Best Campgrounds near Paradise, WA
Camping options around Paradise, Washington center on Mount Rainier National Park, where several developed campgrounds provide access to alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and glacier views. Cougar Rock Campground offers tent and RV sites nestled among tall trees, while Ohanapecosh Campground provides riverside camping with access to hiking trails. For those seeking more remote experiences, White River Dispersed Camping areas provide free primitive sites, though these lack amenities like potable water or restroom facilities. Established campgrounds typically feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while some private campgrounds like Elkamp Eastcreek offer additional amenities including cabins and glamping options.
Most Mount Rainier area campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through early October due to heavy snowfall at higher elevations. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for established campgrounds during summer months when capacity is frequently reached. Forest Service roads accessing dispersed camping areas may require high-clearance vehicles, particularly in spring when snowmelt creates challenging conditions. Permits are required for backcountry camping and some dispersed sites on national forest land. Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. As one camper noted about Cougar Rock, "We lucked out and got a spot at this campground on a Saturday in the middle of the busy summer months. It's a perfect spot to explore the park!"
Campers consistently praise the mountain views and forest settings throughout the Paradise region. Sites at Cougar Rock receive high ratings for their proximity to Paradise meadows and hiking trails, with several reviews mentioning the quiet atmosphere despite the campground's size. "Very nicely maintained campground. Get your reservations in the winter before your trip. Spots fill up fast," shared one visitor. Bear-resistant food storage lockers are available at national park campgrounds, an important amenity given the active wildlife in the area. While some campgrounds like Mowich Lake prohibit campfires, others provide fire rings and sell firewood on-site. Water access varies by location, with campsites near rivers being particularly popular during summer months. Cell service is limited throughout the region, especially in valleys and remote areas.
