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Capitol State Forest

The best camping in Capitol State Forest, WA

Discover Capitol State Forest's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.

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Stories from the community

Bryan

4 days ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

A beautiful spot for a primitive camp experience. We had a wonderful time.

Roberta

4 days ago

34 ft Class A

3 nights at Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

We loved this property so much. It was clean, quiet and the view was absolutely amazing! It was a huge plus to have full hookups, too. Shelby was fast to respond to my messages and very easy to communicate with. It was the perfect way to spend our Thanksgiving weekend! Thank you, Shelby for sharing your special place on the Bay with us!

Victoria

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

2 nights at Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

What a lovely view and open space to enjoy! It was a treat to see Lisa with her horse and pony riding in the light of the setting sun. A bit of magic. The directions were clear to get there. Loved being close to the beach and lighthouse to stroll to. The Bird King was close by as well. A lovely stay.

Lindsey

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Elfendahl Forest

This is the best hipcamp I've ever been to. It was so quiet, the camper was extremely cozy and well stocked, and the spot was very private. The off grid hot tub was unique and well worth the extra fee! The whole campground is a very fun and creative space and you can really tell how much love and care Gary and crew have put into this place. I'll be back for summer camping!

Bernadette

2 weeks ago

26 ft Class C

2 nights at Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

Well planned & developed Hipcamp RV spot we’ve stayed in. All had Bay views, good tables w fire pits & wood . After 8 days of dry camping & traveling the serenity & amenities were what we needed.

Auriana

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Elfendahl Forest

Gary was so attentive and welcoming! Even though I came during a rainy time, the land was beautiful and whimsical. The staff there were all so accommodating and helped with anything I needed (firewood, the hot tub, heaters). The community kitchen was sooo much fun to use and the shower was amazing! It was fun to walk around and see the bunnies and chickens as well as see how hard the staff work to create more fun amenities for the future. Gary mills the wood himself and you can see how all of the structures are such a labor of love!

Stormee

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Secluded Olympic Cabin ☜(ﾟヮﾟ☜)

We had the COZIEST little getaway here. 😍 My husband and I really enjoyed being able to unplug from the world while on our honeymoon.

Brooklyn

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Green Acres for Friends and Fam

This campsite is so perfect. It’s really beautiful and the hosts were so kind and helpful. They provided endless wood and water for us. Such a cute area, would definitely recommend!

Stacy

2 weeks ago

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

We stay here often, as it is one of our favorite spots to camp. Always clean and peaceful. Thank you for sharing this space!

Emily

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Elfendahl Forest

The bus was so cozy and the host and staff were extremely friendly and responsive. Perfect for winter camping!

Chris

2 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

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.

Caesar

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Green Acres for Friends and Fam

It’s very private since we were the only campers that time we stayed there. I definitely would like to stay there in summertime . The caretakers did way beyond what. We expected . He gave us wood to burn and we did enjoyed our overnight there even it rained . The brook an added tranquil touch of my experience. Thank you and I hope to go back again soon.

Scott

3 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

1 night at AYH Ranch Campground & Lodging

Judy’s land was the perfect spot for an overnight stay on Vashon Island. We had our VW camper van and found a convenient place to park and spend the night. The facilities were great. There is a kitchen, showers, a large event room, but this time of year all was pretty quiet.

Kahiwahiwa

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hood Canal Oyster Farm | Lilliwaup

This was our second time at this campsite in Lilliwaup! The location is great, it was quiet, the campsite & porta-potty were clean, and Jim was a great host. Since it was a wet weekend, he brought dry kindling to our site and made sure we were all set for the evening. We'll be back again!

Erik

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

I have stayed here several times now and it was a great experience as usual. Highly recommend staying here for your next trip!

Dawn

November 2025

With pets

1 night at Wildfern Grove

We had a wonderful stay, sad we didn't get a longer visit. There is tons of places to explore and we would definitely love to come back. The folks were helpful, kind and welcoming. Definitely has a family friendly welcome. The yurt was warm even though it was pouring all night long. First night we left heat on low, second night we left it off. They have probably one of the most well appointed kitchens we have ever seen, big and roomy. There are games and books and seating. Big family style table for games and dining. Like home away from home with loads of hiking trails near by. We brought our dogs and they had a blast. Next time we come to visit I wont be in class all day. We cannot say enough about how beautiful it is in camp and the surrounding area. 100% recommend!

Philip

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

Great campsite with a wonderful view of the bridge over river

Dalton

November 2025

4 nights at Olympic Wanderer~Creekside~HotTub

We used this cabin as a base for exploring the forests and parks on the Olympic peninsula, and we had a blast. We were able to explore everything we wanted to, and return to a nice cozy and quiet cabin to rest and recover for the next day's dventures. The cabin had everything we needed for relaxing, and the hosts were responsive and had help available if anything small came up. Great place, would rent again if in the area.

Cedar Hottub available 7am - 10pm M-F and 8am - 10pm over the weekends.

Jesus

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Wildfern Grove

It's a very quiet getaway, but close enough to the city. The professional and friendly staff make it feel at home. The community house is stocked full of pots and pans and other baking utensils to virtually make anything you may be craving to make. I would definitely stay here again if needing a weekend getaway to destress myself.

Hangout barn with toilets, showers, & communal kitchen

Amanda

October 2025

Tent

1 night at AYH Ranch Campground & Lodging

Don’t let the bargain price fool you; Amenities include showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen & communal fire pit. Charming Plains Indian/Pioneer motif throughout. I especially enjoyed the “Ghost Buffalo” mural on the loft of the hangout barn. Judy is working hard to install accessible paths through the property’s forested trails, so if you care about inclusivity this is a golden opportunity to support her vision.

Top-rated campgrounds

Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

99%

(1645)

44mi from Capitol State Forest · 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.

Elkenmist

97%

(61)

48mi from Capitol State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Skamokawa, WA

Welcome to the the alchemy of Elkenmist! 125 acres nestled into 250,000 acres of mossy, mushroomy, forested fairy lands. Where the Willapa hills meet the mouth of the Columbia River. We are a mellow regenerative agriculture farm and portal to liminal landscapes. Come meet the sheep, feed the horses, drink from the spring, meditate in the yurt, hike the hills and feed your spirit. Let the land attune you.

The Glen - Olympic Peninsula RV

97%

(33)

32mi from Capitol State Forest · 58 sites · RVs, Lodging · Hoodsport, WA

Right off the 101 fronting Hood Canal, this cozy motel and RV park is 1 mile from Hoodsport and just down the road from Lake Cushman. It sits 30 minutes from the entrance to Olympic National Park with easy access to Staircase Trailhead and Campground. A quick hour and forty minutes from Seattle and you can watch orcas breach, salmon swim, and bald eagles fly! Our crew is kind, facilities clean, and amenities are quality. Brand new benches at each site that also fold to become a table! Amenities include beach access, barbecue facilities, coin operated laundry, hiking trails, observation decks, grassy meadow, a guest clubhouse with showers, and a boat dock. Guests also have access to a hot tub, a picnic gazebo, and a communal lounge. There are several different types of RV sites ranging from creekside, pull throughs, and water views. All sites are FHU (full hookup) and there is wifi/internet on site for RV guest use.

Silver Lake Resort

85%

(42)

48mi from Capitol State Forest · 68 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Silverlake, WA

Nestled in the picturesque Pacific Northwest near Mount St. Helens, Silver Lake Resort is a cherished family-owned campground. Boasting serene waters perfect for boating and fishing, guests can bring their own vessels or rent from a variety of options. With 19 RV sites and 7 tent sites; 5 cabins and 6 motel rooms. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility amidst nature's splendor.

Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

96%

(747)

9mi from Capitol State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Olympia, WA

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!

Skokomish Park At Lake Cushman

95%

(119)

35mi from Capitol State Forest · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · Hoodsport, WA

2024 Reservations are Open 2024 Season runs from March 29 - November 3 KING5 Evening Magazine's "The Best of the Northwest Escapes" competition voted us 2nd Best Campground. Come on out and check out the natural beauty Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman has to offer. Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman, formerly known as Camp Cushman or Lake Cushman State Park, covers over 500 acres with three boat-launch ramps on the 41,500 feet of freshwater shoreline on Lake Cushman. Park facilities include campsites, RV pull-thru and back-in sites, walk-in campsites, and two group camping areas. Plus, two fantastic day-use areas with picnic sites, a picnic shelter, and comfort stations located throughout the park. The natural beauty of the area can be explored on any of our trails. The eastern part of the Olympic Peninsula has loads of great trails around us in the Olympic National Park. Trailheads nearby include Big Creek, Mount Rose, Mount Ellinor, Dry Creek, Copper Creek, Wagonwheel Lake, Staircase Rapids, Big Log Camp, and Flapjack Lakes. Mount Ellinor Trail is rated 5 stars by many.

Wildfern Grove

95%

(210)

50mi from Capitol State Forest · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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.

Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

97%

(371)

48mi from Capitol State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Elbe, WA

Welcome to our campsite located near Mt. Rainier. Our property is close to the Nisqually River on one side and the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad track on the other. The entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park is just a 15-minute drive away, making our campsite a convenient base for exploring the park. Enjoy fishing, hiking, and watching the scenic railroad pass by. Our campsite offers a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you're here for the outdoor activities or just want a quiet spot to camp, we look forward to hosting you.

AYH Ranch Campground & Lodging

97%

(53)

45mi from Capitol State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Vashon, WA

Our 10 acres boarder 140 acres of trails for the Fisher Pond reserve. We have been in business since 1982. Our hand hewn log lodge sleeps 15 and can be booked as a private rental or as individual rooms year round. In the summer we have Indian Teepees, Glamping Cabins, Dormitories, and Camping. We also host weddings, special events, and group campouts. These are booked under special events and are private. We offer free showers, kitchen use for all, free fire wood, and a recreational barn. WE DO CHARGE FOR DOGS, $5 per dog

Elfendahl Forest

98%

(127)

32mi from Capitol State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · Belfair, WA

Please read in full: -Nestled deep within the captivating forest, not far from the majestic Hood Canal, lies a retreat known as Elfendahl Forest. Embark on a journey to escape the electronic hustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the wonder of the fairy tale woods that make Elfendahl Forest so extraordinary. Surrounded by boundless acres of state lands, you are invited to explore the endless trails and roads that beckon adventurers. Just minutes away, you'll discover state parks, the Hood Canal, and refreshing freshwater lakes where you can indulge in activities such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the surprisingly warm waters. We offer a range of outdoor games including kids zip line, axe and knife throwing, bocce ball, corn hole, laser and more. We have a dedicated kids' play area where young ones can enjoy endless fun throughout the day. Relish in the abundance of delights that await you at Elfendahl Forest, including our flourishing vegetable gardens, inviting outdoor kitchen, eco-friendly composting toilet, refreshing shower, and a group fire pit. Come experience our one-of-a-kind kitchen is equipped with a propane stove/oven and comes complete with dishes and utensils for your convenience. Should you desire fresh vegetables and herbs, our gardens are a bountiful source, and we gladly share their harvest upon request. Indulge in the privacy and comfort of our outdoor shower, featuring on-demand hot water that can be adjusted to your liking. Our main composting toilet, affectionately known as "Louie the first," operates similarly to a porta potty but with the use of sawdust instead of harsh blue chemicals. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by its cleanliness and comfort, all while conserving hundreds of gallons of water each week. *PLEASE NOTE: Elfendahl Forest is a unique, off-grid homestead campground not a luxury resort. Here, you'll find a whimsical and creative space filled with fairy gardens, imaginative art, and the charm of nature at its core. As a working homestead, you may also see tools, equipment, and projects that help keep our community running smoothly. We aim to be as transparent as possible about what you will experience here in our forest. We hope you enjoy your stay!

Coastal Family Hideaway

98%

(130)

50mi from Capitol State Forest · 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.

Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

98%

(149)

46mi from Capitol State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Vashon, WA

Visit Vashon Island and relax on a private estate property. Camp overlooking Puget Sound, walk the trail down to the secluded beach and enjoy 1000 ft. of peaceful waterfront. Vashon boasts great coffee hangouts, bakeries, galleries, wineries, restaurants (May's Thai, Lunetta Pizza, The Ruby Brink, The Hardware Store Restaurant, Snapdragon and others). Galleries, shops and restaurants in the town of Vashon and also in Burton. Vashon Center for the Arts, O-Space and the Chamber of Commerce have events that might be of interest. Outdoor fires are by permission only. There are sometime burn bans for air quality and/or high fire danger. fires are allowed AT THE BEACH, below the high tide line, between October 1 and June 15, but there are various reasons they may not be allowed (air quality bans, windy conditions, etc.) Any fire you light must be put out COLD (no steam, no heat) with water and buried with sand before leaving them unattended. You are responsible for any damage or injuries caused by a fire you start, so please be careful! Please note: It is very important that the number of people on site is accurate. Please contact Hipcamp to change the number of people - there currently is no way to do that on the site?! There is an additional charge per person above the base 2 person rate. There is no outdoor music at any time. Quiet hours are 8 pm to 10 am. There is no picnic table or any amenities, but you can fill up water at our barn if needed. DO NOT USE THE WOODS AS A BATHROOM. It is necessary to bring your own latrine. The water at (shallower) Dockton Park (about a 6 min drive away) gets warm from swimming in summer if you prefer it to 54 degree deep water here! Please clean up after your pet. Dogs must be leashed AT ALL TIMES in the field. If no one is around at the beach, they can be off leash, but leash up if anyone approaches until they pass. Please never leave your dog unattended outside where barking will disturb the peace. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Looking forward to hosting you! IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, DIAL 911 FROM A CELL PHONE. 4025 SW Pt. Robinson Rd. is the address. Lisa 206 498 4359 Chiara (July - Sept only) 206 409 7975 Larry Sherry 206 295 4564/206 295 7333 Andre 206 335 6731

The 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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