Camping in Gifford Pinchot National Forest

93% (77 reviews)

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Stay at a public campground in Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

100%
(7)

Paradise Pines

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA
Closest to the Paradise entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, our quiet and forested campground offers the perfect way to experience the Pacific Northwest. With just two primitive campsites, Paradise Pines was designed to feel personal and peaceful—never crowded. Whether you're gathering around a crackling fire, waking up to birdsong, or heading out to explore Rainier’s trails, we believe Ashford is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. We chose to keep things off-grid and low-impact. That means no electricity, water, or trash services—just the essentials: a tent pad, picnic table, fire ring, and fresh mountain air. Guests share access to a well-maintained communal porta potty, and we kindly ask that all campers follow Leave No Trace principles. It’s how we protect this land for everyone who comes after. Whether you’re hiking the Wonderland Trail, chasing wildflowers, or simply watching the sunset through the trees, we hope Paradise Pines becomes your basecamp for mountain memories. Check out our Free Travel Guide at Paradisepinescampground.com! We’re glad you’re here.
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$30
 / night
89%
(109)

Silver Ridge Ranch & Campground

160 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Easton, WA
Tucked beneath the pine-covered ridges of Washington’s Central Cascades, Silver Ridge Ranch offers a peaceful mountain escape just 90 minutes east of Seattle. Whether you're snowmobiling in the winter or hiking, paddling, or relaxing in the summer, this historic ranch blends rustic charm with year-round adventure. Located in Easton, WA—just minutes from Lake Easton and miles of forest trails—our ranch features a mix of lodging options including cozy cabins, glamping yurts, star-gazing domes, and tent/RV sites. With sweeping mountain views, fresh alpine air, and direct trail access from the property, it’s an ideal basecamp for both quiet getaways and group gatherings. Amenities include: Access to snowmobile, ATV, biking & hiking trails directly from camp Lodge with bar/lounge, fireplace, and occasional live music Shower house, clean restrooms, picnic areas, propane fire pits Group sites, event space, horse trailer parking & seasonal corral Pet-friendly (leash required), family-friendly, RV-friendly Local highlights: 5 minutes to Lake Easton (boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming) Trailheads, rivers, and backcountry access right out your door 20 minutes to Cle Elum for groceries, gas, and dining
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$35
 / night

The Cove Lakeside Retreat

15 sites · Lodging5 acres · Naches, WA
The Cove Lakeside Retreat stands out as a unique oasis in the heart of Washington, offering a serene escape surrounded by the natural beauty of the region. Nestled near the vibrant urban amenities of Yakima in the arid landscape of eastern Washington, this retreat is a favorite among local skiers, hikers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as travelers passing through on road trips. As the seasons change, the gentle trails transform into breathtaking displays of nature. In the fall, the foliage bursts into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, while spring brings a stunning array of lilies, chokecherry, dogwood, and blossoming catalpa trees. During the summer months, the lush green lawns and shaded trees create an inviting atmosphere for camping and picnicking. With its proximity to various outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and boating, The Cove Lakeside Retreat is not just a campground; it’s a gateway to adventure. Nearby attractions, such as swimming holes and local restaurants, enhance the experience, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you're seeking solitude or a fun-filled getaway, this retreat offers the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.
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$40
 / night
97%
(217)

Masabaje Camp

5 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Ellensburg, WA
Purchased in 2013 after a fire came through the area. We've spent the last 7 years regenerating the land, planting trees, building our house and collecting places for people to rest their heads. Masabaje is the first two letters of each of our parents names (Margaret, Sandy, Barry, Jerry). We offer five listings - a converted schoolbus, an Airstream, retro trailer, truck bed glamp pod and tent spot. Meet Birdy, a semi-converted Blue Bird school bus with a comfortable queen mattress, couch, two recliners, dry kitchen, cooking utensils, and camp stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 4 minute walk). Birdy sits at "Top Pond", farthest from the house in a super quiet and private spot. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). There is no electricity available in Birdy. Devices can be charged up at the house. There is also no heater in Birdy, overnight temperatures in September and October can dip down into the mid-low 40's or lower. Meet Tin Man, we found him after he had been in an accident. We bandaged him up and he became the first place to sleep when we bought our empty land. He has a comfortable double mattress, couch, chair, kitchen, cooking utensils, and two burner stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 30 second walk). Tin Man sits on our driveway round-a-bout and is closest to the house. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). Ellensburg is known for its wind and our land is just down from a wind farm. We cannot control the wind, but Birdy sits in a pretty wind protected oasis. Masabaje is a clothing optional space. We are less than 2 hours from Seattle, 1 hour to Yakima wine country, 40 minutes to Vantage, 40 minutes to Leavenworth, 50 minutes to Snoqualmie Pass, 15 minutes to Ellensburg, 25 minutes to Roslyn, 25 minutes to Yakima River Canyon for floating and hiking, and so much more!
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$24
 / night
93%
(86)

Elysian Retreat

10 sites · Tents15 acres · Orting, WA
Welcome to our tranquil retreat on 15 acres of diverse landscapes at Elysian Retreat in Orting, WA. Our property offers a harmonious blend of open pasture, lush tree cover, and dense woods, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure. Access the Carbon River and Orting Foothills trail via our coded gate in the NW corner of our paddock. You'll enjoy a 5-minute walk or bike ride along a small, maintained path that opens up to a beautiful view of the Carbon River. (Map included in our Hipcamp images) As you explore our serene surroundings, you'll discover a peaceful small stream meandering through the property, offering a constant flow of natural beauty and wildlife. Watch for majestic elk, graceful deer, vibrant waterfowl, and elusive fish as they frequent the stream, creating a symphony of sights and sounds. Our friendly herd of five horses & four goats roam freely within the fenced area, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of our retreat. They're always eager to greet visitors and may even offer a helping hoof as you set up camp or simply relax under the shade of a tree. Whether you prefer to unwind with a good book beside the babbling stream, take a stroll through the woods, or simply soak in the serene ambiance of nature, our property offers endless opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Parking is available within the securely locked pasture, ensuring easy access to your vehicle throughout your stay. In rare instances of excess rain, alternative parking arrangements will be made to ensure your safety and convenience. We have Portable Fire Pits for rent in our extras along with Firewood Bundles and 1Dozen eggs available for purchase. Trash and recycling are available at the entrance to ensure a clean campsite is left behind. Fire pits also need to be returned to their pickup location. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at our picturesque retreat. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of our land with you. 5 Min to Downtown Orting 40 Min to Rainier National Park 45 Min to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
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$22.50
 / night
100%
(1)

Lake Sena Campground at Circle 8 Ranch

66 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Cle Elum, WA
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!
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$25
 / night
94%
(165)

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.
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$36
 / night
90%
(573)

Bumps & Bruzas

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Orting, WA
I recently bought this place from a friend's family. The name is in honor of him, "Bruzas in Bumps & Bruzas." He loved having people out all the time for fires and BBQs and just random fun. This place was went meant to be shared in his vision, so thats what I'm doing with it. We no longer allow dogs due to my dogs no longer being friendly to visiting dogs after being attacked. Sorry for the inconvenience. The setup is simple, we are a property on the Carbon River with nearly 800ft of river front access. The levee runs along the length of the property creating continuous camping availability. Please honor the property and adopt the LEAVE NO TRACE habits~ if possible please leave it better than you found it. We're a casual family friendly environment. We look forward to seeing you at our special property on the Carbon River. Please contact us for any other questions you may have!
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$32
 / night
100%
(476)

The Arboretum at Bear Canyon West

12 sites · RVs12 acres · Mossyrock, 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!
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$40
 / night
97%
(127)

Majestic Meadows

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Graham, WA
Majestic Meadows is located on the back forested side of 10 acres. Each campsite is placed far enough apart to have privacy to enjoy the serenity of the camping experience. The property is filled with wild life. Mornings will be greeted with birdsong and our fields occasionally with elk, dear, and coyotes. Our property is a bird haven, so if you love watching birds we get regular sightings of Hawks, Eagles, Sparrows, Robins and little peaks of the adorable Humming birds. Our bunny population has no issues reproducing and filling all our bushes with their cute tails. If adventure is your desire, we are located perfectly! Mt. Rainier scenic drive can be enjoyed from either 401 or a short drive to the southern entrance. Passing through Elbe where you can stop for a nice bite to eat on a train at the Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Co. or visit a car show in the small quaint town of Eatonville. There's a plethora of things to do from hiking to kayaking, fishing, scenic drives, memorable dining, buying local organic fruit, visiting the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and so much more. We truly love our property and it's location and we're excited to share it with you. NOTE: Please clean up after pets and do not leave your trash. We do not offer trash services here. If you see a trash bin it is most likely for storing our kindling. Please do not leave your trash in it. Pack it out with you. We maintain our property and clean the toilets once or twice a week. I'm more than happy to answer any questions you might have about your stay or local attractions.
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$45
 / night

Camping in Gifford Pinchot National Forest guide

Overview

About

One of the oldest national forests in the United States, Gifford Pinchot spans a massive 1.3 million acres and encompasses Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. With more than 1,200 miles of trails, 1,300 miles of streams, 100 lakes, and a landscape that spans old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and glaciers, the region is prime for adventure seekers. More than 30 established campgrounds offer plenty of overnight options, while campers seeking solitude can take advantage of dozens of designated backcountry campsites and dispersed backcountry camping in remote locations.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for Mount Adams views and access: Located at the base of Mount Adams, the Takhlakh Lake Campground offers easy access to nearby trails.
  • Best for lake access: The Forlorn Lakes Campground is set near 16 scenic lakes and ponds, with several lakeside sites. 
  • Best for families: The Beaver Campground offers flush toilets, a playground, and easy access to hiking and biking trails.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Plan ahead and make your peak season reservation as soon as possible. Reservations  for most sites can be made up to six months in advance.
  2. If you don’t have a reservation, arrive first thing in the morning to grab any potential unreserved sites, or those available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  3. Seasonal opening and closing dates vary from campground to campground.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time in the forest, so you should plan ahead to grab popular campsites. During peak season, reservations are required to enter popular areas and permits are required for climbing and some backcountry camping. Late summer and early fall are peak huckleberry and mushroom harvesting season, while snow-dependent downhill skiing is usually available at White Pass Ski Area from late November to early April. Check the weather and the status of campground, trails, roads, boating sites, and other facilities before finalizing plans.

Know before you go

  1. Permits are required for fishing, hunting, and the harvesting of berries and mushrooms. 
  2. Advanced reservations are required for the Lewis River Recreation Area and Mount Adams Wilderness Area from mid-June to September. Climbing permits are required for Mount St. Helens (April to October) and Mount Adams above 7,000 feet (May to September). An overnight camping permit is required for Mount Margaret Backcountry between March and November. 
  3. Bring headlamps or flashlights to explore Ape Cave. Tickets are required for vehicles parking on-site.
  4. Cell phone coverage is limited in many areas of the park. 
93%
77 ratings · 22 reviews
  1. Gifford Pinchot National Forest