Camping in Capitol State Forest, WA

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Capitol State Forest adventure.

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

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Stories from the community

William

2 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

Sarah's land was very nice. Very good communication. We were there through a really good storm. Lots of wind and rain. We will definitely be back.

Jason

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

This is a great place to stay with amazing water views. Very secure with full hookups is great! We always enjoy ourselves when we stay here. Thank you for sharing your amazing property

Kenneth

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

This was a great spot! Had everything we were looking for and the costumer service was excellent. He even came out to check on us. Really nice hot showers and clean restrooms.

Diana

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

The host was very responsive to any inquiries made. The setting was very pleasant and private. The environment is conducive to birdwatching. The hookups that were available were well maintained. Be sure and follow the arrival directions by the host to ensure that you do not miss the street to get access to the Hipcamp. We very much enjoyed our time there.

Delaney

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

Beautiful, clean, easy to find and fun to explore.

Cindy

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Williams Park campground

This is a lovely campground! Our conditions weren’t ideal (rain/wind) but we still loved being here. I really hope we can make it back out next summer!

Jeremy

3 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

Really loved the area and how close it was to the water. Excellent site as well. I will definitely be booking again in the future!

Breeanna

3 weeks ago

32 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

We had an absolute great time. We have stayed at Pink Picnic Table and now Yellow Picnic Table. We are already talking about our next trip. It’s very nice because it’s private and remote but you still have the luxuries of power, wifi and you’re not too far from town if you’ve forgotten something.

Susan

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class B

2 nights at Marine View Drive In-City Oasis

A quiet seaside neighborhood! The location was easy to find and the site very well marked so we knew exactly where to go. Steve is an excellent host and very accommodating. He made sure we could easily get down to the beach and we had a lovely walk. 2 nights was a perfect for us to pal around the Tacoma area.

Suzanne

3 weeks ago

11 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Deer Haven Family Farm

Lovely people with great location! Nice grassy area to walk the dogs

Katie

3 weeks ago

26 ft Class C

2 nights at Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

I stayed at site 5. I really liked the extra privacy and the look-out spot for morning coffee and sunset views. There’s very little light pollution in the area, so the stars in the night sky were plentiful. Fantastic for stargazing! It was a very quiet and peaceful stay. It’s also very clean and well-maintained. I took my dog down to the beach and we had so much fun running around right before sunset. Did I mention the sunset views? Ahhhhmazing! This Hipcamp site exceeded all expectations and I would highly recommend staying here. I know I’ll be back again for sure!

Dani

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Green Acres for Friends and Fam

Beautifully located, surrounded by nature, very quiet and the host was very attentive! Highly recommend.

Carlos

3 weeks ago

24 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

I love this place, very windy but is part of the adventure. I have been like 5 or 6 times and I will come back in the future. Very quiet and clean.

Rachelle

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

Beautiful spot. Great property with amazing views. We had a great trip on this property.

This year, we have improved our Lotus tent and site that we think our returning guests will be pleasantly surprised and our new guests thrilled.

frances

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Elfendahl Forest

A very fun, eclectic spot with great amenities. It is really nice that this site has a private kitchen and looking. Super fun to see all the art and fairies scattered throughout the woods. We look forward to visiting again!

Cindie

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

We have stayed at Bayside several times and love it! No matter what the weather is like, it’s beautiful and close to both Westport and Grayland beaches. Full hookups, clean property and great host!

Lola

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Elfendahl Forest

Welcoming host! Gary was ready to give us a tour when we arrived, and we’re glad he did. His property is full of little magical sitting nooks, trails, and established games and activities. Good vibes, comfortable bed, and safe environment. We’re coming back!

Amy

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

The site was quiet and had good basic amenities, and only a short drive from the park entrance.

Mark

October 2025

35 ft Class A

With pets

4 nights at Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

Quiet and clean. No hassle reservations. Will be back.

John

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

Well maintained and a nice location. The staff were kind and helpful.

Top-rated campgrounds near Capitol State Forest

Unique Bay Front Camping - RV ONLY

99%

(1641)

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.

Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

97%

(369)

10 sites · RVs, Tents · 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.

Elkenmist

97%

(56)

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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.

Rockland Woods

4 sites · Lodging · Bremerton, WA

Escape to Rockland Woods: Your Pacific Northwest Rainforest Retreat Forest Discover Rockland Woods, a century-old rainforest where the quintessential magic of the Pacific Northwest comes alive. Immerse yourself in 20 acres of pristine nature, exploring three color-coded trails through a vibrant ecosystem of mosses, mushrooms, towering sword ferns, beavers, deer, owls, and the ever-charming banana slugs. Lake Just steps from your accommodation, a peaceful non-motorized lake awaits, complete with a private deck and paddlecraft for guests of our Tents, Lodge, or Treehouse. From the dock, watch breathtaking sunsets over the Olympic Mountain range and eagles soaring overhead as they fish. Take a refreshing night swim in summer or a bracing cold plunge in winter. Art Beyond the natural beauty, experience the unique creative energy of owners Shawn Landis and Jodi Rockwell. Marvel at awe-inspiring architecture designed and built (or lovingly remodeled) by Shawn. Discover exquisite ceramics by Jodi, crafted on-site and available in our shop. Supporting Artists Your stay directly supports Rockland Residency, a program founded by Shawn and Jodi that allows 10 artists twice annually to focus deeply on their creative process. On the premises, you’ll find Jodi’s clay studio, Shawn’s woodshop, secluded writers’ huts, sculptures, and even a forest swing. Basecamp to the Olympic Peninsula Using Rockland Woods as your basecamp, you’ll have easy access to the backcountry and coastal trails of the magnificent Olympic National Park. Within an hour, explore the Hood Canal, home to abundant shellfish, including oysters, mussels, and clams. The Olympic Peninsula is a true bucket-list destination and one of the great gems of the United States. Thank you for choosing Rockland Woods — your escape into art, nature, and community. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Wildfern Grove

95%

(207)

8 sites · Lodging, Tents · 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.

Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

96%

(743)

4 sites · RVs, Tents · 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!

Hidden Meadow Retreat

99%

(238)

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Olympia, WA

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!

Elfendahl Forest

98%

(123)

6 sites · Lodging, Tents · 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!

AYH Ranch Campground & Lodging

97%

(50)

11 sites · RVs, Tents · 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

The Glen - Olympic Peninsula RV

97%

(33)

58 sites · Lodging, RVs · 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.

Private Beach, 15 Acres, Vashon

98%

(147)

5 sites · RVs, Tents · 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

Two Frog Bog

99%

(118)

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Roy, WA

Welcome to Two Frog Bog, a 20-acre forested haven featuring 5 acres of wetland. Our accommodations include a 24-foot yurt (currently under repair, see below) with a private, semi-attached bathhouse, and a 10 x 20-foot tent cabin with outdoor kitchen and private outhouse with composting toilet. You’ll enjoy the outdoor shower that is available for all guests. The communal fire pit is a great place to roast s’mores and maybe meet new friends. But wait, there’s more: a two-tent campground where we provide the tents, a shared, covered and fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a shared composting outhouse (cleaned at least once a day). Campground has access to shower and fire pit as well. Explore our forest trails leading to the serene wetland, and don't miss our unique 26-foot-wide, 10-foot-tall Woodhenge – a magical spot to relax in a hammock, read a book, or stargaze. Two Frog Bog invites you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the variety of accommodations and shared spaces we offer. NEWS Our property was hit hard in the Bomb Cyclone of Nov '24. Sadly, we lost the Funk House. The Paisley Paradise yurt was severely damaged and is under repair. The Dragonfly Den remained unharmed and has been upgraded with the queen bed from the Funk House. Other areas need rebuilding. If you've loved this place or wish to visit and would like to help with rebuilding costs, we would be truly grateful. Read our story at GoFundMe. https://gofund.me/d44abefc

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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