Camping near Deming, Washington offers access to the North Cascade mountain range with elevations ranging from 500 to 5,000 feet within a 30-mile radius. Temperatures in this region can fluctuate dramatically between seasons, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Road conditions to many campsites change seasonally, with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until late spring snowmelt.
What to do
Hiking on Mount Baker trails: Douglas Fir Campground serves as an excellent base camp for exploring Mount Baker trails. "From this campground you can explore great hikes along the Mt. Baker Hwy," notes Richard C. The campground offers a "sweet trail at the far end of the loop takes you under the road and through a forest along the river."
Water activities at Silver Lake: Silver Lake Park provides multiple water recreation options. "There's great fishing, boats you can rent, life jackets you can borrow," says Alexander M. The lake is easily accessible from the campground, with "easy access for our kayak. Beautiful lake for fishing as well," according to Patrick J.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lynden-Bellingham KOA offers unexpected wildlife encounters. "Just be aware that it has some nosy raccoon residents who feel very comfortable coming right up to camp to investigate your food situation," warns wisepig at Larrabee State Park. At Hidden Meadow Retreat, visitors can see farm animals including "chickens, goats, rabbits, and someday soon, bees."
What campers like
River sounds for natural privacy: Many campsites near Deming feature waterfront locations that provide natural sound barriers. At Douglas Fir Campground, "The Nooksack river provides a beautiful white noise generator that gives you additional sound privacy from your neighbors," according to Richard C. Another camper noted that "Most sites are on the river, which provides perfect noise-cancellation acoustics."
Farm-based camping experiences: Oostema Farmstead offers a unique agricultural camping setting. Christina B. describes waking up "to a beautiful view of mountains and farmland. Lisa gave us a tour and let our children pet/feed the cows, goat, and pig." The farm also offers fresh produce and meat, as "they sell some great meat from their grass fed cattle. There are fantastic gardens where they let up pick some fresh veggies."
Waterfront access: Many campsites provide direct access to lakes, rivers, or Puget Sound. Jeff K. notes that Larrabee State Park is "a great campsite if you are hoping to be near Bellingham and the Puget Sound." At Silver Lake Park, one reviewer appreciated the "easy access to water nearby for crabbing/boating" while others mention swimming opportunities.
What you should know
Train noise impacts some campgrounds: Several campgrounds near the coast experience train disruptions. At Larrabee State Park, Daryl N. reports, "Lovely area and views... Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs." Michael L. confirms: "Trains hooting every 2 hours or so throughout the night as they chugs through near the park. It was hard to get a good sleep."
Site sizes vary significantly: Campgrounds in the region offer vastly different site dimensions. Bill T. advises about Douglas Fir Campground: "I was a little upset when I booked two sites for a 24' motorhome and 26' trailer. Site 11 for the trailer was barely 26' deep... But almost all were to small for more than 26' motorhome." At Larrabee State Park, Beth E. notes: "This tent camper can't handle the amount of feeling like you are camping on top of your neighbors."
Cell service is inconsistent: Mobile reception varies throughout the area. At Hidden Meadow Retreat, "There was no cell phone service for me, so I recommend printing directions." Douglas Fir Campground has "spotty cell service but who cares when you're somewhere so beautiful," according to Catherine S. Bay View State Park offers more connectivity with "good cell service" according to Meghan B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Larrabee State Park, Carlyn N. shares: "With young children we loved that Larrabee had a playground area and easy access to the beach. We also took advantage of the hiking trails nearby." Another visitor noted the "great newer looking playground for kids: bonus for families!"
Kid-friendly water features: Lynden-Bellingham KOA offers multiple water activities. According to Renee R., amenities include "Swimming pool, mini golf, arcade games, paddle boats. Lots of trees and shade!" Jesse C. describes it as "a small piece of camping paradise in the heart of lynden, kids can ride their bikes and fish and parents don't have to worry."
Farm animal experiences: Farms that allow camping provide unique educational opportunities. At Oostema Farmstead, "Lisa gave us a tour and let our children pet/feed the cows, goat, and pig. The kids loved it!!" Christina B. continues, "We like that there isn't rows of RVs and Trailers stacked on top of each other, you have space to wonder and spread out."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain issues affecting RV setup. At Larrabee State Park, Jason W. reports, "We had site T6 which is full hook up pull through. The site was extremely unlevel front to back so much so my rear stabilizers barely touched the ground... Not worth the $60."
Limited large-rig options: Many campgrounds in the area have size restrictions. Douglas Fir Campground has sites that "were to small for more than 26' motorhome" according to Bill T., who adds: "There are really nice pads for tents on all the sites. But almost all were too small for more than 26' motorhome."
Seasonal booking requirements: Silver Lake Park fills quickly during peak months. One reviewer mentions, "It has everything you need--large picnic table, fire pit with grill, parking, and a good area for your tent." The campground has undergone recent improvements with "Recently redone sites with new bbq/fire pits. New gravel around the site."
