Want to trade your cubicle for a campfire and your alarm clock for the sound of wind rustling through the trees? Well, if you ask me, the best way to experience Washington's incredible beauty is from behind the wheel of an RV. The Evergreen State has over 8,000 campsites in diverse terrain ranging from rainforests to mountains.

Wondering where to begin? We've got you covered. Let's take a look at some of the best RV camping spots in Washington for your next adventure.

Why Washington is an RVer's Dream Come True

Washington isn't just another pretty face on the map. The state has heavily invested in infrastructure that supports camping, with over 140 state parks, 14 of which offer full RV hookups. Here's what makes it so special:

  • Diverse Landscapes: You can do anything from hiking through a rainforest to kayaking on a crystal-clear lake. The incredible diversity of terrain makes every RV trip a unique adventure.
  • Outdoor Recreation Galore: Are you an adrenaline junkie or a serenity-seeking soul? Hiking, fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, wildlife watching – you name it, and you can find it.
  • RV-Friendly Infrastructure: You'll find well-maintained campgrounds, convenient dump stations, and plenty of amenities to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. In fact, Washington has more than 300 privately owned RV parks and campgrounds.
  • Stunning Scenery: From the rugged coastline to the volcanic peaks of the Cascades, the scenery is spectacular. What better way to enjoy this than on the road?

Top RV Camping Spots in Washington

Now, let's get to the good stuff – the best RV camping in Washington. We've handpicked some of the most amazing spots, catering to different interests and preferences.

For the Ocean Lovers:

1. Cape Disappointment State Park

Don't let the name fool you! This park is anything but disappointing.

  • Why it's great: Dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, two historic lighthouses, and miles of hiking trails. You can even walk along the Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail. The park features 48 full-hookup sites and 88 water and electric sites.
  • What to do: Explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, take a guided tour of the North Head Lighthouse, hike to Dead Man's Cove, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the ocean views.
  • Best time to visit: May through September.
  • Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.

2. Kalaloch Campground (Olympic National Park)

This is where the rainforest meets the sea.

  • Why it's great: Located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Kalaloch offers stunning coastal views. It's the only campground in Olympic National Park that takes reservations year-round for all its 168 sites.
  • What to do: Beachcomb for treasures, explore tide pools, hike through the nearby rainforest, or watch for whales migrating along the coast.
  • Best time to visit: June through September for drier weather, though the coast can be enjoyed year-round.
  • Booking information: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
  • Fun fact: Kalaloch is one of the few places in the world where you can see both old-growth forests and the ocean at the same time.

For the Mountain Lovers:

Cougar Rock Campground (Mount Rainier National Park)

Get up close and personal with the iconic Mount Rainier.

  • Why it's great: Situated in an old-growth forest, this campground offers easy access to some of Mount Rainier's most popular trails, including the Skyline Trail. The campground accommodates RVs up to 27 feet and has 173 sites that can be reserved.
  • What to do: Hike to stunning viewpoints, photograph wildflowers in bloom (July and August are peak season), or take a scenic drive along the White Pass Scenic Byway.
  • Best time to visit: July through September for the best hiking conditions and wildflowers.
  • Booking information: Reservations can be made through recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance.

Newhalem Creek Campground (North Cascades National Park)

Experience the 'American Alps' in all their glory.

  • Why it's great: Nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks, this campground is a hiker's paradise. It's also a great base for exploring the charming town of Newhalem. This campground offers 107 sites, including walk-in and group sites.
  • What to do: Hike to Ladder Creek Falls, explore the North Cascades Institute, or take a boat tour on Diablo Lake.
  • Best time to visit: June through September for the most accessible trails and best weather.
  • Booking information: Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov.

For the Lake Lifers:

Lake Wenatchee State Park

A classic Washington lake experience.

  • Why it's great: Crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and stunning mountain views make this a perfect spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. 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, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the scenery.
  • 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: Visit the nearby Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth for a unique cultural experience.

Steamboat Rock State Park

A desert oasis in the heart of Washington.

  • Why it's great: Located on the shores of Banks Lake, this park offers a unique landscape of basalt cliffs and desert vegetation. It has 26 standard campsites, 164 full-hookup sites, and 12 cabins.
  • What to do: Hike to the top of Steamboat Rock for panoramic views, go boating or fishing on Banks Lake, or explore the nearby Grand Coulee Dam.
  • Best time to visit: April through October for pleasant weather. Summers can be hot.
  • Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
  • Fun fact: Steamboat Rock was formed by massive floods during the last ice age.

For the Wine Connoisseurs:

Wine Country RV Park (Prosser)

What's better than a camping trip with wine?

  • Why it's great: Located in the heart of Washington's wine country, this RV park offers easy access to numerous wineries and tasting rooms. The park offers 70 full-hookup sites, including pull-through and back-in options.
  • What to do: Take a wine tour, visit the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center, or enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the vineyards.
  • Best time to visit: May through October for the best weather and grape harvest season.
  • Booking information: Reservations can be made directly through the Wine Country RV Park website or by phone.
  • Fun fact: Prosser is known as the birthplace of Washington wine, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

RV Camping with Kids

Washington has many family-friendly campgrounds with activities that will keep kids entertained. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Cranberry Lake Campground: This campground in Deception Pass State Park features a playground, a paved ADA loop trail with interpretive panels, and a Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center offering educational and recreational opportunities.  
  • Lincoln Rock State Park: Located in East Wenatchee, this park has a big playground for kids and offers swimming, boating, and yard games.  

Tips for Planning Your RV Camping Adventure

  • Book in Advance: Washington's campgrounds are popular, especially during peak season. Reserve your campsites well in advance to avoid disappointment. You can use apps like Campsite Tonight to find and reserve a spot.
  • Pack for All Weather: Washington's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers of clothing, including rain gear, even if you're traveling during the summer.
  • Get the Right Permits: Depending on where you're camping, you may need a Discover Pass, a Northwest Forest Pass, or a National Park Pass.
    1. Discover Pass: Required for vehicle access to state parks and recreation lands managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
    2. Northwest Forest Pass: Required for parking at many trailheads and day-use sites in National Forests throughout Washington and Oregon.
    3. National Park Pass: Provides access to all National Park Service sites, including Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks.
  • Be Bear Aware: Black bears are common in many parts of Washington. Store your food properly and familiarize yourself with bear safety guidelines.
  • Leave No Trace: Help protect Washington's natural beauty by packing out everything you pack in and staying on designated trails.
  • Use the Right Apps: Download helpful apps like Recreation.gov for booking campsites and AllTrails for finding hiking trails. Campsite Tonight, of course, is a great resource for finding and booking available campsites.

Choosing the Right RV for Your Trip

You'll need to choose the right RV based on your needs and the terrain you'll be exploring. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Size and Maneuverability: Washington's diverse terrain includes winding mountain roads and narrow campground roads. Consider the size and maneuverability of your RV to ensure it can navigate these roads comfortably. Smaller RVs or campervans may be more suitable for some areas.
  • Amenities: Consider the amenities you need in your RV, such as a bathroom, kitchen, and sleeping arrangements. Having these amenities can make a huge difference if you plan to stay in more remote campgrounds with limited facilities.
  • Hookups: Figure out whether you need full hookups (water, sewer, and electricity) or if you can manage with partial hookups or no hookups. Some campgrounds in Washington offer limited hookup options.

Ready for Your Washington RV Adventure?

RV Camping in Washington will be an unforgettable adventure if you're well-prepared. What're you waiting for? Start planning your trip today to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Published 
January 17, 2025