Tent camping opportunities near Spanaway, Washington span across a wide range of environments from public forest areas to private farms. Located approximately 10 miles south of Tacoma and situated at elevations ranging from 400-500 feet, the area serves as a gateway to Mount Rainier with its alpine camping locations. Winter camping near Spanaway requires preparation for temperatures that can drop to freezing, while summer conditions are typically mild with daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Mowich Lake Campground offers chances to spot native wildlife. "We came across a black bear eating berries and we trekked through some snow. The trail is semi crowded in the day but later in the afternoon all the day hikers start to clear out," reports one camper at Eagles Roost Camp.
Swimming in alpine lakes: Clear, cold water provides refreshing relief during summer hikes. "The lake is absolutely beautiful and there are so many different trails branching off of it. We got there at like 3pm on a Tuesday and got one of the last 2 spots, it definitely fills up fast even during the week," writes a visitor to Mowich Lake Campground.
Kayaking to island campsites: Several marine state parks offer boat-in camping experiences. "We kayaked here from Boston Harbor on a beautiful summer week-end. Boat-in sites are first-come, first serve so we did not arrive early enough to snatch the few that are right on the water but nonetheless the ones tucked in the forest were still beautiful," explains a camper about Hope Island Marine State Park.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Many tent sites provide natural separation from other campers. "Site 7 is by far the most secluded site it is the farthest away and closest to the toilet. For privacy this is the best and far enough from the toilet that the smell shouldn't get to you," notes a visitor to Eagles Roost Camp.
Farm animal interactions: Private farms offer unique camping with animal encounters. "This was our very first Hipcamp stay, and it completely blew us away. We were a bit skeptical at first, but the glowing reviews convinced us to give it a try. From the moment we arrived, we felt like part of the family," shares a camper at The Healing Farm.
River soundscapes: Riverside sites mask road noise with natural water sounds. "We love the view and the sound of the river! Each site is pretty small…maybe enough for 2-3 tents. Be careful of getting too close to the river because it looks like the earth can erode and break away into the river," warns a camper at White River Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require traveling on rough roads. "The gravel road to get up there, it's like 15 miles long and it's rough. Not the worst road I've ever been on but it wasn't fun and it felt like you had to drive it forever," explains a Mowich Lake camper.
Limited hammock options: Despite forested settings, not all sites accommodate hammocks. "While there are tons of trees all around, if you are hammock camping you are actually a little limited. You could make 1 hammock work at most of the sites, but we had 2 and we were very glad we arrived at an empty campground and had our pick," reports a visitor to Eagles Roost Camp.
Water filtration necessity: Most backcountry sites require water treatment. "Coming into camp, you'll get to cross a beautiful wooden bridge- take note of this spot, as it'll be your water source (make sure to bring a filter, as there is no water source at the campground)," advises a camper at Ipsut Creek Backcountry Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Animal experiences for children: Farms near Spanaway offer educational opportunities. "The kids were in Awh with all the animals and how they would let you walk up to them and interact with them. The goats were awesome, they would spend all day out at our camp and they would pose for pictures with us," writes a visitor to The Healing Farm.
Easy backcountry introduction: Some sites provide backcountry experience with minimal hiking. "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, giving campers majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks," describes an Ipsut Creek camper.
Cold weather preparation: Even summer nights require warm gear. "Even in July there is snow and temperatures reached as low as 40F. Fortunately we were prepared, but you may not be," cautions a visitor to Mowich Lake.
Tips from RVers
High-clearance recommendations: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. "4x4 / high clearance vehicles recommended - saw some subarus trying to navigate into a cleared area and it was pretty scrape-y. Great place to stay if you can't get a spot at White River / Ohanapecosh," notes a camper at Blake Island Marine State Park Campground.
Tent platform considerations: Some sites have wooden platforms requiring appropriate tent stakes. "The campground is beautiful for car campers! It's a loop layout with trash/recycle, bathrooms and designated box type platforms for the tents," explains a Mowich Lake visitor.
Early arrival necessity: Most sites fill quickly during peak season. "The first night, I got there after 9pm and there were still plenty of spots available. I found a spot right next to the river. The second night, I managed to find a spot tucked super far in that had a small private beach," shares a White River Dispersed Camping visitor.
