Best Tent Camping in Washington

Best Tent Sites in Washington (585)

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  1. Lake Chelan State Park Campground

  24 Reviews

  •67 Photos•

  367 Saves

  Manson, Washington

  Reserve your campsite early, wait for summer with growing anticipation, then join the ranks of visitors who make Lake Chelan a family tradition.

  This social camping park pulses with life in the summer. Generations of families return to the blue lake every year; they even try to book the same campsite they've used since the 1960s and '70s. But, while they'll jockey online for their favorite spot, veteran Chelan-goers happily share this gem with first-timers, and many lifelong friendships begin there.

  Lake Chelan State Park has a long, sandy beach, shaded picnic tables and a calm lagoon. The 50.5-mile lake, with a depth of 1,486 feet, draws boaters, sailors, anglers, water skiers, windsurfers and seasonal residents. The area features some of the finest hiking trails in Washington, and adventurous hikers make the park their base from which to explore the North Cascades. For visitors hoping to chill out in their camp chairs, float the lagoon in a raft and soak up the homey atmosphere with family and friends, this place cannot be beat.

  Lake Chelan State Park is a 139 acre public recreation area and nature reserve located on the southwest shore of Lake Chelan, and on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. In 1942, Washington State made a large land purchase and allocated part of the land for Lake Chelan State Park. Today, the park attracts visitors from all over thanks to its range of camping, picnicking, hiking, boating, and water activities.

  Unusual for Washington, this park is known for its expansive 6,000 ft sandy beach, shaded picnic tables and a large, crystal lagoon spanning 55.5 miles in area, with water as deep as 1,486 feet. Subsequently, the lagoon draws boaters, sailors, anglers, water skiers, windsurfers, and fishers as well. Without a doubt, Lake Chelan is the most famous part of this park. However, don’t let its splendor captivate you too long- because there area is full of amazing hiking as well.

  In fact, the park features some of the finest hiking trails in Washington, from which adventurous hikers make the park their base to adventure in the North Cascades. If hiking isn’t your thing however, chill out in a camp chairs under a nice shaded tree, paddleboard out to the center of the lagoon, and then finish your day taking in the cozy atmosphere with at your campsite with family and friends. When it comes to fun for everyone, Lake Chelan State Park is sure to please.

  While the park is open year round, it really comes alive during the summer. Visiting Lake Chelan is a long standing tradition for many local families and friends. Consequently, as soon as school retires for the summer, swaths of families return to the blue lagoon every year for their annual lake trips and family outings. And you better believe they have a preference for the “family campsite” that they’ve probably used since the 70s. You’ll want to reserve your campsite well in advance if you’re planning to join the ranks of Lake Chelan regulars.

  Even then, veteran Chelan-goers happily share their beloved campground with newcomers, and a number of lifelong friendships are formed here. Get your family and friends together, and come make Lake Chelan a new tradition this Summer (or avoid the crowds and visit sooner!)

  • Pets
  • Fires
  • Electric Hookups
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • ADA Access
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  2. Willaby Campground

  22 Reviews

  •72 Photos•

  476 Saves

  Quinault, Washington

  Overview

  With all campsites located near the shoreline of glacially carved Lake Quinault, visitors are sure to enjoy the beautiful shoreline and interpretive opportunities in the area. From old-growth trees in the surrounding rain forest to excellent fishing, Willaby Campground's location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

  Recreation

  The forest features 10 miles of hiking trails and many waterfalls within walking distance of the campground. Lake Quinault is part of the Quinault Indian Nation As such,You must have a fishing permit and or boat permit through the Quinault Indian Nation. Both may be purchased through local merchants. Lake Quinault Lodge offers boat and kayak rentals as well as a number of interpretive tours.

  Natural Features

  The forested slopes of Olympic National Park provide a scenic backdrop across Lake Quinault. Towering conifers including Sitka spruce, Douglas-fir, western hemlock and western red cedar provide dense shade for this beautiful setting. The forest floor is covered with lush rain forest plants including moss, ferns, false lily-of-the-valley and oxalis.

  Nearby Attractions

  Nearby, Lake Quinault Lodge offers a restaurant and gift shop. Short trails in the area include the Big Spruce Tree Trail, Forest Service Nature Trail, Kestner Homestead Trail and the Maple Glade Trail. Explore the ocean beaches close-by as well as the National Fish Hatchery. For a more adventuresome day, drive up the valley to hike along the rivers or climb the 4,200 ft. Colonel Bob Peak for expansive views of the mountains and valleys on a clear day.

  Contact Info

  For facility specific information, please call (360) 288-2525.

  Charges & Cancellations

  Reserved sites must be occupied within 24 hours or the site will be forfetied for remainder of reservation.

  • Pets
  • Fires
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Tents
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

  $25 / night

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  3. White River Dispersed Camping

  19 Reviews

  •58 Photos•

  720 Saves

  Greenwater, Washington

  The historic Mather Memorial Parkway (State Route 410) is the gateway to a recreational haven. On a clear day, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Rainier. For more excitement, take a spin in the off-road vehicle area at Evans Creek, or zip down the slopes of Crystal Mountain Ski Area. Or if you prefer solitude, escape into the solace of the forest and leave the world behind.

  Mather Memorial Parkway Created in 1931, this paved two-lane classic Cascades drive along Highway 410 from Enumclaw to the eastern edge of Mount Rainier National Park presents majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks. More than 200 miles of trails accommodate hikers, horses and mountain bikes. Drive, hike or ride to the Suntop Lookout Cabin at the top of Forest Road 7315. Choose a primitive campsite along forest roads east and west of the parkway. In November buy a permit at the Enumclaw office and take the family out to the woods to cut your own Christmas tree. Most forest roads are unpaved and minimally maintained. Cell phones have limited coverage in the mountains.

  Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

  It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

  Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions.

  • Pets
  • Phone Service
  • Tents
  • Group
  • Dispersed
  • Alcohol
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  4. Camano Island State Park Campground

  20 Reviews

  •41 Photos•

  181 Saves

  Greenbank, Washington

  Close to Seattle but a world away, Camano Island Camping offers a mellow, less bustling, but equally friendly alternative to its busier neighbor, Cama Beach State Park.

  Forest loop trails provide cool, tranquil hiking, while shoreline strolls offer birding, shell and rock exploration and sweeping views of Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier.

  Are you happiest in or on the water? Go boating, crabbing, saltwater fishing and sailboarding in Saratoga Passage. Curious about the restored 1930's fishing resort at Cama Beach? Hike the 1-mile trail to check out this neighboring state park.

  After a fun day exploring the trails or cavorting in the water, you will probably want to kick back in your forested cabin, pitch your tent or get cozy in your RV. There, you can cook up the delicious crab you have caught, or your dinner of choice, and enjoy a bit of sublime R and R before heading back to the world.

  • Fires
  • Electric Hookups
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Tents
  • Cabins
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  5. Shi Shi Beach — Olympic National Park

  15 Reviews

  •61 Photos•

  372 Saves

  Neah Bay, Washington

  Wilderness Camping Permits are required for overnight stays at Shi Shi. Visit our Wilderness Backpacking Reservations page to learn how to obtain a permit. As of March 15, in alignment with the reopening of the Makah Reservation by the Makah Tribe, the coastal wilderness area north of Cape Alava (including Shi Shi Beach) has reopened. All food, garbage, and scented items must be stored—overnight and when unattended—in park-approved bear canisters along the entire Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast. A Makah Recreation Pass must be purchased in Neah Bay prior to arriving at any trailheads on the Makah Indian Reservation. Overnight parking for Shi Shi is permitted only at designated private parking lots. Utilize existing fire rings or build campfires on the beach to prevent damage to tree roots. Use driftwood only. Expect large crowds at Shi Shi Beach during summer months. There have been as many as 50 to 250 campers along Shi Shi Beach on busy weekends. Pets, use of weapons, and wheeled devices are prohibited on coastal beaches and trails.

  Location and sites: Sites are scattered along the beach and in the forest. Toilet Facilities: Three pit toilets are available at Shi Shi Beach: one at the south end of the campsites in the woods at the park boundary; one behind the wooded campsites on south side of Petroleum Creek; and one near Willoughby Creek. Always use toilets. Water Sources: Petroleum Creek and Willoughby Creek. Most coastal water sources have a tea-stained appearance. The light tan color originates from tannin leached from leaves. Cryptosporidium and giardia exist in coastal streams and rivers; always filter or boil water. Iodine is ineffective against cryptosporidium. Stock: Prohibited on all park beaches and beach trails.

  • Fires
  • Reservable
  • Tents
  • Group
  • Picnic Table
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  6. Ozette Campground — Olympic National Park

  15 Reviews

  •58 Photos•

  183 Saves

  Neah Bay, Washington

  Adjacent to Lake Ozette, this small campground is great for those that enjoy lakeside camping and water activities

  • Tents
  • Group
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Drinking Water
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  7. Fort Ebey State Park Campground

  13 Reviews

  •52 Photos•

  179 Saves

  Coupeville, Washington

  The park has 39 standard campsites, 11 partial-hookup sites with electricity and water hook-ups, one water trail campsite available only to campers who arrive at the park in human-powered watercraft, one restroom (ADA), and two showers (one ADA). Maximum site length will accommodate most extra-large RVs (limited availability). There is no trailer dump station available at this park. The campground is open March 1 - Oct. 31 by reservation.

  The park provides a group camp that accommodates up to 60 people. The camp is located on a bluff down the Point Partridge Road. A vault toilet and running water are at the site. Flush toilets and showers are a five-minute walk down an easy trail. Minimum number of people is 20 with a maximum of 60. Maximum number of cars is 20. The group camp is open April 1 through Oct. 31.

  Planning a multi-day camping stay? You won't run out of things to do at Fort Ebey State Park!

  Set on the western side of Whidbey Island, Fort Ebey was constructed as a coastal defense fort during the Second World War. Its battery was dug into a high bluff and is great fun for kids, adult kids and World War II aficionados. Don't forget your headlamp or flashlight. The park's concrete gun emplacements and underground rooms are great for exploration.

  Emerging from the battery, you'll find 25 miles of mixed-use walking and bike trails. The bluff trail overlooks Admiralty Inlet and offers peek-a-boo views of Point Wilson Lighthouse across the bay. Douglas-fir and hemlock provide shade along forested trails sprinkled with pink big-leaf rhododendrons in season. One more thing: Fort Ebey sunsets are unbeatable on a clear evening.

  Seaweed harvesting is allowed on the beach between April 16 and May 15; be sure to get a seaweed and shellfish license.

  Into active outdoor play? Surfing is a popular beach activity, and paragliding is allowed. Paragliders like to take off from the former parade lawn on the bluff. For observers, it's a stunning visual to behold.

  PARK FEATURES Fort Ebey State Park is a 651-acre camping park on Whidbey Island.

  Automated pay stations: This park is equipped with automated pay stations for visitors to purchase a one-day or annual Discover Pass and boat launch permit.

  • Pets
  • Fires
  • Electric Hookups
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • ADA Access
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  8. Graves Creek Campground — Olympic National Park

  13 Reviews

  •56 Photos•

  294 Saves

  Quinault, Washington

  Located in the Quinault Rain Forest, relax near a serene stream at Graves Creek Campground.

  • Tents
  • Group
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Alcohol
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  9. Deer Park Campground — Olympic National Park

  12 Reviews

  •46 Photos•

  262 Saves

  Carlsborg, Washington

  At 5,400 feet in elevation, Deer Park boasts mountain views and starry skies. With a steep and winding gravel access road, Deer Park is not RV accessible.

  • Phone Service
  • Tents
  • Group
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Tent Cabin
  • Glamping
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  10. Mowich Lake Campground — Mount Rainier National Park

  13 Reviews

  •39 Photos•

  99 Saves

  Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

  The campground at Mowich Lake is the smallest of the four camping areas within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park. The road is unpaved after the first three miles and may be rough. Also, this is a walk-in campground only and fires are not allowed. With all that said, however, it just may be the most pristine and beautiful place to pitch a tent you’ll ever come across, with one of the most magnificent views of the mountain that you’ll find anywhere.

  • ADA Access
  • Tents
  • Group
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets