Community May 2, 2021

Best Camping Trips in Western Washington

Our corner of the Pacific Northwest is filled with excellent places to go camping, but we’ve narrowed it down to a handful of our favorites. Whether you’re an avid backpacker or a fan of family-friendly campsites where you can drive up and enjoy the view, we have some ideas to get you excited. We should note that campsites offering reservations fill up fast while others are on a first-come, first-served basis so plan accordingly.

Baker Lake

 

Washington’s northern Mount Baker can be seen from just about anywhere in the state! It boasts one of the most popular camping sites in Washington: Baker Lake. The western area is great for the whole family with easy trails and tons of activities like boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, and pack and saddle trips.

Availability and Reservations

Cost: $22.75 per night

Drive-Up Camping: Yes

Birch Bay State Park

birch bay

Photo by Leo Phillips.

 

Birch Bay State Park is nestled just below the Canadian border alongside the cute town of Birch Bay, Washington.  In addition to its water slide amusement park and many cute shops, the 1.5-mile waterfront Birch Bay State Park provides an incredible experience perfect for all ages.  An easy setup awaits – just make sure to book in advance! They fill up quickly.

Availability and Reservations

Cost (seasonal pricing): $20-37 for standard sites, $35-50 for full utility trailer sites

Drive-Up Camping: Yes

Deception Pass State Park

deception pass state park

Photo by WA State Parks.

 

Don’t miss Washington’s most visited state park!  With miles of beachfront and trails to enjoy, this camping experience is hard to beat. Located on the northernmost tip of Whidbey Island, the impressive Deception Pass Bridge connects to the mainland where you can quickly get to Anacortes. From there, the San Juan Islands are just a ferry ride away!

Availability and Reservations

Cost: $30 per night

Drive-Up Camping: Yes

The Enchantments

the enchantments

Photo by Leo Phillips.

 

Located in the already enchanting Bavarian town of Leavenworth. The famed Aasgard Pass is a beauty to behold – and a bear to climb! But it’s just a small part of the Enchantments and there are many beautiful areas with great campsites. Have your camera ready. You’re likely to see mountain goats on the trails.

Availability and Reservations

Cost: $5 per person, per day

Drive-Up Camping: Limited

Mount Rainier National Park

mount rainier

Photo by Leo Phillips.

 

In addition to the lottery system for the coveted Wonderland Trail (backpacking 93 miles around the mountain), there are well-maintained campsites and day hiking options. Check out Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River to plan your Rainier adventure. Be prepared for a rugged road though. It’s not suitable for all vehicles.

Availability and Reservations

Cost: $20 per single, $60 per group site

Drive-Up Camping: Yes