Best Camping in and near Bay View State Park

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Discover the scenic charm of Bay View State Park and its array of outdoor activities.

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Stay at a public campground in Bay View State Park

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Bay View Campground

85 sites · RVs, Tents In Bay View State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Bay View State Park

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High Bluff

13 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Bellingham, WA

High Bluff Campgrounds are situated on 13 acres of pure nature. Offering 8 camp sites suitable for tenting and campers, and 3 RV sites with water and electrical hook ups. Each camp site has a firepit with cooking grill top, and a picnic table. Enjoy a complimentary bundle of firewood upon your arrival. The camp sites have community potable water, portable toilets, and power. Large Chuckanut boulders lie on the mountain side surrounded with large cedar and alder trees. Just minutes to Old Fairhaven and downtown Bellingham, but yet tranquil and private. Lake Samish is also 5 minutes away for swimming and boating. Galbraith and Squires Mountain are close by for the mountain bike community! ATTENTION: Trail is under maintenance! Also new this year is our own private hiking trail to High Bluff. This advanced hiking trail is a challenging jaunt to magnificent views of Lake and surrounding mountains.

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Cascade River Retreat

18 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Marblemount, WA

PSA: Please use google maps, any other locater app will lead you astray. On a better note, This property is a Native American homestead. We are located in Marblemount, WA along the Cascade river. Every site we have you can hear the river and walk to in less that 5 minutes. There is an amazing rocky beach along the river with the view of mountains all around. We are located 4 minutes from the town of Marblemount were there is 2 gas stations with some food and drink items, propane and a small hardware section year round. Marblemount has 3 restaurants open in the summer. The town also a post office. We are 15 minutes from the North Cascades National Park and an entrance to the Pacific Crest Trail. We offer fire wood ($5.00 a bundle), propane fire pits ($10.00 a night, please request ahead via messaging to Heather ) and in season vegetables (price varies depending). You can pay cash or Venmo on site. Please be aware that we have a Firework show for the 4th of July. We really appreciate your interest in our small homestead.

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Skagit River RV and Camping

35 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marblemount, WA

Skagit River RV and Camping is near the small, charming town of Marblemount and close to the entrance of the world-famous North Cascade National Park in the foothills of the Cascades and located on Skagit River. Many of our guests use Skagit River RV and Camping as a base while they explore and climb the surrounding hills and mountains. Bikers also use the park and set up their tents as a base to bike the surrounding area or bike over the North Cascade Pass to eastern Washington. We are a small family and pet-friendly RV campground offering, RV sites and tent sites. We have a wooded park-like area is located behind the campsites for dog walking and nature walks. The surrounding area offers hiking, bird watching, fishing, spectacular photography opportunities, bike riding and climbing trails. The Skagit River has a wild and scenic designation and is a popular river for rafting, kayaking and canoeing. Winter activities include bald eagle watching, fishing and hunting. The mountain air is fresh and clean with seasonal views of snowcapped mountains. If you are traveling with a group or club, there are facilities to accommodate you as well. Ideal for family reunions, rallies, get-togethers and clubs.

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Quilcene Lantern

15 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Quilcene, WA

You'll find the rest and relaxation you need on our beautiful 53 acre property, your away from home while you explore the beautiful Olympic Peninsula. A mixture of farmland, forest and wetlands, complete with a beautiful old barn (turned music venue and bar), you'll be free to wander the grounds, relax on one of our Adirondack chairs, or pop in for a beer when our bar is open. Often on the weekends, we have live music in the barn. Espresso drinks and breakfast Sammies await you on Saturday and Sunday mornings. We offer dispersed tent camping in the shade of a mature alder grove, as well as 4 RV sites for small campers, trailers, and vans. We offer porta potties, hand washing stations, and potable water.

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Cowboy Camp Camping and Horses

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Port Townsend, WA

WHAT WE OFFER SATURDAY NIGHT DINNER and SUNDAY BREAKFAST MEALS HAVE ENDED FOR THE 2024 SEASON SEE US IN 2025 We will be back in Spring of 2025 to offer our full Chuckwagon dinner served around the campfire at Cowboy Camp on Saturday night ( $30 per person) , see full menu below, and have also added Cowboy breakfast on Sunday mornings when campers are present, consisting of scrambled eggs with/or without spinach and cheese served with grilled whole wheat toast, large fluffy pancake, choice of bacon or sausage patty, glass of orange juice and bottomless cup of coffee, ($15 per person). Allowances are made for food allergies, preferences and requests. Breakfast can be ordered the night before. Why cook and wash dishes when you don't have to? Just relax and enjoy the camping experience. CAMPSITES Here on our property, you can choose from simple walk in campsites with no special amenities, to a full campsite with picnic table, fire ring, and space for tent or trailer, up to a full size camper trailer parking area. We also have the lovely Cowboy wall tent with electricity and extra plugs for charging devices, a small electric heater, larger dorm style refrigerator, Queen size bed and all the bedding, additional oversized twin bed with bedding, 2 lamps, love seat reclining sofa and side table, Bistro style table and two chairs, 2 burner hotplate with coffee and tea, plates, cups and silverware, We provide 5 gallon containers of natural snowfall derived city water at your site. The wall tent has a separate porta potty with handwashing station. A larger portapotty is located in the center of the field for easy access from all other campsites. Coming soon we are hoping to get our propane shower and shower room up and running. ACTIVITIES Other activities include local trails for hiking and biking, close proximity to Port Townsend, town beach and waterfront and a short drive to the Olympic National forest. FOOD This year, due to positive feedback, we are increasing our offering of a full course Chuckwagon dinner, two person minimum, paid for when you book your campsite. You can select from smoked pulled pork, BBQ chicken, Smoked ribs or the vegetarian selection, baked spaghetti squash stuffed with a blend of marinara, roasted zucchini, yellow squash and bell peppers, topped with parmesan cheese. Sides served with the dinner include roasted corn on the cob ( in season), potato salad, homemade Horseshoe beans, corn bread and either blackberry cobbler or pineapple upside down cake. You provide the beverage. Guests meander over to the cook tent at about 6 pm and enjoy dinner seated around tables and chairs complete with plates, cups and silverware. Dinner is served by reservation only on Saturday nights. Dinner is $30.00 per person. 24 hour advance notice required so your food is always fresh. Breakfast ( described in intro above, is $15 per person) THE PROPERTY Just what is Cowboy Camp, you might ask. The traditional definition refers to sleeping outside under the stars with only a bedroll, a fire and the night sky for companions. But if you are a fan of the western genre and lifestyle, you might also know it as a place to go to hang out with like minded folks and experience the Cowboy lifestyle. This includes all people, men and women alike, as the term "Cowboy" is largely generic and not gender oriented. A taste of that lifestyle is what we are offering here at our Cowboy Camp. HORSES It wouldn't be Cowboy Camp without horses and they are definitely present. They can be heard whinnying at mealtimes and throughout the day as they keep in touch with each other. They are generally quiet at night. Horses are not allowed in camping areas when campers are present. No farm would be complete without chickens and ours is no exception. A few hens can generally be seen wandering around the barn searching for bugs, We do not have a rooster, so guests can sleep peacefully. We are offering camping sites ranging from simple tent sites with fire ring, picnic table and soft sandy tent sites to small cabin type tents with beds and electricity. As part of your cowboy camp experience you can sign up for a horsemanship lesson involving handling and grooming horses and time spent working with the horse in the round pen. (There is no actual riding such as a trail ride offered at this time, we are working on that). You can also sign up for a roping lesson. Learn to throw a loop and catch "Little blue", our roping dummy steer head. HIKES AND BIKES We also have games of horseshoes ( with real horseshoes) and corn hole boards. You can take a hike around the property on our trail through mature Douglas fir and majestic Western cedar forest. A 1/4 mile walk down our quiet country gravel road will take you to the 80 acre Jefferson County Land trust forest with several beautiful trails meandering through mature uncut forest. These trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. That forest further connects to the Cappy's trail system, a network of several miles of trails that will wind around and eventually lead into Port Townsend itself if you choose to venture into town. Or you can choose to travel via mountain bike or foot approximately one mile down the road to the DNR forest property that will lead you through more gorgeous wooded and open areas to access the Larry Scott trail, a 7.3 mile out and back firm surface multi-use trail that leads either out of town through the woods or to the north directly into Port Townsend along the scenic waterfront. Our beautiful piece of property is comprised of almost 11 acres situated on the northeast tip of the Olympic Peninsula just outside the quaint Victorian seaport town of Port Townsend. It lies approximately 4 miles from downtown with its many art galleries, restaurants, shops, boat harbor, farmer's market and the historic Rose theater. The farm itself is located within a section of old growth forest comprised of 100 year old Doug Firs, cedar trees and alder groves. There is an open pasture area in the center of the property, which is ringed completely by thick stands of forest, so it feels completely private. You have to look closely to see the neighboring two houses through the forest. The horses are excluded from camping areas during your visit, and will most likely be housed on neighboring property while guests are present. No need to worry about curious horses coming into your campsite to say hello. It is a wildlife paradise with frequent visits from local deer, bald eagles, ducks on the pond, owls nesting in the trees, and coyotes travelling through. The frog pond is alive all night with singing. If you are a light sleeper you might consider earplugs. We have created a walking trail through the forest around the land that is full of the sounds of life and birds. A pileated woodpecker makes its home in the back corner and two pairs of barred owls also inhabit the nearby Douglas firs. They can be heard at night calling out as they settle in for the evening. An important note for the walking explorer, please be aware that many areas of the farm are in their natural state. This means you might encounter prickly plants such as star thistle, nettles and tansy ragwort. We are happy to identify these for you if you are unfamiliar with them. Please be aware and dress in long pants and long sleeves while hiking. There are no poisonous snakes present in this region. We train horses here so there is a full size riding arena and training round pen. On any given day, you might see horses being trained and ridden. MORE ABOUT THE FOOD At the end of your day of adventures, you can opt to sign up ( when your site is booked) for a delicious feast at Cowboy Camp. Using old time traditional Dutch oven cooking techniques and slow smoking methods, meals are comprised of such items as slow cooked smoked pork shoulder or ribs, Dutch oven baked "Horseshoe Beans" ( a crowd favorite), fire roasted corn on the cob (in season) , homemade potato salad, green spinach salad, and of course dessert such as homemade blackberry cobbler or pineapple upside down cake. Vegetarian selections are also available upon request. ADVENTURES CLOSE BY Venturing out from the farm you can sign up to go on a whale watching excursion with Puget Sound Express out of Port Townsend. Seeing a whale is guaranteed or you get a free return trip. Also, the Olympic National Park is only a short one hour drive to the west and the view from Hurricane Ridge is not to be missed. Your Hosts: Property owners Karma and Rick come with a long extensive history of experience in the horse industry and western culture. Together they share over 100 years of experience with horses, both having ridden since young children. Karma loves sharing her knowledge of horses and horsemanship with others and has been a certified riding instructor for many years. Rick grew up with a horse and cattle background from a young age. As a young man he competed in the rodeo sports of bareback broncs, calf roping, bull riding and team roping. He then worked as a professional farrier, horse trainer and ranch employee in Texas. He learned the art of Texas BBQ cooking while living and working on Texas ranches. He loves to cook for others and enjoys sharing tales of the ranch life. You can choose to be as involved as you like during your visit. You can sit quietly in the forest and just enjoy peace and quiet if you so desire. We will not bother you. Our goal is simply to provide you with a beautiful place to relax, play, and enjoy during your visit. So come on out, set a spell, and enjoy a wonderful day, weekend, or week here at Cowboy Camp. Side note : Due to the presence of horses, chickens and various wildlife on the property, in addition to outdoor cooking activities, we do not allow outside dogs at this time. Thank you for your understanding.

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West Beach Resort

75 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Eastsound, WA

West Beach Resort is located on the sunny and pristine west side of Orcas Island, Washington. We are a private destination resort specializing in providing guests with an authentic San Juan Islands getaway. We have been an Orcas Island lodging and hotel destination since 1938. Stay in our fully-equipped beachfront cabins on our world class walk-out, west-facing, sand/pebble beach and watch the sunset as you relive the day’s adventures from your private beach fire pit. We also offer ocean view and garden cabins, RV, camping, marina, boat rentals, general store, kayak and canoe rentals, and a seasonal activities kiosk and beachfront food service. Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind Pacific Northwest experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic family summer vacation spot or that romantic retreat in the off-season, you simply won’t find a more stunning location for your escape to Washington's paradise that is Orcas Island's West Beach Resort.

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Cedar+Fern

6 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Quilcene, WA

This beautiful 13acre slice of heaven sits along the Little Quilcene River. Cedar+Fern hosts multiple campsites in a park-like setting amongst PNW's forest giants, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Big Leaf Maple, etc. During your stay, explore the walking trails throughout the towering forest to find private spots along the river to take a dip. Check out all the new growth on the young fruit orchard and large food garden. Walk through the alder grove and discover both the pond as well as the new farm extension! While on the land, let the sounds of the river wash away life's stress and enjoy a bit of the slow life.

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Valhalla Tree Farm

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Arlington, WA

When Earl and Laurine Ingebright found an ad in a local paper for sixty acres near Arlington, in 1958, they knew it would be a place for family fun, relaxation, and their own private forest. What they could not have anticipated was the sheer diversity of projects, parties, and fun that the family would pursue on the property over the coming generations. From forest stewardship and timber harvesting, to campsites and trail construction, to rock concerts and wine making. While they have since passed, these founders began something truly amazing; A tree farm that showcases the successful accomplishment of almost every objective a forest landowner could have. Timber production, wildlife, aesthetics, recreation, and forest resiliency. Valhalla embodies all these things with so little conflict as to look effortless.

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Rosario Camp & RV

16 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Anacortes, WA

Location: This gorgeous piece of property is located on beautiful Fidalgo Island (Anacortes, Washington), less than one minute away from Deception Pass State Park. Yes, we are within walking distance of Deception Pass State Park and we border Pass Lake. This amazing Hipcamp is located on just under 17 gorgeous acres, with amazing water and forest views. This breathtaking location is extremely unique, because we are surrounded by Deception Pass State Park. Wildlife: When it comes to wildlife, you will wake-up to the beautiful and rejuvenating melodies of a plethora of wild birds, chipmunks, squirrels, woodpeckers,, etc. During your stay, you will cross paths with deer and various other wild animals, in this very natural and pristine setting. Vegetation: While enjoying your stay at Rosario Camp & RV, you’ll also enjoy a medley of flora, such as the Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Pacific Madrone and many other native trees. In addition, you’ll be able to taste absolutely delicious in-season wild berries, view Pacific Bleeding hearts, vine maples and many more different types of vegetation, native to Northwestern Washington. Many Fun Activities: In this location, you will have so many spots to enjoy various water sport activities , which include: Pass Lake (no motors), Bowman Bay, Lake Campbell, etc. At our beautiful Hipcamp location you’re, literally, in the middle of it all. If you’d like, you may choose to walk, bike, moped or drive across the street (Rosario Road), to Deception Pass State Park, to explore various views and go for absolutely amazing hikes. You may choose to go on long mountain bike rides, with breathtaking views of Deception Pass Bridge, Bowman Bay and more. Perhaps, you’ll choose to rent a paddle board, canoe, kayak, boat or simply bring your own. There is scuba diving and scuba diving classes available, in the area. How about going on a fly fishing adventure, for stocked cutthroat, rainbow and/or brown trout (15”-29”+), at beautiful Pass Lake. If you’re interested in yachting or fishing the “big water” that is also an option, in the area of Anacortes (A-Town). There are many different tours available, at and around Deception Pass State Park, on land and/or on one of our area lakes or in the big water. We also have numerous exciting festivals, outdoor concerts, bike and boat races, for you, your family and friends to enjoy. We are really looking forward to meeting you and sharing our very special, unique and beautiful Hipcamp, with you. Fine Dining/Restaurants; Fine Dining: Anacortes has absolutely spectacular restaurants and specialty dining spots (e.g. The Majestic, Naung Mai Thai, Anthony’s, Nonna Luisa Ristorante, 5th Street Bistro, Coconut Kenny’s, Bastion Brewing Company, Bob’s Chowder Bar, The Shrimp Shack, Bamboo Bistro and many other memorable restaurants. There are 15 campsites available, at our Anacortes Hipcamp (Rosario Camp & RV) location. So, book your beautiful campsite, today.

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Magic Mountain Camp Experience

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Maple Falls, WA

This location is 30 minutes from Mt Baker Ski Resort and artist point! We have a few "walk-to" sites, to pitch a tent and have a blast! Each site is very secluded and fit for 6-12 people, depending on site . Take a breath of fresh air and relax! Enjoy the lake, it's great for dipping your feet in and enjoying the wildlife. Also, we hope you enjoy the forest full of trees and the songbirds that live in them! Watch eagles and other wildlife in their natural habitat and enjoy your stay!! (Experiences may vary.) Also, if you're berry inclined, there's huckleberries, wild blueberries, salmon berries, wild black berries and more🤗 Amenities on-site include drinking water, a super clean porta-potty and picnic tables! *There can be some neighborhood noise, generally it's during the day and quiet after 5pm. **Although there may be noise, the campsites are completely secluded and way better than campgrounds and crowded state park camping, you hardly know anyone else is here. ***The woodsy setting, birds chirping and fresh berries make up for it all!

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Rusty Ranch Tree Farm and Forest

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents110 acres · Bellingham, WA

Welcome to our tree farm and certified forest. Looking for an ideal family getaway spot? With our unique location nestled in the foothills of Stewart Mt and the peaceful Squalicum Valley, Rusty Ranch Tree Farm offers 110 acres of meadows and forest. Our location provides easy access to much of our local recreation options and is only 10 min east of Bellingham. Our camp area is spacious and can can easily accomidate your family and even a couple of friends. Scattered trees offer shade, and large grassy areas provide ample space to roam. We are proud to say we were recently given a top FARM STAY award from Hipcamp. Rusty Ranch Tree Farm is dedicated to "Eduction through Exploration" where we strive to provide your family and friends with more than just camping but also a place to experience nature and learn about forestry. Hike the several miles of nature trails on the hillside and explore our 65 acres of certified forest. Placards on the nature trail are part of our self-guided tour and provide information about forestry and the plants and animals that call this their home. You may request a guided interactive tour for your group if you prefer. Wander through the old growth groves, walk the 50' boardwalk and see the magical Fern Ridge. There are abundant wildflowers and seasonal berries to pick, as well as a variety of fall apples and pears in the old orchard available for self harvest. You can even purchase a tree to take home and plant. We also offer a roadside farm stand with fresh seasonal fruits and veggies as well as farm fresh eggs. We hope you will come and stay with us for your next adventure.

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The Landing At Lake Ploenta

10 sites · Lodging, RVs60 acres · Arlington, WA

For your Glamping and RV'ing Pleasure; The Landing at Lake Ploenta, a private, gated, resort-style destination, is offering lake-side safari tents and short-term RV spots. Each Tent rental includes a queen-sized bed, extra pop-up tent for the kids, fire pit, picnic table, and 2 adirondack deck chairs! Each RV site includes hookups, picnic tables, and drive through lot setup. Adjacent to the site is a lake with ducks, geese, bass, frogs, cattails, lily pads, and lots of ducklings and goslings in the springtime. The property is set in a beautiful forest-setting filled with ferns, vine maples, deer, & mossy green colors. Bring your fishing gear, and binoculars. Enjoy! Property Rules * Respect the land and tent as you would your own. * Don’t leave out food that could attract wildlife * Be mindful of any local fire bans and quiet hours * Keep valuables on you or secured in your vehicle Respect & Safety Don't carve your name into anything, or cut down trees. In general, treat the property and all the animals with respect.

The best camping near Bay View State Park guide

Overview

About

Bay View State Park lives up to its name! A gorgeous park nestled among evergreen trees on Padilla Bay, there’s a quarter mile of saltwater shoreline in the park and several more boat launches and waterside trails on either side of it. Look around and see the Bay and San Juan Islands in one direction and the Olympia Mountain Range and Mount Washington in the other. Padilla Bay-by you light up life like nobody else! Much of Padilla Bay is a designated National Estuarine Sanctuary because of the unique mudflat habitat where the Skagit River meets the Salish Sea, which means you’ll find salmon, crabs, herring, clams, and all kinds of crazy worms, which attract birds, which attract humans who like to watch some and eat others. There are cabins and campsites for your fish and oyster feasts, but don’t get too excited, kegs aren’t allowed. Hey, why don’t you just go eat some hay, make things out of clay, lay by Padilla Bay? You just may! Whattaya say?

Notable campgrounds

Standard Campsites - Enjoy a classic camping experience with amenities close at hand.
Partial Hookup Sites - Ideal for those who prefer a few home comforts while surrounded by nature.
Group Camp - Perfect for larger gatherings, this camp accommodates up to 24 people in a tent-only area.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak season when campsites are in high demand.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back regularly for newly available sites.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect site.

When to go

The best time to visit Bay View State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the San Juan Islands. However, the park is open year-round from 8am to dusk, providing a unique charm each season. Winter visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the park without the crowds, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

Always keep dogs on a leash and follow the park's pet policies to ensure a safe visit for everyone.
Check for burn bans and fire regulations before lighting any campfires in designated areas.
Remember, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swim with caution and supervise children near the water.
Be prepared for tidal influences at Padilla Bay, which can create large mudflats during low tides.
Accessible facilities are available, including campsites, restrooms, and trails, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.