The Top 3 Best Places for Camping in Washington State in 2025
Washington State, known as the Evergreen State, is a camper’s paradise with its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to towering mountains and lush rainforests. In 2025, camping remains a top way to experience the state’s natural beauty, whether you’re pitching a tent, parking an RV, or glamping near a scenic lake. After researching top-rated destinations, we’ve selected the three best places for camping in Washington State based on scenery, amenities, activities, and camper reviews. These spots offer unforgettable outdoor experiences for families, solo adventurers, and groups alike. Pack your gear and discover the top camping destinations in Washington for 2025!
1. Deception Pass State Park – Best for Coastal and Forest Camping
Deception Pass State Park, located on Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, is Washington’s most-visited state park and our top pick for its stunning blend of coastal and forest camping. Spanning 3,854 acres, this park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific, old-growth forests, and the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, making it a must-visit for campers seeking diverse landscapes.
Key Features:
- Campsites: Over 300 sites, including 172 tent sites, 134 partial-hookup RV sites, and hiker/biker sites; reservations available nine months in advance via Washington State Parks.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, potable water, picnic tables, fire pits, and a dump station.
- Activities: 38 miles of hiking trails, kayaking, tide pool exploration at Rosario Beach, fishing, and wildlife watching (bald eagles and whales).
- Price: $20–$40 per night, depending on site type and season.
- Location: Nine miles south of Anacortes, accessible via Highway 20.
Why It’s Great:
Deception Pass State Park is a camper’s dream, offering three campgrounds: Cranberry Lake (200 sites, scenic views), Bowman Bay (20 sites, family-friendly), and Quarry Pond (50 sites, private and quiet). Campers rave about the technicolor sunsets, easy beach access, and trails like Goose Rock Perimeter for panoramic views. The park’s proximity to Cranberry Lake and saltwater shorelines makes it ideal for water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Reviewers highlight the well-maintained facilities and the thrill of walking across the high-flying Deception Pass Bridge.
Best For:
Families, nature lovers, and campers seeking a mix of coastal and forest experiences.
For more information: Deception Pass State Park | Washington State Parks
2. Kalaloch Campground – Best for Beachfront Camping
Kalaloch Campground, located in Olympic National Park, is the ultimate destination for beachfront camping along Washington’s wild Pacific Coast. Perched on a bluff above the ocean, this campground offers million-dollar views of crashing waves and easy access to sandy beaches, making it perfect for coastal adventurers and making this one of the best places for camping in Washington State.
Key Features:
- Campsites: 170 sites for tents and RVs (up to 35 feet, no hookups); reservations required June–September via Recreation.gov.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, food storage lockers, picnic tables, and fire pits; no showers.
- Activities: Beachcombing, tide pool exploration, visiting the Tree of Life, hiking, and sunset watching.
- Price: $24–$30 per night.
- Location: Off Highway 101, three hours west of Seattle.
Why It’s Great:
Kalaloch Campground, meaning “a good landing place,” delivers unrivaled ocean views and the soothing sound of waves, creating a serene camping experience. Campers love the direct beach access for exploring tide pools and driftwood-strewn shores. The nearby Kalaloch Creek Nature Trail offers a short, family-friendly hike, while the Tree of Life—a tree seemingly defying gravity—is a must-see. Reviewers praise the spacious sites and the chance to spot sea otters or whales. The campground’s reservation system ensures availability, but booking early is key during peak summer months.
Best For:
Beach lovers, couples, and families seeking a coastal camping escape.
For more information: Visiting Kalaloch and Ruby Beach – Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
3. Colonial Creek South Campground – Best for Mountain and Lake Camping
Colonial Creek South Campground, nestled in North Cascades National Park, is a gem for campers craving dramatic mountain scenery and pristine lake access. Surrounded by old-growth forests and the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake, this campground offers a tranquil base for exploring the rugged North Cascades. This is definitely one of the best places for camping in Washington State.
Key Features:
- Campsites: 142 sites for tents and RVs (up to 22 feet, no hookups); reservations available via Recreation.gov.
- Amenities: Potable water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire pits; no showers.
- Activities: Hiking trails (e.g., Thunder Knob Trail), kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and wildlife watching.
- Price: $16–$40 per night, depending on site type.
- Location: Near Newhalem, along Highway 20 in North Cascades National Park.
Why It’s Great:
Colonial Creek South Campground is surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests, offering stunning views of Diablo Lake’s vibrant blue waters, accessible just across the street. Campers love the easy access to trails like Thunder Knob (3.6 miles, moderate) for panoramic vistas. The campground’s secluded feel, despite its size, makes it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature. Reviewers highlight the clean facilities and the chance to spot bears or deer, though they advise packing for limited nearby amenities. Its location in the heart of the North Cascades makes it a perfect base for day trips to nearby alpine lakes or backcountry hikes.
Best For:
Hikers, solo adventurers, and campers seeking a mountain retreat with lake access.
For more information: Colonial Creek South Campground – North Cascades National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Why Choose Washington State for Camping in 2025?
Washington State’s diverse landscapes—coastal beaches, lush rainforests, and rugged mountains—make it one of the best camping destinations in the U.S. In 2025, campgrounds like Deception Pass, Kalaloch, and Colonial Creek South offer a range of experiences, from oceanfront relaxation to alpine adventures. These locations provide well-maintained facilities, access to hiking and water activities, and stunning scenery, earning high praise from campers. With reservation systems like Recreation.gov and Washington State Parks, securing a spot is easier than ever, though booking 6–9 months in advance is recommended for summer.
How to Choose the Best Camping Spot in Washington
When selecting a campground, consider these factors:
- Location and Scenery: Decide if you prefer coastal (Kalaloch), forest/coastal (Deception Pass), or mountain/lake (Colonial Creek South) settings.
- Amenities: Look for potable water, toilets, and showers if needed; some sites (e.g., Kalaloch) lack showers but offer other perks like beach access.
- Activities: Choose based on preferred activities—hiking, kayaking, or beachcombing.
- Reservations: Book early for popular sites, especially in summer, via Recreation.gov or Washington State Parks.
- Season: Summer is peak season, but spring and fall offer fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Final Thoughts
The Deception Pass State Park, Kalaloch Campground, and Colonial Creek South Campground are the top three places for camping in Washington State in 2025, offering unparalleled access to the state’s coastal, forested, and mountainous beauty. Whether you’re kayaking under the Deception Pass Bridge, watching sunsets at Kalaloch’s beach, or hiking near Diablo Lake, these destinations promise unforgettable outdoor experiences. Book your campsite today and get ready to explore Washington’s natural wonders!
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