Bell tents near Walla Walla with fishing

There's no better place to unwind than Walla Walla—the best-kept secret of Washington wine country. Rolling green hills, winding rivers, and lush horse pastures surround the wine town. It's the perfect backdrop for a laid-back camping trip. When you're not wine tasting, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Walla Walla Valley. Cycle through sprawling vineyards, fish the local creeks or hike through the neighboring mountains. A short drive brings you to Lewis and Clark Trail State Park, a popular camping spot for families. Pitching a tent here means lounging on 1,333 feet of Touchet River shoreline. For a little more adventure, explore the old-growth forest. On a hot summer day, the park becomes an oasis for swimming, tubing, and fishing. (Word has it the rainbow trout are always biting.) For more camping in the valley, look to the RV parks and cabins around Walla Walla. You can also find private tent camping areas on local farms and ranches. Just imagine waking up to the stomping of horses' hooves. Plus, local campgrounds and RV resorts put you at the doorstep of local fun. Think golf courses, wineries, and trout streams. To the east, gentle foothills rise into the jagged peaks of Umatilla National Forest. The 1.4 million-acre wilderness straddles the line between Oregon and Washington, offering a secluded escape. Great news—the forest hosts several campgrounds with picnic tables just a rock's throw from Walla Walla.