Camping in Alder Lake Park

100% (6 reviews)

Alder Lake Park: A scenic retreat for camping, boating, and fishing.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Alder Lake Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Alder Lake Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Alder Lake Park

99%
(109)

Hidden Meadow Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Olympia, WA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
96%
(325)

Camp Hope

15 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Oakville, WA
This is a camping location with ACCESS to the river, access to OUR farm land, ponds and DNR land. Our camp spots are private and not stacked on top of each other. Right now we have dry camping with outdoor honey buckets. We are wanting something that you can clear your mind, camp In peace. We also offer wood for SALE and all of our sites have wood burning areas. We also have ice and delivery services. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS PLEASE ASK We are about 45 minutes from ocean beaches, only a few minutes from the best riding, hiking and boating in the world. We have a cute bar and restaurant within a mile. Also gas and groceries are close as well. Boat launch is about 1/2 a block easy access. There is talk about sites at the river, we have some in their premature stage. This is NOT offered through our Hip Camp site!!!!! However, we do upon arrival let people stay right on the water on a case-by-case deal and NOT on busy holiday weekends. There are reasons for this: When we initially opened, we allowed people to camp there through Hip Camp and I was getting low stars ratings because Entitled people thought for $28 bucks, they got the whole river to themselves and would fight with other campers, than they would cry because the bathroom was too far. IT JUST GOT TO EXHAUSTING. So now I do it judging by the vibe the camper gives me when they arrive and how full we our. Next year I’m going to try to set up some premium sites on the river and work super hard at getting amenities that will match that price. But for now, Enjoy Camp Hope and the river ACCESS too!! We appreciate the wonderful feedback everyone gives it helps us grow with you!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
95%
(43)

J Squared River Ranch

9 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Castle Rock, WA
This property is currently in development. It offers tranquility, with occasional visits from deer. River access is just a short distance away, providing opportunities for fishing, sunbathing, or floating along the Cowlitz River. Just follow the pink flagging from our "Black Tail River Trail" into the woods to the river. Conveniently located near the towns of Kelso and Longview, and only 2.7 miles from Castle Rock. Two full hookups are available, two water/power sites, along with ample dry camping areas. We have a porta potty as well. Horses are welcome on the property, as are leashed/penned/friendly pets. Please clean up after your animals! Cell phone coverage is good here, we do not have wifi available. We offer firewood for sale and allow propane fire pits. We also have a community fire pit for our campers, called the Lave Pit, directly across from our dry camp area. No fireworks allowed.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
95%
(165)

Mountain Lavender Escape

5 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Randle, WA
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
93%
(81)

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
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$22.50
 / night
98%
(181)

The Healing Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Yelm, WA
Come enjoy your stay with farm animals!  When you get here you will get a tour of the farm and introduced to all the animals. After, you can spend as much time with them. We have chickens, turkeys, baby chicks, ducks, goats and baby goats, livestock guardian dogs, wallabies, two capybara's, a porcupine, guinea pigs, patagonian mara's, alpacas, a llama, ponies, cats, rabbits, and a tortoise. We love our animals and each one has a specific purpose they fulfill. Enjoy some quiet time in nature and with all the animals. We encourage to just sit and hang out with the animals and be in the present moment. Animals are very healing.  We are about an hour from Mount Rainier National Park, an hour and a half from Seattle and Portland and Olympia is only 30 minutes away. To see more of what we do and more of the animals, add us on Instagram@thehealingfarmwa or check out our website thehealingfarmwa.com We are happy to share our space with others!  -Jason and Kat
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(457)

The Arboretum at Bear Canyon West

12 sites · RVs12 acres · 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

The best camping near Alder Lake Park guide

Overview

About

Will you marry me? I mean—will you visit me? Either way, Alder Lake Park is practically on it’s knees, begging for you to say yes! With these expansive lake views and the fact that it is only a two-hour drive from Seattle, how could you not? Start your day under tall pines, brewing your favorite cup of joe. Then, use that caffeine kick and get out on the water! This lake is ripe for wakeboarding, kayaking or jet-skiing and there’s plenty of sandy shoreline for basking in the sun. There really couldn’t be a better place to dive in and get your feet wet! Fishing and picnicking is also ace here if you’re into those fun, relaxing kinds of things. Clean and quiet campgrounds makes Alder Lake over-the-top for the tent savvy, but they are just as friendly and welcoming to RV’ers and big boats. Are you ready to say yes yet?

Notable campgrounds

  • Main Campground: Offers full hookups and is a hub for families and friends seeking a classic camping experience.
  • Osprey Campground: A favorite for its proximity to the water, ideal for anglers and boaters alike.
  • Rocky Point Campground: Secluded and scenic, perfect for those looking to escape into nature's embrace.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book online or call ahead to secure your spot up to nine months in advance for peak season stays.
  • For off-peak visits, take advantage of the first-come, first-served policy for walk-in campers.
  • Keep an eye on the calendar; reservations open on May 15 for the summer season.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your preferred site is unavailable.

When to go

The prime time to visit Alder Lake Park is between May 15 and Sept. 15, when all facilities are open and the weather is most conducive for outdoor activities. Off-season visitors can enjoy a quieter experience, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check the current burn ban status to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
  • Day-use parking fees apply on weekends and holidays during the summer months.
  • Accessible restrooms and coin-operated showers enhance the camping experience.
  • Stay informed about lake levels and boat launch availability for a smooth boating experience.
  • Remember to call ahead for the latest information on park rules and closures.
100%
6 ratings · 1 review