Discover the best campgrounds near Lake Tapps, Washington with wildlife watching

United States
—
Washington
—
Lake Tapps

95% (8148 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Lake Tapps

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

98%

(358)

Cedar River Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Hobart, WA

The Cedar River Retreat is its own little oasis. Located past an old fisherman's community along the river, close to shopping and stores but tucked away from it all just enough to reconnect with nature. This plot was purchased in 2016 and we hope you have a great time creating memories like we have over the last few years. We currently have an off-grid cabin, RV site and a tent camping only site. The outdoors are for everyone! We are excited to host you soon! Happy adventuring! Follow us on Instagram- @cedar_riverretreat

96%

(403)

Wilderness Path

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA

Our rental property was once a mini Rail Road with full size locomotive's, train cars, pumper cars and more. My dad & grandpa layed all the tracks & put together the buildings in the 1970's. Once done my grandma sold tickets to the tourist and my grandpa ran the engine around the 7 acre oval track pulling a train car full of happy tourist through the woods over the train bridge and past the big water tower back to their vehicles so they could finish their journies with a drive to Mt. Rainier. There is a lot of history on this property for our family and we hope by sharing it with others they will be able to experience some fun here as well.

Wildfern Grove

8 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Buckley, WA

Learn more about this land: Immerse yourself in tranquility at our unique sanctuary nestled on 40 acres of pristine Pacific Northwest forest. Our property offers a captivating blend of intentional community living, event hosting capabilities, and short-term rentals.Find solace in one of our beautifully crafted yurts, each designed to provide a comfortable and harmonious living space amidst the towering trees. Step outside your yurt and into a relaxing meadow, perfect for quiet reflection or gathering with friends and family under the vast, starlit sky. Whether you seek a transformative community experience, a memorable event venue, or a peaceful retreat, our haven offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature and yourself. 10 minutes from Bonney Lake, 15 minutes from Lake Tapps and one hour from Mt Rainier. We have 40 acres of sloped land with trails, wildlife, and nature to explore. Your yurt/tent site has territorial views of South Prairie, and includes a fire pit. Owners live on the property about a quarter mile away from the tent site, where you will find a communal kitchen and bathroom available for use.

98%

(64)

Elfendahl Forest campground

6 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Belfair, WA

Nestled deep within the captivating forest, not far from the majestic Hood Canal, lies our enchanting retreat known as Elfendahl Forest. Embark on a journey to escape the electronic hustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the wonder of the fairy tale woods that make Elfendahl Forest so extraordinary. Our off-grid homesteading destination is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable living and environmental preservation. As we embark on our fourth year, we have meticulously crafted our 20 acres of whimsical, lush forest into a place that will captivate your heart and entice you to return time and time again. Surrounded by boundless acres of state lands, you are invited to explore the endless trails and roads that beckon adventurers. Just minutes away, you'll discover state parks, the Hood Canal, and refreshing freshwater lakes where you can indulge in activities such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the surprisingly warm waters. We offer a range of outdoor games including axe and knife throwing, bocce ball, corn hole, laser tag, and more. Additionally, we have a dedicated kids' play area where young ones can enjoy endless fun throughout the day. Immerse yourself in the heart of our vibrant community by getting involved in one or more of our ongoing projects and workshops. Relish in the abundance of delights that await you at Elfendahl Forest, including our flourishing vegetable gardens, inviting outdoor kitchen, eco-friendly composting toilet, refreshing shower, and a communal fire pit perfect for cozy evenings. During the summer months, we often host movie nights at our outdoor theater, offering a unique and captivating experience. Our one-of-a-kind kitchen is equipped with a propane stove/oven and comes complete with dishes and utensils for your convenience. Should you desire fresh vegetables and herbs, our gardens are a bountiful source, and we gladly share their harvest upon request. Indulge in the privacy and comfort of our outdoor shower, featuring on-demand hot water that can be adjusted to your liking. Our main composting toilet, affectionately known as "Louie the first," operates similarly to a porta potty but with the use of sawdust instead of harsh blue chemicals. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by its cleanliness and comfort, all while conserving hundreds of gallons of water each week. For those renting our Lotus tent or the Magical bus you will enjoy the convenience of your own private composting toilet, as well as access to drinking water, a well-equipped kitchenette with spices and cooking oils, hammocks, and more. As we embark on our exciting journey with Hipcamp and other online platforms, your satisfaction is of utmost importance to us. Please do not hesitate to let us know how we can make your stay as enjoyable as possible while you're here. At Elfendahl Forest, we invite you to step into a world of wonder and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Dean’s Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Auburn, WA

Welcome to Dean’s! Eight minutes off Highway 18 lies 11 acres of mostly undeveloped land. Dean's is a beautiful, bare-bones place to rest between national parks, before or after crossing the US / CA border, or to set up base camp to explore Seattle / Tacoma. Our main driveway is CLOSED this year for repairs. We have alternate arrival instructions for you after you book. These instructions add about 7 minutes (totaling 8 minutes) from Highway 18 to the campground. Our location is convenient. We are just minutes from Auburn city limits. Road noise, planes, Pacific Raceways, and freight trains are audible here even if muffled by the trees. Our distant neighbors occasionally indulge in target shooting. This doesn't last long. Please call us immediately with any concerns. We have a brand new neighborhood in construction on one of our property lines. Heavy machinery is in use around 8 am and usually finished by dinner time. In order to provide safety and peace, hosts live just outside the campground and closely manage happenings. All our sites have 2-4 persons occupancy in hopes of deterring parties. Our quiet hours are 8pm-8am so we can rest up for the next day’s adventures. We ban fires during the peak of summer to avoid the issue of wildfires entirely. Propane stoves are welcome. We do not have a check in cut-off time tho reservations do need to be made before midnight. We have zero tolerance for hateful, abusive, or discriminatory behavior toward people, belongings, and wildlife. With that being said, the 40+ year old trees and distance between the campsites provides space for you to bring and create your own vibes. Hosts should only approach you with safety or quiet hour concerns. They are available 24 / 7 for any questions or requests you may have. Feel free to reach out any time (our phone number can be found on Google).

12 top campgrounds near Lake Tapps with wildlife watching

96%

(403)

Wilderness Path

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA

Our rental property was once a mini Rail Road with full size locomotive's, train cars, pumper cars and more. My dad & grandpa layed all the tracks & put together the buildings in the 1970's. Once done my grandma sold tickets to the tourist and my grandpa ran the engine around the 7 acre oval track pulling a train car full of happy tourist through the woods over the train bridge and past the big water tower back to their vehicles so they could finish their journies with a drive to Mt. Rainier. There is a lot of history on this property for our family and we hope by sharing it with others they will be able to experience some fun here as well.

The Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Olympia, WA

Experience breathtaking views! Positioned atop a 500ft hill, you will witness phenomenal sights of Puget Sound inlets, Mount Rainer, St Helens, Adams, and much more on a clear day. Resting against the Capitol State Forest, and mere miles away from Olympic National Forest, this serene secluded location is surrounded by majestic beauty. Recently awarded runner-up for the best Hipcamp in Washington 2023!

Waterfall Camp. Index

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gold Bar, WA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp where you'll enjoy a breathtaking and unique view of the "sunset Waterfall" located on the South Fork Skykomish River in Index WA , in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. find more pictures on Instagram @waterfall_camp This land used to be the property of the local market owner. From there you have a pristine and unique view of the sunset falls, where The Dept of Fish and Game built a fish ladder. You might spot some wildlife including eagles, deers and salmon during the Fall. Don't forget your camera, binoculars and camping chairs to take in the awesome views. Local places to hike include Wallace Falls, Sunset Falls, Lake Serene, Bridal Veil Falls trail ( literally 5 minutes away from us), or maybe you like rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking or fishing. All are available if you drive to Index; located just minutes away. Located at the very end of a private community area (you will need the code) , this place offers a very peaceful setting, including the rushing and relaxing sound of the waterfall and the occasional whistle of a train. Approximately 55 miles east of Seattle and 25 miles west of Steven's Pass. We welcome, tents and camper vans, small to medium groups of campers.

Dean’s Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Auburn, WA

Welcome to Dean’s! Eight minutes off Highway 18 lies 11 acres of mostly undeveloped land. Dean's is a beautiful, bare-bones place to rest between national parks, before or after crossing the US / CA border, or to set up base camp to explore Seattle / Tacoma. Our main driveway is CLOSED this year for repairs. We have alternate arrival instructions for you after you book. These instructions add about 7 minutes (totaling 8 minutes) from Highway 18 to the campground. Our location is convenient. We are just minutes from Auburn city limits. Road noise, planes, Pacific Raceways, and freight trains are audible here even if muffled by the trees. Our distant neighbors occasionally indulge in target shooting. This doesn't last long. Please call us immediately with any concerns. We have a brand new neighborhood in construction on one of our property lines. Heavy machinery is in use around 8 am and usually finished by dinner time. In order to provide safety and peace, hosts live just outside the campground and closely manage happenings. All our sites have 2-4 persons occupancy in hopes of deterring parties. Our quiet hours are 8pm-8am so we can rest up for the next day’s adventures. We ban fires during the peak of summer to avoid the issue of wildfires entirely. Propane stoves are welcome. We do not have a check in cut-off time tho reservations do need to be made before midnight. We have zero tolerance for hateful, abusive, or discriminatory behavior toward people, belongings, and wildlife. With that being said, the 40+ year old trees and distance between the campsites provides space for you to bring and create your own vibes. Hosts should only approach you with safety or quiet hour concerns. They are available 24 / 7 for any questions or requests you may have. Feel free to reach out any time (our phone number can be found on Google).

Wildfern Grove

8 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Buckley, WA

Learn more about this land: Immerse yourself in tranquility at our unique sanctuary nestled on 40 acres of pristine Pacific Northwest forest. Our property offers a captivating blend of intentional community living, event hosting capabilities, and short-term rentals.Find solace in one of our beautifully crafted yurts, each designed to provide a comfortable and harmonious living space amidst the towering trees. Step outside your yurt and into a relaxing meadow, perfect for quiet reflection or gathering with friends and family under the vast, starlit sky. Whether you seek a transformative community experience, a memorable event venue, or a peaceful retreat, our haven offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature and yourself. 10 minutes from Bonney Lake, 15 minutes from Lake Tapps and one hour from Mt Rainier. We have 40 acres of sloped land with trails, wildlife, and nature to explore. Your yurt/tent site has territorial views of South Prairie, and includes a fire pit. Owners live on the property about a quarter mile away from the tent site, where you will find a communal kitchen and bathroom available for use.

The Landing at Index WA

8 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Index, WA

Welcome to The Landing at Index - located on the South Fork Skykomish River, in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. With 16 acres of beautiful, private woods and breathtaking views of Mt. Index, this is a wonderful getaway to kick back and relax after your day of adventures, or just to escape the city rush. The campsites are at the bottom of a long logging road so an SUV or AWD vehicle are preferable , especially during the wetter seasons. When the property was logged approximately 100 years ago they scooped out gravel from the river to make their roads in the area thus creating the back eddy pool along the beach. A rather peaceful setting, including the rushing sound of the river and the occasional whistle of a train. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after you stay at The Landing. Pets are welcome, there are outhouses at each campsite. Campfires are allowed (when burn bans are not in place).

Cedar River Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Hobart, WA

The Cedar River Retreat is its own little oasis. Located past an old fisherman's community along the river, close to shopping and stores but tucked away from it all just enough to reconnect with nature. This plot was purchased in 2016 and we hope you have a great time creating memories like we have over the last few years. We currently have an off-grid cabin, RV site and a tent camping only site. The outdoors are for everyone! We are excited to host you soon! Happy adventuring! Follow us on Instagram- @cedar_riverretreat

99%

(108)

Linford-Shire on Bainbridge

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Bainbridge Island, WA

This special piece of land is over 3 acres and was one of the famous strawberry farms on beautiful Bainbridge island. West facing and full sun, this property is home to wildlife including bats, owls, coyotes, eagles, osprey, red winged blackbirds and deer. Bordering a local 2 lane highway, the property has stunning territorial views of Meigs park. Very private area where you have the run of the bottom portion of our property. The Hobbit house was built by our family as a 5th grade project for our daughter Rose and her friends. Now we have converted the cozy living space to glamping, to pay for her college in Worcester Massachusets! “In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit-hole, and that means comfort.”-J.R.R. Tolkien You don’t have to go to New Zealand to stay in a hobbit house! Hand-built by our family, this cozy in-hill cabin located in the lower area of our property is something right out of a Tolkien novel. Very LGBTQ+ And BIPOC friendly. This one room Hobbit Hole has everything in it's 7.5x15.5' (cozy): Comfy convertible bed/couch complete with linens, a small table with 2 chairs for playing games and eating, puzzles, games, snacks, hot water kettle, coffee maker, bluetooth speaker, electric fireplace, books, sketchpad with colored pencils, and more! A rustic wooden floor (with some paint splatters) and a braided rug give you a feeling of comfort and home. On site we have a private portable bathroom complete with hand-washing station, and an outside combination fire pit and charcoal barbecue with a grill top and s’mores sticks provided so you can cook over a wood fire or coals! And an outdoor table and chairs that are super comfortable! The house itself is heated, insulated, and has working electricity/outlets for computer or phone charger. Clean bedding and pillows provided, washed in fragrance-free detergent between each guest. We provide a full water jug with spigot, hot water kettle, teapot, assorted teas, an empty growler to use, 2 pint glasses and 2 mugs. Private area of the yard with plenty of room to relax. We have a disc golf goal and discs to use as well. Firewood is available for purchase onsite for $10/milk crate full. This comes with a kindling kit. Territorial views of the tree line and sunset views to die for! We are located near Meigs Park as well as a 10-minute walk from Manitou beach and an easy bike ride to the ferry that goes to Seattle! 2 miles from the Grand Forest and 3 miles from Battle Point park. We are exactly 3 miles from the ferry terminal in a convenient mid-island location. NEED TO KNOW (managing expectations):A note on the bathroom: the hobbit hole is small and will not fit a bathroom or plumbing. Your nearby private portable restroom is cleaned thoroughly between each guest and serviced (pumped out) weekly. We consider our listing to be “glamping”. Also our property borders a local 2 lane highway and you can expect road noise mostly during the day and evening. While it is a private setting you can expect to hear the road. Weekends and evenings it is quieter, and when the door is closed it is quiet. The Hobbit House is suitable for 2 guests or 2 adults and a small child that can share the bed. The bed is a queen size, and we can't allow sleeping on the floor as the door opens inwards and is a safety concern. However, additional guests are welcome to bring a tent and camp outside, for $20/tent, up to 6 additional guests or 2 tents, whichever is smaller. Let me know when you are booking that you'd like to bring additional guests and we will adjust the costs accordingly. WANT TO SEE MORE? We are on Instagram @ hobbithouse98110 and there are videos of the space to give you a solid look at what is in the space. On you tube we have a nice video giving a tour of the property and the hobbit hole. Look for "Hobbit House Bainbridge Island". We look forward to hosting you!

95%

(53)

The Village at Rainier

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Ashford, WA

True glamping experience! The Village has your choice of a private cabin with RV pad that include electric and water. Cabins have 1/2 baths and group firepit. Site is located right at base-camp for Mt Rainier. Private access to the Nisqually River and 10 minutes to the entrance of the National Forrest. Everything you could want for camping, a romantic getaway, or climbing/hiking Mt Rainier. Check in time is 5:00 pm Check out time is 11:00 am

100%

(115)

Good 'Dose' of Relaxation

1 site · RV1 acre · Brinnon, WA

Property nestled above the Dosewallips River with tremendous views of Mt. Jupiter Ridge and the Dosewallips River. You will find numerous hikes in the Olympic National Forest within a short drive, a gorgeous waterfall and swimming hole within 5 minutes, parks, Whitney Garden & Nursery, boat launches, crabbing, clamming & oyster digging, wildlife watching, enjoying the Hood Canal, and much more! Or, just sit back and relax in tranquility, as the property sits at the end of a cul de sac just before entering national forest land. Be sure to leash your pets and keep a good eye, as there are wildcats, coyotes, and bears in the area. Learn more about this land: Pull your RV or trailer onto this lot and take in the beautiful southwestern view of Mt. Jupiter ridge and a peek-a-boo view of the Dosewallips River! Listen closely, and you will hear the sounds of the river below. The lot is equipped with power and water hookups! Please be aware the water hookup is near the main gate entrance and the power is about 40 feet apart, so you may need a long hose (see pic). Enjoy the view from the large deck, firepit, or picnic table overlooking the river, valley, and mountains. This lot is truly a little slice of heaven! Within a few minutes, find yourself at Rocky Brook falls (see pics) for a spectacular view and even a swim if you so please! Pleasant Harbor Marina (also shown in pics) also within 10 minutes! You will also find many hiking trails and parks nearby! There is weak cell service on the lot, so you may or may not be able to connect. I get 1-2 bars with Sprint. While this property is not very far off the Dosewallips road (35 mph), it is generally very quiet and peaceful. You may hear cars and motorcycles from time to time, but very faintly. The lot is at about 350 ft. elevation, so you may get noise traveling up the valley from the residential community below (to which I belong), such as dogs, people using chainsaws, etc. There is hunting allowed in the national forest, so you could potentially hear guns in the distance during the day, but that is rare. There are a few close neighbors, so please be respectful and quiet, especially in the evening. Please bring your own firewood when campfires are allowed and please do not forage for firewood on or around the property. Lastly, while the sightings have been few and rare, the neighbors have seen bears, cougars, coyotes, and bobcats near their homes and this property. So keep an eye on your children and pets, especially if off-leash (your pet of course!) The property also slopes a bit where the deck starts, so again, keep a close eye on the kiddos. You have a very good chance of seeing the local Roosevelt Elk that travel in huge herds around Brinnon (See pics). They sometimes lay down and hang out on the grass on the property! Make sure your pets have their flea and tick updates!

98%

(60)

A Taste of Whidbey

9 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Clinton, WA

Take a break from the city and connect with nature by staying at our magical farm property located on the very south end of Whidbey Island, WA (12 minutes from the Clinton ferry dock). You can enjoy such activities as swinging in one of the many hammocks, getting goldfish pedicures, feeding some of the sweet animals, singing with the parrot, doing goat yoga or goagility (don't bother Googling it because it doesn't exist anywhere else), picking fresh fruits and vegetables for dinner you can prepare in our outdoor cabana kitchen, eating s'mores at one of the many firepits, visiting the beautiful flower gardens or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. Wildlife galore including bald and golden eagles, red tail hawks, deer, raccoons, heron and coyotes. Some nights, we have live music in the evening by one of South Whidbey's amazing bands and beer flowing from the taps built into the wall of the cabana. It is just me and an occasional worker operating the property so you may see us weeding, milking goats, feeding farm animals, or watering some of the many gardens. You are encouraged to participate in activities on the farm and children are welcome to do the same. We are 5 minutes from Bailey's Corner Store, Whidbey's best burger joint, which has great music various nights of the week, and Ogres Brewery which also has great entertainment and beer. Langley and Freeland are each 20 minutes away.

98%

(99)

Hidden Meadow on Henderson Inlet

5 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Olympia, WA

Our camp is currently closed for the season. Thank you everyone for sharing such an amazing Summer at Hidden Meadow with us. We will be opening again starting in June 2025. See you next year and have a great winter season! Burn ban information here: https://www.southbayfire.com/thurston-burn-information About us: Hello and thank you for checking out Hidden Meadow, our names are Jake and Molly. We love camping, hiking and any opportunity to be outside with our two children! In 2020 (one week before the whole world shut down from Covid) we found the hidden gem we had been searching for! A perfect place to raise our family, space to play and explore nature, super private and close to town! It seemed too good to be true and still does! After settling in and realizing what amazing natural beauty we had, we got to work developing our garden, orchards, trails, fire pits and….Campsites! After building a camp site for our family, we decided that we wanted to share this amazing space with other families to enjoy! We built Hidden Meadow to be the campsite that we have always searched for on our family adventures, surrounded by nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the world, with trails for hiking and a HOT TUB to relax in, in the evening! We hope that you enjoy it! About the property: We are located on a very private property (the only houses you will see are across the inlet) surrounded by nature but only about 10 minutes from downtown Olympia and 5 minutes from I-5 and Lacey. The property is situated on the very south end of Henderson Inlet. We are on the tide flats so twice a day (at high tide) we have the opportunity to explore on the water in canoes and kayaks. The property is spread over 16 acres and is comprised of two large fields (one in front of our home and the other is a smaller meadow off to the side (hidden meadow) and forest land. There is tons of space for playing, exploring and tiring out your kids and pups! Wildlife is abound with eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, shore birds and a variety of forest birds make this place their home. We are also frequented by the local deer who wonder through and say hi. About the campground: The campground is located in the far northeast corner of the property on the edge of the forest and meadow. In the common areas you will find the bathroom which has a shower and a toilet. The toilet is a porta-potty and the shower is propane headed. There is also a supply closet at the bathroom that has the yard games and extra supplies. There is a hottub situated right on the edge of the forest with peek-a-boo views of the inlet. You will also find garbage and recycling bins as well as a sink for washing hands (please water only down the sink). We have provided soap that is biodegradable for the sink and shower to help reduce our impact on this beautiful environment. There are trails throughout the forest along the 600 feet of water (tide) front. Along the trails you will find several different benches, seats and swings to relax and enjoy nature from. There is also several fairies and gnomes who have been sighted in the forest. If you look closely, you might spot one too! We ware, if you touch a fairy or gnome they do lose their magical powers so please respect the mystical creatures. 😊 The sites are about 500 feet from our house and offers great privacy. You may see us throughout the day and evening coming and going from the campground, working on the property or playing with the kids on the trails! Dogs: We do have two dogs on the property (Wilma and Bean) who are very friendly and we will keep them out of camp during your stay. Although they typically follow us when we walk down there. We allow dogs to be off leash at owner’s risk. There may be other dogs in camp so please use discretion when letting your dogs off leash and be mindful of other campers. You must be responsible for your own dogs, we are not responsible for any dog related or dog inflicted injuries. Getting here: We are off of Sleater Kinney Rd in Olympia. We have a long, steep, curvy driveway. At the bottom of the driveway, you will find signs directing you to the camp site. If you have extra vehicles, we have extra parking spaces adjacent to the campsite. The road out to camp may be bumpy (we do our best to keep it smooth) so go slow and beware of natural obstacles. Rules: 1. Check in time is 2:00pm or later. For afterhours arrivals, please let us know. 2. Check out time is 12:00pm or earlier 3. Quiet hours from 9pm to 8am. You are far from our house, so we can’t hear you but sound travels well over the water to our neighbors. Nobody wants grumpy neighbors, please be respectful. 4. Remain within the campground boundary during all times. If you need us, please feel free to text or call. 5. Please put all trash in the trash cans or take it with you. 6. Remove all dog doo and dispose of in the trash. 7. Leave what you find (except ripe blackberries). Please leave any forest treasures where you found them. 8. Cleanup any debris left from firewood/camp activities before departing. 9. Enjoy nature and respect it. Please stay on trails and respect the plants and the natural habitats. 10. Stay off the dock. It is closed for repair. 11. Do not use the trailside fireplace (if you find it) or our personal canoe or kayaks. However, feel free to enjoy the view from the seats by the fireplace. 12. Be cautious when walking around, the ground is bumpy and there are exposed tree roots that can be tripping hazards. We are not responsible from injuries. 13. Help us keep it clean- if you find any garbage around, please pick it up or let us know. 14. Keep fires small and when you are finished PUT YOUR FIRES DEAD OUT! There are 5 gallon buckets by each fire put to fill before you start your fire for putting them out. 15. Please do not burn trash or food. It can create issues with the wildlife. Put all waste in garbage cans.

Star Hosts in Lake Tapps

96%

(123)

Waterfall Camp. Index

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gold Bar, WA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp where you'll enjoy a breathtaking and unique view of the "sunset Waterfall" located on the South Fork Skykomish River in Index WA , in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. find more pictures on Instagram @waterfall_camp This land used to be the property of the local market owner. From there you have a pristine and unique view of the sunset falls, where The Dept of Fish and Game built a fish ladder. You might spot some wildlife including eagles, deers and salmon during the Fall. Don't forget your camera, binoculars and camping chairs to take in the awesome views. Local places to hike include Wallace Falls, Sunset Falls, Lake Serene, Bridal Veil Falls trail ( literally 5 minutes away from us), or maybe you like rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking or fishing. All are available if you drive to Index; located just minutes away. Located at the very end of a private community area (you will need the code) , this place offers a very peaceful setting, including the rushing and relaxing sound of the waterfall and the occasional whistle of a train. Approximately 55 miles east of Seattle and 25 miles west of Steven's Pass. We welcome, tents and camper vans, small to medium groups of campers.

Wilderness Path

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA

Our rental property was once a mini Rail Road with full size locomotive's, train cars, pumper cars and more. My dad & grandpa layed all the tracks & put together the buildings in the 1970's. Once done my grandma sold tickets to the tourist and my grandpa ran the engine around the 7 acre oval track pulling a train car full of happy tourist through the woods over the train bridge and past the big water tower back to their vehicles so they could finish their journies with a drive to Mt. Rainier. There is a lot of history on this property for our family and we hope by sharing it with others they will be able to experience some fun here as well.

The Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Olympia, WA

Experience breathtaking views! Positioned atop a 500ft hill, you will witness phenomenal sights of Puget Sound inlets, Mount Rainer, St Helens, Adams, and much more on a clear day. Resting against the Capitol State Forest, and mere miles away from Olympic National Forest, this serene secluded location is surrounded by majestic beauty. Recently awarded runner-up for the best Hipcamp in Washington 2023!

Cedar River Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Hobart, WA

The Cedar River Retreat is its own little oasis. Located past an old fisherman's community along the river, close to shopping and stores but tucked away from it all just enough to reconnect with nature. This plot was purchased in 2016 and we hope you have a great time creating memories like we have over the last few years. We currently have an off-grid cabin, RV site and a tent camping only site. The outdoors are for everyone! We are excited to host you soon! Happy adventuring! Follow us on Instagram- @cedar_riverretreat

The Landing at Index WA

8 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Index, WA

Welcome to The Landing at Index - located on the South Fork Skykomish River, in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. With 16 acres of beautiful, private woods and breathtaking views of Mt. Index, this is a wonderful getaway to kick back and relax after your day of adventures, or just to escape the city rush. The campsites are at the bottom of a long logging road so an SUV or AWD vehicle are preferable , especially during the wetter seasons. When the property was logged approximately 100 years ago they scooped out gravel from the river to make their roads in the area thus creating the back eddy pool along the beach. A rather peaceful setting, including the rushing sound of the river and the occasional whistle of a train. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after you stay at The Landing. Pets are welcome, there are outhouses at each campsite. Campfires are allowed (when burn bans are not in place).

Available this weekend

96%

(403)

Wilderness Path

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA

Our rental property was once a mini Rail Road with full size locomotive's, train cars, pumper cars and more. My dad & grandpa layed all the tracks & put together the buildings in the 1970's. Once done my grandma sold tickets to the tourist and my grandpa ran the engine around the 7 acre oval track pulling a train car full of happy tourist through the woods over the train bridge and past the big water tower back to their vehicles so they could finish their journies with a drive to Mt. Rainier. There is a lot of history on this property for our family and we hope by sharing it with others they will be able to experience some fun here as well.

Dean’s Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Auburn, WA

Welcome to Dean’s! Eight minutes off Highway 18 lies 11 acres of mostly undeveloped land. Dean's is a beautiful, bare-bones place to rest between national parks, before or after crossing the US / CA border, or to set up base camp to explore Seattle / Tacoma. Our main driveway is CLOSED this year for repairs. We have alternate arrival instructions for you after you book. These instructions add about 7 minutes (totaling 8 minutes) from Highway 18 to the campground. Our location is convenient. We are just minutes from Auburn city limits. Road noise, planes, Pacific Raceways, and freight trains are audible here even if muffled by the trees. Our distant neighbors occasionally indulge in target shooting. This doesn't last long. Please call us immediately with any concerns. We have a brand new neighborhood in construction on one of our property lines. Heavy machinery is in use around 8 am and usually finished by dinner time. In order to provide safety and peace, hosts live just outside the campground and closely manage happenings. All our sites have 2-4 persons occupancy in hopes of deterring parties. Our quiet hours are 8pm-8am so we can rest up for the next day’s adventures. We ban fires during the peak of summer to avoid the issue of wildfires entirely. Propane stoves are welcome. We do not have a check in cut-off time tho reservations do need to be made before midnight. We have zero tolerance for hateful, abusive, or discriminatory behavior toward people, belongings, and wildlife. With that being said, the 40+ year old trees and distance between the campsites provides space for you to bring and create your own vibes. Hosts should only approach you with safety or quiet hour concerns. They are available 24 / 7 for any questions or requests you may have. Feel free to reach out any time (our phone number can be found on Google).

The Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Olympia, WA

Experience breathtaking views! Positioned atop a 500ft hill, you will witness phenomenal sights of Puget Sound inlets, Mount Rainer, St Helens, Adams, and much more on a clear day. Resting against the Capitol State Forest, and mere miles away from Olympic National Forest, this serene secluded location is surrounded by majestic beauty. Recently awarded runner-up for the best Hipcamp in Washington 2023!

Waterfall Camp. Index

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gold Bar, WA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp where you'll enjoy a breathtaking and unique view of the "sunset Waterfall" located on the South Fork Skykomish River in Index WA , in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. find more pictures on Instagram @waterfall_camp This land used to be the property of the local market owner. From there you have a pristine and unique view of the sunset falls, where The Dept of Fish and Game built a fish ladder. You might spot some wildlife including eagles, deers and salmon during the Fall. Don't forget your camera, binoculars and camping chairs to take in the awesome views. Local places to hike include Wallace Falls, Sunset Falls, Lake Serene, Bridal Veil Falls trail ( literally 5 minutes away from us), or maybe you like rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking or fishing. All are available if you drive to Index; located just minutes away. Located at the very end of a private community area (you will need the code) , this place offers a very peaceful setting, including the rushing and relaxing sound of the waterfall and the occasional whistle of a train. Approximately 55 miles east of Seattle and 25 miles west of Steven's Pass. We welcome, tents and camper vans, small to medium groups of campers.

The Landing at Index WA

8 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Index, WA

Welcome to The Landing at Index - located on the South Fork Skykomish River, in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. With 16 acres of beautiful, private woods and breathtaking views of Mt. Index, this is a wonderful getaway to kick back and relax after your day of adventures, or just to escape the city rush. The campsites are at the bottom of a long logging road so an SUV or AWD vehicle are preferable , especially during the wetter seasons. When the property was logged approximately 100 years ago they scooped out gravel from the river to make their roads in the area thus creating the back eddy pool along the beach. A rather peaceful setting, including the rushing sound of the river and the occasional whistle of a train. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after you stay at The Landing. Pets are welcome, there are outhouses at each campsite. Campfires are allowed (when burn bans are not in place).

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(2)

Saltwater State Park

Des Moines, Washington

100%

(5)

Alder Lake Park

La Grande, Washington

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Skykomish, Washington

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Packwood, Washington

88%

(97)

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Marblemount, Washington

93%

(7)

Penrose Point State Park

Home, Washington

94%

(50)

Olympic National Forest

Port Angeles, Washington

If you're up for another adventure, head up to nearby Lake Serene and the Bridal Veil Falls! At just shy of 8 miles roundtrip and 2,000 feet of gain, you won't regret it!

100%

(1)

Wallace Falls State Park

May Creek, Washington

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Lake Tapps with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Looking for a camping experience near Lake Tapps, Washington that includes wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2400 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin rentals, Hipcamp has got you covered. Some of the top campsites in the area include The Landing at Index WA (597 reviews), Unique Bay Front Camping (404 reviews), and Nature Camp, Cabin and Farm (340 reviews). Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average price of $55 per night. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, showers, and trash services, and engage in activities like horseback riding, exploring historic sites, and enjoying snow sports. Start planning your wildlife watching adventure today with Hipcamp!