Snoqualmie Pass camping areas sit at elevations between 2,600 and 3,000 feet in the central Cascade Mountains, where summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F with cooler nights dropping to 40-50°F. The region features extensive old-growth forest surrounding alpine lakes, with many campgrounds positioned near rivers or streams that can run high through early July after snowmelt. Winter accessibility is limited with most campgrounds closing by mid-September.
What to Do
Hiking to alpine lakes: The Annette Lake trail offers a 7.5-mile round trip hike with 1,800 feet of elevation gain ending at a mountain lake suitable for swimming. "The 4 mile hike in was just enough of a challenge for our first time with weight in our packs. We went left where the trail splits at the lake. There are campsites both sides, but lake access is really easy on the left side," notes Lillie P.
River wading and swimming: The Middle Fork Campground provides direct access to shallow river areas where kids can wade during summer months. "We pulled up last minute and there were still campgrounds and most of the sites were pretty clean!" reports Alexa T. The campground connects to multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
Non-motorized boating: Cooper Lake at Owhi Campground restricts motorized boats, creating a peaceful environment for paddling. "The sites are right near Cooper lake, so if you have kayaks, paddle boards, etc... it's the perfect place (with Mountain View's!)," writes Maggie M. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout for fishing opportunities.
What Campers Like
Riverside camping: Many campers appreciate sites near running water at Tinkham Campground, where the sound masks highway noise. "We had a beautiful experience at this campground. At the sound of the river rushing behind us the entire time. Woke up to a beautiful sunrise. Easy to get to, clean, bathrooms are clean, and nice fire pits," shares Brandy D.
Remote feel with accessibility: Despite being relatively close to Seattle, many campgrounds maintain a wilderness atmosphere. "This campground is close to Seattle but feels like your hundreds of miles away. Easy to get to. Well maintained and you can reserve online. Beautiful views of the cascades and right on the river!" explains Zach B.
Dispersed camping options: For those seeking privacy, South Fork Snoqualmie River offers multiple free sites with established fire rings. "There are a ton of really great sites along this road, although most of the drive-in sites will be taken if it's a busy weekend, so get there early!" advises Parker C. Many sites have cell service despite their forest setting.
What You Should Know
Early arrival necessary: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Arrive early to snag a piece of this lakeside paradise!" recommends Megan C. about Owhi Campground. Sites at popular campgrounds are typically taken by Friday morning.
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds near I-90 experience road noise. "The sites and location are amazing, truly gorgeous views of the mountains nestled into the trees. However, if you're in a tent you'll hear the I-90 traffic...bring ear plugs," advises Elliott B. about Denny Creek Campground.
Water conditions: Rivers can run fast and cold through early July. "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," notes Parker C. about South Fork Snoqualmie dispersed camping areas.
Site privacy varies: "It's a good spot for hikers to get to all the other places to go hike. The campground itself is kind of crowded usually and the spots are close to each other," explains Dene H. about the Denny Creek area.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access options: Kachess Campground features family-friendly swimming areas. "We had arguably the best site in the campground. It was spacious and right next to the lake. There are other sites on the water, but I'm not sure they backed up to a small beach area. We could launch our paddle board from right there," shares Christopher F.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include play equipment for children. "Small playground with a basketball court by the bathrooms. Lovely river walk trail follows the Yakima River. Activities for children such as the Jr. Ranger program," reports Trevor M. about Lake Easton State Park.
Berry picking opportunities: Late summer brings wild berries to many campgrounds. "We enjoyed our stay at the middle fork camp ground. We stayed there to be close to the mailbox trail head. There were so many berries around the camp and we could literally sit in camp and pick blue berries," shares Dan P.
Safety considerations: Watch for hazardous plants in some dispersed camping areas. "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," warns Lewis G. about South Fork Snoqualmie River area.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds have challenging sections. "Road getting into the campground was horrendous their was alot of road noise but the camp sites were big and clean. And at $32.00 a night with no electric was kind of pricey," notes F O. about Tinkham.
Pull-through availability: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles. "We found a walk-on campsite on a busy weekend and we're so happy to find this spot. There is a lovely little river that runs through the campgrounds," reports Jessica N.
Hookup options: Most campgrounds have limited utilities. "This campground was very nice. Our space had full hookups and lots of shade. The staff was very friendly as well," shares Chris B. about Lake Easton State Park, one of the few locations offering full RV services.
