Tent camping near Ravensdale, Washington offers backcountry options ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet elevation across the western slopes of the Cascades. Many sites experience significant temperature drops after sunset, with overnight lows reaching 40°F even in July at higher elevations. Alpine lake camping areas typically remain snow-covered until late June or early July.
What to do
Alpine lake fishing: Pratt Lake Hike In Campsite provides excellent fishing opportunities in a stunning alpine setting. "The lake is full of fish so make sure you bring your Pole, beautiful trout were jumping. There is potable water here but campfires are not allowed close to the lake," reports Alex T.
Waterfall exploration: The region contains numerous waterfalls accessible from tent camping areas. At Eagles Roost Camp, campers can enjoy "an incredible waterfall. Also great for a bracing dip," according to Danielle S., who notes the waterfall serves as both water source and swimming spot.
Rainier viewpoints: Several tent sites offer mountain views when weather permits. At Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200, one camper shares: "In the clear morning, we got a beautiful view of Mount Rainier. We got decent Starlink signal with a bar of Verizon."
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Many creekside tent sites provide swimming opportunities during summer months. "The second time was with friends and there were other campers out. I love the view and the sound of the river!" reports Jada P. about White River Dispersed Camping.
Solitude at higher elevations: Tent campers seeking isolation prefer sites requiring more effort to reach. "You will have very little company due to the hike in. If you made it this far make sure you continue across the suspension bridge over the carbon river and the short hike to the lowest glacier in the lower 48," explains a Carbon River Camp visitor.
Lake access: Crystal-clear alpine lakes attract summer tent campers. "The water was cold, but in the afternoon sun it was great for swimming," shares Alex T. about Pratt Lake, where water temperatures remain chilly even in midsummer.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many tent sites require navigating rough forest roads. "The road can be a bit thin, so I would be careful with extra large vehicles. It is also a bit of a challenging road, so low clearance vehicles wouldn't be treated well," warns P.J. about White River Dispersed Camping.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary significantly by location and season. At Mowich Lake Campground, a camper notes: "Camp fires are not allowed, no fires allowed. Bit of a rough ride to get up there but totally worth it. There are bears!"
Site competition: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We arrived mid afternoon on a Friday and there were plenty of options to pick from but it did fill up by around 9pm," reports Michael F. about his experience at White River Dispersed.
Weather variability: Alpine tent sites experience dramatic temperature shifts. "Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be," cautions a Mowich Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible backpacking: Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground offers a good introduction to backpacking for families. "After parking at the trailhead, the road into camp is easy, either by foot or bicycle. The road slowly meanders uphill alongside the Carbon River for 5 miles," describes Marley B.
Wildlife opportunities: Kids enjoy wildlife spotting at many tent sites. "There are bears! Although I didn't see one apparently according to our neighbor he walked right behind me," reports Laura F. about Mowich Lake Campground.
Swimming holes: Family-friendly water features provide natural entertainment. Reagan S. shares about White River Dispersed: "Spots by the river looked kind of close together, so we drove a little further in and found a large secluded spot in the woods. A little road noise but it's drowned out by the sound of the creek."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for vans/small RVs: At Hollyhock Farm, tent sites accommodate small camper vans. "The sites were secluded from one another within a beautiful forest, the toilet was clean and fairly close to the sites, parking was easy," reports Rio B.
Road access limitations: Most primitive tent sites have access challenges for larger vehicles. "4x4 / high clearance vehicles recommended - saw some subarus trying to navigate into a cleared area and it was pretty scrape-y," warns Rich P. about White River Dispersed Camping.
Parking logistics: Many tent-only campgrounds have separate parking areas. At Mowich Lake, "you have to carry your gear up you cannot park next to your site," explains Laura F., noting the campground layout requires a short walk from the vehicle to tent sites.
