C
Colleen B.
Scout
Scoutriffe lake
Perfectly Lovely - Has a name!
This is a perfectly lovely campsite! A bit close together, but it’s free!
Explore the Best Campgrounds in Washington
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Washington's diverse camping landscape encompasses everything from coastal campsites at Cape Disappointment State Park to mountain retreats near Mount Rainier. The state boasts a variety of accommodation options including tent sites, RV camping with full hookups, and cabin rentals at locations like Lake Wenatchee State Park. Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout national forests and on public lands, providing alternatives to established campgrounds for those seeking more remote experiences. Washington offers some of the most scenic camping destinations in the Pacific Northwest, with options ranging from rainforests to alpine meadows.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping accessibility in Washington. Many campgrounds in national parks such as Olympic National Park operate seasonally, with sites like Cougar Rock Campground available only from May through October due to mountain weather conditions. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations, particularly at state parks like Deception Pass and Cape Disappointment which operate year-round. Road conditions can deteriorate quickly during rainy seasons, especially on forest service roads leading to dispersed sites. "The godson's mom told me she went to this area when she was young and then I saw it here on The Dyrt. Make sure you follow the written directions - just follow Sand Canyon all the way out," notes one camper describing access to a North Fork Chewelah Creek site.
Campers consistently rate waterfront locations among their favorites, with Salt Creek Recreation Area receiving particularly high ratings for its coastal views. State parks tend to offer more amenities including showers, flush toilets, and electrical hookups, while national park campgrounds like Kalaloch and Mora provide more rustic experiences with the benefit of exceptional natural surroundings. According to a visitor to Bear Creek Campground, "Mossy green trees, ferns, and lots of other vegetation all over the area. Definitely mosquitoes out and about but, to be expected in such a wet climate." Reservations are essential during summer months, especially at popular destinations near Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier. Some dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles to access, with several reviewers noting challenging road conditions leading to the most scenic backcountry sites.
Campground Showdown in Washington
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
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Round 1 of 5
Best Camping Sites in Washington (2,120)
1. Deception Pass State Park Campground
112 ReviewsAnacortes, WAWebsite+1 (360) 675-2417$12 - $167 / night
"Some trails walking distance from the campsite to gorgeous beaches while others we drove to get to other trails and scenic lookouts. I loved every minute staying there."
"This is one of the most popular locations in Washington State and easy to see why. Both fresh and salt water experiences are within a few steps away with amazing sunsets and breathtaking views."
2. Kalaloch Campground - group — Olympic National Park
110 ReviewsTaholah, WAWebsite+1 (360) 565-3130$24 - $48 / night
"Proximity to the beach makes this a necessary stop while exploring the Washington coast."
"Nestled between the highway and the ocean, this park is five stars for location, but three stars for the disparity in sites and limited bathroom facilities."
3. Cape Disappointment State Park Campground
92 ReviewsIlwaco, WAWebsite+1 (360) 642-3078$12 - $492 / night
"This state park on the edge of Washington is absolutely beautiful and wild. It’s best to visit in the summer of course as the weather can be very unpredictable the rest of the year."
"This campground is all about location. The sites are not huge or fancy, but the view and the hiking make up for any complaints."
4. Dash Point State Park Campground
76 ReviewsFederal Way, WAWebsite+1 (888) 226-7688$31 - $91 / 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."
5. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground — Olympic National Park
70 ReviewsSol Duc Hot Springs, WAWebsite+1 (888) 896-3818$40 - $65 / night
"This site is listed as being a 35’ back-in, but it really is just a shared parking lot between this and the site next to it (37) across from the central restrooms."
"The surrounding woods are wonderful. There’s a trail to an amphitheater and an easy walking path to the hot springs"
6. Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
60 ReviewsLongmire, WAWebsite+1 (360) 569-6626$20 / night
"If you are looking for an volunteer opportunity while in the park, check out the Washington Train Association also know as the WTA."
"Large campground located near the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier. Many sites tucked into large trees. Some loops close to main toad so the noise can be an issue, but overall beautiful!"
7. Hoh Campground — Olympic National Park
56 ReviewsSol Duc Hot Springs, WAWebsite+1 (360) 565-3130$24 - $48 / night
"Steps away from the rainforest trailhead, so a great one night stay to hike the trails. It's a rainy place as you can imagine. Washington State itself sure is."
"We are Washington residents and camped in early October of 2024. Our dogs loved the area and access to the river. The campsite had a lot of room and the facilities were clean."
8. Mora Campground — Olympic National Park
55 ReviewsLa Push, WAWebsite+1 (360) 565-3130$18 / night
"This campground is close to forks Washington. We were able to get a spot at 5:30 in the afternoon."
"Campsites were easy to locate, in an accessible loop, and the cleanest facilities I've seen - plus, each site is surrounded by a good deal of treeline to give you a bit of privacy."
9. Fairholme Campground — Olympic National Park
54 ReviewsSol Duc Hot Springs, WAWebsite+1 (360) 565-3130$24 / night
"Pros: beautiful lake view and access -free food storage containers, no need for bear canisters -plenty of trees at campsites for hammocking -walk in and drive in sites -choose your own site -proximity"
"This dense verdant rainforest is dripping with moss, lichen, Goliath trees, flowers, fungus, fauna, cloudy light beams straining to reach the forest floor, trails and oxygen; all adjacent the mysterious"
10. Salt Creek Recreation Area
52 ReviewsJoyce, WAWebsite+1 (360) 928-3441$45 / night
"Like a number of Washington State Parks, the plug-in sites are in a large field, with very few trees around and kind of look like a lot of other standard RV parks with three or so levels of close parking"
"We live on the nearby Kitsap Peninsula and this campground is our favorite Washington campground. The views are amazing and the crashing waves are the perfect soundtrack."
Recent Camping Photos in Washington
2562 Photos of 2120 Washington Campgrounds
Danny C.
Spencers Camp — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Hubbard G.
Panther Camp — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Shari G.
Pelton Basin — North Cascades National Park
Niki A.
Gothic Basin
Megan D.
Park Butte Trailhead
Dani H.
Ahtanum Meadows Campground
Brooks H.
NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site
theresa A.
Sauk Park Campground
Angela S.
Barrier Dam Campgrounds
Angel R.
Ocean Breeze RV Resort - KM Resorts
Bonni W.
Sou'wester Historic Lodge & Vintage Travel Trailer Resort
sarah L.
Hidden Hand Backcountry — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Recent Reviews in Washington
8465 Reviews of 2120 Washington Campgrounds
Xero P.ScoutAnkeny #1
Very convenient and rarely busy.
For a place that an be accessed with any vehicle such a short drive off of US Hwy 2, this is a jewel. Mostly level. Excellent water access. Only noisiest of trucks on highway audible. Gravel open lot with tent spaces in the reeds a few steps from the gravel. Concrete head. FREE no limits. What’s not to like?
Dahlia
GuideRadar Ridge
Okay spot
This place is just okay in my opinion. I think it would be better if there were more spots to camp, but at the top of the ridge, there are literally 2, maybe 3. Any other spots are right next to cell towers, which if that doesn't bother you, it should be fine, but I personally wouldn't camp by them. We went in the middle of summer, but it was foggy and raining the second day. On a clear day however, the view is very pretty! The campsites are fairly flat as they are somewhat paved in areas. There are no ammenities. We didn't experience any mosquitoes. The road can get rough in some areas, so go slow! There are some side roads to explore along the mountain, but no trails. The nature is beautiful though!
- ssamantha W.Guide
Skunk Creek/Quinalt Ridge Road
Private, Quiet Overnight Parking
This is a great pullout off of Quinault Ridge Road where Skunk Creek intersects. The pullout is large enough for several vehicles. We parked out 25.5 foot motor home and had plenty of space for other vehicles. The sound of the river was the only thing we heard all night. No through traffic We were surrounded by beautiful old growth trees and the smells of the forest. Don’t let the name Skunk Creek scare you away- it definitely doesn’t smell like skunk!
- DahliaGuide
Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite
Toad Moon Lake
We stayed here 2 nights on our road trip, tent camping. The road is a bit of a far drive from the highway, but there seems to be many spots to camp along the way. There are also a few paid for campgrounds in the area. But the free dispersed spots are the furthest down the road. The view of the lake and mountains in the distance are beautiful. The water is so clear and blue, fishing, and boating is common. No amenities near the free camping, but there are toilets and dumpsters along Baker Lake road. Not too many mosquitoes when we were there, but be aware of the mice. It rained the first night, but on the second, we had a wonderful view of the moonrise. We also spotted some toads by the lake at night. Signs say there are bears in the area, but we didn't have a problem with that. My only complaints are we could not park our car right next to camp, but it wasn't far, campfires were not allowed, and people cannot seem to clean up after themselves. There were areas that were clearly used as bathrooms; toilet paper scattered around, and piles of poop. Please have the decency to bury your feces. But overall, I would definitely recommend this campsite!
Ronda A.ScoutRV@Olympic
Lovely, clean new campground
Really lovely new campground with great amenities. The spots are very wide and very well maintained. The playground and dog park are great. The restrooms and common areas are excellent, clean, and well-maintained. The manager is friendly and organized. We really enjoyed our 6 nights here!
Darron S.
RangerBear Creek Campground
Well maintained
The place 5, the campers besides us 1, as they were talkative, loud and constant, even up until 1 AM. We had to move. If you are a light sleeper you may want to go dispersed.
Anyway, the map said this Bear Creek campground was “primitive”. It was not dispersed as it has non-water bathrooms, steel bbq pits, and level ground, distinct pullout parking spots. Free if you have the Discover Pass for Washington. It is a football field from a main road, but not too loud. A gas station is about a mile and a half away. The Internet is great. It is in a rainforest, which is beautiful and green. It has rained almost everyday while we were here. Three days it rained all day and all night straight. A river is 50’ from the camp spots.
Alex R.GuideBelfair State Park Campground
Kids will love it here
We usually do dispersed camping because we don’t like being too close to other other campsites. But we were surprised by how much room we had here. It’s not boondocking by any means but still, not a Walmart parking lot either. We had plenty of space for our things and the kids to play. Speaking of, if you are allergic to kids stay away. They have them in all ages and verities here… my kids enjoyed riding bikes and playing at the nearby park from morning until dark. Restrooms are cleaned often, didn’t have any issues with our hooks ups. Is it windy? Yes it’s the ocean. Is there a tide? Yes it’s the ocean….
- BBradley O.Guide
Liberty Lake Regional Park
Very nice small campground
I am in a cab over camper at a tent site and do not need power or water. Easy to level a nice grassy sites. Sites are a bit close together for tents and RVs. Very quiet and I would stay again. Only one night passing through.
Guide to Washington
Camping in Washington offers a mix of stunning landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there's something for everyone.
What to do
- Explore the lakes: Many campgrounds, like Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, provide access to beautiful lakes. One camper mentioned, “The only sounds that could be heard were the wrestling of leaves, the gentle lapping of waves, and the nightly screaming of elk in the distance.”
- Hiking and biking: Trails abound in places like Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “This is a good basecamp for exploring the North Cascades.”
- Water activities: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, one reviewer said, “We did a lot of kayaking early and later in the day and had a wonderful time.”
What campers like
- Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One said, “The scenery is amazing with lots of river and mountain views” at Johnny Creek Campground.
- Clean facilities: Many campgrounds, like Lincoln Rock State Park Campground, are noted for their cleanliness. A camper remarked, “Bathrooms are clean and showers are hot.”
- Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA offer playgrounds and activities. One family shared, “There was a great shallow area for the kids and Dog to swim around.”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: At Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, one camper warned, “The amount of mosquitoes were off the chart.”
- Crowded during peak season: Some campgrounds, especially KOAs, can get packed. A visitor at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA noted, “If you were looking for a quiet experience, this place is not for you.”
- Limited privacy in some areas: Campers at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park mentioned, “The camping itself is the standard state park experience, sites close together, not much for privacy.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places like Lake Chelan State Park Campground, which has a playground and swimming area. One parent said, “Great for families. Everyone around seemed very respectful of the quiet times.”
- Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Alta Lake State Park Campground advised, “Bring a lot of water and finish hiking before 10:00 am in the summer!”
- Look for spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room for kids to play. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground noted, “Most sites are relatively private.”
Tips from RVers
- Book early for the best spots: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A reviewer at Beckler River Campground said, “Get there early or it will be hard to find a spot for an RV.”
- Check site dimensions: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA mentioned, “The sites were so tight that we could barely fit the provided picnic table next to our trailer.”
- Utilize amenities: Many campgrounds have electric hookups and dump stations. A visitor at Lincoln Rock State Park Campground appreciated, “Full hookups and all the opportunities and drawbacks that come with such a place.”
Camping in Washington state is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good private campgrounds in Washington State?
Are there any good private campgrounds in Washington State?
Washington offers several quality private campgrounds that provide amenities not typically found at public sites. Mistequa Casino Hotel RV Park offers spacious sites positioned in an open field next to the casino, with convenient access from the highway and an international car museum across the path. Private campgrounds in Washington typically provide full hookups, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and often feature additional amenities like swimming pools, game rooms, and organized activities. Many private campgrounds are open year-round, unlike seasonal public options. Look for private campgrounds near popular destinations like Mount Rainier, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Columbia River Gorge. Prices generally range from $30-60 per night depending on location and amenities, with discounts often available for extended stays.
Where can I find the best tent camping sites in Washington State?
Where can I find the best tent camping sites in Washington State?
Washington's diverse landscapes create exceptional tent camping opportunities. Colonial Creek South Campground in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area offers spacious tent sites with excellent fishing access and beautiful forest surroundings. The sites are well-spaced, providing privacy rarely found in Western Washington campgrounds. For dispersed camping enthusiasts, Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping in the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest provides a more primitive experience with fewer crowds. This area offers countless locations for tent camping with minimal traffic. Additional excellent tent camping can be found in the Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier regions, and along the dramatic Pacific coastline. Most tent sites have access to basic amenities like pit toilets and water sources.
What are the best campgrounds in Washington State for families?
What are the best campgrounds in Washington State for families?
Washington offers excellent family-friendly campgrounds with activities for all ages. Deception Pass State Park Campground stands out with its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and swimming areas that keep children entertained. The park's diverse landscape provides endless exploration opportunities while maintaining well-maintained facilities. Silver Springs Campground is another top choice, featuring spacious sites along a river where kids can splash and play. The well-distributed campsites provide privacy, and the riverside locations offer natural entertainment. Both campgrounds provide clean facilities and are easily accessible by car, making them perfect for families with young children. Look for sites that offer Junior Ranger programs, interpretive activities, and easy hiking trails to maximize the family camping experience.
What are the most beautiful Washington State Park campgrounds?
What are the most beautiful Washington State Park campgrounds?
Washington State Parks offer some of the most scenic camping experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Beacon Rock State Park Campground in the Columbia River Gorge features incredible views and a well-built trail leading to the summit of the iconic rock formation. The panoramic vistas of the gorge make this a photographer's paradise. Seaquest State Park Campground is known for its beautiful forested campsites that provide a peaceful setting for forest bathing and nature immersion. The traditional tent sites are surrounded by trees, offering a genuine woodland experience. Other notable state parks include Cape Disappointment with its dramatic coastal scenery and lighthouses, and Dosewallips with its unique blend of mountain and saltwater shoreline landscapes. Most state parks require reservations during peak season.
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