One of the best ways to create fun-filled, lasting memories with your kids is to take them camping. They'll learn the joy of nights under the stars, bonding around a campfire, and having adventures together.
Washington has over 100 developed campgrounds, many designed with families in mind. If you're looking for the best family-friendly campgrounds in Washington, we've got you covered. Let's take a look at the best spots, tips, activity ideas, and everything else you'll need to plan your trip!
Why Go For Family Camping in Washington?
Washington's campgrounds are the perfect setting for creating cherished family memories. State Parks actively promote family camping, offering programs like 'First Time Camper' to introduce families to the joys of outdoor fun.
Here's why family camping in Washington is so special:
- Unplug and Reconnect: In today's digital age, it's more important than ever to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other. Camping provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. You get to tell stories around the campfire, play games, and simply enjoy each other's company.
- Nature's Classroom: Camping is a fantastic way to teach kids about nature, wildlife, and the importance of conservation. You get to explore hiking trails, learn about different plants and animals, and instill a love of the outdoors that will last a lifetime.
- Adventure for All Ages: Most campgrounds offer a wide range of activities for kids of all ages, from swimming and fishing to hiking and exploring.
- Affordable Fun: Camping is a relatively affordable way to vacation, compared to other types of travel.
- Life Skills: Camping teaches kids valuable life skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and self-reliance. They'll learn how to set up a tent, build a fire (with adult supervision, of course), and navigate the outdoors.
Top Family-Friendly Campgrounds in Washington
For Classic Camping:
1. Deception Pass State Park
A mix of saltwater shoreline, freshwater lakes, and forested trails.
- Why it's great for families: This popular park offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages, including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and exploring tide pools. The park has 167 standard campsites and 143 partial-hookup sites.
- What to do: Walk across the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, explore tide pools at Rosario Beach, swim or fish in Cranberry Lake, or hike to the top of Goose Rock for panoramic views.
- Best time to visit: May through September for the best weather.
- Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
- Family fun: The park offers a variety of interpretive programs and activities for kids, including Junior Ranger programs.
2. Lake Wenatchee State Park
A classic Washington lake experience with plenty of family-friendly amenities.
- Why it's great for families: This park boasts a large, crystal-clear lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The sandy beach and shallow water are ideal for younger children. The park offers two campgrounds with a total of 197 sites, including 25 full-hookup sites.
- What to do: Rent a kayak or paddleboard, hike to Hidden Lake, swim at the sandy beach, or participate in a ranger-led program.
- Best time to visit: June through September for warm weather and water activities.
- Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
- Tip: The south shore of the lake is generally calmer and warmer, making it ideal for swimming with little ones.
For Adventure Seekers:
1. Ohanapecosh Campground (Mount Rainier National Park)
Combine lakeside camping with mountain adventures.
- Why it's great for families: Located near the Ohanapecosh River and within easy reach of hiking trails, this campground offers a mix of river and forest experiences. Though it is not directly on a lake, it is near several lakes for day trips, including Reflection Lakes and Tipsoo Lake. It has 179 sites and can accommodate RVs up to 32 feet.
- What to do: Hike to Silver Falls (an easy, family-friendly trail), explore the Grove of the Patriarchs, or take a day trip to the Paradise area of Mount Rainier for stunning wildflower displays. Visit Reflection Lakes or Tipsoo Lake for beautiful lakeside scenery and photography opportunities.
- Best time to visit: July through September for the best hiking conditions and wildflowers.
- Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov.
2. Moran State Park (Orcas Island)
Island adventures and stunning lake views.
- Why it's great for families: This park on Orcas Island offers a unique island camping experience with multiple lakes, hiking trails, and even a mountaintop observation tower. The park has over 150 campsites spread across five different areas.
- What to do: Hike to the top of Mount Constitution for panoramic views, swim or kayak in Cascade Lake, explore the historic stone tower, or take a whale watching tour.
- Best time to visit: May through September for the best weather.
- Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
- Ferry access: You'll need to take a ferry to Orcas Island. Be sure to make ferry reservations in advance, especially during the summer months.
For Lakeside Retreats:
1. Pearrygin Lake State Park
A sunny escape in the Methow Valley.
- Why it's great for families: This park offers a warm, sunny climate and a beautiful lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park has 50 standard campsites, 56 full-hookup sites, and 27 partial-hookup sites.
- What to do: Swim at the sandy beach, rent a boat or paddleboard, fish for trout, or hike the Rex Derr trail.
- Best time to visit: May through September for the warmest weather.
- Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
- Family fun: The park offers a variety of interpretive programs and activities for kids, including Junior Ranger programs.
2. Fort Flagler Historical State Park
Beachfront camping with a side of history.
- Why it's great for families: Located on Marrowstone Island, this park offers stunning views of Puget Sound, historical batteries to explore, and plenty of beach to roam. The park has over 100 campsites, many with water views.
- What to do: Explore the historic gun emplacements, walk along the beach, fly a kite, or take a bike ride along the park's trails.
- Best time to visit: May through September for the best weather.
- Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
- Tip: Make sure you check out the park's museum to learn more about its history.
Tips for Planning Your Family Camping Adventure
To make the most of your family camping trip, here are a few essential tips:
- Involve the Kids: Get your kids involved in the planning process. Let them help choose the campground, plan meals, and pack their own gear.
- Pack Smart: Make a list of everything you'll need, from tents and sleeping bags to cooking gear and first-aid supplies. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and hats.
- Plan for Meals: Keep meals simple and easy to prepare. Pack plenty of snacks for hungry little ones.
- Safety First: Teach your kids about campfire safety, water safety, and wildlife safety. Always supervise children closely, especially near water or on hiking trails.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Things don't always go according to plan when you're camping. Be prepared to go with the flow and embrace the unexpected. Some of the best memories are made when things don't go quite as planned.
- Leave No Trace: Teach your kids the importance of respecting nature. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on designated trails, and minimize your impact on the environment.
- Use the Right Apps: Download helpful apps like Recreation.gov for booking campsites and AllTrails for finding hiking trails. Campsite Tonight is a great resource for finding and booking available campsites.
Ready to Create Memories?
Whether you're looking for a classic camping experience, an adventurous getaway, or a relaxing lakeside retreat, you'll find the perfect campsite in Washington for your family.
What are you waiting for? Start planning your family camping adventure, and make memories your kids will cherish forever. Happy camping!
