Alex D.
Guide
GuideUpper Hoh Rd Dispersed Camping
Perfect!
Very relaxing spot with amazing views and sounds.
Explore the Best Campgrounds in Washington
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
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Best Camping Sites in Washington (2,065)
1. 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."
2. Deception Pass State Park Campground
109 ReviewsAnacortes, WAWebsite+1 (360) 675-2417$12 - $40 / 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."
3. Cape Disappointment State Park Campground
91 ReviewsIlwaco, WAWebsite+1 (360) 642-3078$10 - $40 / 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
73 ReviewsFederal Way, WAWebsite+1 (888) 226-7688$20 / 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
68 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
59 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
55 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. Salt Creek Recreation Area
51 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."
9. Mora Campground — Olympic National Park
52 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."
10. Fairholme Campground — Olympic National Park
52 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"
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Recent Reviews in Washington
8081 Reviews of 2065 Washington Campgrounds
Grant M.Guideice harbor dam
Decent Overnight
Good enough as a simple overnight pull-off, nothing more, nothing less.
We were just passing through looking for a place to sleep for the night. At first, the amount of cars right near the dam made me uneasy — it felt crowded and I wasn’t expecting that at all. But it turned out most of them were fishermen and day users, not campers.
Once we drove a bit farther downriver, the whole situation changed. You can follow the river and find miles of open pull-offs. There’s so much space that you can easily get your own spot without feeling on top of anyone else. Not secluded in the traditional sense — no trees, wide open terrain — but you’re not sitting right off a main road either.
We ended up in a spot where the sound of the water made for a really solid night of sleep. Flat ground, easy parking, and simple access for any vehicle. Starlink had good reception the whole time, which was a plus.
A few practical notes:
- No bathrooms or facilities at all
- No real privacy, just open spacing
- Very easy driving and pull-offs
- Not a destination campsite — strictly a pass-through or overnight stop
We felt safe and slept well, but it’s not somewhere I’d call a “vacation spot.” It works for what it is: a quiet, functional place to crash for the night while on the road.
Lauren M.GuideChiwaukum Creek
large sites
When you turn in there is a road to the left with sites along it. If you go straight there is private property. Turning right is a loop back to where you started. Anyways, the sites are large and well spaced. The road is narrow and turning around in a large vehicle would be difficult. It’s right above the river and close to Leavenworth! Worked great for a night in my van. No one else was here. Requires a NW Forest Pass- though no one was checking. There are pull-in and tent sites available. Large rock campfire rings. There is a vault toilet at the beginning to the right of the sign.
Danny S.
ScoutHome Valley Campground
Great campground
Loved our stay here. the trains were loud but didn't ruin our trip at all. Tons of boats here during spring salmon runs at Drano lake and the wind river but we would absolutely come back. The site that we were at was super private but not all the spots had as much room surrounding them as we did
Richard B.
TravelerThousand Trails Chehalis
A Pleasant Surprise
Beautiful wooded campground! Like all TT campgrounds a touch on the rustic side. Large, well spaced private sites. We visited mid-May and the campground was very quiet.
- llukas F.Guide
Baker lake camping
Decent spot
This spot is pretty decent. Little pull off of the main dirt road can fit my truck with a tent camper. Little fire pit already there. Didn’t have much traffic through the night. Pretty quiet. Along the baker lake road there are some other sites some really cool tent camping area right by the lake
Charles R.TravelerGee Creek Rest Area I-5
The Dyrt description is deceptive
This is a rest area along I-5 in SW Washington, nothing more, nothing less. There are NO RV hookups for stays, just a tank dump area and a place to fill your fresh water tank. Restrooms are clean. RV parking is with the semi trucks, but the dump area is with the car parking (poor design), if you in with the trucks, you can’t dump. If you dump, then parking is a real problem. This is for the south bound rest area, don’t know about the north bound stop.
- DDorindaScout
Eagles Landing RV Resort
Nice, quiet campground.
Large sites with full hookups. Clean facilities and large lodge for group gatherings.
- NNicole C.Traveler
Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
Quiet spot near a waterfall
This location is private and near a beautiful waterfall. Like another review mentioned, you’ll take a right onto a road before the parking site for Panther Creek Falls. There is a gate that makes it look like the camp site is closed, but it’s not locked.
I was here for a few hours on a weekday. You can hear people coming and going from the trail parking, but it’s not too noticeable. Previous visitors have made a few makeshift fire pits. And the hum of the waterfall is lovely!!
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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