellow campers. Many campsites are right on the water and there is a great mix of car camping and walk-in sites. There is a group site, and some short hiking trails. The beauty is the beach and water and the amazing night sky. The pit toilets are clean and it is a laid back place. During the busy season the beach sites would be tight. Very few van/trailer sites so pay attention to the website because it has everything g you need to know.

    • TThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 11, 2026

      Washington Park Campground

      Overnight stay

      Great spot to stay while visiting the area. There are trails to hike and wildlife to observe in camp. We needed to charge batteries so opted for a full hook-up site. The sites are nestled in the trees giving you some privacy from other campers. One thing to note is that the main restrooms are already closed for the season. Half the available restroom/shower combinations for the TH and boat ramp were closed as well. I spoke with a camp host who stated they were having vandalism problems and were in need of repairs to the drainage systems so they opted to close them early. The water in the CG was still on and the dump station was also operational.
      Overall a great place to stay while visiting Anacortes.

    • TThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 10, 2026

      Lower Sandy - Winter Only Dispersed

      Two nights

      We spent two nights at this small campground. It is free in off season. There is a vault toilet but no other amenities. Sites were clean and in good condition.
      Baker Lake TH is a few miles up the road for more exploring.

    • MThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 1, 2026

      Thousand Trails Mount Vernon

      Rest Area- 8 HR limit

      Decent option if you’re traveling down 5. Seems like a popular spot so some safety in numbers. There’s a similar rest area on the other side for those traveling north

    • G
      Sep. 30, 2026

      Tulalip Casino

      Basic carpal

      Just a car park. Do not go to the front of the casino as there are over hanging branches that that can scratch your RV.

    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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