RV camping near Wilkeson, Washington provides access to Mount Rainier's western approach with campsites at elevations ranging from 450 to 5,400 feet. Located in Pierce County, the area receives approximately 70 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and seasonal water features. Cell service tends to be stronger in valley campgrounds than at higher elevations where coverage becomes spotty.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: The Corral Pass area, accessible via a challenging forest road, offers trailheads to panoramic vistas. "The drive up was rough, steep, and slick. I would never attempt with a trailer or even cab over camper. We took the tent and my Subaru Crosstrek up, took it slow and did just fine," notes a camper at Corral Pass Campground.
Fishing in local creeks: Several waterways near South Prairie offer seasonal fishing opportunities. "The grounds are very nice, looking forward to coming back," mentions a visitor at South Prairie Creek RV Park, where campers can access nearby fishing spots.
Exploring small towns: The region features historic mining communities within short drives of campgrounds. "Close to Seattle, feels secluded, but you can walk or take a short drive to restaurants, groceries, anything you could want or need," explains a camper at Lake Pleasant RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer adequate spacing between sites. "Great camp site for all sizes. Mostly no sewer. But if you enjoy a little distance between sites without sacrificing camp size line up here," reports a visitor at Tall Chief Campground.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and showers rank high in camper satisfaction. "The bathrooms are usually found to be immaculate. The main bathrooms have a great 'spa' feeling to their design and make you feel like you are glamping," notes a Tall Chief camper.
Privacy between spots: Natural barriers create separation at some parks. "We had a pull through and, while it wasn't a huge amount of space, the trees between spots offered a really nice level of privacy," writes a visitor about Lake Pleasant RV Park.
What you should know
Winter preparation: Mountain roads require proper equipment during colder months. "Winter access may require chains or snow tires for certain campgrounds at higher elevations."
Limited sewer hookups: Some campgrounds lack full hookups. "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it imo," explains a visitor at Tall Chief Campground.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it."
Reservation requirements: "Very clean. Friendly and helpful staff. I've stayed here numerous times over the past few years and this place is consistently amazing," notes a visitor at Gig Harbor RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks feature recreational facilities for children. "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great," reports a visitor about Tall Chief Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs seasonally. "We saw no animals either. A couple multi day trip backpackers came passing through."
Pet policies: Dog-friendly options require specific procedures. "You must walk your dogs off site across the street to relieve themselves. Some reviewers are bajiggity about this but it's the Burke Gilman trail and it's not like you are having to cross a busy street or pass a crosswalk. They even provide a poo poop can at the driveway with baggies," shares a camper about Issaquah Village RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Age restrictions: Some parks limit older vehicles. "It looks really nice but the don't allow drop-ins or vehicles older than 20 yrs," cautions a visitor about Enumclaw Expo Center RV Park.
Electrical service capacity: Power needs vary by site location. "In site 11 you can hear the highway when outside of rv but couldn't inside. Neighbors were very friendly. Pad was paved, level and long enough for Super C and toad," explains a visitor about Blue Sky RV Park.
Road navigation challenges: Certain campgrounds have difficult access points. "The roadways are easy to navigate and lots of folks walk around the park roads. Many tenants are monthly, if not longer, and they seem to have an overflow area for folks waiting for a spot to open up."
