Best Camping near Yelm, WA

Yelm is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Yelm is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Yelm, WA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Yelm, WA (236)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground

    1. Dash Point State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    131 Photos
    428 Saves
    Federal Way, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground

    2. Millersylvania State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    88 Photos
    272 Saves
    Tenino, Washington

    Millersylvania State Park offers fun for everyone. Spend a summer day splashing in Deep Lake. Gather with friends in an historic kitchen shelter.

    Conveniently located between Olympia and Centralia, this large, well-visited park beckons to adults and children alike.

    Many of the park structures, including the kitchen shelters, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, making the park a great place to see and admire the hallmark artisanship of that era.

    With two swimming beaches, miles of forested hiking and biking trails, watercraft launches, non-motorized watercraft rentals (kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats) and abundant fishing, Millersylvania will keep you busy for a satisfying weekend or an extended outdoor vacation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Lake Park

    3. Alder Lake Park

    31 Reviews
    97 Photos
    369 Saves
    La Grande, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek

    4. Elkamp Eastcreek

    35 Reviews
    111 Photos
    267 Saves
    Mineral, Washington

    Elkamp Eastcreek allows visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors. Located near the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this campground provides easy access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, river rafting, kayaking and wildlife watching. The campsites are nestled among the trees and offer plenty of privacy, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat whether that be in a tent or more luxurious cabin. Elkamp Eastcreek also features modern amenities, including clean restrooms, showers and laundry facilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ike Kinswa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ike Kinswa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ike Kinswa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ike Kinswa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ike Kinswa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ike Kinswa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from American Heritage Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from American Heritage Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from American Heritage Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from American Heritage Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from American Heritage Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from American Heritage Campground

    6. American Heritage Campground

    14 Reviews
    25 Photos
    92 Saves
    Tumwater, Washington

    American Heritage Campground is nestled in a beautiful 25-acre forest; a place for all ages to enjoy.

    American Heritage Campground is a nice quiet family campground;

    Many of the campsites are spacious and secluded. Some are in an open grassy area. All campsites have a picnic table and campfire area. Wi-Fi is available near the office. The campground water source is pure well water. Come enjoy the fresh smell of the forest ~ some nights you can hear the owls!

    Many of our customers have been camping here for generations. This is a great place to bring the grandkids. It is a bicycle-friendly campground. Every campsite has its own character; we are careful to book you into the best fitting campsite for your equipment and amenity preferences. We are on-site owner-operators.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    7. Cougar Rock Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    56 Reviews
    198 Photos
    612 Saves
    Longmire, Washington

    Overview

    Cougar Rock Campground, on the southwest side of Mt. Rainier National Park, is conveniently located near Paradise. Individual campsites are reservable on this page. Group campsite reservations can be made via Cougar Rock Group Campground. Paradise is the most popular destination in the park, with a lodge and visitor center, many miles of hiking trails and a commanding view of the mountain-the highest in the state and Cascade range. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park is the mountain itself, a massive glacier-clad volcano, peaking at 14,411 ft. and dominating the skyline for hundreds of miles. Visitors travel through majestic old-growth forests, past tumbling waterfalls and historic buildings to reach sub-alpine meadows, where world-famous wildflower displays bloom through July and August. Popular activities in the park include sight-seeing, hiking, rock climbing and camping.Cougar Rock campground is located at an elevation of 3,180 feet. Summers are dry and cool with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. Weather throughout the park can be variable, so visitors should come prepared.

    Recreation

    From the facility, experienced hikers and backpackers can access the well-known, strenuous and beautiful Wonderland Trail, which encircles the park for 93 miles. For those who enjoy learning more about the park's natural and cultural history, there is an on-site amphitheater where interpretive programs are held.

    Natural Features

    Cougar Rock Campground has one lookout point from which campers can view Mt. Rainier. Although it is peaceful now, the still active volcano last erupted in the mid 1800s. The campground is adjacent to the Nisqually River and is surrounded by thick forests. A short drive to Paradise in summer reveals fields of lush wildflowers.

    Nearby Attractions

    Mount Rainier National Park is about 50 miles southeast of the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    If a camper does not check-in at the ranger station by 12:00pm check-out time the day after the scheduled arrival date, their reservation will be cancelled, the camper will incur a $10.00 service fee, and forfeit the first night's camping fee.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverbend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverbend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverbend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverbend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverbend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverbend Campground

    9. Riverbend Campground

    6 Reviews
    7 Photos
    122 Saves
    DuPont, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Chehalis
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Chehalis
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Chehalis
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Chehalis
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Chehalis
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Chehalis

    10. Thousand Trails Chehalis

    11 Reviews
    50 Photos
    46 Saves
    Onalaska, Washington

    The original Thousand Trails preserve, Chehalis RV Camping has spectacular views of Mount Rainier from one side and Mount St Helens from the other side. A 300-acre Puget Sound RV campground , the preserve offers private campsites amid a forest of maple, alder, and Douglas fir trees. Come visit Chehalis RV Camping where the umbrella of trees line the roadways to your camping sites, and lush green ferns will take your breath away. This Puget Sound RV campground is the ultimate in camping experiences: lots of amenities, beautiful hiking trails, and local area attractions that will certainly keep you entertained. Spectacular views of Mt Rainier from a Puget Sound RV campground Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Chehalis RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
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Showing results 1-10 of 236 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Yelm

Recent Reviews in Yelm

1071 Reviews of 236 Yelm Campgrounds


  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Beach State Park Campground
    Jan. 15, 2025

    Scenic Beach State Park Campground

    Pretty Great

    This was wonderful in terms of a car campground. The sites are all secluded and tucked into the woods. The beach access, though, small offers standard gorgeous PNW views. And the day area was nice to explore. Few other campers but I barely saw them. Enjoyed my stay.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Twanoh State Park Campground
    Jan. 15, 2025

    Twanoh State Park Campground

    No Privacy

    The campsites are all cramped together right next to the roadway. There’s no vegetation so you can see just about every site/camper from any site you choose. The beach access across the road is nice - you do have to cross the road. And a pleasant trail meanders through the forest. Can’t imagine coming here during peak season.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Manchester State Park Campground
    Jan. 11, 2025

    Manchester State Park Campground

    Great camping spot

    We decided to check this camp ground out after our friends had stayed there. Nice wooded campground with access to the water. Plenty of opportunities for day hikes and not far from port orchard Washington. Some sites have hookups and others are dry camping. Most spots are level. The shower house restrooms are very clean . Firewood is available for purchase.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Point State Park Campground
    Dec. 30, 2024

    Penrose Point State Park Campground

    Pretty Nice

    I thought it was quaint. Only one other camper, which is always nice. I don’t think I’d camp here peak season due to the potential congestion. Trails were pleasant as were the shoreside views of the Sound.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Dash Point State Park Campground
    Dec. 30, 2024

    Dash Point State Park Campground

    Only If You’re Desperate

    Went over night on 12/9. There were only a few other campers, which is always nice. Can’t imagine camping here in peak season. Rangers circled frequently. Walk to the beach has housing complexes in view.

  • Christina F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Millersylvania State Park Campground
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Millersylvania State Park Campground

    Chilly Thanksgiving

    After months of trying to get reservations for this popular campground, we finally got one for Thanksgiving weekend! The park is on their winter schedule so only sites 1-7 and 226-248 were open. It made for a nice, quiet weekend even though the open sites were 80% full. We had a pull-through site right across from the dumpster, bathrooms, and camp host. We had decent service for Verizon. There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake, which is not far from the campground. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up. The thin layer of mud on the pavement made things quite slick as I was trying to get leveling blocks down.

  • Amber G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    Amazing

    Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night. It’s December so of course it’s a bit cold at night and I’d recommend at least AWD to get up here. Will be back.

  • Jenny D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sasquatch Farm
    Dec. 1, 2024

    Sasquatch Farm

    Weekend Getaway

    We were warmly greeted by Fank and Amy. They took us around the farm and showed us the animals. We have a 38-foot trailer and had plenty of room to back in. At the end of the day, soaking in the hot tub was the best! Thank you, Frank and Amy, for being excellent hosts! We will be back!

  • Sally
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Resort
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Silver Lake Resort

    Fall family time

    It was great to go in the Fall as the summer rush is over, but there was still good weather. Place was clean and the staff was polite and helpful with our last minute reservation.

  • Robert
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Resort
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Silver Lake Resort

    Wonderful family getaway

    The campground is easy to get to and thanks to the staff has a lot of unique amenities like you can fish in Silver Lake from your motel room or rent a variety of boats for the day.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    Nice free boondocking between Port Angeles and Forks

    Not a bad find that doesn't require any permit of any kind which was great! Would stay here again I pitched a tent which was nice and found a spot right by the river.

  • Samuel H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Campground
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Fall Creek Campground

    Neat Spot

    You are supposed to have a Washington State Discovery pass to stay here, also they want you to fill out self registration once you arrive, fyi there are no pens onsite to do so.

    This was a nice spot to stay the night, clean, nice picnic tables and fire pits, one pit toilet.

  • Lary
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Resort
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Silver Lake Resort

    Where beautiful scenery awaits you

    Easy to get to. Just 1 mile from the Mount St Helens visitor center. Right on Silver Lake with a perfect view of Mount St Helens. The place was clean and quiet. Employees were helpful and courteous. Lots of ways to stay. Motel rooms, cabins, RV and tent spaces.

  • Frank B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Kanaskat-Palmer State Park

    Quiet Park

    Really liked the park. Everything was good about it. The only thing for me was that we have a rv, and there is electrical hookups but no water hookups.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Schafer State Park Campground
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Schafer State Park Campground

    Great little place by the river

    Just about 10 miles north of highway 12 near Elma. Got a great site right by the river. Nice toilets & showers (in old building so was pleasantly surprised!) wifi by information center, cell coverage limited (1 bar t-mobile with Weboost)

  • Zarek A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Best. Spot. Ever.

    Went here for a social event and had a blast. Big sites with lovely paths between, wonderful shop with firewood available at any hour (just square up when the place is actually open), clean plumbed bathrooms and a coin operated shower at $0.50/minute. There’s a beautiful meadow, a creek, huge trees. The owners are incredibly friendly and the place is very dog friendly.

  • B K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Iron Creek Campground

    Beautiful and private

    Beautiful and private campground, we'll be back for sure. Honey hole type toilets and lots of water spigots around. We didn't hike but there seemed to be lots of hiking trails, plus the beautiful river! Despite there being a total burn ban (propane stoves only) there were SEVERAL fires happening all weekend which was disappointing.

    Most sites are really private which we loved. We walked through the three loops that were open and made note of the sites that looked most private/flat-ish for a tent/good location. In our opinion these were the best sites we could see: Loop B 24, 52, 47, 44, 39, 38, 36, 31. Loop C 56, 57, 60, 69. Loop D 78, 80, 84 (this one seemed to have an awesome trail leading right down the river!). No cell service so plan accordingly!

  • Jonathan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Game Farm Wilderness Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Game Farm Wilderness Campground

    Arrived just a few min too late...

    This looked like a pretty good campground. I could see open tenting spots from the road, even! But I was unable to get in early in the evening with nowhere else to go. Too strict!

  • Sue O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Travel Inn RV Resort - KM Resorts
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Travel Inn RV Resort - KM Resorts

    Guide

    Travel Inn RV Resort offers a welcoming and convenient option for travelers seeking a comfortable stay. Located in a serene environment, this resort provides essential amenities such as full hookups, clean restrooms, and recreational facilities. Whether you're looking for a short getaway or an extended stay, Travel Inn RV Resort ensures a pleasant experience with its friendly staff and well-maintained grounds. For those planning a trip and needing to sort out documentation like an NBI clearance, it's essential to schedule an NBI online appointment for renewal for clearance in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. By doing so, travelers can focus on enjoying their stay at the resort, knowing their paperwork is in order.

  • Kevin W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Riffe Lake Campground
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Riffe Lake Campground

    Riffe Lake RV/Tent Camping

    They have several back-in spots, some with partial hookups and some with full hookups. Most of the spots are well-shaded from the trees. A specific area is designated for tents only, and some cabins can also be rented. It was a 5-minute walk downhill to reach the lake, which had a very long and nice boat ramp deep enough to accommodate just about any boat. Regarding cell service, I got 3 bars of LTE with my iPhone. Overall, it was a nice, quiet, shady place to visit, and I will definitely be back.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 3, 2024

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful views but semi busy road

    Got here around sunset. Looks like some good camping spots to walk into. Beautiful view of Rainier. There was a little bit of traffic but nothing crazy. Would stay here again.


Drive Time


Guide to Yelm

Camping near Yelm, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Explore the trails at Dash Point State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs." This park is perfect for families wanting to enjoy nature together.

  • Beach Activities: At Alder Lake Park, you can swim, fish, or just relax by the water. A camper shared, "The lake is beautiful for kayaking, fishing, swimming in approved areas, canoeing, as well as water skiing."

  • Star Gazing: Many campgrounds, like Ike Kinswa State Park Campground, offer clear skies for stargazing. One visitor noted, "It’s really quiet in the spring and fall which is my favorite time to go."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Millersylvania State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms are very nice. They charge a nominal fee for the showers but they have great water pressure and hot water."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds provide generous space between sites. A visitor at Elkamp Eastcreek mentioned, "The sites are comfortably private and well thought out for tent, table, and fire ring placements."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Penrose Point State Park Campground are great for families. One reviewer said, "It's a very family-friendly setting."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Alder Lake Park noted, "The campground was kind of noisy and loud."
  • Reservations Recommended: During peak seasons, it's wise to book ahead. A visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground advised, "If you’re going on a weekend, we highly recommend making a reservation."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have markets or stores nearby. A review for Belfair State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a lot of open lawn, especially in the day-use area, which would be great in the busy summer months."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Dash Point State Park Campground where kids can explore safely. One parent shared, "It manages to make you feel like you're deep in the forest, very cozy feel at each campsite."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A family at Belfair State Park Campground enjoyed, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the little ones happy. A camper at Millersylvania State Park Campground mentioned, "There are also some nearby convenience and general stores where you could pick up some ice and such."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Elkamp Eastcreek said, "The sites are very generous in size with LONG paved driveway pads."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A visitor at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground noted, "The sites have fire rings and picnic tables and at least the one we were at was paved and level."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Rainbow Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "Only 20 minutes off the freeway but you feel way out in the country."

Camping near Yelm, Washington, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Yelm, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Yelm, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 236 campgrounds and RV parks near Yelm, WA and 19 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Yelm, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Yelm, WA is Dash Point State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 65 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Yelm, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Yelm, WA.

  • What parks are near Yelm, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Yelm, WA that allow camping, notably Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Forest.