Paradise, Washington's camping options extend beyond Mount Rainier National Park's boundaries at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,400 feet. The area experiences dramatic seasonal changes with heavy snowfall from November through May, while summer temperatures typically range from 45-75°F.
What to do
River access recreation: Squaw Rock RV Resort and Campground offers direct access to the Naches River. "The river is very scenic. However, we were surrounded by smokers, campers with loud music and even a camper with a Confederate flag," notes one camper, highlighting the mixed social environment.
Hiking trails: Multiple trailheads near Whispering Pines RV Campground provide access to day hikes. "I took a walk around on the path, and followed the river," reports a visitor, noting the convenient riverside trail system accessible directly from camp.
Winter sports: Crystal Mountain becomes a hub for winter recreation. A camper at Corral Pass Campground notes, "I would never attempt with a trailer or even cab over camper. We took the tent and my Subaru Crosstrek up, took it slow and did just fine," warning about the challenging access roads during winter conditions.
What campers like
Proximity to town services: Packwood RV Park & Campground offers walking distance to essential services. "There's a lot of things around walking distance (all within a couple min walk). Also has great showers bathrooms and laundry ($1.75 per load)," mentions a visitor, listing "Coffee/breakfast near by, Brewery across the campsite, Gas station, Grocery store, Gift shop, Visitors center."
Clean facilities: The well-maintained amenities at area campgrounds receive consistent praise. At Whispering Pines, "Bathrooms were AMAZING! Huge lots for our ambo conversion and plenty of room to relax and unwind," according to one reviewer who appreciated the spacious shower facilities.
Year-round accessibility: Several rv parks near Paradise, Washington remain operational during winter months. "It was quiet and sparsely filled in July on a Friday and Saturday night," notes a visitor to Crystal Mountain RV Parking, adding "it is far more popular in winter when ski season is open."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service and Wi-Fi vary dramatically between locations. At Cascade Peaks Family Campground, one camper notes, "Not sure why some reviews are so negative, as we found this park to be really peaceful. The owner was truly helpful telling us how best to get to see Mt Rainier and what routes."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill months in advance during peak season (June-September). At the Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park, campers should note that "they don't allow drop-ins or vehicles older than 20 yrs," limiting accessibility for vintage RV owners.
Weather considerations: Paradise area camping experiences rapid weather changes, even in summer. "We camped off Mather memorial parkway for just a few hours during a Questival and found it to be quiet, easy to access and plenty of firewood. Loved sleeping by the creek!" reported a Corral Pass visitor who experienced favorable conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park provides family-friendly recreation spaces. "Very nice small park with basic amenities and large private or cramped sites based on what you choose and pay for. Some have fire rings. All with picnic tables," notes a reviewer who appreciated the layout options for families.
Swimming options: Several rv parks near Paradise provide water recreation facilities. At Squaw Rock Resort, a guest observed the "beautiful cold pool," though they also noted the pool temperature might be uncomfortable for some swimmers.
Educational opportunities: Mount Rainier visitor centers offer junior ranger programs throughout summer. "I was planning on snowshoeing at Paradise so we stayed here for a night to get an early start without the long drive," reported a parent at Gateway Inn RV camping who used the location as a base for winter recreation with children.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement awareness: Hookup configurations vary widely between Paradise area campgrounds. At Squaw Rock Resort, a reviewer warns, "Know what you are getting! Single utility service serves two sites. The water spigot has a Y splitter to share a single water connection. Power has one 30 Amp and one 50 Amp socket. The first rig arriving gets to choose which one they want to use."
Leveling challenges: Terrain at many rv parks requires careful positioning. At South Prairie Creek RV Park, visitors appreciate the "flat spots" but note there's "only a small outdoor area. Almost everyone at this campground just stayed in their campers all day."
Off-season availability: Winter camping options near Paradise remain limited but accessible. The Whispering Pines RV Campground stays open year-round, with a visitor noting, "A gate code is needed to check in. We had a pull through, gravel site. Utilities were well placed. There was a note not to flush your tank due to their sensitive septic system."
