- Capitol State Forest/
- Camping
The best camping in Capitol State Forest, WA
Discover Capitol State Forest's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Top-rated campsites near Capitol State Forest
Oracle campsite @ Delphi Farms
1. Oracle campsite @ Delphi Farms
91%
(101)
5.7mi from Capitol State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
On site attractions: Forest trail and Meadow walks, bird/nature viewing, Giant Redwood and other trees to hug
Local Attractions:
McLane Creek Nature Trails (Beaver dams) 2 min,
Black Lake (year round fishing) 2 min,
Capitol Forest (Mt. bike, hike, camping) 5 min,
WA State Capitol building 15 min,
Evergreen State College 20 min,
Tacoma 45 min, Seattle 75 miles, Portland 120 miles.
Here at Delphi Farms we are Earth Steward Conservationist committed to a sustainable life style that promotes Peace, Love, and Prosperity for all Humanity. Creating a peaceful coexistence in a harmonic community.
Rules:
You agree to positive non confrontational, non aggressive, non violent communication. Children need to be under adult supervision at all times in the campground, and be in campsites at dusk. Campers are responsible for everyone at their campsite. Guests must leave at dusk. Quiet time is from 10:00 pm to 9:00 am. Radios/music must go off at this time. Please be courteous of neighbors by keeping noise levels down and confined to your site to ensure that everyone has a good camping experience.
NO littering, fires or fireworks allowed. October – May out door BBQ or propane fire pit OK if you have ability to extinguish a fire. No smoking outside of your campsite. Glass containers/bottles, cigarettes/joints are not permitted outside of your campsite. You agree to dispose/recycle your own waste. Pack out what you pack in. Leave only footprints, take only pictures.
Do not harm the wildlife. Dogs must be leashed (6ft max leash) at all times and cleaned up after immediately and cannot be left unattended in your Campsite. Speed limit throughout the campground is 5mph. Please do not park along any of the roads; they must be kept clear for emergency vehicles.
The Camper will use the Campsite in a manner which is safe, orderly, lawful, sanitary, clean and respectful of the rights of other Campers The Campground is not liable for weather conditions, natural events, damages caused by wrongful conduct or carelessness of others, any injury, damage, or loss/theft. You are responsible for taking precautions for your own safety.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$18
/ night
Deer Haven Family Farm
2. Deer Haven Family Farm
92%
(112)
6.7mi from Capitol State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Just 2.2 miles from I-5 is 10 acres of beautiful farm land with Beaver creek running through it. There are trees, open playing fields, volleyball net, play yard with trampoline and rope swings, pond with adjacent sand play area, deck and fire pit.
Furry friends are welcome! Please count them as a person when booking.
Hot outdoor showers are available to campers mid March through mid October.
There is one composting toilet near the volleyball field.
We sell large firewood bundles for $10. There are two community fire pits.
Wildlife likely to be seen: black-tailed deer, raccoons, grey squirrels, rabbits, opossum, various birds, frogs and crawdads.
*10% WINTER DISCOUNT CODE FOR Nov 1 - Feb. 28: JHZHMBMQ
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Littlerock Stables Private Gated
3. Littlerock Stables Private Gated
93%
(20)
7.6mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
RV and Camper parking on a gated 8 acre working horse stables. Full RV hook-up with power, water, garbage, and sewer. We can accommodate horses in a stall or paddock with shelter for an extra fee. Lots of free space. We can accomodate longer stays. Firepit out back that you can use. We welcome longer term stays. More can be seen on our website littlerockstables.com
It's a level gravel spot for parking. Horses are free for petting. Please be aware of the electric fences (they are hot...).
Also, the stables/arena is under re-building, so please do not enter (lots of exposed nails).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Flying M
4. Flying M
96%
(78)
7.6mi from Capitol State Forest · 2 sites
Built in the early 1990's by Roger Musgrove as a playground for the Thurston county mounted posse, Flying M Stables has been home to countless equestrian activities over the years. Purchased in 2018 by Stratford and Sarah Mills along with her parents, we have been working to restore this facility as one of the community favorites. We house a 30000 square foot horse arena and 28 stall barn and 1/2 mile exercise track on 41 sprawling acres. Minutes from I-5 for easy access to nearby Millersylvania State Park, Capitol Forest, Downtown Olympia and the Farmers Market as well as Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Healing Hearts Ranch
5. Healing Hearts Ranch
100%
(126)
7.6mi from Capitol State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Healing Hearts Ranch was started to inspire hope and healing through partnership with horses. Equine Assisted Learning sessions are available by contacting your host for more information.
The ranch is 23 acres partially wooded with a nature trail and open fenced paddocks and fields. We have a herd of horses on the property and offer Equine Assisted Learning and riding lessons onsite. Tent site is in wooded area at back of property, porta potty by the barn available. Water from spigot by tent site.
Guests love it here: "What a nice surprise! I was not sure what to expect staying on a horse ranch, but it was everything I could have hoped for and more. Kristy was an awesome host and there was one other group up by the rv pad, but we hardly saw them. Dogs were very friendly and Kristy let us use a propane fire-pit to provide warmth and a fire for our tent site. The bathrooms were clean and there was some water by our site, but we did not use it.
The camp, for the tent site… we arrived and she drove us all over her property and told us to just choose where we wanted to camp. We chose to stay in back of the horse area. While we could see the house from there, we didn’t care and if you want to move back in the woods further, there are spots back there too that would provide more privacy if you need that. This is a great site and a one of a kind experience being that close to the horses."
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅
6. Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅
96%
(756)
9mi from Capitol State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience breathtaking views! Positioned atop a 500ft hill, you will witness phenomenal sights of Puget Sound inlets, Mount Rainer, St Helens, Adams, and much more on a clear day.
Resting against the Capitol State Forest, and mere miles away from Olympic National Forest, this serene secluded location is surrounded by majestic beauty. Recently awarded runner-up for the best Hipcamp in Washington 2023!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$51
/ night
Camp Hope
7. Camp Hope
96%
(416)
9.9mi from Capitol State Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
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!!!!! 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. IT JUST GOT TO EXHAUSTING. In the coming years 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!!
* PLEASE READ THE SITE DECRIPTION ASWELL WITH MORE INFORMATION *
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Summit Farms: Peaceful & Enjoyable
8. Summit Farms: Peaceful & Enjoyable
98%
(266)
11mi from Capitol State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
We are Mitch and Michelle, and we welcome you to our little slice of Heaven. While we are working hard to be good stewards of this beautiful land, and growing produce to be sold at local farmers markets and through other community-based channels – we also love sharing this hidden gem with visitors. Our 30-acre property is a turn-of-the-century homestead, featuring a Heritage listed barn, located on the Thurston Bountiful Byway, and just minutes from the HWY5/Exit 99 - yet private and secluded. Bordering a state park – with a mix of wetlands, prairie grass and forest – we offer both RV full hook-ups and dry campsites. Great for digital nomads, families, travel nurses, solo retreats or small group gatherings - safe, secure, serene, and enjoyable! Come to relax, have some fun, or both! Welcome to Summit Farms!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT HERE:
~Our 115 y/o Big Red Barn is a sight to see! Not only gorgeous and unique, but a cool place to hang out. A perfect indoor spot for morning yoga, a quiet place to read, board games, a group meal, or some tunes and a game of pool on the slate table! We also have a 10ft screen, projector, speakers, mics and dozens of DVDs (or bring your own) And for a small additional fee, we can set up a movie and/or karaoke night. Please ask for details.
~We are just a few minutes’ drive from Millersylvania State Park, where you’ll find amazing trails, a lake for fishing, swimming and paddling, a seasonal snack bar and beer garden.
~There is Room To Roam. Our place boasts plenty of open space for walks, outdoor games, kiddos to run around, and secluded sanctuaries. Toss a ball with your youngster, play an unforgettable cornhole tournament, or just wander about, pick a spot and let your senses take over - a perfect place for quiet reflection.
~ If you pay attention, you’ll enjoy much wildlife not just on the ground, but in the air and waterways! Depending on the season, you’ll spot frogs, butterflies and dragonflies, eagles, hawks, garden snakes, rabbits, salamanders, herons, dozens of wild birds – of course the greedy deer families stealing apples and bedding down at dusk – and much more!
~Here, you’ll see Wide Open Skies! So, we don’t have the shadiest campsites around… but during your stay, you’ll never miss any of the sublime beauty above
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$36
/ night
North Fork Land & Livestock RV Park
9. North Fork Land & Livestock RV Park
90%
(10)
12mi from Capitol State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Quiet farm RV park just off I-5 in Grand Mound with pasture views, grazing cattle, and a clean, safe setting—only 5 minutes to Great Wolf Lodge and close proximity to several medical centers and hospitals!
Join us, and enjoy a peaceful stay on our working farm in Grand Mound, just minutes off I-5. Our clean, quiet, and safe RV park offers wide pasture views, fresh air, and a relaxed rural setting — while keeping you close to Centralia, Tumwater, and Olympia. We’re a favorite stop for families visiting Great Wolf Lodge, sports teams traveling to the NW Sports Hub, traveling nurses, and retired RVers looking for a calm, well-kept place to recharge. You’ll be surrounded by grazing cattle, horses, and chickens, with open skies and country views — yet only: 5 minutes from Great Wolf Lodge - 10 minutes from the NW Sports Hub in Centralia - Close to Providence Centralia, Providence Olympia, and Capital Medical Center - Near dining, coffee, and groceries in Grand Mound, Tenino, Centralia, and Tumwater. Whether you’re passing through for a night or staying longer for work or events, our farm RV park offers the perfect balance of location, comfort, and quiet!
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Camp Birdwatch
10. Camp Birdwatch
98%
(164)
12mi from Capitol State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp Birdwatch is 15 acres up against a wetland slough that has wildlife galore. Many bird species, come and see what birds you can find. A mile from the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds which has car racing all summer long. Capital Forest entrances are nearby. Located in Elma, WA. Local access to Chehalis river, Porter Creek falls and Vance Creek Park for your fishing, swimming and hiking needs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Grey Owl Hollow
11. Grey Owl Hollow
100%
(249)
13mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site
Once a working farm, Grey Owl Hollow sat fallow for over 20 years.
In 2017, Seth left the corporate world and he and Yvonne dedicated themselves to the stewardship of this charming locale.
The densely planted lumber forest was trimmed and thinned, allowing deer and other wildlife migration while providing shady campsites for nature lovers.
Seth has begun planting a redwood grove in the high meadow and Yvonne is adding hazelnut and walnut trees to the 80-year-old apple orchard.
Grey Owl Hollow is in trust and is intended to remain a nature sanctuary for future generations. Our 20 acre piece of heaven includes a fir tree forest for cool camping in the heat of summer. Romp with your dog through the rolling meadow, meditate or play in the 35' labyrinth and - in early fall - help yourselves to blackberries and apples in the orchard. Black-tailed Columbian deer are regular visitors, while coyotes, owls, and frogs may serenade you in the evening.
We are firm believers in the value of time in the woods as a balm for physical, psychological, and emotional distress. Seth, your host, is a certified Forest and Nature Therapy guide, and two-hour guided walks are available as an extra with your booking.At Grey Owl Hollow, we are dedicated to providing a delightful camping experience with whimsy, wonder and tranquility.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$250
/ night
The Land Sanctuary of Erosia
12. The Land Sanctuary of Erosia
99%
(41)
15mi from Capitol State Forest · 6 sites
Escape the Crowds at Erosia Land Sanctuary - Book Now!
Potential federal forest camp closures this coming season mean booking early is key! Discover Erosia's 13 wooded acres, featuring the incredible Blessing Tree ("Ambrosia of Erosia"), a big leaf maple with a woman's figure in its trunk. Explore our walkable 45-ft memorial labyrinth (you can add a personalized brick- ask hosts if interested).
Adventure Hub:
Ocean Shores (1 hr): Beaches, kites, fishing.
Lake Cushman/Staircase (1 hr): Old growth, hiking, swimming.
Olympia (30 min): Food, museums, markets.
Tacoma (1 hr); Seattle (1.5 hr);
Portland (2 hr).
**CENTRALLY LOCATED** for Western WA day trips!
**Important Notes:** NO potable water onsite - pack all you need. Swimming hole/YMCA are close for bathing needs. ADA porta-potty available. Fire pits at each site. Ask about picnic tables/chairs- they are at most sites. Firewood available for a nightly fee.
Hosts Karl and Sarah (Rare Earth Designs - spiritual wood gifts) live on-site in the 5th wheel trailer in the main meadow if you need assistance. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while they build their permanent home and shop, living now out of temporary buildings. Donations over $50 to the non-profit labyrinth run by Sarah and Karl's WA nonprofit organization "Erosia Land Sanctuary" receive a memorial brick. This HipCamp also supports Sarah, "Lady of the Land," in providing her services, which can also be arranged if desired- readings, healing and/or spiritual Life coaching. (Arrange in advance if possible- reach out via messaging. She may be available for a spontaneous reading- if you see her and want one, ask!)
Experience the growing beauty of Erosia!
**Book your unique escape today!**
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Olympic Gateway Cottage And RV Site
13. Olympic Gateway Cottage And RV Site
100%
(11)
15mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site
Professionally managed by RR Bed and Breakfast, on site.
Highlights:
-- Easy on/off from US 101 at SR 3 (Shelton)
-- Single cottage and RV site = privacy
-- Pet-friendly
-- Stone firepit with half-moon seating
-- Forested trail to Mill Creek
-- Kayak/canoe to Lake Isabella (access is easier from the nearby WDFW boat launch)
Details:
17 min to Hood Canal, 30 min to Lake Cushman, 50 min to the Staircase Entrance of Olympic Natl Park (33 miles). Perfect location for setting up camp with your RV, then taking your car up into the Olympics. Looking for dog-friendly hikes? Several Olympic Natl Forest and Skokomish Wilderness trails can be accessed from Lake Cushman, including Mt. Ellinor, Mt. Rose, and Mt. Washington.
When returning, enjoy what the property has to offer. Of the 11 acres, 10 acres are comprised of wetlands and their buffers. A trail winds down to Mill Creek just 1/4 mile downstream from the outlet of Lake Isabella. Here the creek is wide and it is permissible to hand launch kayaks and canoes. The trail is 1/3 mile long and the shoreline is required to remain unimproved, but the reward is access to conservation shoreline rarely seen by man. The lake is 200+ acres and boasts Lake Isabella State Park and a DFW public boat launch for easier access.
The wetlands are critical for maintaining water quality for the local shellfish industry; access is confined to the trail and creek access needs to be gentle. But if you pause for a moment along the shoreline you'll be rewarded as wildlife begin to stir from their hiding places. Song birds, rabbits, deer, voles -- yes. But also river otters, beavers, ducks, and owls. Mountain lions and coyotes are possible, and salmon run Mill Creek.
Between our rental cottage and RV site is a large propane fire pit with half-moon seating - perfect for roasting S'mores late into the evening or stargazing in a region remote from city lights.
With just a single RV site and cottage, the nearest neighbor acres away, and only State land between the property and Hwy 101, you can expect a private stay in a forested setting with easy freeway access to the Olympics on one side and an idyllic private creek side nature preserve on the other. We welcome you to the beauty of Washington's Olympic Peninsula.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$40
/ night
Coffee Creek Community & Gardens
14. Coffee Creek Community & Gardens
96%
(51)
16mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site
Coffee Creek is an intentional community and working farm on the north side of Centralia, Washington. While our 11 acres feels very secluded, we are just 3 miles from historic downtown and 10 minutes from the freeway and shopping. An accessible oasis!
There is a park with swimming, fishing and hiking along the Skookumchuck river within a mile of the farm, in addition to the natural beauty found right here at home. We enjoy bird watching, exploring our forest, and relaxing around a fire when we aren't working on the farm.
Seasonal Strawberries and pastured poultry are our specialties, and we offer a wide variety of veggies and fruits. Farm fresh eggs are almost always available and we have organic meats to purchase and grill.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Hidden Meadow Retreat
15. Hidden Meadow Retreat
99%
(238)
16mi from Capitol State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Thank you for an amazing 2025 season. We will see you back in the spring of 2026. Book your events and campouts now before the season fills up!
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 porta potty, shower and sink. There is also a supply closet that has the yard games and extra supplies. There is a hot tub situated right on the edge of the forest with peek-a-boo views of the inlet. You will also find garbage and recycling bins.
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 are also 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 offer 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$36
/ night
Browning Hollow
16. Browning Hollow
100%
(20)
19mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Browning Hollow is an adorable campsite on the bank of the East Satsop River. Privacy all around. We are just outside of sleepy little Satsop, WA and just a mile outside of Schafer State Park. The site is big enough for multiple trailers, campers or just some good old fashioned tent camping. room for reunions or family get togethers. multiple parking spots and restroom on site. Come play some corn hole with your friends or just relax by the river with a book and watch the bald eagles fish. This is a great site for fishermen and women as it has an IDEAL fishing hole. (Be sure to check your regs for seasons.) Great fire pit perfect for sitting around and roasting smores. Firewood and starters included!! Lots of room to spread out with almost an acre of camping space.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$130
/ night
Wild Roots River Oasis
17. Wild Roots River Oasis
92%
(12)
19mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our property is located on the Skookumchuck River in Tenino, Washington. Our property offers a group campsite nestled in the trees with 3 - 30 amp electric hookups, and non-potable water with plenty of space for tents. You will have the campsite to yourself. You can hear the river from any space you choose. You may also see deer, elk, and a variety of birds.
We offer a propane barbeque, full-size refrigerator, and freezer to make outdoor cooking a breeze.
We are located 15 minutes from town, where you will find several restaurants, a grocery store, an auto parts store, 3 gas stations, a city park, hiking, local shopping, and activities.
No cell service or WIFI, unplug and unwind.
The entrance is straight through the log arch. Currently iPhone Maps, Google, Maps, and Waze take you to our neighbors, please review the arrival instructions and pass on to your guests!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$70
/ night
The Plank and Pillow on Pirate Cove
18. The Plank and Pillow on Pirate Cove
96%
(12)
19mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site
The Plank and Pillow on Pirate Cove — Rustic Lakeside Pirate Retreat
Welcome to The Plank and Pillow on Pirate Cove, a quirky, pirate-themed lakeside cabin tucked along the quiet shores of Lake St. Clair, just outside Olympia, WA. Whether you’re a landlubber or seasoned adventurer, this offbeat hideaway is the perfect place to unplug and unwind.
Our cozy cabin sleeps up to 6 guests and includes:
• 1 main bedroom
• 1 bunk room (perfect for little pirates!)
• A hide-a-bed couch in the living area
You’ll have a fully equipped kitchen, an outdoor grill, ceiling fans, portable heaters, and a wood stove that is seasonally available. The cabin has grid electricity, running water, and a weekly serviced port-a-potty. There’s also a refreshing outdoor shower for rinsing off after lake swims or treasure hunts.
We’re proud to be a low-impact, no single-use plastic property. You’ll find reusable aluminum cups and a large supply of fresh drinking water to refill your personal bottles—because pirates protect their waters, too.
Enjoy direct lake access for kayaking, swimming, fishing, or stargazing from the dock. Bring your pup along—well behaved pets are welcome!
Whether you’re looking to recharge in nature or create a fun, themed getaway, The Plank and Pillow on Pirate Cove offers a playful, peaceful escape. Come make camp the pirate way!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$160
/ night
Woodland Grove on the Coast
19. Woodland Grove on the Coast
98%
(22)
20mi from Capitol State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
3/4 of a wooded acre right on the waterfront. Wildflowers in May and June. Water and Electricity. Hot water, outdoor camping shower. Full-sized fridge/freezer unit. Compost toilet. RV hookups for 12 foot trailer or camper.
Explore stream and woods. Dig clams. Fish. Many forest service roads for mountain biking or long hikes. Small camp fires allowed depending on burn rules.
Diner and bar within 15 minutes, Spencer Lake Tavern and Olympic Bakery. Fine dining, golf course with a spectacular view of the Olympic mountains within 35 minutes on the Hood Canal, at Alderbrook Resort.
Public boat launch 2.5 miles by water from property.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$100
/ night
Dragons Gate Gardens & Wilds
20. Dragons Gate Gardens & Wilds
97%
(637)
20mi from Capitol State Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Tenino, the area we are in is where the First Nations People used as the Gathering Grounds. The Europeans when they came with their railroad chose to continue that tradition. Tenino is ground zero for the measurement of where one is on the railroad. We fell in love with our farm with its much untouched acres to create a place where people can gather and reconnect with life's natural beauty.
We are certified organic, Salmon Safe certified, and pesticide free. Dragons' Gate Gardens is home to many giant crystals and here their beauty works delightfully with the land.
The area has gently rolling hills filled with wildflowers during the earlier part of the Summer. Dragons Gate Gardens and Wilds has a hundred and twenty acres to explore.
The Skookumchuck River is a little over a mile away where you can enjoy a waterfall and walk along the river with low bank where one can get into the water. Doing so is a great favorite of our guests.
There is a giant crystal housed in a gazebo that overlooks the surrounding fields and woods. Time to meditate with the giant crystal in the gazebo can be booked with Kathleen for a fee of $55.
We are wild and woolly. We provide a place to experience nature as it simply is. We privilege pollinators above human aesthetics.
Wildflowers abound, including various dandelions of which many are edible and healing plants.
We encourage converting from lawns to meadow lands being supportive of wild birds and insects. If you like it wild we are the place for you. This is not a resort or English style garden. Tall grass, wild flowers and trees fill the land around you to give you a feeling of full immersion in Nature.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$65
/ night
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Bonnie
February 2026
25 ft Class C
This a great location, easy to access of Hwy 101. The host greeted us when we arrived and showed us the hookups. Spot is in front of their home, but since you pull in there is privacy. We will stay here again.
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Tom
February 2026
20 ft Class B
View Is truly amazing. Camp was clean and well thought out. Lots of stars. Deer in the meadow. David was responsive to questions. Recommended. Would stay again.
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J
Jenni
February 2026
Tent
Beautiful space with an amazing view. I went in February, so I had it to myself, but would not have felt crowded or uncomfortable had others been there. I’ll definitely go back!!
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J
Joia
February 2026
With pets
This cabin was perfect for our little weekend getaway! So easy to get to and everything was taken care of for us:) The cabin was well stocked with everything to make delicious meals and to cozy up with a fire! Could not recommend this place enough
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George
January 2026
Tent
With kids
Getting to the campsite was straightforward as David provided written directions on getting to the property once Google Maps gets you close to the property.
The road up to the property is suitable for any cars or vans and even RV's and campers. Plenty of turn around real estate at top to navigate the bigger campers or RV's.
The campsite was easy to find as we just looked for the yellow picnic table. There was another couple camping that night right next door but there was plenty of space between campsites and trees dividing each campsite that privacy was not an issue.
The views! Yes, that is the main reason why we booked this campsite. You can see Rainier, Adams and Helens at a birdseye from the camp spot. Take advantage of a clear day to enjoy those views.
The campsite were neat and soft with bark for some cushion underneath the tent. Nice and level.
If you plan on asto photography, be careful, you will have plenty of ambient city light from Tumwater and Olympia. Enough that it could affect your exposure.
We will be back again for sure!
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J
Jesse
January 2026
Tent
Great view with little to no effort. 10/10 would recommend
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B
Brian
January 2026
16 ft car
With pets
The view is amazing. What a special place. Well worth the money. Easy to find. Quick communication. Great crapper too.
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t
trey
January 2026
Tent
With kids
Great place to camp. Kids loved it. Beautiful area. Don is a great host
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Anavay
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Coffee Creek Community & Gardens
The tree house we stayed in was dry and had everything we needed to make delicious meals. My favourite part of the trip was the hot tub that Mokey set up for my sis and I. Mokey was also responsive to our needs and overall a lovely host to have.
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B
Becca
January 2026
37 ft travel trailer
With pets
Linda and Kim were amazing hosts for our last minute booking. Linda was quick to reply to my inquiries and Kim met us late in the evening to offer help getting us set up. Easy parking and easy set up. Such a relief for us road-weary campers. Thank you Linda and Kim!
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Sara
December 2025
24 ft campervan
This was our second trip to Camp Birdwatch, first time in the winter - Don let us know due to the flooding there would be less area to walk around. It was still very beautiful and filled with wildlife for us to watch! A very peaceful and enjoyable stay as expected - thanks again Don!
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David
December 2025
24 ft campervan
This was our second stay at Camp Birdwatch - it was a great space to visit in the winter. Don was very friendly and communicative, and we enjoyed seeing the area a different time of year. Would love to come back!
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tristen
November 2025
17 ft campervan
We had the place all to ourselves so it was wonderful. Beautiful view.
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m
max
November 2025
Tent
Kristy was the best ! We totally got rained out and she so graciously offered us space in her covered arena (complete with counter space and heaters!) for overnight. Her property is beautiful, the horses and dogs are so sweet, and I would absolutely come back again. Clean, spacious portapotty with a sink next to it, only 15 minutes outside of Olympia, what a treasure !
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Alicia
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Coffee Creek Community & Gardens
I loved the location, it was decently close to the main city but still was extremely tranquil! I’ll definitely be coming back, our host was so sweet and we had a friendly kitty stay with us in the cabin.
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S
Steven
November 2025
10 ft travel trailer
View was as good in person as it was on the posts. Well manicured area and an excellent stay-cation location.
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Chris
November 2025
25 ft travel trailer
This was a lovely place to camp with an incredible view! Level parking for our 25 foot trailer. There is some slight highway 101 noise, but nothing that would keep us from returning. It was a misty weekend, so we hunkered in most of the time. The clouds amongst the trees made for a beautiful view. We enjoyed going into the very small town to the Tipsy Whale for nice cider and beers. Mostly, we toured around and enjoyed the sea lions, seals, and many birds.
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Zach
October 2025
Tent
Tent camped here off season for a couple days of hunting. Nice campground especially for the price as long as you don’t need a power pole which I don’t. Will camp here again! Especially appreciate the firewood program of wood provided just pay for it with a QR code via PayPal if you didn’t bring your own.
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James
October 2025
16 ft car
Great place, autumn leaves around, quiet enough. Recommend for longer stays as well.
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Jeffrey
October 2025
15 ft campervan
Great site. Fantastic view. We enjoyed the time we had here.
See moreThe best camping in Capitol State Forest, WA guide
Overview
About
Embark on a Capitol State Forest camping trip, where the verdant canopy of old-growth trees creates an enchanting backdrop for your wilderness adventure. With campgrounds scattered around its outskirts, camping near Capitol State Forest guarantees serene mornings accompanied by birdsong and dew-kissed foliage. Here, hiking and biking trails lure campers into the forest's heart, while nearby rivers offer opportunities for kayaking and fishing. As night descends, the clear sky sets the stage for unforgettable stargazing sessions. This Capitol State Forest camping experience weaves a tapestry of outdoor delights, offering both tranquility and thrilling explorations, making it a go-to destination for avid campers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Notable campgrounds
- Browns Creek Campground - A serene spot nestled by the creek, ideal for a peaceful retreat amid the woods.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early to secure your spot, as campgrounds fill up quickly during peak seasons.
- Check for cancellations regularly, as last-minute openings can occur.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Explore nearby camping options if your preferred site is unavailable.
When to go
The best time to visit Capitol State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for hiking and camping, but be prepared for crowds. Winters can be wet and chilly, making some areas less accessible.
Know before you go
- Check the Washington State Department of Natural Resources website for the latest information on trail closures and safety advisories.
- Cell service may be limited, so plan your route and communicate with your group in advance.
- Day-use areas are open from 8:30am to 5pm, but times can vary seasonally.
- Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the forest's natural beauty.
- Some trails may be multi-use, so be courteous to other hikers, bikers, and equestrians.
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