13 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Campgrounds near Preston, Washington provide a mix of rustic forest sites and full-service facilities within easy reach of Seattle. The area features several established camping areas including Tall Chief Campground in Fall City and Middle Fork Campground along the Snoqualmie River. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, while some facilities like Blue Sky RV Park and Tolt MacDonald Park also offer cabins and yurts for those seeking more comfort. The South Fork Snoqualmie River area provides primitive dispersed camping opportunities for visitors looking for a more remote experience away from developed campgrounds.
The camping season generally runs year-round at lower elevations with peak visitation occurring between May and September. Several campgrounds, including Tinkham and Middle Fork, operate on seasonal schedules, typically closing in mid-September. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months as sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. Most developed campgrounds provide water and restroom facilities, though hookup availability varies significantly. Many RV parks like Issaquah Village RV Park offer full hookups while more rustic sites may have only basic amenities. According to one visitor, "We enjoyed our stay here; it was very quiet and peaceful. Sites were long and roomy with a fire ring and picnic table."
Campers consistently praise the forested settings of campgrounds in the Preston area. Tall Chief Campground receives positive reviews for its spacious sites and natural privacy barriers. A review mentioned that "you really do feel like you're much further out of town" despite being close to urban areas. Cell service can be spotty in some locations due to the dense tree cover, particularly at more remote sites. Several campground reviews note the convenient proximity to attractions like Snoqualmie Falls and numerous hiking trails. Most established campgrounds maintain clean facilities, though amenities vary widely from primitive toilets at forest service sites to full shower facilities at private RV parks. Traffic noise can be an issue at locations near Interstate 90, particularly at Issaquah Village RV Park where highway sounds are noticeable.
"The campground is next to a classy laundromat, and I say classy because it’s probably one of the nicest laundromats in the area that even has a dumpsite for RVs."
"The campground is in 500+ acre Tolt-McDonald Park, far enough away from any busy road so that there is no traffic noise, just the sound of the Tolt River rapids."
"There is good system of trails, tons of picnic tables along the river, and good river access to the Green rivers. Campground is well maintained, clean bathrooms and showers available."
"It's close proximity to our house allows us to hook up the trailer after work and include a Friday night in our camping weekend!"
Available this weekend
from $23 - $254 / night
"This is a big park that is part of Thousand Trails. No sales pitch to join, which was nice. Rangers were super nice. Bathrooms very new and clean. Lots of trees between sites. "
"We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region. It’s super close (like 7 min drive) from one of my favorite coffee shops, Aroma Coffee Co. Try it!"
"Having gone mid week, there were very few other campers, and it was lovely walking around the campground and strolling along a short 1 mile long trail to a mossy and wooded swamp."
"Although the Camp Ground and facilities are great at Tinkham, my advice would be to get into your lifted Off-Roader and hit the mountain roads for this camping trip of a lifetime!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $32 - $36 / night
"Firstly, I just have to say what a positive and amazing experience I had at this campground. The volunteers were friendly, kind and absolutely awesome to interact with."
"The campground itself is tucked into a beautiful, forested area with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Ours had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table."
Available this weekend
from $23 - $74 / night
"The river is only a five minute walk away, and we spent most of one day there. I was very surprised by how quiet it was for only being an hour outside of Seattle."
"The campground was quiet, not too crowded (Sunday - Tuesday) and so close to many trails. A quick walk to the river was a nice way to finish the day."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $32 - $96 / night
"A Quiet oasis tucked into the forest. The new and clean bathrooms and showers were a real treat after a 2100 mile journey from Texas."
"It’s a very nice location, exceptionally clean and safe. In site 11 you can hear the highway when outside of rv but couldn’t inside. Neighbors were very friendly."
"This is in the shore of Lake Samammish, giving access to swim, paddle, picnic. The facilities and grounds are kept clean and well maintained."
"Cute campground very close to Seattle and Bellevue right on the lake. Beautiful beach area, basketball courts, playground, and volleyball right at the site. Spots are a little tight."
from $65 - $125 / night
"Lots of nice campers stored and people who have made this their temporary home away from home. It’s old and right next to the highway. No fire pits and just a little grass but we couldn’t be happier!"
"It’s in the heart of Issaquah and close to every kind of service, shopping and even nature you could want."
"We felt welcomed as soon as we walked to the check-in desk. Dave and Victoria are so kind. This place is so nice and neat and clean. They have a pool and a hot tub which is a plus and a sauna."
"This is a perfect place for dropping your mobile hotel room and explore Seattle and the surrounding areas. There are clean bathrooms, laundromat and rec room."
from $45 - $70 / night
ScoutThis place covers your basics. Electric and water hookup, tight parking with neighbors less than 1ft away on both sides. The rating I gave is mostly a reflection of the staff though. The staff were not friendly, seemed annoyed that I was booking with them and provided incorrect information on how to park/setup so I had to turn my 33ft rig around 3 times in these very narrow driveways.
GuideWe were in site 29 in the Riverside loop. What a beautiful campground! We were humbled being surrounded by such stately old trees. Made us sad to learn the much advertised Big Fir (still with a sign in camp) had in fact been taken down 11 years ago. Still an impressive sight to see how massive it was. We REALLY enjoyed the John Muir trail, it was like being in another world. Our trees in Michigan don't seem nearly as huge anymore ;-) At first we were disappointed we couldn't camp inside Mt. Rainier. Now we know how lucky we were to be at the Dalles.
ScoutNo shower or bathroom but the staff is friendly and the space is a slice of quiet nature. Imrated 4 stars because it is the most confusing location for a driver or friend to find. It's nestled behind a Shell station and Google Maps will deliver your guests to a parking lot across the street..
GuideNice campground, well maintained and rangers often patrol the campsite loops. Bathrooms are nice but dated, but quite expensive campground. Paying in-person was $49 for an RV spot with utilities, but booking online was $69 for the same site. Can be busy on the weekend.
ScoutThis place is so nice. We felt welcomed as soon as we walked to the check-in desk. Dave and Victoria are so kind. This place is so nice and neat and clean. They have a pool and a hot tub which is a plus and a sauna. It was very nice to be able to chatter with them and joke back-and-forth like they were old friends. You can’t go wrong staying here. The only thing is I hate to tell anyone how nice it is cause then I might not be able to get in.
ScoutMy 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
ScoutFirst off you get what you pay for it's cheap but you're packed like sardines in a gravel lot that looks trashy as hell I didn't go in the restrooms because they don't have stuff there till after 6:00 p.m. so I was terrified by how disgusting they might be on top of it the owner is quite possibly the rudest most inconsiderate and unempathetic human I've ever encountered he gaslit the hell out of me he insulted my intelligence he lied about our conversations that place is so shady there's no checking or check out time written on their forms they will just make up a time that seems appropriate and then if you don't respond and how they like they'll tell you that you have to leave I thought it was just me but after moving to a beautiful Campground I talked to two out of their individuals that told me that they basically told him to F off and they would find somewhere else really horrible business practices and his sister is just as rude as he is trashy place with Shady practices and Shady people running it. Also if you're one that noise bothers you you will hate this because it's right on the highway and you can hear everything from every spot in the park. Especially if you're looking for nightly you can go down the street to the one they recommended and pay $18 less a night for way more beautiful place
RangerIt was MAGICAL- mushrooms, fall leaves, and moss everywhere. Keep in mind that there’s no signal, Starlink nor cell.. we also were freezing at night (35 degrees) in early October and the spots were tricky for our bigger rig. But if you have a smaller rig there’s tons of places off of road 73 for dispersed camping. Bumpy road to get there but keep on driving and you’ll find places with even firepits.
LegendThe dispersed sites are on the narrow, gravel section. There are a few on the paved area but most have been blocked off. Even on the gravel section most are pull-offs or quite close to the road. They are dispersed sites so no amenities. Most are close or have access to the Sauk River. The road and TH’s were very busy but cleared out as evening settled in.
Camping spots near Preston, Washington can be found within the scenic foothills of the Cascade Mountains, where elevation ranges from 500 to 2,000 feet. The dense evergreen forests in this region create natural privacy barriers at many campsites, with rainfall averaging 60 inches annually. Cell reception varies significantly throughout the area, with stronger signals at campgrounds closer to Interstate 90 corridors.
Hiking access to river spots: At Middle Fork Campground, visitors can enjoy riverside relaxation just a short walk from camp. "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 a visitor to Kanaskat-Palmer State Park.
Water activities for all skill levels: The Green River at Kanaskat-Palmer offers various water experiences. One camper explains, "We usually take the kids to the lake at Nolte state park (approx. 3 miles away) for water play. This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers."
Forest exploration for kids: The wooded setting creates natural play areas. "There were so many berries around the camp and we could literally sit in camp and pick blue berries," shares a camper at Middle Fork Campground, adding that "The camp was very clean. Felt very safe about leaving our gear in camp."
Private campsites: Spacing between sites rates highly with campers. At Tall Chief Campground, visitors appreciate the roominess: "Great camp site for all sizes. Mostly no sewer. But if you enjoy a little distance between sites without sacrificing camp size line up here."
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality gets frequent mention. According to one South Fork visitor, "The bathrooms are super nice - each is private with a shower. Camp staff were pleasant and helpful." Another camper at Tolt MacDonald Park notes, "The blanket also has a great rustic look to it that all my friends loved."
Proximity to Seattle while feeling remote: Location convenience is a major plus. "We love this campground and camp here about once a month. The sites are large with lots of trees," says a Kanaskat-Palmer visitor. Another adds, "Beautiful, clean campground... Great cell service if you have TMobile."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We got lucky and snagged the very last spot here on a Saturday in late September. It's a beautiful campground, very peaceful," reports a camper at Kanaskat-Palmer.
Highway noise considerations: Some locations experience road noise. An Issaquah Village RV Park visitor mentions, "I'll start with the thing to be aware of: you'll be camping 200' from I-90. But we found our ear plugs did a good job of quieting that noise enough for us to get a good sleep."
Park ranger enforcement: Rules are strictly enforced at certain campgrounds. A Kanaskat-Palmer camper explains, "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day... I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quiet."
Kid-friendly water features: Look for swimming areas with gradual entry points. "Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding," notes a visitor to Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. Another mentions that "the suspension bridge is pretty cool, but hold onto your phones tight because it could slip through the holes into the river below."
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment. According to a Vasa Park Resort visitor, the park includes "basketball courts, playground, and volleyball right at the site. Spots are a little tight. Looks like they cater mostly to day use and corporate events during season."
Plant safety awareness: Watch for potential hazards. A South Fork Snoqualmie River camper cautions, "Lovely area such beautiful surroundings. But be very cautious as near one of the camp sites are very dangerous plants that are fatal and they are lined all around the campground so not recommended if you have children."
Leveling considerations: Site grading varies significantly between campgrounds. "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet," notes a visitor to Tolt MacDonald Park.
Electrical hookup variations: Power availability differs widely. At Tall Chief, a camper reports: "Stayed 3 months for work, perfect beautiful, CHEEP CHEEP, not too good to be true, just right. All hook ups included. (Bring your dump tote!) easy easy easy dump station."
Road conditions for access: Some dispersed sites require careful driving. A camper at South Fork Snoqualmie River advises, "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance. There are a number of established sites where you can pull off the road."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Preston, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Preston, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 272 campgrounds and RV parks near Preston, WA and 35 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Preston, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Preston, WA is Tolt MacDonald Park, WA with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Preston, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 35 free dispersed camping spots near Preston, WA.
What parks are near Preston, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Preston, WA that allow camping, notably Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park.
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