The best camping in Johns River Wildlife Area, WA

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Discover the serene beauty of Johns River State Wildlife Recreation Area.  

Camper favorites near Johns River Wildlife Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Wild WA Coast Lookout ($75 - $125)

99%
(1402)
49mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Forks, WA
Welcome to Aliya Preserve. Originally owned by the developers of Kalaloch Lodge, this was slated to be an expansion site for the resort. That development would have drastically changed the land. Adam & Sara purchased the property in 2018 to preserve it. We enjoy sharing it with nature aficionados who respect the sacredness of the unblemished land and help us keep it pristine. From your mossy bank perched above the panoramic Pacific, beneath burley spruce tree boughs, magic sunsets unfold at your own super-private and secluded campsite with fire-pit. Adjacent to Olympic National Park, this is the same beach and bluff that defines Kalaloch, LaPush and and other wild Washington coastal icons. As the stewards of this land, we are now inviting respectful and responsible small groups and families to share its beauty. Without prior approval we allow only eight people per group— even when split between campsites. Please make sure to check the site *title* for number of campers allowed in each site. For example only two people are allowed in sites 1 and 4. Up to two dogs are allowed per site for a $25 perpup fee, which must be paid in the "extras" section at checkout {dogs enjoy the beach the most!!}
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

99%
(1645)
3.4mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 5 sites · RVs · Aberdeen, WA
We bought this land in 2017, there were 7 derelict mobile homes on the property. We cleaned up the area and remodeled the house next door and put in the 5 RV sites. We hope you enjoy this property as much as we do, it is a one-of-a-kind beautiful, quiet place. All of our sites have full hook-ups (water, sewer, and power). The sites are just a couple feet from the bay with access to miles of beach hiking. You can walk to Bottle Beach State Park which is approximately 1 mile north or hike about a mile south to Elk River. Enjoy unobstructed views of Westport and the freight ships coming into the harbor. Enjoy a peaceful beach with amazing sunsets. Whether you are surfing for the weekend or tuna-fishing, this is your go to spot - you will not be disappointed. Westport is 7 miles by car and the Westport Winery is only 5 miles. There is two nearby boat launches - one off of Elk River just 2 miles away and the other off of Johns River launch just 6 miles away. We are located in the middle of an outdoor paradise and want others to enjoy all it has to offer. ***If you have questions about how to add sites to your reservation or change dates, please reach out to HipCamp support. They will be able to better assist you.*** PLEASE NO FIREWORKS ON SITE OR SURROUNDING AREA.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

Travers Mountain/Wildman’s Hideout

28mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Elma, WA
Campfire Tale: The Legend of John Tornow "The Wildman of the Wynooche." More than a century ago, the forests around Travers Mountain were home to one of Washington’s most mysterious figures — John Tornow, the Wildman of the Wynooche. Born in 1880, Tornow grew up as a gifted woodsman and hunter. He was known for his uncanny ability to move silently through the timber, living off the land with the skill of someone more animal than man. But his story turned dark after the tragic deaths of his nephews, the Bauer twins, whose family homestead you can still see from our property. Accused of their killings, Tornow fled deep into the wilderness. For nearly two years, he evaded every search party and posse that hunted him. Locals whispered that he was impossible to track — some even swore he could vanish into the trees like a ghost. He became both feared and respected, remembered as part outlaw, part legend. The tale ends in 1913, when a massive manhunt cornered Tornow in the woods. Even then, he fought fiercely, leaving his mark on Grays Harbor history forever. So when you camp here whether its under the trees-at Tornow’s Timberline, perched high at Outlaw’s Overlook, or gathered by the fire at Wildman’s Saloon Stop — listen closely to the night sounds. The owls, the wind, and the rustling branches might just remind you of the Wildman, still wandering in spirit through these hills.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night

Coastal Family Hideaway

98%
(130)
13mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ocean Shores, WA
Ocean Shores is known as a small charming coastal community with an abundance of recreational and cultural activities. It is also surrounded by miles of sandy beaches on the Pacific Ocean as well as Grays Harbor. Its 23 miles of inter-connected canals and lakes charm you with their breathtaking views. Surrounded by trees and vegetation you will have all the privacy you seek as you are the only campers here. This is a very large space to share with those of your choosing. There are no "lights out" or "quiet times" for you to worry about. Large open space for camping with friends and family to gather and enjoy each others company.  Dogs are able to be leash free and enjoy the space as well. Only a ten min private walk to the ocean through the dunes to enjoy beautiful sandy beaches, kite flying, picnics on the beach, day camping, amazing sunsets and so much more. Rubber boots (maybe some waders, depending on the winter) are recommended for the hike to the beach during the winter months (November-May) as you will have a small trek through seasonal wet lands. You may also access the beach/ocean by vehicle just a few minutes away in town.  You will be located between the Quinault Casino and the City of Ocean Shores where you can enjoy all the wonderful activities there is to offer.  If kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding is what you are seeking, many are unaware of the 23 miles of scenic canals in the City of Ocean Shores.  You may also fish for bass, rainbow trout, yellow perch and bluegill sunfish in these waterways.   I hear there are a couple little Islands to explore as well.  What a hidden treasure! There are three launch sites available we can give if needed.  And if you left something at home, sitting there thinking he was going to grab it (haha) no worries, you more than likely can grab it in town. The Ace hardware is amazing!  There is an Arcade, golf, miniature golf, go carts, water go carts, bowling, horseback rentals (seasonal) for the beach, electric bike rentals, scooter rentals and so many more activities for you to enjoy.  A wonderful place where memories are made.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

Bayshore RV Park & Guest Suites

95%
(38)
13mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 42 sites · RVs, Lodging · Tokeland, WA
Discover the Serenity of Bayshore located on the Willapa Bay, we experience the ebb and flow of the tides twice a day. Our campsite offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Witnessing nature is a must-do while here, and our beachfront sites offer excellent viewpoints. Bayshore RV Park offers 37 full-site hookups in Tokeland, Washington. 11 of the sites are our premier bay view sites that all come with a fire pit on the bay to spend time with friends and family. We also offer 4 dry camp spots and 3 guest suites to accommodate the guest with no RV. The game room is a popular amenity in our park that offers air hockey, shuffleboard, corn hole, arcade games, a pool table, and a ping pong table. We have a playground on site for kids. Vending machines with snacks and drinks are located on our property, and we offer firewood and ice sales on-site. The laundry room on-site is for the convenience of our guests.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$85
 / night

The Sand G.O.A.T.

100%
(6)
25mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ocean Park, WA
One acre wooded lot a quarter mile from the Willapa bay and 1.25 miles to drive on beach access. “Bleat Retreat”- (Site 1) has full hook ups and a hammock stand. “Goachella”- (Site 2) is a back down area with a woody view. There is a communal firepit as well as a solo stove for use by either site. There is a flat grassy space for outdoor games and near all the major attractions without being in a busy area. The property also has WiFi mesh with fiber speeds. Come stay with the family! These sites are for fully contained units and do not have access to a shower or toilet. Owners may be onsite at times, and keep a camper at site of their own. Site #1 “The Bleat Retreat” will accommodate a large trailer up to 40’ and 50amps. Site #2 “Goachella” has a sloped back down and will accommodate a trailer up to 25’, a camper van, or a roof top tent set up. This site also allows tent camping (for now, until the grass grows in thicker this is on the gravel area or sand near the utility pole) as long as you provide your own toilet facilities.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

Twisted Tree Camp

100%
(19)
33mi from Johns River Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Long Beach, WA
Twisted Tree Camp s a 13 acre property about 5 miles north of Long Beach, Washington. The property is long and skinny, we have built road that accesses the back of the property. The campsite is in the middle of the woods, you can wake up to many birds singing and no neighbors in sight. In the evening you can listen to the frogs singing while you stare at th campfire. The road winds thru the trees and this is not suitable for vehicles longer than 23 feet or wider than 8 feet. There are multiple twisted trees along the road as you drive in to the campsite. We have recently built the road to the campsite at the back of the land so there is still evidence of recent construction along the road. There are two cameras on site - one at the entrance along Pacific Way and one by the campsite at the end of the road. Cameras are there to monitor the site after hipcampers have left and will not be on while campers have rented the space. Nearby there is SnowPeak Campfield that has a sauna and hot tub. There are many restaurants and public beaches to experience. During the summer there are numerous events like the kite festival, sandcastle festival, Rod Run and others.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

The best camping in Johns River Wildlife Area, WA guide

Overview

About

Experience the beauty of nature while camping near Johns River Wildlife Area. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surrounding landscapes as you set up camp amidst the lush forests and peaceful rivers. Explore the area's hiking trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Capture breathtaking views of the scenic vistas and discover hidden gems along the way. After a day of outdoor exploration, unwind around a cozy campfire at a Johns River Wildlife Recreation Area camping site, cherishing the moments under the starry night sky. Create lasting memories with friends and family in this enchanting wilderness retreat.

When to go

The best times to visit Johns River State Wildlife Recreation Area are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer months can be busy, so plan ahead. Winter visits can be rewarding for solitude-seekers, though some areas may be less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the area can experience high tides and changing conditions.
  • Wildlife is abundant, so bring your binoculars and camera, but maintain a safe distance from animals.
  • Some trails may be muddy or flooded; wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
  • While there are no amenities on-site, nearby parks offer facilities, so plan accordingly.
  • Respect the natural habitat by following Leave No Trace principles and disposing of trash properly.
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