What Are The Popular RV Camping Grounds In Washington State?

Have you been planning an RV trip through Washington State and wondering which campgrounds are the most popular and best suited to your rig?

What Are The Popular RV Camping Grounds In Washington State?

You’re looking at a state with vast coastlines, temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, volcanic landscapes, and high desert. That variety means the popular RV campgrounds are spread across very different settings — from salt-spray beach sites to forested lakeshores to mountain valleys. Below you’ll find detailed, region-by-region information on popular RV campgrounds, practical tips for choosing and reserving sites, what to pack, rules and passes you should know about, and suggested itineraries to help you plan your ideal Washington RV trip.

How To Choose the Right RV Campground for You

Choosing the right campground comes down to your priorities: hookups, scenery, proximity to attractions, solitude, or easy access for larger rigs. Think about what you value most and match the campground details to those needs.

• If you want hookups and full services, favor KOA-style and private RV parks or select state park loops with electrical/water/sewer.
• If you want dramatic scenery and don’t need hookups, many national park and national forest campgrounds are scenic and quieter.
• If you have a long rig, check maximum RV length and road access; some narrow, winding roads (especially on islands and mountains) are tight for big rigs.
• If cell service and internet matter, camp closer to towns, Puget Sound, or serviced private parks. Bring a booster or mobile hotspot for remote sites.

Reservation Systems and Passes You Should Know

You’ll interact with a few reservation and permit systems in Washington. Know where to book and what passes you may need.

• Washington State Parks reservation system: For many state park campgrounds. Book early for summer weekends.
• Recreation.gov: National Park and US Forest Service campgrounds often use this platform.
• KOA and other private park websites: For private RV parks.
• Discover Pass: Required for many state-managed recreation lands, trailheads, and parking areas. Check current rules and whether your campsite requires it.
• National Park entrance fees or annual passes: Some national parks charge vehicle entrance fees or have day passes; check the specific park’s site.
• Local permits: Certain areas require permits for activities (fishing, backcountry access, special parking). Verify ahead of time.

Safety, Regulations, and Practical Rules

• Campfire rules: Fire restrictions vary by region and season. Check local burn bans and always use established fire rings where allowed.
• Generators: Many campgrounds impose quiet hours (often 10:00 PM–7:00 AM). Respect rules and fellow campers.
• Waste disposal: Use dump stations, never dump black/gray water on the ground. Carry a spare sewer hose and proper adapters.
• Wildlife: Store food in enclosed vehicles or provided lockers if bears are a concern. Keep a clean campsite.
• Winter travel: Roads and passes can close from snow or avalanche risk; check DOT and park updates in winter months.

Popular Campgrounds by Region

The following sections list popular RV campgrounds organized by region. Each listing offers a snapshot of why it’s popular, practical notes for RVers, and tips to maximize your visit.

Olympic Peninsula and Olympic National Park

Olympic offers temperate rainforest, rugged coastline, and mountain scenery — all within a few hours of one another.

• Kalaloch Campground (Olympic National Park)
  Why you’ll like it: Oceanfront sites with dramatic sea stacks and sunsets.
  RV notes: No hookups; some sites accommodate larger RVs but check size advisories; expect strong coastal winds.
  Tips: Book early for summer. Walk the beaches at low tide and look for tidepool life.

• Hoh Campground (near Hoh Rainforest)
  Why you’ll like it: Immersive old-growth forest experience with mossy trees and trail access.
  RV notes: No hookups; limited spaces for large rigs; nights are very quiet and dark — bring warm gear.
  Tips: Arrive early to claim trails; rain is frequent so waterproof gear is essential.

• Kalaloch/Beach 4 (southern coast)
  Why you’ll like it: Beach access and cliff views.
  RV notes: No hookups; sites are right above the beach making for lovely sunrise/sunset spots.
  Tips: Watch for beach erosion and follow signage for safe camping.

• Fort Worden State Park (Port Townsend)
  Why you’ll like it: Historic military fort, shoreline access, good facilities near town amenities.
  RV notes: Some sites have hookups; reservations recommended. Good base for exploring the northeast Peninsula and ferries.
  Tips: Visit art galleries and eateries in Port Townsend within a short drive.

• Moran State Park (Orcas Island)
  Why you’ll like it: Lake views, hiking to Mount Constitution, and forested sites.
  RV notes: Ferry required to reach Orcas Island; campgrounds can be tight for very large rigs; limited hookups.
  Tips: Book ferry reservations for your vehicle during peak season where available.

Puget Sound and San Juan Islands

The Salish Sea region offers island hopping, whale watching, and scenic waterfront campgrounds.

• Lakedale Resort (San Juan Island)
  Why you’ll like it: Family-friendly resort campground with private lake access and a range of site types.
  RV notes: Limited full hookups; ferry transport required; check rig length limits for docks and marinas.
  Tips: Book well in advance for summer; whale-watching tours depart nearby.

• Deception Pass State Park (Whidbey/Ben Ure area)
  Why you’ll like it: Iconic bridge views, beaches, tidepools, and forested campsites.
  RV notes: Limited hookups in some loops; some camp roads are narrow for huge rigs.
  Tips: Arrive early to take the Deception Pass Bridge photo opportunities and tidepool walks.

• Oak Harbor and Island private parks
  Why you’ll like it: Good access to services, ferries, and island attractions.
  RV notes: Private parks often offer full hookups and amenities for larger RVs.
  Tips: Use private parks as staging points if using ferries frequently.

Mount Rainier National Park Area

Mount Rainier’s alpine vistas and wildflower meadows attract RVers seeking mountain scenery.

• Cougar Rock / Ohanapecosh / Mowich Lake (Mount Rainier NP campgrounds)
  Why you’ll like it: Close views of Mount Rainier, hiking access, and wildflower meadows.
  RV notes: Most sites have no hookups; some loops can accommodate larger rigs; high-season fills fast.
  Tips: Check road status (Snow and closures can change access) and consider shoulder season for fewer crowds.

• American River RV Parks (near Ashford)
  Why you’ll like it: Private parks just outside the park with full hookups, showers, and laundry.
  RV notes: Ideal if you want hookups while staying near Mount Rainier.
  Tips: Stay outside the park to have amenities and still reach park trailheads early.

North Cascades and Mount Baker Areas

These rugged alpine regions deliver dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and remote campsites.

• Colonial Creek Campground (North Cascades National Park)
  Why you’ll like it: Lakeside sites with paddle access and mountain views.
  RV notes: No hookups but sites often accommodate medium-sized RVs; rocky shorelines nearby.
  Tips: Cell coverage is spotty; bring paper maps and offline navigation.

• Ross Lake / Diablo Lake Campgrounds (recreation areas near North Cascades)
  Why you’ll like it: Aquamarine lakes created by glacial runoff — stunning vistas.
  RV notes: Minimal services; road conditions can limit large rig access.
  Tips: Get an early campsite to enjoy the lakes with fewer visitors.

• Mount Baker Recreation Area Campgrounds
  Why you’ll like it: Alpine meadows, wildflower season around Artist Point, and summer hiking.
  RV notes: High-elevation roads and sometimes steep approaches; check for size limits and road conditions.
  Tips: Visit Artist Point in summer for wildflowers and mountain views.

Pacific Coast and Coastal Peninsula

Wide beaches, dunes, and ocean sunsets make the coast a favorite for RVers.

• Ocean Shores Campgrounds and RV Parks
  Why you’ll like it: Beach driving, kite festivals, and long sandy stretches.
  RV notes: Private parks often have full hookups; state parks on the coast may be dry camps.
  Tips: Bring wind protection and be ready for beach driving rules.

• Cape Disappointment State Park
  Why you’ll like it: Historic lighthouse, river-mouth beaches, and whale-watching.
  RV notes: Some RV-accessible sites; mix of hookups and dry sites depending on loop.
  Tips: Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and the lighthouse.

• Long Beach Peninsula Campgrounds
  Why you’ll like it: Miles of driving beach and festivals like the Washington State International Kite Festival.
  RV notes: Parking for rigs available in various parks and private sites with hookups.
  Tips: Watch tide charts if you plan to drive on the beaches.

Eastern Washington and Columbia River Gorge

This region has high desert landscapes, wide skies, and windsurfing hubs.

• Vantage Marina / Ginkgo Petrified Forest area
  Why you’ll like it: Columbia River views and easy access to I-90.
  RV notes: Some private marinas and state park sections with hookups; wind can be strong.
  Tips: Use as a stopover on cross-state routes or as a base for visiting local wineries and trails.

• Beacon Rock State Park
  Why you’ll like it: Close to the Columbia River Gorge, hiking to Beacon Rock, and river views.
  RV notes: Limited hookups; well-located for day trips to Hood River and windsurfing spots.
  Tips: Expect busy weekends in summer.

• Hells Gate State Park and Lake Couer d’Alene area (nearby eastern WA/ID border)
  Why you’ll like it: River and lake recreation, boat access, and fishing.
  RV notes: State parks often have mixed hookups; private marinas offer full services.
  Tips: Check local fishing regulations and boat ramp schedules.

Popular Private and KOA Parks for RVers

If you prefer reliable hookups, laundry, showers, and Wi-Fi, private RV parks and KOAs are consistent choices.

• KOA locations near Seattle/Tacoma, Mount Vernon, Ocean Shores, and Spokane provide dependable amenities and are designed for larger rigs.
• Private waterfront resorts often offer premium sites with full hookups, pull-throughs, and marina access.

Table: Popular Campgrounds at a Glance

Campground	Region	Hookups (typical)	Rig Size Considerations	Best for
Deception Pass State Park	Whidbey/Skagit	Some loops may have electric/water	Narrow roads; check length limits	Scenic bridge views, tidepools
Kalaloch Campground	Olympic coast	No	Good for medium rigs	Oceanfront views
Fort Worden State Park	Port Townsend	Some full hookups	Good access	History and town access
Moran State Park	Orcas Island	Limited	Ferry + potential tight sites	Island scenery, lakes
Cougar Rock / Ohanapecosh	Mount Rainier NP	None	Most loops accept medium rigs	Mountain access, hikes
Colonial Creek Campground	North Cascades	None	Medium rigs	Lakeside and mountain views
Ocean Shores area KOA	Coast	Full hookups	Pull-throughs available	Beach access and amenities
Beacon Rock State Park	Columbia Gorge	Limited	Medium rigs	Gorge hikes and river views
Lakedale Resort	San Juan Islands	Limited	Ferry required	Family-friendly island resort
Private Mount Rainier RV parks	Ashford area	Full hookups	Good for long stays	Amenities + park access

(Use official reservation portals to confirm hookups and rig length for specific sites before booking. Details vary by specific loops within a park and by season.)

Seasonal Considerations and Best Times to Visit

• Summer (June–September): Peak season across Washington. Roads, ferries, and campgrounds fill up. Ideal weather in most areas but expect crowds near national parks and the coast.
• Late spring (May–early June): Excellent for fewer crowds, waterfalls and higher-elevation trails may still have snow; lower elevation sites open up.
• Fall (September–October): Crisp air, fewer crowds, great foliage in some regions, and whale migration along the coast. Some facilities begin reducing services.
• Winter (November–March): Some campgrounds close or reduce services; coastal and lowland areas can still be pleasant, but mountain passes may close. Be prepared with winter gear and check road conditions.

Reservation Tips and Timing

• Book early for summer weekends and holidays (Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day). Many popular state and national park sites release reservations months in advance.
• Weekdays and shoulder seasons often offer more availability and quieter conditions.
• For first-come campsites, arrive early in the day to secure a spot; many prime oceanfront or lakeside sites go fast.
• Use cancellation windows and be familiar with refund policies; some campgrounds allow same-day cancellations while others are stricter.

Cell Coverage and Connectivity

• Western Washington (Puget Sound, cities) typically has good cell coverage. North Cascades, Olympic interior, and higher elevations often have poor or no service.
• Consider a cellular booster or dedicated hotspot if you need reliable service in remote areas.
• Download offline maps and park brochures; GPS may lose signal in narrow mountain valleys.

Boondocking and Dispersed Camping Options

• U.S. Forest Service campgrounds and some national forest roads allow dispersed camping for free or minimal cost. Expect no hookups and minimal services.
• BLM lands in Washington are more limited compared to western states, but certain areas in eastern Washington allow dispersed camping.
• Always follow Leave No Trace: pack out all trash, dig catholes for waste where appropriate (and legal), and use established fire rings when allowed.
• Check for restrictions: seasonal closures, fire bans, and limits on stay length (often 14 days).

Pet Policies

• Many state and national park campgrounds allow pets in developed campgrounds but not on certain trails or in backcountry areas. Keep your pet on a leash and respect wildlife-sensitive zones.
• Private parks typically accept pets but may have breed or size restrictions and have extra fees.

RV-Specific Gear Checklist

Essentials for a Washington RV trip:

• Water hoses: potable-rated and a spare.
• Sewer hose and adapters: extra elbow for secure connections.
• Electrical adapters and surge protector: 30A/50A adapters and a surge protector/EMS.
• Leveling blocks and wheel chocks.
• Freshwater tank treatment and filters (if you’ll be filling from multiple sources).
• Propane and extra fuel (if boondocking).
• Tire pressure gauge and spare tire kit.
• Camp chairs, outdoor mat, and wind protection for coastal sites.
• Rain gear and insulated layers — weather changes quickly in mountains and coast.
• First-aid kit and bear spray if heading into wildlife country (know local laws on bear spray).
• Offline maps and printed directions for critical turns and ferry procedures.

Waste Management and Dump Station Tips

• Know where dump stations are along your route. State parks sometimes offer dump stations; private RV parks and marinas often do too.
• Avoid using campground sewer connections if they look damaged or if your hose won’t fit — it’s better to use a known good dump station.
• Maintain your black tank: don’t leave waste for long periods; use enzyme treatments and water flushes.

Sample Itineraries

You might prefer short loops or extended multi-week trips. Here are a few sample plans you can tailor to your schedule.

• 7-Day Olympic Peninsula Loop (great if you want rainforest + coast): Port Townsend (Fort Worden) → Hurricane Ridge (Port Angeles) → Sol Duc/Hoh Rainforest → Kalaloch/Quinault → Return via ferry or highway.
• 7–10 Day Mountain Loop (Mount Rainier + North Cascades): Mount Rainier (Cougar Rock/Ohanapecosh) → Yakima Valley (wine + desert landscapes) → North Cascades (Colonial Creek) → Return via Scenic Byway.
• 10–14 Day Coastal and Island Combo: Tacoma/Seattle stop for city amenities → Ferry to San Juan Islands (Lakedale/Moran) → Deception Pass → Ocean Shores → Cape Disappointment → Return.

Accessibility and RV Sizing Notes

• Always check maximum RV length and whether pull-through or back-in sites are available. Narrow campground roads can make backing a long fifth-wheel difficult.
• If you tow a vehicle or have slide-outs, verify space between trees and the campsite pad.
• Many parks will note if certain loops or campsites are “RV-friendly” — use those designations when reserving.

Common Questions From RVers

• Q: Do campgrounds in Washington commonly have hookups? A: Many private RV parks and some state parks offer hookups, but many national park and forest campgrounds are dry. Expect no hookups in most wilderness or backcountry areas.
• Q: Are campfires allowed everywhere? A: No. Campfire rules change by season and location. Check campground-specific rules and local fire bans before starting a fire.
• Q: Is it safe to camp in winter? A: Yes, with preparation. Some campgrounds are open year-round, but roads and services can be limited during winter. Carry chains and cold-weather supplies if traveling in cooler months.
• Q: Where can I get propane and RV services? A: Larger towns and private RV parks typically offer propane refills, dump stations, and RV repair services. Plan fueling and service stops in advance when traveling remote areas.

Practical Tips for Ferry Travel with an RV

• Book vehicle ferry reservations early if the route requires one (San Juan Islands, Whidbey/Coupeville to Port Townsend, etc.) during the busy season.
• Know your vehicle height and length; ferries have lane assignments and height restrictions.
• Allow extra time for boarding and disembarking; ferries can be delayed by weather or congestion.
• Consider using a smaller vehicle or leaving slides in when rolling onto some island roads that are narrow or have low overhangs.

Environmental Responsibility

• Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out what you pack in; use established campsites; avoid driving on vegetation.
• Dispose of gray and black water properly at designated dump stations.
• Use eco-friendly soaps and cleaning products when possible.
• Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.

Final Packing and Planning Checklist

• Camping reservation confirmations and printed copies.
• Discover Pass and any park entrance passes or receipts.
• RV paperwork, registration, insurance, and roadside assistance details.
• Water and sewage supplies, hoses, adapters.
• Generator and fuel (if you plan to use one), with knowledge of campground generator rules.
• Warm, waterproof clothing and layers.
• First aid, basic toolkit, spare bulbs, and tire repair tools.
• Maps, ferry schedules, and local emergency numbers.
• Food storage containers and knowledge of wildlife rules for the areas you’ll visit.

Closing Suggestions

You’ll find that Washington State offers a wide variety of RV camping experiences. If you prefer full-service amenities and reliable hookups, plan stays at KOAs and private parks near major gateways. If the scenery and serenity matter most, opt for state park loops, national park campgrounds, or dispersed Forest Service sites and accept fewer services in exchange for spectacular views. Wherever you go, reserve ahead during peak times, check the specific campground rules, and pack for sudden weather changes.

If you’d like, I can:

• Suggest a custom 7- or 14-day RV itinerary based on the dates and region you plan to visit.
• Create a printable packing checklist customized for summer or winter travel.
• Look up reservation windows and peak availability tips for specific campgrounds you’re considering.

Which option would you like next?