Seattle may be known for its iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, but Washington State is also home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. From towering peaks in the Cascade mountain range to the beautiful waters of Puget Sound, there are countless camping options where you can enjoy year-round activities and escape from city life.
Here are ten of the best places to go camping near Seattle in 2024.
Experience the Best of Washington at These Campsites Near Seattle
Washington State is packed with natural beauty, and the campsites near Seattle are the perfect gateways to experience it all.
Whether you're an adventurer looking to tackle challenging hiking trails, a family looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat, or a bird watcher hoping to spot rare species, there's a campsite that's just right for you.
Best for Tent Camping: Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is truly nature's playground, with rugged coastline, dense rainforests, and towering mountains all in one spot. It's the perfect place to pitch a tent, throw some drinks in your cooler, and camp overnight.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take the Bainbridge Island ferry, then follow Highway 101 to the park. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, depending on your destination within the park.
Things to Do:
- Wander through the Hoh Rain Forest—it’s like stepping into another world.
- Head up to Hurricane Ridge for some killer mountain views.
- Chill out on the beaches like Rialto and Ruby Beach; the sunsets are breathtaking.
Camping Tips:
- Book your spot early, especially in summer, as tent sites fill up quickly.
- Pack some solid rain gear; the weather can surprise you.
- Bring a bear canister for your food to keep the critters at bay.
- Summer is the bet time to camp at Olympic Nationalk Park—great weather and more daylight hours!
Best Hiking Trails: Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is where you go when you want to be wowed. The massive volcano is surrounded by epic hiking trails, wildflower meadows, and ancient forests. It's hiking heaven.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take I-5 South to SR 706 East, leading to the park's Nisqually Entrance. The drive is about 2 hours.
Things to Do:
- Hike the Wonderland Trail, a 93-mile loop around the mountain.
- Check out Paradise for its stunning wildflowers in summer.
- In the winter, bring your snowshoes or skis for some snowy adventures.
Camping Tips:
- Arrive early to snag a spot at popular campgrounds like Cougar Rock or Ohanapecosh.
- Be prepared for the weather to change on a dime.
- If you're RVing, stick to the designated sites.
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The difficulty of hikes can vary throughout the area, so check out a hiking guide like AllTrails to pick the route that’s best for you.
Best for Adventure Seekers: North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is the place for hardcore adventurers. It's remote, rugged, and absolutely stunning with jagged peaks and pristine lakes.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take I-5 North to SR 20 East (North Cascades Highway). The drive is about 2.5 hours.
Things to Do:
- Hike up to Cascade Pass for some jaw-dropping views.
- Get on Ross Lake with a kayak or canoe.
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If climbing is your thing, tackle the challenging peaks like Mount Shuksan.
Camping Tips:
- Expect primitive camping; it’s all about being self-sufficient out here.
- Pack extra food and water; facilities are scarce.
- For a true wilderness experience, consider backcountry camping.
Best Water Activities: Deception Pass State Park
Deception Pass State Park is known for its stunning bridges, whale watching, and coastal views. It's a hotspot for kayaking, boating, and fishing.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take I-5 North to SR 20 West, leading to the park. The drive is about 1.5 hours.
Things to Do:
- Kayak through the swift currents of Deception Pass.
- Swim or fish in Cranberry Lake.
- Hit the hiking trails for some amazing coastal views.
Camping Tips:
- Reserve your tent or RV sites early, as the park is very popular.
- Bring your own kayak or rent one nearby.
- Be mindful of tides and currents when planning water activities.
- Summer is peak season, with campgrounds often fully booked. Consider visiting in spring or fall for a less crowded experience.
Best for Fishing: Rasar State Park
Rasar State Park, along the Skagit River, is a quiet spot perfect for fishing. It's also great for picnics and some low-key hiking.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take I-5 North to SR 20 East, then follow local roads to the park. The drive is about 1.5 hours.
Things to Do:
- Fish for salmon and trout in the Skagit River.
- Explore the park's scenic trails.
- Set up a picnic by the river and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Camping Tips:
- Check fishing regulations and make sure you have the necessary permits.
- Choose a campsite near the river for easy access to fishing spots.
- Bring all your fishing gear since local shops might be limited.
Best Peaceful Getaway: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park is a great place for a quiet escape with its riverside setting and lush forests. It's perfect for relaxing and soaking up nature.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take I-90 East to SR 18 South, then follow local roads to the park. The drive is about 1 hour.
Things to Do:
- Relax by the Green River.
- Enjoy some light hiking and keep an eye out for wildlife.
- Try kayaking or tubing on the river.
Camping Tips:
- Reserve a riverside campsite for the best views.
- Bring insect repellent, especially in summer.
- Pack all your essentials, as it's a pretty secluded spot.
- Temperatures can range from 40-50 degrees fahrenheit in the evenings to 70-80 degrees during the daytime, so pack layers.
Best for Mountain Biking: Moran State Park
Moran State Park on Orcas Island is a top destination for mountain biking. This 5,252-acre camping park over 30 miles of trails and stunning lake views; it’s mountain-biker heaven.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take the ferry to Orcas Island, then drive to the park. The entire trip takes about 3 hours.
Things to Do:
- Bike the challenging trails around Mount Constitution.
- Swim or paddle in Cascade Lake.
- Hike to the summit of Mount Constitution for incredible views.
Camping Tips:
- Book your ferry reservations in advance.
- Bring your own mountain bike or rent one on the island.
- Pack for all weather conditions; island weather can be unpredictable.
Best for RV Camping: Lake Wenatchee State Park
Lake Wenatchee State Park is perfect for RV campers, with spacious sites and full hookups. The park offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take US-2 East to SR 207 North, leading to the park. The drive is about 2 hours.
Things to Do:
- Swim, boat, or fish in Lake Wenatchee.
- Hike the nearby trails in the Cascade mountain range.
- In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Camping Tips:
- Reserve RV sites early, especially during summer months.
- Use the boat launch for easy access to the lake.
- Take advantage of the park's hot showers and other amenities.
Best Views of Puget Sound: Fort Worden Historical State Park
Fort Worden Historical State Park offers a unique combination of historical sites and stunning views of Puget Sound. It's a great spot for a less rugged exploration of Washington..
How to Get There: From Seattle, take the Bainbridge Island ferry, then follow SR 104 West to SR 20 North, leading to the park. The drive is about 2 hours.
Things to Do:
- Tour the historic fort buildings and museums.
- Comb the beaches and check out the tide pools.
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Join in on cultural events and workshops.
Camping Tips:
- Reserve your spot or cabin early.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the park’s rich history.
- Pack layers; coastal weather can be unpredictable.
- Visit in the springtime to see over 1,200 species of flowers blooming at the The Centennial Rhododendron Garden.
Best for Bird Watching: Dosewallips State Park
Dosewallips State Park, located along Hood Canal, is a prime spot for bird watching. With wetlands, forests, and shoreline, it's perfect for spotting a wide variety of species.
How to Get There: From Seattle, take I-5 South to SR 16 West, then follow SR 106 to the park. The drive is about 1.5 hours.
Things to Do:
- Bring your binoculars for bird watching in diverse habitats.
- Fish or collect shellfish along Hood Canal.
- Hike the scenic trails through the forest.
Camping Tips:
- Choose a campsite near the water for the best bird-watching opportunities.
- Be prepared for a mix of sun and rain - typical of the Pacific Northwest.
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Pack a good bird guidebook to identify the different species you spot.
How to Choose the Perfect Camping Spot
Choosing the perfect camping spot near Seattle comes down to what you love doing most in the outdoors, such as hiking, fishing, or water sports. Think about the amenities you need—like RV hookups, hot showers, and boat launches—to make your stay comfy and convenient. Keep in mind that some parks are best visited in specific seasons for optimal weather and activities.
Summer is prime time for most parks, with warm weather and long days perfect for exploring. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temps, consider camping in the spring or fall. And for those who don’t mind bundling up, winter camping can offer a unique, peaceful experience.
Whether you're camping overnight in a tent, setting up an RV site, or joining a group camp, there's a spot near Seattle that's perfect for your 2024 outdoor adventure.
