Glamping options in Paradise, Washington let visitors experience Mt. Rainier National Park without sacrificing comfort. Located at approximately 5,400 feet elevation, this area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer averages between 60-70°F during the day and 40-50°F at night. Winter brings heavy snowfall, often exceeding 600 inches annually, making winter accommodations like snowshoe yurts accessible only by 12+ mile treks through deep powder.
What to do
River exploration: explore the Green River near Kanaskat-Palmer State Park where you can watch skilled kayakers navigate challenging rapids. "Short hike to river spots that are perfect for wading or fishing. 10 minute drive from Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding," notes Ashlie M.
Lakeside recreation: rent a fishing boat at Bumping Lake Campground for $25 per hour through the marina. "We rented one to get a Geocache that was on an island on the lake. The lake is five miles long with lots of camping spots along the lake," shares Becky R. The lake features crystal-clear water ideal for kayaking.
Hiking old-growth forests: walk through moss-covered, prehistoric-feeling landscapes at Iron Creek. "This lush campground is carpeted with ferns and dripping with moss. It feels like stepping back to prehistoric times," writes Kathleen D. Several trailheads connect directly to campsites, offering access to longer wilderness routes.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Elkamp Eastcreek maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms and showers. "Elkamp was very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced. The shower is coin-operated so bring quarters if you wish to use," advises Shannon H. Many reviewers mention the meticulous maintenance.
Private, wooded sites: Most glamping options near Paradise offer secluded settings. "The sites are quite private, and the campground was quiet. Our site was a nice size... The campground is like fairy wonderland with so much moss and greenery," shares Gayle K. about Iron Creek.
Evening stargazing: Open meadows provide excellent night viewing opportunities. "Nicely maintained property, with spacious sites, great restroom facility, acres to gorgeous meadow and evening star viewing," notes Susan S. The minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for constellation spotting away from urban areas.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds. "Zero cell reception here for ATT and Verizon, and the cell booster didn't help," reports Laura M. about Kanaskat-Palmer. Plan accordingly if you need connectivity.
Weather preparation: Temperature drops can be significant, even during summer months. "Note: road to get here is entirely dirt; bring mosquito repellent," advises Noelle K. about Walupt Lake Campground. Pack layers regardless of season.
Reservation timing: Secure your spot early, especially for glamping options. "We got lucky and snagged the very last spot here on a Saturday in late September," explains Laura M. Peak season reservations should be made months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cowlitz Falls Campground offers kid-friendly amenities. "With small kids in our group, it was convenient to have the path to the playground right between sites A6 and A8. Staff was wonderfully friendly and helpful, and the grounds have some fun amenities like the playground and ball field," shares Allyson U.
Quiet enforcement: Some parks strictly monitor noise levels. "I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quite at as myself and three 9 year old girls were talking (no music etc) too loud," reports Kelly P. about Kanaskat-Palmer. Respect quiet hours if camping with children.
Swimming options: Look for gentle water access points suitable for kids. "The meadow is a perfect spot to walk your dog (or kid), have an evening cocktail, or star gaze," mentions a camper about the open spaces near luxury glamping pods.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling blocks at certain sites. "I only took away a star because it was advertised as ok for a Motorhome but the gravel pull through was so not level the jacks pushed the front tires 6 inches off the ground," warns Cody F. about Kanaskat-Palmer State Park.
Hookup availability: Mounthaven Resort offers electric, water and sewer hookups near the national park entrance. "This is a great small campground for exploring Mt Rainier. We stayed here with friends from Colorado and explored the park and did some great hiking outside of the park," reports Eric P. The resort accommodates smaller RVs with 30-amp service.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer dump stations for registered guests. "Hook ups are electric only, bring your water. The first time we went we did not know and our Basecamp's heat runs via the hot water heater. It was cold!" advises Shay F. about managing resources at Kanaskat-Palmer.
