Best Tent Camping in Washington

Exploring the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest means choosing between beaches and deserts, forests and volcanos, lakes and prairies. Camping in Washington is a chance to greet nature up close and sleep in some of the most beautiful land in North America. The biggest challenge? Deciding where to start.

The Cascade Mountains run down the center of Washington like a spine. A handful of highways cross the crest in parallel lines, all running from the evergreens of the west side to the wide open grasslands of the east. Camping in Washington is available along every route, like the state parks that dot I-90 and North Cascades National Park that hugs Highway 20.

Take Highway 2 over Stevens Pass to find old-growth trees around each spot at Money Creek Campground, plus a view of a classic metal train trestle. Fill each day with hikes through the Cascade forest, perhaps on a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail where it passes the Stevens Pass Mountain Resort ski area. Head east of Stevens Pass to verdant Lake Wenatchee State Park for wooded campsites near the shores of a placid mountain lake and a stable inside the park offering trail rides through the summer. BYO kayak or rent one here.

Sometimes camping in Washington means getting off the beaten track to explore the quiet corners of the state. Take a forest road in Olympic National Park to find a green haven of mossy logs and curious chipmunks, or head north around Mount Baker, the Cascades’ northernmost volcano, for boat-in campsites around Baker Lake. In winter, the snowy expanse of Artist Point near Mount Baker' offers killer views of rugged glaciers for intrepid snow campers and backcountry skiers.

There are spectacular overnights to be had in the Pacific Northwest’s national and state parks, not to mention the remote U.S. Forest Service lands that blanket this corner of the country. Stock up on s’mores and firewood (when and where rules allow) and pitch a tent under the stars and go camping in Washington for the trip of a lifetime.

Best Tent Sites in Washington (578)

    1. White River Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "Right outside the entrance to Mt."

    "If you come here you must leave no trace."

    2. Willaby Campground

    20 Reviews
    Quinault, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 288-0203

    $25 / night

    "We were in site 15, right on Lake Quinault, and really enjoyed everything we saw and did here. "

    "This beautiful lakeside camping spot is perfect for a weekend at Lake Quinault!"

    3. Shi Shi Beach — Olympic National Park

    15 Reviews
    Neah Bay, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 565-3100

    "This is a hike in primitive camping with no amenities other than one pit toilet."

    "Does tend to be windy so plan on camping behind the trees, plenty of beautiful sandy beaches to walk on, with tide pools to explore."

    4. Fort Ebey State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Coupeville, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 678-4636

    "I did appreciate the extra space and privacy of the larger site. It would also be great for more people as well (allow up to 2 cars w/ +$15 for second car and up to 8 people per site)."

    "The campground is easy to find from the highway and the facilities are very clean and there's a number of showers and bathrooms around the campground."

    5. Graves Creek Campground — Olympic National Park

    13 Reviews
    Quinault, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 565-3130

    "First, the creek is clear and provides a peaceful white noise for falling asleep. I was in campsite #1 which is next to the creek, with easy-ish access."

    "This campground is one our favorites close by spots."

    6. Deer Park Campground — Olympic National Park

    12 Reviews
    Carlsborg, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 565-3130

    "Deep park is located on a 7 mile long gravel road.  The drive up is tight and not suitable for any type of trailer.  The campground has level tent sights that offer a fantastic 360 degree view. "

    "Luckily I went and talked to the ranger and he told me of a spot that might still be open…IT WAS! We were there for the weekend."

    7. Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

    13 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 569-2211

    "The lake is absolutely beautiful and there are so many different trails branching off of it."

    "The sites were your standard, with a picnic table, fire ring, and plenty of trees for shade and cover. There are lots of things to do in the area."

    8. Mountain Lake Campground — Moran State Park

    12 Reviews
    Olga, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 376-2326

    "The way the campsites are tiered allows for a sense of seclusion even with neighbors on all sides. "

    "We were in site 22, right on the water (but also right next to the access road.) There is a lovely 3 mile hike around the lake with a fun bridge to jump off of to swim."

    9. Goose Lake Campground

    11 Reviews
    Trout Lake, WA
    Website
    +1 (509) 395-3400

    "Goose Lake is one of my favorite places to camp. It is a smaller campground and pretty secluded, so it's nice and quiet/private."

    "The day use area was clean and had a handful of different people fishing every day starting around 7-8."

    10. Lena Lake Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    Website
    +1 (360) 956-2402

    $5 / night

    "The campsites offers fire rings and has plenty of amazing views of the lake. Don’t forget to pack everything out and leave no trace."

    "This is a hike-in campground down a 3.5 mile trail. It sees heavy use from locals on the weekend. There was plenty of room during the week when I was there."

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Tent Camping Reviews in Washington

6569 Reviews of 578 Washington Campgrounds



Guide to Washington

Tent camping in Washington offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside spots to vibrant state parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Lake Chelan

  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities at the Lake Chelan State Park Campground, which features clean restrooms and friendly staff.
  • Take advantage of the calm waters for kayaking and swimming, as well as the nearby bike trails for a fun day of exploration.
  • The campground is well-equipped with amenities like picnic tables, firewood, and drinking water, making it a comfortable choice for families.

Local Activities at Owhi Campground

  • Experience stunning views and excellent fishing at Owhi Campground, located right on Cooper Lake, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
  • Hike the nearby trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and access to the river, providing a great opportunity for wildlife spotting.
  • The campground's peaceful atmosphere is ideal for relaxing evenings by the campfire, surrounded by nature.

Attractions Near Crescent Lake Campground

  • Visit the picturesque Crescent Lake Campground, known for its turquoise waters and abundant wildlife, including deer and eagles.
  • Explore the nearby Boundary Dam Vista House for stunning views of the Pend Oreille River and the surrounding mountains.
  • Enjoy a rustic camping experience with well-maintained sites that include picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for a cozy night under the stars.