The best private sites RV camping in 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.

100% (326)

Top-rated campgrounds

River mountain views

1. Cowlitz River Rentals

99%
(484)
54 sites · Tents, RVs · WA
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. 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$78
 / night
The main house. You are welcome to come visit, sit or stroll in the garden or visit the fire pit.

2. Two Frog Bog

99%
(119)
6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Roy, WA
Welcome to Two Frog Bog, a 20-acre forested haven featuring 5 acres of wetland. Our accommodations include a 24-foot yurt (currently under repair, see below) with a private, semi-attached bathhouse, and a 10 x 20-foot tent cabin with outdoor kitchen and private outhouse with composting toilet. You’ll enjoy the outdoor shower that is available for all guests. The communal fire pit is a great place to roast s’mores and maybe meet new friends. But wait, there’s more: a two-tent campground where we provide the tents, a shared, covered and fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a shared composting outhouse (cleaned at least once a day). Campground has access to shower and fire pit as well. Explore our forest trails leading to the serene wetland, and don't miss our unique 26-foot-wide, 10-foot-tall Woodhenge – a magical spot to relax in a hammock, read a book, or stargaze. Two Frog Bog invites you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the variety of accommodations and shared spaces we offer. NEWS  Our property was hit hard in the Bomb Cyclone of Nov '24. Sadly, we lost the Funk House.  The Paisley Paradise yurt was severely damaged and is under repair.  The Dragonfly Den remained unharmed and has been upgraded with the queen bed from the Funk House.  Other areas need rebuilding.  If you've loved this place or wish to visit and would like to help with rebuilding costs, we would be truly grateful.  Read our story at GoFundMe.  https://gofund.me/d44abefc
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Country Refuge Close to City

4. Country Refuge Close to City

100%
(22)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yelm, WA
Offering a lovely, personal campsite area surrounded by beautiful trees nestled in the back of a ranch with horses (and chickens) just on the outskirts of the small, charming town of Yelm. (In some of the pictures you will see the horses in the area of the camp, but whenever there are campers they will not be turned out there.) There is 20 amp electric (which can safely power a 30 amp rv unless you run too many things at once) and water (hose). There is a porta-potty and a shower shed with a tankless water heater for your convenience. We also offer the option of a small bunk room in the barn. Heated and cooled (fan) with a small "kitchen" area, it has a pull out futon which sleeps 2 and requires you supply your own bedding and towels. 1 Hour to Mt. Rainier National Park. 1 1/2 hours to Olympia National Park. 2 1/2 hours to Mt. St. Helens. 1 hour to Seattle. Close to Puget Sound and loads of nature spots. Local hiking and fishing aplenty. Our property is surrounded by nature, yet only a 5 minute drive into town where you will find charming shops, restaurants, cafes and coffee houses. There is also a fabulous movie theater. And only 15 minutes to the Red Wind Casino. There is a railroad track next to the property, but it is only used on Tues. and Thurs. between 10 am and 1 pm when a short train passes by and then returns. Rarely, it may have an additional passing but not often and it has never run after dark or early morning. (It is a military train so pretty punctual). (Also, as we are only a 5 acre property, we are close enough to roads that you may hear some traffic. They are county roads though and not highly traveled for the most part.) **Trigger Warnings: We are near the military base of JBLM and so you will occasionally hear their military doings. Country neighbors occasionally do some target practice, so you may hear some shooting. As we are a horse property, we will also require that everyone sign a release of liability waiver and will require all adults to show legal ID upon arrival. * We require a completed profile with a picture before we accept a booking.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
The Blue site with a peek at the surrounding countryside

5. The Arboretum at Bear Canyon West

100%
(546)
12 sites · RVs · Cinebar, WA
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 10 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 above the shop, right on the property. 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 available Memorial Day to Labor Day. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Cascade Mountain Retreat

6. Cascade Mountain Retreat

100%
(5)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashford, WA
Cascade Mountain Retreat — Your Secluded Gateway to Mount Rainier 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 Retreat offers you a peaceful basecamp with mountain views, forest trails, and natural ambiance. What Awaits You • Choice of tent-only or RV/tent sites (under 32 ft vehicles for RV spots) • A gently wooded trail to the tent sites; an off-road cart is available to help transport gear • On-site restroom facility • Campfires allowed (for tent sites) • Pets welcome • No potable water, no hookups (water and power coming soon!) Why You’ll Love It Here Waking here means breathing mountain air, listening to the 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
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Misty Meadows Adventures Mt.Rainier

7. Misty Meadows Adventures Mt.Rainier

99%
(348)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Mineral, WA
Perfect Basecamp for Mount Rainier! Stay at our cozy homestead and honeybee farm in Mineral, WA, just minutes from Mount Rainier National Park and Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Our 3 campsites offer stunning views of the mountain, wildlife sightings, wildflowers, and incredible stargazing. Enjoy hiking, foraging, and fishing nearby, or explore the area’s lakes and forests. We offer: • Site #1: Largest Site. Fits 2 RVs or 4-6 tents. • Site #2: Fits 1 RV or 4-6 tents and a hammock. • Site #3: Fits 2 tents, most private, no mountain view. We provide dry camping with a port-a-potty, potable water, and cell service for Verizon/T-Mobile users. Pets must be leashed, Fresh eggs, honey for sale, and firewood for sale when available. We also offer beekeeping experiences! Check-in: 2 PM until dark. Guests are greeted upon arrival. Perfect for small groups, families, and nature lovers!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Madrona Meadow

8. Madrona Meadow Camp

98%
(26)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Anderson Island, WA
This secluded meadow has sweeping views, including a stunning shot of Mount Rainier on clear days. Surrounded by forested land including a park preserve, the land is quiet and private. A great place to watch birds, access multiple park trails by foot, or just enjoy being outside in nature. There are old fruit trees on the land that give plentiful fruit (most years) starting in August, and depending on the time of year you'll also find blackberries, huckleberries and salal berries. Additional tent sites are tucked into the trees. Serving all is an outdoor/covered compost toilet tucked into the trees a couple minutes walk from the meadow. There is also a spigot with hose where you can rinse off gear etc. A public swimming hole on Lake Florence is a short drive way, along with beaches. Check back with us in the future as well, because we have big plans for additional amenities.
Pets
Toilets
from 
$44
 / night
A slice of heaven!

9. Bee Inspired Garden

99%
(38)
3 sites · RVs · Onalaska, WA
New to Hipcamp May, 2024 - Step into a magical place, full of flowers, trees, magnificent views and happy pollinators! Bee Inspired Garden is a unique 15 acre 501(c)(3) nonprofit pollinator sanctuary where you can relax to the hum of busy bees, learn about beekeeping, experience first hand the importance of our native pollinators and the challenges they face, walk through the gardens and forests and get pollinator friendly ideas for your garden at home. Adjacent to over five miles of walking trails and overlooking Mount St. Helens, staying at this quiet slice of heaven will create wonderful memories for you and your family! Be sure to look up BeeInspiredGarden.com for additional pictures and magazine articles written about this unique property. (Please note that groups of more than two persons under the age of 25 will need to be accompanied by an older person, parent or guardian,)
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Iz’s Ridge Farmstead Estate

10. Iz’s Ridge Farmstead Estate

100%
(6)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Enumclaw, WA
Enjoy Sweeping Views of the Pastoral Countryside & Cascade Mountain Range from every corner of Iz’s Ridge - a private, shy 10 acre Estate. It feels like being in a painting! 6 miles from downtown Enumclaw, close to many amenities including the White River Amphitheater and the Muckleshoot Casino. Only one hour from Mount Rainier. Crystal Mountain and the Summit at Snoqualmie is only an hour away in either direction. lower fields where there are breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. All pets are welcome, please list specific needs in advance. There are two porta-potties available. If creating art is an interest of yours, welcome to Art on the Farm! I offer daily sessions on the pottery wheel, landscape painting, fused glass and much more. Sign up here: https://calendly.com/artonthefarm. We live on site to tend the animals daily and will be available to assist with any issues that may arise.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$90
 / night

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.

100% (326)

Top-rated campgrounds

River mountain views

1. Cowlitz River Rentals

99%
(484)
54 sites · Tents, RVs · WA
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. 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$78
 / night
The main house. You are welcome to come visit, sit or stroll in the garden or visit the fire pit.

2. Two Frog Bog

99%
(119)
6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Roy, WA
Welcome to Two Frog Bog, a 20-acre forested haven featuring 5 acres of wetland. Our accommodations include a 24-foot yurt (currently under repair, see below) with a private, semi-attached bathhouse, and a 10 x 20-foot tent cabin with outdoor kitchen and private outhouse with composting toilet. You’ll enjoy the outdoor shower that is available for all guests. The communal fire pit is a great place to roast s’mores and maybe meet new friends. But wait, there’s more: a two-tent campground where we provide the tents, a shared, covered and fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a shared composting outhouse (cleaned at least once a day). Campground has access to shower and fire pit as well. Explore our forest trails leading to the serene wetland, and don't miss our unique 26-foot-wide, 10-foot-tall Woodhenge – a magical spot to relax in a hammock, read a book, or stargaze. Two Frog Bog invites you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the variety of accommodations and shared spaces we offer. NEWS  Our property was hit hard in the Bomb Cyclone of Nov '24. Sadly, we lost the Funk House.  The Paisley Paradise yurt was severely damaged and is under repair.  The Dragonfly Den remained unharmed and has been upgraded with the queen bed from the Funk House.  Other areas need rebuilding.  If you've loved this place or wish to visit and would like to help with rebuilding costs, we would be truly grateful.  Read our story at GoFundMe.  https://gofund.me/d44abefc
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Country Refuge Close to City

4. Country Refuge Close to City

100%
(22)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yelm, WA
Offering a lovely, personal campsite area surrounded by beautiful trees nestled in the back of a ranch with horses (and chickens) just on the outskirts of the small, charming town of Yelm. (In some of the pictures you will see the horses in the area of the camp, but whenever there are campers they will not be turned out there.) There is 20 amp electric (which can safely power a 30 amp rv unless you run too many things at once) and water (hose). There is a porta-potty and a shower shed with a tankless water heater for your convenience. We also offer the option of a small bunk room in the barn. Heated and cooled (fan) with a small "kitchen" area, it has a pull out futon which sleeps 2 and requires you supply your own bedding and towels. 1 Hour to Mt. Rainier National Park. 1 1/2 hours to Olympia National Park. 2 1/2 hours to Mt. St. Helens. 1 hour to Seattle. Close to Puget Sound and loads of nature spots. Local hiking and fishing aplenty. Our property is surrounded by nature, yet only a 5 minute drive into town where you will find charming shops, restaurants, cafes and coffee houses. There is also a fabulous movie theater. And only 15 minutes to the Red Wind Casino. There is a railroad track next to the property, but it is only used on Tues. and Thurs. between 10 am and 1 pm when a short train passes by and then returns. Rarely, it may have an additional passing but not often and it has never run after dark or early morning. (It is a military train so pretty punctual). (Also, as we are only a 5 acre property, we are close enough to roads that you may hear some traffic. They are county roads though and not highly traveled for the most part.) **Trigger Warnings: We are near the military base of JBLM and so you will occasionally hear their military doings. Country neighbors occasionally do some target practice, so you may hear some shooting. As we are a horse property, we will also require that everyone sign a release of liability waiver and will require all adults to show legal ID upon arrival. * We require a completed profile with a picture before we accept a booking.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
The Blue site with a peek at the surrounding countryside

5. The Arboretum at Bear Canyon West

100%
(546)
12 sites · RVs · Cinebar, WA
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 10 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 above the shop, right on the property. 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 available Memorial Day to Labor Day. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Cascade Mountain Retreat

6. Cascade Mountain Retreat

100%
(5)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashford, WA
Cascade Mountain Retreat — Your Secluded Gateway to Mount Rainier 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 Retreat offers you a peaceful basecamp with mountain views, forest trails, and natural ambiance. What Awaits You • Choice of tent-only or RV/tent sites (under 32 ft vehicles for RV spots) • A gently wooded trail to the tent sites; an off-road cart is available to help transport gear • On-site restroom facility • Campfires allowed (for tent sites) • Pets welcome • No potable water, no hookups (water and power coming soon!) Why You’ll Love It Here Waking here means breathing mountain air, listening to the 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
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Misty Meadows Adventures Mt.Rainier

7. Misty Meadows Adventures Mt.Rainier

99%
(348)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Mineral, WA
Perfect Basecamp for Mount Rainier! Stay at our cozy homestead and honeybee farm in Mineral, WA, just minutes from Mount Rainier National Park and Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Our 3 campsites offer stunning views of the mountain, wildlife sightings, wildflowers, and incredible stargazing. Enjoy hiking, foraging, and fishing nearby, or explore the area’s lakes and forests. We offer: • Site #1: Largest Site. Fits 2 RVs or 4-6 tents. • Site #2: Fits 1 RV or 4-6 tents and a hammock. • Site #3: Fits 2 tents, most private, no mountain view. We provide dry camping with a port-a-potty, potable water, and cell service for Verizon/T-Mobile users. Pets must be leashed, Fresh eggs, honey for sale, and firewood for sale when available. We also offer beekeeping experiences! Check-in: 2 PM until dark. Guests are greeted upon arrival. Perfect for small groups, families, and nature lovers!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Madrona Meadow

8. Madrona Meadow Camp

98%
(26)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Anderson Island, WA
This secluded meadow has sweeping views, including a stunning shot of Mount Rainier on clear days. Surrounded by forested land including a park preserve, the land is quiet and private. A great place to watch birds, access multiple park trails by foot, or just enjoy being outside in nature. There are old fruit trees on the land that give plentiful fruit (most years) starting in August, and depending on the time of year you'll also find blackberries, huckleberries and salal berries. Additional tent sites are tucked into the trees. Serving all is an outdoor/covered compost toilet tucked into the trees a couple minutes walk from the meadow. There is also a spigot with hose where you can rinse off gear etc. A public swimming hole on Lake Florence is a short drive way, along with beaches. Check back with us in the future as well, because we have big plans for additional amenities.
Pets
Toilets
from 
$44
 / night
A slice of heaven!

9. Bee Inspired Garden

99%
(38)
3 sites · RVs · Onalaska, WA
New to Hipcamp May, 2024 - Step into a magical place, full of flowers, trees, magnificent views and happy pollinators! Bee Inspired Garden is a unique 15 acre 501(c)(3) nonprofit pollinator sanctuary where you can relax to the hum of busy bees, learn about beekeeping, experience first hand the importance of our native pollinators and the challenges they face, walk through the gardens and forests and get pollinator friendly ideas for your garden at home. Adjacent to over five miles of walking trails and overlooking Mount St. Helens, staying at this quiet slice of heaven will create wonderful memories for you and your family! Be sure to look up BeeInspiredGarden.com for additional pictures and magazine articles written about this unique property. (Please note that groups of more than two persons under the age of 25 will need to be accompanied by an older person, parent or guardian,)
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Iz’s Ridge Farmstead Estate

10. Iz’s Ridge Farmstead Estate

100%
(6)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Enumclaw, WA
Enjoy Sweeping Views of the Pastoral Countryside & Cascade Mountain Range from every corner of Iz’s Ridge - a private, shy 10 acre Estate. It feels like being in a painting! 6 miles from downtown Enumclaw, close to many amenities including the White River Amphitheater and the Muckleshoot Casino. Only one hour from Mount Rainier. Crystal Mountain and the Summit at Snoqualmie is only an hour away in either direction. lower fields where there are breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. All pets are welcome, please list specific needs in advance. There are two porta-potties available. If creating art is an interest of yours, welcome to Art on the Farm! I offer daily sessions on the pottery wheel, landscape painting, fused glass and much more. Sign up here: https://calendly.com/artonthefarm. We live on site to tend the animals daily and will be available to assist with any issues that may arise.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$90
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Mount Rainier

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

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

The best private sites RV camping in Mount Rainier 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. 

Top cities in and near Mount Rainier