Camping at Mount Rainier

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You’ll know Mount Rainier National Park when you see it—the hulking volcano rises more than 14,000 feet above sea level, dominating the western Washington horizon for miles around. Glaciers cascade down the slopes, meeting deep green forests. The best part? This Northwest’s crown jewel sits just 65 miles from Seattle, making its summit the goal of many mountaineers and its location perfect for an easy weekend trip. Here you’ll find 473 camping sites scattered across three of the four quadrants of the park, including Cougar Rock in the southwest, Ohanapecosh in the southeast, and White River, in the northeast. In addition, 13 tent sites sit at the walk-in Mowich Lake campground to the northwest. Beyond that, numerous backcountry sites are scattered on and around the mountain.

94% (7K) 5,375 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Mount Rainier

Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

1. Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

96%
(394)
Elbe, WA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our campsite located near Mt. Rainier. Our property is close to the Nisqually River on one side and the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad track on the other. The entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park is just a 15-minute drive away, making our campsite a convenient base for exploring the park. Enjoy fishing, hiking, and watching the scenic railroad pass by. Our campsite offers a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you're here for the outdoor activities or just want a quiet spot to camp, we look forward to hosting you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wilderness Path

2. Wilderness Path

96%
(480)
Ashford, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
King County's Maury Island Marine Park

3. King County's Maury Island Marine Park

88%
(4)
Vashon, WA · 7 sites
Bike, kayak or hike into this spectacular park on Maury Island, where your tent campsite near the beach awaits. Mount Rainier peaks out on sunny days, madrona trees branch overhead, while otters and bald eagles put on a show. *please read carefully* There is a 3/4 mile walk down a gravel service road from the parking lot, with an average grade of 8%. Pack accordingly, you’ll be walking in! Or plan to bike or paddle in for closer access. Camping is open May through October. Please pack-in and pack-out. Fire is prohibited. Amenities include use of the picnic shelter, port-a-potty bathrooms, picnic tables near the campsites and a kayak/paddleboard storage rack off of the beach trail. There is no water available so please pack in enough water for your stay. To protect the park, please abide by the camping rules. FIRES AND ALCOHOL PROHIBITED. Our campsites are located in parks with limited access for fire fighters. Fires will be and are reported. The risk isn’t worth it! Directions to your site: Parking lot for vehicles and trail access is on SW 244th Street (GPS coordinates 47.38564509862387, -122.39947726859351). Maury Island Natural Area is served by Metro bus route 119 along Dockton Road SW. Arriving by bike - see the Vashon Bike Map image for routes. King County's Maury Island Marine Park brochure has information to help you plan. This campground is located within Maury Island Marine Park, on the east side of Maury Island, a peninsula of Vashon Island. One of the largest undeveloped properties located directly on Puget Sound with more than 1 mile of shoreline, the park provides stunning views of the East Passage, Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountains. The site had significance for early Native Americans and is referenced in a legend about Snake People who arrived from the mainland as part of war party. The park contains rare stands of Pacific Madrone, a salt marsh, eelgrass beds and significant fish and wildlife habitat for such species as great blue herons, bald eagles, kingfishers, chinook salmon, orca, and bull trout. Trail length within the park: 3 miles (plus .75 mile gravel maintenance road to the shoreline accessible to non-motorized vehicles only).
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

4. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

90%
(104)
National forest in Washington · 3357 sites
The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gifford Pinchot National Forest

5. Gifford Pinchot National Forest

93%
(80)
National forest in Washington · 954 sites
Explore old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and thousands of miles of trails.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Coho Cove

6. Coho Cove

Black Diamond, WA · 1 site
This is a quiet lakefront oasis, only about 30 miles from Seattle, WA. It would be most enjoyed with a trailer or RV. There is a pull-through making it easy to drive in and out. There is a lovely garden, large trees, a brick path, dock, and gazebo. A boat can be launched across the lake and tied up to a private dock. Water skiing, swimming and fishing are abundant here. The lake is supplied with rainbow trout, and large and small mouth bass are here and even coho salmon at certain times of the year when it it time to return to their individual stream. The lake itself is very picturesque with trees and houses, but no high rise hotels or condos. There is a great number of birds who come here all year and some fly in during their migration. Otters are seen here, and likely a beaver or two. In Coho Cove (my name for it), the buoys for boats to slow down are pushed way out, so the level of boat noise and wave action is reduced. It is a pleasant, beautiful Pacific Northwest lake with lots of water fun and a real connection with nature.
Pets
Full hookups
Cowlitz River Rentals

7. Cowlitz River Rentals

99%
(500)
WA · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
If you make a reservation here, FOLLOW THE DRIVING DIRECTIONS GIVEN. SHARE THE DIRECTIONS WITH YOUR GROUP. DO NOT GIVE PINS OR WAYPOINTS FROM YOUR SITE. WELCOME to Cowlitz River Rentals! We offer some of the most beautiful scenery in western Washington. Here you will find the peaceful quiet of being "away from it all", yet in reality you are only a little over a mile from the local grocery store, restaurants, and gas stations along Hwy 12 in Randle. We have 20 spacious sites on 70 acres, bordered by the Cowlitz River in Randle, WA. We are centrally located between Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Adams. Since we are not open for public entry, you can feel safe leaving your camp set up while you take day excursions. We have dry camping ONLY. There is a spigot for water at the gate, but no water or electricity hookups at any of the sites. This year (2026) we are expanding almost all of the sites while doing our best to keep privacy intact. This will allow for a wider variation of vehicle types, as well as more room for kiddos to play within the site itself. We welcome individual campers as well as groups. Many of our sites will hold 20-30 people, all in one site area. We can also accommodate much larger groups.... Let us know if you have a special group event.  We can discuss your needs and see if our property is a fit for you. Please call to discuss options if you are unsure, or if you would just like more info .... Hazelanna 360-496-1903 For an interactive map and dates of events that we host you can check out our webpage: CowlitzRiverRentals.com Feel free to reach out with questions BEFORE booking to make sure all of your needs can be accommodated. Things to be considered: Need for outside toilets, need for campfire wood, need for water, types of vehicles, your camping goal (group get together or total solitude with peace and quiet), quick easy access to the main road or camping way off the path, best pet areas, best kid friendly areas, ect. We welcome your questions. Our goal is to help you make great memories! Call or Text: Hazelanna 360-496-1903
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cedar River Retreat

8. Cedar River Retreat

99%
(454)
Hobart, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Cedar River Retreat—a hidden oasis just beyond a historic fishing village on the river. Close enough to town for convenience, yet tucked away so you can slow down, unplug, and immerse yourself in nature. Since 2016, we’ve been creating memories here and are excited to share this special place with you. Whether you’re looking for an off-grid cabin getaway, a peaceful RV spot, or a tent-only camping experience, there’s a little something for every kind of adventurer. We believe the outdoors are for everyone, and we can’t wait to welcome you. See you by the river! 🌲✨ Follow along on Instagram: @cedar_riverretreat
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Arboretum at Bear Canyon West

9. The Arboretum at Bear Canyon West

100%
(560)
Cinebar, WA · 11 sites
This is a gorgeous park-like RV campground situated between the trees of the arboretum. NO TENTS, please. Also we have NO PUBLIC RESTROOMS. Beautiful view of the mountains and forests here in western Washington. We are close to Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier and several lakes. There are walking trails all around the site. The 12 acre campground is located on a 136 acre property that is an active Christmas tree farm. Trails continue throughout the tree farm. Many trails have a view of the Tilton River, which can be reached via a challenging 3/4 mile trail. Sites are on 12 acres planted with many different species of trees that are about 30 years old. Giant Redwoods, Cedars, and Maples are just a few of the varieties present. Part of the farm is still a working Christmas tree farm. The trails are wide and grassy. The old logging road that we use as a trail to the river has an elevation change of about 500 feet, the trail can be quite challenging. Bear Creek empties into the Tilton river at the end of the trail. There is an ART GALLERY where you can learn to pound flowers, see the host's artwork and get a cup of coffee! This is upstairs through the check-in entry-way. Tilton River Studio Gallery. Three sites have electrical hookups. Every site has a water spigot (use a pressure regulator if you want to hook up). No restrooms or sewer hookups. Garbage disposal site (dumpster) available Memorial Day to Labor Day. We look forward to hosting you!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Mount Rainier National Park

10. Mount Rainier National Park

95%
(148)
National park in Washington · 513 sites
Adventure on a glacier! The grandest park of the Pacific Northwest beckons you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Alder Lake Park

11. Alder Lake Park

100%
(8)
Park in Washington · 209 sites
Alder Lake Park: A scenic retreat for camping, boating, and fishing.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

12. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

92%
(127)
National forest in Washington · 753 sites
High-altitude beauty north of Mt. Rainier. From glaciers to river fishing, all is spectacular!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mossyrock Park

13. Mossyrock Park

75%
(4)
Park in Washington · 165 sites
Discover Mossyrock Park's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mountain Lavender Escape

14. Mountain Lavender Escape

96%
(238)
Randle, WA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the heart of Randle, Washington, Cowlitz Falls Lavender Co. offers a serene camping area on a farm surrounded by the stunning Cascade Mountain Range and is central to Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, and the Mount Adams wilderness. Our farm serves as a haven for nature lovers, providing convenient base camp access to an abundance of outdoor activities including exploring lakes, caves, waterfalls, trails, and the picturesque Cowlitz River. Established in 2014 with camping areas first introduced in late 2022, our farm has transformed neglected land into a thriving lavender paradise with more. Campers can choose from a site directly near the lavender field or several more private sites in the peaceful forested area which also have trail access to the fields. A property loop walking trail is accessible by all campers and is the perfect warm up walk or evening cool down. We now feature a wood-fired outdoor shower for the ultimate camping experience and are excited to offer increasing rustic homestead style amenities for off-season or colder climate campers while actively increasing the care and management our forested land. Immerse yourself in nature at Cowlitz Falls Lavender Co. and create unforgettable memories amidst the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. We have sites for differing weather conditions, vehicle types, or optimum sky viewing so contact us if you need any help picking the perfect spot.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

15. Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

98%
(173)
Vashon, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Visit Vashon Island and relax on a private estate property. Camp overlooking Puget Sound, walk the trail down to the secluded beach and enjoy 1000 ft. of peaceful waterfront. Vashon boasts great coffee hangouts, bakeries, galleries, wineries, restaurants (May's Thai, Lunetta Pizza, The Ruby Brink, The Hardware Store Restaurant, Snapdragon and others). WALK THE FIELD BEFORE DRIVING ON IT TO BE SURE you won't sink if its been wet! Galleries, shops and restaurants in Vashon town; also in Burton. Vashon Center for the Arts, O-Space and the Chamber of Commerce have events that might be of interest. Outdoor fires are by permission only. There are sometime burn bans for air quality and/or high fire danger. Fires may be allowed AT THE BEACH, below the high tide line, between October 1 and June 15, but there are various reasons they may not be allowed (air quality bans, windy conditions, etc.)Any fire you light must be put out COLD (no steam, no heat) with water and buried with sand before leaving them unattended. You are responsible for any damage or injuries caused by a fire you start, so please be careful! Please note: It is very important that the number of people on site is accurate. Please contact Hipcamp to change the number of people. There is an additional charge per person above the base 2 person rate. There is no outdoor music at any time. Quiet hours are 8 pm to 10 am. There is no picnic table or any amenities, but you can fill up water at our barn if needed. DO NOT USE THE WOODS AS A BATHROOM. It is necessary to bring your own latrine. The water at (shallower) Dockton Park (about a 6 min drive away) gets warm from swimming in summer if you prefer it to 54 degree deep water here! Please clean up after your pet. Dogs must be leashed AT ALL TIMES in the field. If no one is around at the beach, they can be off leash, but leash up if anyone approaches until they pass. Please never leave your dog unattended outside where barking will disturb the peace. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Looking forward to hosting you! IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, DIAL 911 FROM A CELL PHONE. 4025 SW Pt. Robinson Rd. is the address. Lisa 206 498 4359 Chiara 206 409 7975 Larry Sherry 206 295 4564/206 295 7333 Andre 206 335 6731
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Cascade Mountain Retreat

16. Cascade Mountain Retreat

100%
(10)
Ashford, WA · 2 sites
Willkommen to Cascade Mountain Retreats Swiss Village! Bringing a taste of Switzerland to the Cascade Mountains! Dispersed camping sites, RV parking, glamping tents,cabins, and animals coming soon! Escape to this quiet, wooded retreat just six miles from the Nisqually entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Tucked into four acres of forested property, Cascade Mountain Retreats Swiss Village offers you a peaceful camping experience with mountain views, forest trails, and natural ambiance. What Awaits You: • Multiple dispersed camping sites and one RV spot • A gently wooded trail to the tent sites; an off-road cart is available to help transport gear • On-site restroom facility (Showers coming soon!!) • Campfires allowed (when permitted) • Pets welcome (on a leash if other pets or guests are around please) • Potable water at spigots at the cabin - No RV dump or hookups Why You’ll Love It Here!: Waking up at Cascade Mountain Retreats Swiss Village means breathing mountain air, listening to the flowing creek, and watching new light spill across forested ridges. You're close enough to amenities in nearby Ashford, yet removed enough to feel truly hidden. The balance of access and solitude makes this a rare find.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Lake Sena Campground at Circle 8 Ranch

17. Lake Sena Campground at Circle 8 Ranch

94%
(35)
Cle Elum, WA · 63 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the eastern foothills where the Central Cascades soften and the Yakima and Cle Elum rivers converge, you'll find an abundance of adventure, sun, fun, and relaxation—perfectly tailored to your desires. Welcome to the Lake Sena Campground. Our campground greets you with open grass pastures, majestic mature trees, and picturesque campsites along a sparkling freshwater lake. Although just 77 miles from Seattle, it feels like a remote wilderness escape. As you drive down our gravel path into 70 lush acres, you'll discover a haven with minimal development, abundant wildlife, and a rejuvenating retreat immersed in nature. Our offerings include RV and tent sites, group sites, and day passes for the lake and picnic area. With various beautiful, wooded spots and premier water-view sites along the lake, each campsite provides a unique experience. Sites typically accommodate one vehicle and a picnic table, with available hookups for water and power (30 or 50 AMP) or primitive options. We also have a dump station at the campground entrance. Most RV and tent sites are optimally situated to be free from visible structures, allowing you to enjoy silent nights, dark starry skies, dirt paths, wildlife, and natural beauty. Our property offers an expansive and imaginative range of recreational activities. The lake, crafted decades ago by the Army Corps of Engineers, receives fresh, clean, and refreshing water from a local creek, flowing out underground to the next neighbor. Enjoy the sandy swimming area or bring your own non-motorized water toys. Safety is paramount; there is no lifeguard on duty at the lake, so please ensure everyone wears life preservers and stays mindful of water risks, especially children. Children under 12 must be supervised near the water. With shade speckled trails through the woods, grassy areas for gatherings and games, and acres of pristine land to explore, we encourage you to stay for a night or more. We look forward to hosting your stay. Join us for a serene and unforgettable getaway at the Lake Sena Campground!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Enchanted Forest

18. The Enchanted Forest

98%
(113)
Ashford, WA · 3 sites
Step through the veil and into The Enchanted Forest — a hidden realm of ancient cedars, rushing creeks, and whispering moss. Just beyond the Ashford town center, this sanctuary invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover wonder. Follow winding trails to a waterfall, sit quietly by the fire, and let the forest remind you what stillness feels like. This is more than a campsite — it’s a sacred space, a portal into another dimension of peace and connection.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
The Village at Rainier

19. The Village at Rainier

97%
(74)
Ashford, WA · 3 sites
True glamping experience! 2 Cabins have 1/2 baths and group fire pit and I site has separate bath and private fire pit. All sites have access to a shower. The Village is located right at base-camp for Mt Rainier with private access to the Nisqually River and 10 minutes to the entrance of the National Forest. 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
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
HoHo Farms - Camping @ The River

20. HoHo Farms - Camping @ The River

99%
(78)
Toutle, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to HoHo Farms At HoHo Farms, we offer a tranquil space for you and your family to connect with nature. Our property is designed to cater to those seeking solitude as well as those wanting to connect with neighboring campers. Here’s what you can enjoy during your stay: Activities and Amenities Gardens: Wander through our beautiful gardens, where you can enjoy a variety of plant species and perhaps gain inspiration for your own garden at home. Learn about permaculture and how we design and practice our day to day based on permaculture principles. Sign up for workshops & Tours @ HoHoFarms.com Hiking Trails: Explore nearby trails that offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna. Water Recreation: Just up or down the road, you’ll find numerous lakes perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon by the water. Riverfront Beach: Spend your day lounging on our riverfront beach, where the gentle sounds of the river provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation, swimming, fishing and many other outdoor activities. Clothing Optional @ Far Side West End Of Beach For Easy Bathing & Sunbathing. Biodegradable Soaps Only Fire Pits: As the day winds down, gather around one of our designated fire pits. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or simply enjoying the warmth, it’s a perfect way to end your day. Join us at the beach fire pit, building community is big for us! (Be sure to check Fire Bans) Experience: We aim to make your time at HoHo Farms peaceful and serene. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended retreat, our focus is on providing a calming environment that allows you to unwind and reconnect with nature. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring a memorable experience at HoHo Farms.
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Picnic table

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Mount Rainier camping guide

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for a wilderness experience: Mowich Lake
  • Best for old growth trees: Ohanapecosh
  • Best for groups: Cougar Rock

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Though RVs are allowed to park at Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River campgrounds, they have no electrical, water, or grey water hookups.
  2. Each campsite is limited to a maximum of two vehicles, two tents, and/or six campers. Most campsites are big enough for only one tent and up to four people.
  3. Campsites at Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River campgrounds can all be booked in advance online, with availability opening on a six-month rolling basis. The sites at Mowich Lake are available only on a first-come, first-served basis

When to go

Mount Rainier National Park is open year-round, though heavy winter snow typically closes all but the Nisqually Entrance. At this time, roads at higher elevations may be closed or require snow chains or winter tires to access. July and August are busy times, when popular parking lots and entrances come with long waits. Aim for a mid-week visit, or go during the late spring or early fall to beat the crowds.

Know before you go

  • The visitor center at the Longmire Museum is open year-round, while the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise closes on winter weekdays. The Ohanapecosh Visitor Center and Sunrise Visitor Center are open in summer.
  • When making a summer visit, try to arrive early (before 10am) or later in the day (after 2:30pm) to avoid peak crowds and wait times.
  • Concessions are sold at Longmire, Paradise, and Sunrise. You can also stock up in the nearby towns of Ashford and Packwood.
  • Cell service is unreliable in Mount Rainier National Park, but there is wifi in the Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The best camping options near Mount Rainier are Cougar Rock in the southwest, Ohanapecosh in the southeast, and White River in the northeast. Additionally, there are 13 tent sites at the walk-in Mowich Lake campground to the northwest. Beyond that, numerous backcountry sites are scattered on and around the mountain. You can also explore different options for camping near Mount Rainier on Hipcamp.

The best camping option for groups in Mount Rainier National Park is Cougar Rock, located in the southwest region. You can also explore different options for camping near Mount Rainier on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field