Best Tent Camping near Yakima, WA

Tent campsites near Yakima, Washington range from established campgrounds to dispersed backcountry sites, with several options located within an hour's drive of the city. Fish Creek Dispersed offers tent-only camping along the water, while South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping provides primitive tent sites within Wenatchee National Forest. Clear Lake Campgrounds and Lost Lake Camping Area offer additional tent camping options with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.

Most tent campgrounds in the Yakima region require campers to bring their own water, as drinking water is rarely available at primitive sites. Surface conditions vary significantly, with some areas featuring designated tent pads on crushed rock while others offer only natural forest floor for pitching tents. Many dispersed camping areas have fire rings but may be subject to seasonal fire bans, particularly during summer months. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Fish Creek and Clear Lake Campgrounds, but many primitive tent sites have no facilities whatsoever. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing remote tent campsites, especially after rain or early in the season when snow may still block roads.

Areas farther from Yakima generally offer more seclusion and fewer crowds for tent campers. One camper noted that "Fish Creek Dispersed is the best spot at the lake, but it's always tough to get the spot you want unless you get there by Thursday." Tree cover varies by location, with some sites offering ample shade while others are more exposed. Many tent campgrounds provide access to fishing, hiking, and swimming opportunities. Campers should be prepared to pack out all trash, as several reviews mention issues with previous visitors leaving garbage behind. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "If people would just take care of stuff, this could be an awesome place," highlighting the importance of practicing Leave No Trace principles at these tent camping areas.

Best Tent Sites Near Yakima, Washington (39)

    1. Infidel Acres

    Be the first to review!
    Cowiche, WA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 480-0271

    $25 - $35 / night

    2. Lost Lake Camping Area

    2 Reviews
    White Pass, WA
    25 miles
    Website

    "Some people left a lot of trash up there. There was also a lot of wasps. You will want to bring wasp control. Outside of that it was quiet and peaceful."

    "It was amazing to go up for the weekend and wake up next to the beautiful lake. Great fishing and just a great weekend."

    3. Tieton Pond

    1 Review
    Tieton, WA
    26 miles

    "Tieton pond is a small undeveloped camping area surrounding an equally small lake. The lake is stocked and the fishing can be quite good early in the season."

    4. Fish Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Tieton, WA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 653-1401

    $8 / night

    "There is a vaulted toilet and trash cans, but we usually just use the woods as we camp further from the one outhouse. There is one picnic table at the spot, but it moves from site to site."

    5. Clear Lake Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Goose Prairie, WA
    34 miles

    "Has toilets around area, didnt check them as my rig is self sufficient. No other service though but out here it doesnt matter. Pack in pack out. Has fire rings all over!"

    "Big spaces, big trees, big lake.

    But if you come during the weekend, be prepared for the most inconsiderate, noisy, rude neighbors you've ever found."

    6. South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    White Pass, WA
    31 miles
    Website

    "Designated fire rings but currently there's a burn ban. No vault toilets or picnic tables. Pack it in, pack it out!"

    7. Rocky Coulee Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Vantage, WA
    37 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "Walk in spots. Walk-in is about 100 yards. Quiet. Some wild life. Frogs and sheep. Good place to drop in and find a spot last minute depending on the day and time of year."

    "Picnic tables and tent pads on crushed rock probably 1/4-. I couldn’t find where to park."

    8. Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Vantage, WA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (206) 625-1367

    "This is a well-known primitive camping area for rock climbers and other outdoor recreation folks (there are also hiking, biking and boating opportunities in the Frenchman Coulee recreation area)."

    "Plenty of car camping and is a popular spot for rock climbing. There's a trail down to the waterfall and one toilet but no tp so be prepared."

    9. Clear Lake North Campground

    3 Reviews
    Goose Prairie, WA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 653-2205

    "The vault toilets were very well cared for and didn't have the typical smells and lingering posits that make this type of accommodation so memorable."

    "We paid $10 for the site and it was right next to the river. We were tucked in. Right next to the river and the bathroom. There is even garbage dumpsters at the campground @."

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Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Yakima, WA

467 Reviews of 39 Yakima Campgrounds



Guide to Yakima

Tent camping near Yakima, Washington offers a variety of scenic locations and outdoor experiences for nature enthusiasts. From serene lakes to forested areas, there are plenty of options to set up your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for tent camping near Yakima

  • At Lost Lake Camping Area, campers appreciate the peaceful environment, but it's essential to bring your own drinking water and be prepared for wasps.
  • For a more rustic experience, Fish Creek Dispersed allows campfires and has several spots for tents, but be ready to pack out what you pack in.
  • If you're looking for a quieter spot during the week, Tieton Pond is a small, undeveloped area that fills up quickly on weekends, so plan accordingly.

Some prices for tent camping range from $5 to $10

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Yakima, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Yakima, WA is Infidel Acres with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Yakima, WA?

TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Yakima, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.