Best Tent Camping near Paradise, WA

Mount Rainier National Park dominates the tent camping landscape near Paradise, Washington, with several backcountry and primitive tent sites available throughout the area. Mowich Lake Campground offers walk-in tent sites with raised platforms for tents, bear boxes, and picnic tables, while White River Dispersed Camping provides more primitive options for tent campers seeking solitude. Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground requires a 5-mile hike or bike ride after road access was washed out, creating a unique tent-only experience.

Most tent sites in the Paradise area require wilderness permits, particularly those within Mount Rainier National Park boundaries. Campers should bring water filtration systems, as most backcountry tent locations lack potable water sources. Bear boxes are available at established tent campgrounds like Mowich Lake, but dispersed campers must practice proper food storage techniques. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing dispersed tent sites along forest roads. A visitor commented, "This road was pretty hard to find but well worth it. Spot was secluded even though there seemed to be two other groups camping at the site." Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer months, and many primitive tent areas operate on a strict leave-no-trace policy.

Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips on the Wonderland Trail. The walk-in nature of many tent sites creates a quieter experience compared to drive-in campgrounds. According to one review, "The sites were nice and flat and had plenty of space for our two tents and four chairs." Sunrise Camp offers primitive tent sites with nearby access to Shadow Lake and serves as a convenient starting point for hikes to Glacier Overlook. Snow Lake Backcountry Campsites provide tent camping opportunities with stunning alpine views, though campers should be prepared for insects during summer months. Many tent sites feature nearby streams or lakes for water collection, though proper filtration is essential. The proximity to Mount Rainier means tent campers often enjoy spectacular mountain views directly from their campsites.

Best Tent Sites Near Paradise, Washington (110)

    1. White River Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "Right outside the entrance to Mt."

    "If you come here you must leave no trace."

    2. Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    13 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    "The lake is absolutely beautiful and there are so many different trails branching off of it."

    "The sites were your standard, with a picnic table, fire ring, and plenty of trees for shade and cover. There are lots of things to do in the area."

    3. NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Puyallup, WA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1103

    "We found an awesome walk in spot a little bit earlier on on the forest road before these actual coordinates."

    "Many of the campers do not understand the rules and they depart with trash and litter everywhere. 

    Volunteers continue to cleanup after these abusers as well as the Forest Service."

    4. Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    10 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    "The road slowly meanders uphill alongside the Carbon River for 5 miles, giving campers majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks."

    "One incredible part about being here is the proximity to Mt. Rainier National Park. We did so many amazing hikes, it was unreal. The weather was perfect so Rainier was out and shinning bright!!"

    5. Paradise Pines

    5 Reviews
    Ashford, ID
    9 miles
    Website

    $30 - $45 / night

    "The spot was clean, private, and well-maintained with everything we needed for a comfortable stay—fire pit, flat tent area, and even restrooms nearby."

    "Convenient that it is so close to the entrance of Mount Rainier NP made for a few easy trips to come back and forth in between hikes."

    6. Camp Muir — Mount Rainier National Park

    3 Reviews
    Paradise, WA
    4 miles
    Website

    "Camp Muir is located approximately 4-5 miles (depending on snow conditions and route access) from the parking lot in Paradise."

    "Highest camp in Washington. Nice solar toilets. The hike up is quite difficult."

    7. Snow Lake Backcountry Campsites — Mount Rainier National Park

    2 Reviews
    Paradise, WA
    3 miles
    Website

    "Bring a bug net . Filtered my water to drink . Dogs loved it ."

    "Water was cold but in 85 degree weather was worth taking a dip. Lots of big boulders to cross on the way up. Definitley carried our short leg dog the majority of the trip."

    8. Summerland Backcountry Campsites — Mount Rainier National Park

    2 Reviews
    Paradise, WA
    7 miles
    Website

    "The reason I give caution is Mount Rainier likes to create its own weather. Got trapped and a thunderstorm well there with torrential downpours."

    "Doesn't get much better than watching the sunset behind Rainier at a flower adorned stream flowing through a subalpine meadow."

    10. Sunrise Camp Primitive — Mount Rainier National Park

    3 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    10 miles

    $5 / night

    "This was the first campground on a multi-day backpacking trip. It's really close to the Sunrise Visitor Center, which I wasn't too happy about."

    "It is located off of a popular day hike to the Glacier Overlook—which provides an excellent view of Emmons Glacier. There are community bear boxes to share, no water, and no fire."

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Showing results 1-10 of 110 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Paradise, WA

1106 Reviews of 110 Paradise Campgrounds



Guide to Paradise

Tent camping near Paradise, Washington offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning natural landscapes, with various campgrounds providing essential amenities and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Mowich Lake Campground features picnic tables and toilets, making it a convenient choice for families and groups.
  • Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground offers reservable sites with picnic tables and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay in the heart of nature.
  • Rocky Point Campground provides electric hookups and trash disposal, catering to those who appreciate a few extra comforts while camping.

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $30

  • Clear Lake Campgrounds charges around $10 for a site, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious campers.
  • Tower Rock U-Fish RV Park offers tent sites for approximately $30, providing a peaceful retreat with full hookups.
  • Carbon River Camp is accessible via a hike and offers a unique experience for around $20, perfect for those looking to explore the wilderness.

Tips for tent camping near Paradise

  • When visiting Eagles Roost Camp, arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season, as it can fill up quickly.
  • At Camp Muir, be prepared for a challenging hike, but the breathtaking views make it worth the effort.
  • For a quieter experience, consider camping at Granite Lake Dispersed Camping Area, where you can enjoy stunning scenery and a more secluded atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Paradise, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Paradise, WA is White River Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 23 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Paradise, WA?

TheDyrt.com has all 110 tent camping locations near Paradise, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.