RV campgrounds near Sumas, Washington provide convenient access to the northern Puget Sound region and Canadian border. Located in Whatcom County with elevations averaging 40-50 feet above sea level, this area experiences mild but rainy winters and warm summers with average July temperatures around 74°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round despite seasonal precipitation variations that affect ground conditions at sites.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Birch Bay offers paddleboarding opportunities within biking distance of Thousand Trails Birch Bay. "We enjoyed our stay. Our nephews came to visit and enjoyed the pool and small nature trails around camp. There is a lot to do around town all within biking distance. We paddle boarding in the bays!! Great blues bands in town."
Beach walks: Plan sunset visits at the shoreline near Thousand Trails La Conner for memorable views. "The walks to 'Lone Tree' at sunset are amazing. The hosts are ALWAYS so friendly!" The oceanfront location provides distinctive Northwest coastal views without sandy beaches.
Local exploration: Visit Bellingham Airport which sits adjacent to Bellingham RV Park. "Flew in to the Bellingham airport, picked up a vehicle and arrived at Bellingham RV Park at about dusk. Registration process was super-easy. Park felt safe and restrooms, area around the RVs were all very clean and homey."
What campers like
Clean, private bathrooms: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at Thousand Trails Birch Bay. "Bathrooms/showers are single rooms not shared, very private and sparkling clean! Lots to do here on site, but get out and explore the town."
Hedges between sites: The Cedars RV Resort offers natural barriers for privacy. "I love the hedges between spots so you're not eating lunch at the table, staring at your neighbors sewer hose and power box. We will be back for sure."
Level sites: While spaces can be compact, Norwest RV Park maintains even surfaces. "Small spaces but they are level and the price is right!" This feature is particularly important for larger RVs requiring stabilization.
Proximity to border crossings: Several parks position visitors strategically near Canada. "This was a great place for us to stay on this trip. We were able to see some Canadian family in Blaine, while the border was closed, and stay nearby."
What you should know
Site selection variance: Parks offer different site layouts depending on sections. At Thousand Trails Birch Bay, "2 phases for RVs - phase 1 spots are so close you could very well 'spare a square' of TP to your neighbor. Phase 2 has a lot more room to spread out and it's nice."
Wi-Fi limitations: Internet access varies significantly between locations. At Mount Vernon RV Campground, "If you need wifi to plan your next days this location is not for you. Wifi available at the lodge only and very slow."
Tent camping options: Not all RV parks accommodate tent campers equally. "If you are camping with a trailer or motorhome, this place is great but it is not for tent campers. I was surprised to learn when I checked in that there are no actual designated tent sites, just a big open grassy area with picnic tables and fire rings but no distinguishable separation between sites."
Maintenance concerns: System outages can affect stays. "June 2023 dump stations and all campsite sewer hookups are down for maintenance. Nearest offsite dumps are 10 miles away."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: The Cedars RV Resort offers swimming facilities that appeal to younger campers. "Great set up for a small park with small sites. There are trees between every camp spot to add privacy. Best part is that the restrooms are clean and the showers are free. There is a store and a laundry also on site."
Pet-friendly areas: Designated dog spaces vary between parks. "Everyone's so nice, good dog park, pool, and friendly staff. Little mini mart on site."
Recreational activities: Look for parks with built-in entertainment options. "Nice park, friendly staff best Thousand Trails so far. They have all the usual amenities for resort."
Seasonal availability: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. "Well manicured. Not especially private. It's nice, but I would prefer a spot that's a little more secluded. Benefits of this site are the facilities and the 15 minute drive to the ferry terminal. Super conveneient. Only open May-Oct!"
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly stays: Riverfront RV Park offers economical options with basic amenities. "Affordable stay $25 @7/2020. Well kept large quiet park. Great dg waking areas; including a dog park. Some sites with trees for shade. Hookups work. Free city dump station within a mile; easy to access."
Electrical service: Pay attention to amperage availability. "30 amp sites with water. Dump station was not on site. No showers but clean bathrooms."
Gate hours: Some RV parks limit after-hours access. "Gate locked by 10pm. Access through older well kept neighborhoods."
Reservation requirements: Many parks operate on first-come systems despite taking bookings. "RED FLAG: First, they take reservations but do not reserve a spot for you; rv spots are first come first serve."
