Looking for the most beautiful places to camp in Washington? The Evergreen State offers some of the most diverse camping experiences in America. From misty rainforests and rugged coastlines to snow capped volcanoes and alpine meadows, Washington’s best camping spots showcase the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Here are the most incredible camping destinations in Washington that’ll make you fall in love with the great outdoors all over again.
1. Olympic National Park
The wild beauty of Olympic National Park will leave you speechless. This natural wonderland packs three distinct ecosystems into one incredible park, offering everything from coastal camping to rainforest retreats and alpine adventures.
Kalaloch and Mora campgrounds are steps from dramatic Pacific beaches where massive logs scatter the shore like matchsticks. Head inland to Hoh Campground for a mystical rainforest experience or up to Deer Park for stunning mountain views.
Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and tide pooling, while spring and fall offer peaceful solitude. Just pack your rain gear because in this corner of Washington, the misty weather is part of the magic.
2. Mount Rainier National Park
Sleeping in the shadow of Washington’s most iconic peak creates camping memories that last a lifetime. Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh campgrounds nestle among old growth forests with the massive volcano standing guard overhead.
Wildflower season transforms the meadows into natural gardens that’ll make you reach for your camera every few steps. Miles of trails lead to waterfalls, glacier viewpoints, and subalpine lakes that mirror the mountain on calm mornings.
Late July through August brings peak wildflower displays, but each season offers its own rewards. Fall paints the meadows in vibrant colors while winter transforms the park into a snow covered wonderland.
3. North Cascades National Park
Welcome to the American Alps, where jagged peaks scrape the sky and turquoise lakes fill glacier carved valleys. Colonial Creek and Newhalem campgrounds provide perfect basecamps for exploring this rugged mountain paradise.
Over 300 glaciers drape the mountain peaks, feeding crystal clear lakes and thundering waterfalls. Every bend in the trail reveals another photo worthy view, from flower filled meadows to snow capped summits.
The short summer season makes this one of Washington’s best camping spots for escaping the heat. Visit in late summer for the best weather and most accessible high country trails.
4. Hoh Rain Forest
Step into a green cathedral in the Hoh Rain Forest, where moss draped trees create an enchanted atmosphere unlike anywhere else. The Hoh Campground puts you in the heart of this mystical landscape where even the air seems green.
Morning mist drifting through ancient trees creates magical scenes straight out of a fairy tale. Take a walk on the Hall of Mosses trail early in the morning when the light filtering through the canopy turns everything golden.
This spot ranks among the most beautiful places to camp in Washington year round, but winter brings special magic when the forest feels even more prehistoric.
5. Mount Baker Wilderness
The snowy cone of Mount Baker creates a stunning backdrop for some of Washington’s finest alpine camping. Douglas Fir and Silver Fir campgrounds offer incredible mountain views and access to endless hiking trails.
Wildflower meadows explode with color in late summer, while snow often lingers into July at higher elevations. The area boasts some of the best hiking in the state, with trails leading to hidden lakes and spectacular viewpoints.
Fall brings vibrant colors to the hillsides and crisp, clear days perfect for photography. Winter transforms the area into a snowy playground for cold weather camping adventures.
6. San Juan Islands
Island camping takes on a whole new meaning in the San Juan archipelago. Moran State Park on Orcas Island offers camping with a perfect mix of forest and ocean views.
Launch your kayak right from your campsite to explore hidden coves and watch for orcas swimming past. Hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints where you can spot eagles soaring overhead and seals lounging on rocky shores.
Summer provides the most reliable weather, but spring and fall offer peaceful solitude and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
7. Lake Chelan
Crystal clear waters stretch for 50 miles at Lake Chelan, creating a camping paradise surrounded by mountains. Multiple campgrounds dot the shoreline, but boat in sites at Stehekin offer an unforgettable remote camping experience.
Days fill easily with swimming, boating, and exploring the pristine waters. The surrounding mountains provide endless hiking opportunities, while the small towns along the lake offer easy access to supplies and restaurants.
Summer brings perfect conditions for water activities, but spring and fall provide peaceful camping with fewer crowds.
8. Deception Pass State Park
Dramatic bridges span swirling waters at Deception Pass, Washington’s most popular state park. Cranberry Lake and Bowman Bay campgrounds offer sites with stunning views of the surrounding waterways.
Beaches, forests, and cliffs provide endless exploration opportunities. Watch boats navigate the churning waters of the pass or hike to secluded coves where you might spot harbor seals.
This natural wonderland shines in summer, but storm watching makes winter camping an exciting alternative.
9. Mount St. Helens
Camping near this active volcano offers a unique glimpse into nature’s power of renewal. Seaquest State Park provides excellent views of the mountain and easy access to the visitor centers.
Wildflowers and young forests show nature’s resilience following the 1980 eruption. Hiking trails reveal stunning views of the crater and the surrounding recovery landscape.
Visit in summer for the best weather and most accessible trails, or brave the shoulder seasons for incredible atmospheric conditions.
10. Leavenworth
Bavaria meets the Pacific Northwest in the camping areas around Leavenworth. Eightmile and Bridge Creek campgrounds provide perfect bases for exploring the surrounding Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities surround you in every direction. The nearby town offers a unique cultural experience with its Bavarian theme and excellent restaurants.
Summer brings perfect conditions for outdoor activities, while winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland.
11. Ross Lake
Emerald waters stretch into the distance at Ross Lake, creating one of Washington’s most stunning mountain lakes. Boats in camping spots offer unparalleled solitude and mountain views.
Kayak or canoe between campsites while taking in views of snow capped peaks reflecting in the crystal clear water. The surrounding wilderness provides excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Late summer offers the best weather and warmest water temperatures for swimming and paddling.
12. Cape Disappointment State Park
Don’t let the name fool you, this coastal gem will exceed your expectations. Two lighthouses guard the entrance to the Columbia River, while comfortable campgrounds provide easy beach access.
Storm watching here ranks among the best in the Pacific Northwest. Miles of beaches invite long walks, and interpretive trails reveal the rich history of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Summer brings the best weather, but dramatic winter storms create unforgettable camping experiences.
13. Second Beach
The magic of the Olympic Coast comes alive at Second Beach. While you’ll need to backpack in your gear, the short hike rewards you with one of the most scenic beach camping spots in Washington.
Sea stacks rise from the ocean like ancient sentinels, creating perfect sunset silhouettes. Tide pools teem with colorful sea life, while bald eagles often soar overhead.
Summer typically brings the most stable weather, but shoulder season camping offers increased solitude on this popular beach.
14. Alpine Lakes Wilderness
True to its name, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness sparkles with countless mountain lakes. While most camping requires a hike in, spots near Snow and Nada Lakes provide perfect basecamps for exploration.
Jagged peaks reflect in crystal clear waters, creating perfect photo opportunities. Every trail leads to another stunning lake or mountain view.
Late summer offers the best access as snow melts from the higher elevations, revealing fields of wildflowers.
15. Columbia River Gorge
Dramatic cliffs and waterfalls line the Columbia River Gorge, creating a unique camping landscape. Beacon Rock State Park offers comfortable camping with easy access to countless hiking trails.
Rock climbing, hiking, and kiteboarding opportunities abound in this natural playground. Multiple waterfalls within easy driving distance create perfect day trip destinations.
Spring brings spectacular wildflower displays, while fall offers perfect hiking weather and colorful foliage.
16. Lake Wenatchee State Park
Glacial waters and mountain views combine at Lake Wenatchee to create a stunning camping destination. The state park campground offers both waterfront and forest sites.
Swimming, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding fill summer days with adventure. The surrounding forests provide excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities.
Summer brings warm days perfect for water activities, while winter transforms the park into a playground for snow camping.
17. Palouse Falls State Park
Desert camping meets dramatic waterfalls at Palouse Falls. The small primitive campground sits right on the canyon rim with views of the spectacular falls.
Sunset turns the canyon walls golden while the falls thunder below. Short trails lead to various viewpoints of this unique desert oasis.
Spring brings the most impressive water flow, while fall offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful light for photography.
18. Sol Duc Hot Springs
Natural hot springs and old growth forests create a unique camping experience at Sol Duc. The campground provides easy access to both the hot springs resort and miles of wilderness trails.
A short hike leads to the beautiful Sol Duc Falls, while longer trails access high country lakes and meadows. The hot springs provide perfect relaxation after a day of exploring.
Summer offers the best hiking weather, but the hot springs make this one of Washington’s best camping spots year round.
19. Diablo Lake
The impossible turquoise waters of Diablo Lake create one of Washington’s most photographed scenes. Thunder Knob Campground provides the perfect base for exploring this alpine wonderland.
Kayak on waters colored by glacial flour while surrounded by jagged peaks. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints that showcase the lake’s stunning color against the mountain backdrop.
Late summer typically brings the best weather and most reliable road access to this high country paradise.
20. Okanogan National Forest
The vast Okanogan National Forest offers some of Washington’s most diverse camping opportunities. Lost Lake and Bonaparte Lake campgrounds provide peaceful forest camping with lake access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound in this remote region. Miles of trails access high mountain lakes and peaks with views stretching into Canada.
Summer and early fall offer perfect weather for exploring this huge wilderness area.
21. Hurricane Ridge
Camping near Hurricane Ridge puts you on top of the Olympic Mountains with views that stretch forever. Heart O’ the Hills campground provides the closest camping to this alpine wonderland.
Wildflower meadows attract deer and marmots, while clear days offer views of Mount Olympus and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The night sky here puts on an unforgettable show.
Summer brings the most reliable weather and full wildflower displays, but September offers stunning fall colors and fewer crowds.
