The best camping in Lake Sammamish State Park, WA

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Discover the allure of Lake Sammamish State Park's natural beauty and activities.  

The best camping in Lake Sammamish State Park, WA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
ELKS Beach

1. ELKS Beach

98%
(40)
4.4mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 1 site · Tent · Sammamish, WA
Welcome to ELKS Beach, a charming recreation lot nestled along the shores of Lake Sammamish. Though not one acre in size (please note that the HipCamp app requires a minimum selection of 1 acre), our cozy spot offers a unique lakeside experience. Parking is conveniently situated a couple of blocks away, and the site is accessible via a walk-in/walk-out path connected to the East Lake Sammamish Trail. The terrain boasts a slightly sloped, rocky shoreline, providing direct no-bank access to the water for activities such as swimming, paddle-boarding, boating, fishing, and sunbathing. Please be aware that the site does not have utilities or hook-ups, embracing a rustic getaway experience. It can accommodate two tents and up to 6 people comfortably. On-site amenities include a firepit, picnic table, trash can, sun umbrella, a buoy, and camp chairs for your enjoyment. Additionally, a honeybucket is available in the parking lot for your convenience. Please note that the boat lift and on-site cabana are not available for camper use. There is no electricity so please be prepared to bring your own lighting. (There is a set of string lights in the tree that we put up for our personal use that requires our solar generator to use. Just a heads up that these aren’t intended to be part of the guest camping experience). Various chairs, paddle boards, tents and other items shown in images may belong to guests and are not all included in the rental. Please inquire if you have any questions regarding specifics of what is included. Come and experience the tranquility of ELKS Beach, where the natural beauty of Lake Sammamish awaits your exploration.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$89
 / night
Carnation Moss Forest

3. Carnation Moss Forest

91%
(59)
7.5mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Redmond, WA
5 acres natural forest, foot trails to Little Ames Creek flowing from Ames Lake. 2 RV campsites - #1. Carnation Moss Forest and #2. Magical Mossy Forest - 50ft from a road, in a valley neighborhood of Redmond, Washington, the sites share the driveway and a large washfountain, featuring- Two 23 ft long parking pads for 1 RV each in Carnation Moss Forest and in Magical Mossy Forest 1 vehicle parking space, such as a car, SUV, jeep, in the loop through driveway 2 tent camping pads each in Carnation Moss Forest and in Magical Mossy Forest 3 hydrants with Potable/ drinking water 2 Electric power poles of 50a, 30a, and 110 outlets with a light at night 2 porta-potties, regularly serviced 4 fire pits Several chairs, tables, picnic tables, and umbrellas in the summer. Two solidly built swing sets, with slides, one with an enclosed fort on top, climbing area, kids picnic table underneath. A picnic table and chairs sit nearby for parents to enjoy. A large vintage terrazzo semi-circular classic washfountain. The parking lot is behind trees, approx 50 ft from the main road which has regular daily traffic and noise driving by at the top of the site. It quiets down after work in the evenings. Dogs bark because they are dogs, but when you go deep into the forest you can barely hear the road or the dogs. The parking area can only be located there, in order to maintain the ecology of Ames Creek. The entrance is down through either of two driveways from the main road, on a horseshoe loop drive-through, to the L-shaped parking lot. Tent camping is 4 to 6 total soft pads in the forest near the parking sites. Note: Ames Creek does dry up in mid-summer. For large RVs maneuvering skills are required to park on the level 23 ft long parking pads in the parking area down the hill from the road. It is a U-shaped drive-through, flat at the bottom of the small driveway hill. Recent camper comments - "Love the campsite" "We had a great time" "We had fun exploring the trails" "The tent campsites are beautiful" "I now regret traveling 4+ hours to get to Hoh rainforest when we could’ve gotten to a similar experience less than 30 mins away" Cellphone signal strength reported by campers: + T-Mobile - 2 bars occasionally spotty + ATT - Strong/5G + Verizon - very good / LTE + Xfinity- connectivity Everyone who sees it remarks that this forest is beautiful. It has a main trail and many small pathways between ferns and hillocks. In an effort to preserve and protect this wild habitat, we have already planted 200 + Western Red Cedars, Douglas Firs, salal, snowberry, native current, and other native vegetation. This is a great private spot for an RV or similar vehicles and 2 tent circles. A firepit, and porta-potty next to each pad, another firepit in one of the 2 tent circles for each RV parking pad site. A completely natural untouched Pacific moss rainforest about 30 miles inland on the foothills of the Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State. Some areas it is likely no one has ever walked on. Bring mosquito repellent. Be aware of kids and dogs near road entrances, as well as near the creek in the winter. It is located near major fun sites, it is a wilderness playground! Ames Creek dries up mid-July and returns in Sept/Oct. There are a lot of little paths crisscrossing the creek, likely raccoon and deer trails. We are happy to have your dogs visit - they will love it! Please remember to bring an extension cord to access power. There are fire pits. When possible firewood is provided gratis in the woodshed. There are bundles of wood for sale at the Ace Hardware store in Carnation. + 5 minute drive to Carnation Farms Farmstand for eggs, meat, milk, juices, homemade dishes, veggies, berries, fruit, ice cream, cheeses, vinegar, chocolate, sauerkraut, kimchi! + 15 minute drive to Remlinger Farms (summer only) amusement rides for kids - Model-T cars, swings, canoe, carousel, pumpkin rides, steam train, roller coaster, barrel ride, peddle cars, giant slide, whirly bird, star gazer, wreaking ball, pony ride, hay rides, - u-pick fields, ice cream & pies, corn mazes, many animals (bunnies too), and a brewery with bands! + 15 min drive to Snoqualmie River + 20 minutes drive to Snoqualmie Falls +15 minute drive to Microsoft Campus, Nintendo, Pushpay, llink Systems, ADIC (Advanced Digital Information Corporation), Meta, Spacemark in Redmond #larping + 23 mins from the cute town of Issaquah + 2 hours and 30 minutes drive to the famed The Gorge Amphitheater, near George, Washington, a natural outdoor concert venue in Grant County + 27 minute drive to Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, less than 15 miles away + 30 minute drive to Seattle If you love natural woods, trees, greenery, ferns, and moss with a small creek running through then this is your place. Visited by many kinds of birds. Besides the high-tech corridor, this area is known for its farming communities, and thus photography and video opportunities. Deciduous forest with Big Leaf Maple and Alder, the woods are hemlock, Western red cedar, and Douglas Fir trees, with a creek on site, and Ames Lake nearby. Bird watchers may spot rare species at this pristine natural location, 15 minutes from Redmond's city center. Many types of these birds - pied-billed Grebes, Bald Eagles, Osprey, Red-tailed Hawks, accipiters, Killdeer, woodpeckers, wrens, blackbirds, some ducks, chickadees, and other rare species are resident here. During spring and summer, warblers, rails, American Bittern, and sparrows can be quite common. Wintertime brings geese, many types of ducks, gulls, swans, Northern Shrikes, Peregrine Falcons, and some Rough-legged Hawks. This location is near U.S. National Forest extending more than 140 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Range from the Canada–US border to the northern boundary of Mount Rainier National Park. John Muir once wrote, "In every walk with nature, one receives far more than they seek." Embark on a poetic journey at Carnation Moss Forest and let the beauty of the Pacific Northwest inspire your artistic nature. We recommend a 2-night stay so you can enjoy these woods and the area. CMF / MMF just opened and we really want your feedback about how we may improve your experience here. #findyourselfoutside Because Life Is Too Short to Live It From Inside a Computer #highwaytomore
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$47
 / night
Pleasant Hill Private Park

4. Pleasant Hill Private Park

92%
(88)
7.5mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Carnation, WA
Home for over 30 years, homemade trails and camping on our 8 acres, RV's welcome. We have an RV electric hookup on one area, spot 6. Tents and Trailers welcome! Campers and Car Campers welcome. You will drive thru a country dirt road “neighborhood,” to get here, surrounded by horses and trees…… Speed Limit is 10 miles an hour on our dirt road……long driveway (900 ft.) and gate access. Pro campers welcome, please be self contained and able to self manage, we have wildlife around, a river, safety first above all else! Welcome to the heart of the Snoqualmie Valley, Located across from the gorgeous Snoqualmie River, our property borders the Snoqualmie Valley Trail that Runs from Duvall to North Bend for Bikers, Runners, Horse Travel, Walking, Hiking and no motorized vehicles allowed. Thirty Nine (39) minutes to Snoqualmie Pass Ski Lodge, Alpental and Hyak, Fifteen (15) minutes to Mt. Si Hiking trails, and beautiful Duvall with Muddy Boots Farm including the Corn Maze! Ten (10) minutes to Historic Snoqualmie Falls, Carnation Farms, Misty Valley Farms, Jubilee Farms, and Oxbow Farms. Four (4) minutes to Fall City and Fall City Floating Company, Multiple Golf Courses, Raging River Restaurant, Aroma Coffee Shop, Frontier Saloon, Downtown Carnation, Timberfest, Tolt McDonald Park, Snoqualmie and Raging River for Boating, Kayaking, Fishing and Swimming. Also Tolt Laundromat, voted best in the Nation with RV dump site, Ixtapa, Carnation Cafe, Sam’s Noodle Town, Blake’s Pizza, and the most exciting Remlinger Farms Brewery, Fun Park, Arcade, Restaurant, serving many flavors of soft serve ice cream, coffee shop, live music Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights plus a Complete Country Marketplace, open YEAR ROUND! Two (2) minutes to Snoqualmie and Raging River for fishing, boating and swimming and Last, 1 minute to the cascade foothills and the trails leading you to nature, beautiful Orenda Winery next door, and our Home of the Fabulous Orchids, where music is priority one and guitar circles break out of nowhere. We welcome you to Pleasant Hill, a country neighborhood nestled up to the cascade forest foothills in the heart of the Snoqualmie Valley where adventures are waiting!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Rooster Haus Rescue

7. Rooster Haus Rescue

100%
(15)
9.1mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Fall City, WA
Rooster Haus Rescue is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and giving permanent sanctuary to neglected and abused farmed animals, with a special focus on roosters. The sanctuary is located on 5 forested acres just 40 minutes from Seattle in the beautiful Snoqualmie Valley. We are just minutes away from Snoqualmie Falls, near hundreds of miles of hiking and mountain bike trails, lots of tourist attractions, and even an incredible vegan cafe, The Black Dog Arts Cafe, where you can enjoy amazing food and live music. Rocky's Retreat and our dispersed campsites are located on one private fenced acre of the sanctuary. It is a truly unforgettable vegan sanctuary experience, and all monies from your stay go directly to caring for our 100+ residents, including roosters, hens, peafowl, turkeys, ducks, pigeons, dogs, cats, and fish.
Potable water
Toilets
Trash
from 
$150
 / night
McMurtrey Farm

11. McMurtrey Farm

96%
(262)
12mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 4 sites · RVs · Redmond, WA
Larry and Dolly McMurtrey purchased the Delveccio farm in 1975 next door to this farm. The farm offered an exciting new venture after retirement. The McMurtrey's had many fun and unique ideas. They purchased truck loads of scrap glass to resell as fish glass, which is still seen today in the parking lot. They grew bamboo and sold imperfect veggies that farmers were going to throw away. Eventually they landed on Christmas trees. To expand their ventures, they leased this land for many years then eventually sold the Delveccio land and purchsed this farm in 1998. Today, Larry and Dolly's daughter and son-in law, Jana and Pablo Sifuentes have grown the family business to provide wonderful memories to the community during the holiday season. This year the farm will start a small u-cut flower field then add the pumpkin patch in September and November. We are excited to see where the future of the farm takes us and thank the community for their love and support.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
City Scape Homestead w/ Hot Tub

15. City Scape Homestead w/ Hot Tub

100%
(19)
13mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 1 site · RV · White Center, WA
We are located on a greenbelt off a dead end street. Enjoy the view of the city lights right outside your van or say hi to our two friendly goats. You might spot our resident coyotes or friendly bunnies during your stay. 10 minutes from the city but feels like you are out in your own private forest! Hose hook up and standard power outlet (15amp) available during your stay. Plus hot tub on site! Only a 10-15 minute uber/taxi to downtown or 5 minutes to nearby restaurants/bars. Not the most walkable but just a short car ride from most things! (Downtown, Alki Beach, Georgetown, Airport) We live in an urban setting so you may encounter noise from nearby vehicles, airplanes, fire trucks, etc. This site can only accommodate camper vans or class c motor homes no larger than 25ft. Driver will need to backdown our long driveway to park in the designated site on the side of our house. Please no more than three people and one vehicle. We may be able to make accommodations based on your situation but please message us first! We can only accommodate towable rvs no larger than 20ft in total length including trailer tongue. You must be able to backdown long driveway and park tow vehicle on street. Campfires are welcome in the designated fire pit at the bottom of our hill. Please note there are quite a few steep steps to get there. Please request using this area in advance. Option to purchase farm fresh eggs from our neighbors chickens. Half dozen are $5.00 and can be requested in advance. We operate our rental business out of our home so you may encounter driveway traffic during your stay.
Campfires
Trash
from 
$75
 / night
Hollow Tree Camp

17. Farm 108

100%
(103)
13mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · North Bend, WA
10 acre homestead on the outskirts of downtown North Bend at the base of Mt. Si. Breathtaking view of the mountain, peaceful pastures, amazing wildlife. Walk or ride to all the charm of Downtown North Bend (0.7 miles), The Snoqualmie River (0.5 miles) or The Snoqualmie Trail (0.5 miles). Close to Rattlesnake Lake (6.5 miles) and a huge variety of hiking trails. The farm is regularly visited by elk. During the spring and summer there are usually cows, cats, and two working dogs on the property. Hollow Tree Campsite is private, located on the far side of the pasture, next to a seasonal creek (dry in the summer). For larger groups we offer two adjacent pasture sites, Hollow Tree and Cherry Tree. And for those in a vehicle requiring hookups, Barn Camp is an excellent option. Farm 108 is a lovely place to get away from the hustle and enjoy the outdoors, while still accessing great eateries and activities. Hope to see you soon!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Roney River Ranch (R3)

18. Roney River Ranch (R3)

96%
(226)
13mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Duvall, WA
Our family has lived and worked this farm since 1912. Originally the fields were used to grow peas (1940's), dairy (1950-1960's), black angus (1970-1980's), hogs & dairy replacement heifers (1990's), fresh culinary herbs for the grocery stores (last 20 years). Every year the location you are camping on floods and holds at least 3 feet of water, hence we only offer seasonal camping. The property has held events from town picnics in the 1930's, hoedowns in the 70's and a traveling circus in the 1980's. It is perfectly located 1 minute to Duvall and 25 minutes to Redmond. Learn more about this land: This 4th generation grass valley floor at sea level includes views of Mt. Baker & Rainer. Surrounded by retired culinary herb fields and planted cow corn to the west. Summer includes herds of heifers ranging the north. Your spot is minutes to amenities in "Old" town Duvall and swimming holes on the Snoqualmie River.  There are many culvert crossings between #4 & #5 for a fun walk around and a tall grass path near #1 & #2 to get lost in.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Highland Park Hideaway

19. Highland Park Hideaway

99%
(72)
14mi from Lake Sammamish State Park · 3 sites · RVs · Seattle, WA
Enjoy an urban layover in Seattle at this “secret garden” oasis! Property is tucked away off the main street in a manicured, park-like setting. Borders a private greenbelt on one side, with territorial and peek-a-boo mountain views. Easy walking distance to public transit, numerous open spaces, parks/playgrounds...and a coffee shop and cafe in the adjacent, vibrant Greenbridge Community. 2 blocks to Westcrest Park, which has panoramic views of the city skyline and an off-leash dog area. Highland Park Hideaway offers easy access to downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, Ferries, Seattle Center, Space Needle, Alki Beach and so much more. Or head down to T-Mobile Park, Lumen field (~6 miles) or Climate Pledge Arena (~8 miles) for a Mariners, Sounders, Seahawks or Kraken game...or one of many events/concerts! Conveniently located on bus routes (60, 131, H Line) to downtown Seattle, West Seattle, Capitol Hill, and Bellevue. And just a ~12 minute drive to SEA Airport or downtown Seattle. Uber/Lyft/Taxis are readily available in minutes. Short distance (.75 mile) to hip and funky downtown White Center with a diverse array of restaurants, bars, breweries and shops! Everything you need, right here in the neighborhood: Grocery stores, Westwood Village shopping mall, McLendon Hardware, Walgreens and more. PLEASE NOTE: This driveway spot is best suited for Vanlife, Overlanders, truck camper, or small RV (25 ft max). Property is at the dead end of a shared (w/neighbors) and narrow driveway ~60 yards from street/entrance, with tight turning/backing radius. Trailers will need to back down the driveway from street into the spot. Trailer tow vehicle should also be able to fit/park in the driveway. Might be an option to park under Carport (11' tall clearance) depending on size/configuration. Rigs must be self-contained. ALSO: This location being in an urban neighborhood (with homes/neighbors around it) – you will hear some city ‘white noise’ from planes, trains, automobiles, etc. Owner/host is an avid camper and lives on-site. Stays beyond 5 night max may be possible, depending on circumstances and bookings. Please send a message first if wanting to book for FIFA World Cup 2026.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$55
 / night

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The best camping in Lake Sammamish State Park, WA guide

Overview

About

Nestled close to Seattle, Lake Sammamish State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With two inviting swimming beaches, a plethora of trails, and a variety of sports fields, this park is a perfect escape from the city. Whether you're looking to kayak, paddleboard, or simply enjoy a picnic by the lake, the park's diverse offerings ensure a memorable day out amid nature's splendor.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Sammamish State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the park's full suite of activities can be enjoyed to the fullest. However, the park is open year-round from 6:30am to dusk, offering a different kind of beauty in each season. Avoid visiting during special events if you prefer a quieter experience.

Know before you go

  • Be aware of the current burn ban level; fires are only allowed in designated pits and grills.
  • Check for any trail closures, such as the Homestead Trail, before planning your hike.
  • Remember to purchase a Discover Pass for park entry.
  • Keep dogs on a leash and under control at all times, and note that they are not allowed in swim areas.
  • Plan your visit around park events, like the Lake Sammamish Half Marathon, which may affect park traffic.

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