Wondering where to go camping near Seattle?
There are endless options for camping in Washington State, from the many state parks and three national parks to the islands clustered near Seattle. We’re here to help you narrow it down a little bit. Whether you like to rough it or prefer glamping, there’s a campground on this list for you.
Here are the 10 best places to go camping near Seattle:
1. Fay Bainbridge Park
Located on Bainbridge Island, which is easily accessible from Seattle via ferry, Fay Bainbridge Park has incredible mountain and water views along its saltwater shoreline. The park has 17 tent sites, 25 RV sites, and five cabins. Most campsites can be reserved ahead of time. Bonus: there’s lots of fun things to do on Bainbridge Island, from restaurants and shopping to outdoor adventures.
2. Sol Duc Campground
The Sol Duc Campground in the Olympic National Park has a scenic and convenient setting. You’ll have access to the hot spring pools as well as plenty of hiking trails in the park. They have 81 campsites in addition to 17 RV sites that you can reserve in advance. The operating season runs from April through the end of October.
3. White River Campground
If you strike out trying to make a reservation at one of Mount Rainer National Park’s other campgrounds, try White River Campground. This riverside campground is first-come first-served only with 88 sites available. It’s only open from late June through late September though.
4. Lake Wenatchee State Park
About a two-hour drive from Seattle, Lake Wenatchee State Park is a perfect option if you want to camp next to a stunning lake. Camping is even available in the winter. There’s also tons of fun activities to enjoy in the park, from kayak and paddle board rentals to guided horseback rides. If you want more to do, the charming Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth is nearby.
5. Deception Pass State Park
Deception Pass State Park is only about a two-hour drive from Seattle and is a popular camping spot due to its dramatic cliffs, forest trails, and its saltwater and freshwater shorelines. The park has 172 tent sites and 134 partial-hookup sites available to reserve. Plus, they offer seasonal kayak rentals.
6. Kalaloch Campground
Kalaloch Campground in the Olympic National Park is located on a high bluff that overlooks that Pacific Ocean. Every campsite has beach access, and if you get lucky yours might even have an ocean view. There are 170 campsites, and during the off-season they are first-come first-served.
7. Cape Disappointment State Park
Another beautiful seaside camping spot near Seattle is Cape Disappointment State Park. There is a historic lighthouse that is open to visitors seasonally, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, eight miles of hiking trails, and plenty of beach exploration to be had. The park has 137 standard campsites in addition to three cabins, 14 yurts, and two vacation houses. There are also five primitive hiker/biker campsites that are first-come first-served.
8. Fort Ebey State Park
Fort Ebey State Park is located on Whidbey Island, which is easily accessed via ferry from Seattle. The island also happens to be the filming location of the popular movie Practical Magic, so while you’re there you can visit the town seen in the movie. Another cool thing about this camping spot is that paragliding is permitted in the park, so you’ll be able to watch paragliders take off from the bluff.
9. Lakedale Resort
If you prefer glamping or just want to have options, check out Lakedale Resort in the San Juan Islands. They offer everything from classic tent campsites to yurts, cottages, and a rustic lodge. In addition to all the natural beauty, you’ll have easy access to the charming town of Friday Harbor.
10. Colonial Creek Campground
Located in North Cascades National Park, the Colonial Creek Campground offers over 140 campsites. You’ll enjoy the beauty of Diablo Lake and plenty of hiking trails through old-growth forest.
Edited by Sarah Nash.