Camping near Monroe, Washington offers multiple options within forests and along waterways. Nestled at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains with elevations ranging from 60 to 500 feet, campsites provide varying access to the Skykomish and Snoqualmie Rivers. Cell reception varies significantly between locations, with stronger signals at lower elevations and spotty coverage in more remote areas.
What to do
Fishing access: Verlot Campground sits beside the South Fork Stillaguamish River with direct water access from many sites. "We had a spot right by the South Fork Stillaguamish River. We fell sleep and woke up to river sounds and were able to walk down to it straight from our site. There was also a cute sandy beach just at the edge of the campgrounds," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: Tolt MacDonald Park offers numerous hiking trails directly accessible from the campground. A camper describes the layout: "If you venture across the Shakey bridge there are hiking trails, access to the water, and plenty of trees to hang your hammock in. There are also additional more remote camping spots on the other side of the bridge."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming opportunities during summer months. At Flowing Lake Park & Campground, one reviewer mentions the facilities need improvement: "The beach access park loses a star for the grass being very wet and mushy. With a little work this could be fixed. The swimming area is also just rock and mud. A few loads of sand would make it infinitely better."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the Monroe area feature larger than average sites. At Flowing Lake, a camper notes: "Campsites are spacious and private. Reserve ahead very popular especially during the summer. Flushing toilets and showers. Lake access with boat launch and fishing dock."
River views: Campgrounds situated along waterways receive consistently high ratings. At Thousand Trails Thunderbird, a reviewer appreciates the setting: "This is a good campground just off Hyway 2 and on the river, some site are directly next to the river, however, we choose a site on the other side of the road due to the full hookup there."
Quiet evenings: Despite proximity to urban areas, several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. As one Tolt MacDonald visitor describes: "It was quiet and peaceful." Another adds more detail: "Love this campground! So beautiful here and peaceful!"
What you should know
Reservation necessities: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Lake Pleasant RV Park, timing matters: "Easy reservation process. Reasonable rate for city location. Look at monthly rates if you staying more than two weeks. On site storage if you need to leave your rig for a few days."
Noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or attractions. At Evergreen State Fairgrounds, one camper warns: "Not a place for tranquility. The price is right for what you get. Hosts are good people and quiet when races not running."
Varied site quality: Sites within the same campground can differ dramatically. At Verlot Campground, a visitor advises: "I was shocked by the high score and mostly positive reviews, but then I realized there is probably a huge difference between camping in the spots along the river vs. the ones right next to the highway, which is where I was."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Flowing Lake offers excellent facilities for children. One camper highlights: "Great county operated campground campsites are spacious and private. Cabins available, also the most amazing playground."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds provide nature learning experiences. At Tall Chief Campground, families appreciate the natural setting: "Helpful, friendly staff. Large private sites. It feels like you are deep in the PNW rainforest but you close to amenities and shopping."
Group camping: Several locations accommodate youth groups. One visitor shares: "We camped here with my daughter's American Heritage Girls troop. The site was nice and big. The park had lots for the girls to do and explore. We had a great time."
Tips from RVers
Water and power availability: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups but not all have sewer connections. At Cascades RV Resort, a reviewer notes the amenities: "A new and clean RV resort about 1 hour from Seattle. Big shower spaces for free. Coffee and cafe on side. Gas stations and McDonalds next to the resort, 1 mile from town of Sultan."
Long-term options: Some parks accommodate extended stays. At Lake Pleasant RV Park, a camper shares: "We stayed here for almost a month while visiting family in North Seattle. The grounds are quiet... truly silent... save for the many geese that call the lake in the center of the property their home."
Site selection tips: Carefully choosing your specific site matters. At Tall Chief Campground, a visitor advises: "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."
