10 Top Tent-Camping State Parks in Washington State

There’s something magical in that moment when the forest hushes and the stars blink alive overhead. You unzip your tent, breathe in the pine-scented air, and the sound of water—ocean waves, lake lapping, or river whispering—gently draws you outside. This isn’t just camping. It’s exploration in its most comforting form. In Washington State—where ancient forests touch wild shores and mountain lakes mirror the sky—you’ll find hundreds of tent sites that invite you to lean back, breathe deep, and wander into nature’s quiet. Here are ten of my favorite tent-camping gems, spread across the state, each one with its own character, directions, fees, and what you can expect when you arrive.

Get Outside and Play USA

11/18/20254 min read

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Cape Disappointment State Park (Ilwaco / Long Beach Peninsula)

At Washington’s far southwest tip, the ocean meets sky in dramatic fashion. This park offers driftwood-strewn beaches, a historic lighthouse, and a wild edge that makes tent camping feel like a true adventure.

Directions: Drive to Ilwaco on the Long Beach Peninsula; follow signage to Cape Disappointment State Park and its campground.
Fees & camping: Around $40/night for a standard tent site.
What to expect: Wind spray, foggy dawns, strong stakes required, and the lull of waves all night. Bring warm layers, and embrace the wild coast.

Moran State Park (Orcas Island)

A forest-and-lake retreat tucked in the San Juan Islands. Quiet, shaded, and full of natural charm.

Directions: Take a ferry to Orcas Island, then drive to Moran State Park.
Fees & camping: Standard WA state-park camping fees—check when reserving.
What to expect: Tree canopy, lake reflections, fewer crowds than mainland hotspots—just plan for the ferry and island logistics.

Dash Point State Park (Federal Way / Puget Sound Lowlands)

Low-travel from Seattle but still immersive. Salt-water shoreline with trees and campground just minutes off the I-5 corridor.

Directions: From I-5 take exit toward Federal Way, follow signs to Dash Point State Park and campground.
Fees: Around $20/night reported for a tent site.
What to expect: Sand + trees, seashells underfoot, and the convenience of being close to the city—but still in nature’s cradle. Bring insect repellent for summer evenings.

Lake Chelan State Park (Chelan – Cascades)

Clear-water lake, mountain backdrop, shoreline campsite: a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.

Directions: Drive to Chelan, then follow Lakeshore Rd to the park at 7544 S Lakeshore Rd, Chelan WA.
Fees: Standard state-park site rates; note moorage fees if boating.
What to expect: Sunny days, cool evenings, lake swims, mountain views—don’t forget sunscreen and a warm sleeping bag for nights.

Lake Wenatchee State Park (Near Leavenworth)

Inland Cascades magic—pine forests, glacier-fed lake, and quiet nights under stars.

Directions: Drive toward Leavenworth, then follow signs to Lake Wenatchee State Park.
Fees: Typical site cost (~$20–$40/night) based on state-park range.
What to expect: Forest shade, mountain air, and peaceful solitude. Nights get chilly—bring layers and maybe a hot drink for dusk.

Birch Bay State Park (Birch Bay – NW Coastal)

Near the Canadian border, salt-weather and forest combine for a coastal camping staple with fewer crowds.

Directions: Head north of Bellingham, off US-101 / WA-548, to Birch Bay State Park.
Camping info: Standard loops with tent sites available.
What to expect: Shellfish beaches, salt-air breezes, sun on the horizon. Pack warm layers and tide-aware sneakers for exploring flats.

Deception Pass State Park (Anacortes / Puget Sound)

Iconic views, island vibes, and one of Washington’s most scenic tent-camping destinations.

Directions: Drive to Anacortes, then via WA-20 to Deception Pass State Park.
Fees: Tent-site rate ~$12–$40 depending on loop/season.
What to expect: Popular spot—book early, bring headlamps for evening forest walks, and expect stunning vistas.

Brooks Memorial State Park (Klickitat County – Southern Inland)

Drier forest, warmer days, cooler mountain nights—a different flavor of Washington camping.

Directions: Near Goldendale/up in the southern Cascades foothills.
Camping info: Standard tent sites available; check reservation site for rates.
What to expect: Ponderosa pines, warm afternoons, starry nights. Bring a jacket for early morning chills.

Potlatch State Park (Hood Canal Region)

Forest meets salt-water, tidal flats meet tree canopy—an under-appreciated gem.

Directions: On Hood Canal in Mason County; follow WA-101/106 to the park.
Camping info: Tent loops available.
What to expect: Tidal ecology, forest shade, salt breeze. Bring binoculars for shore and water birds, and bug spray for summer.

Schafer State Park (Mason County – Satsop Hills)

A quieter, off-the-radar forest campsite for those who prefer gentle solitude over big crowds.

Directions: In Mason County—search “Schafer State Park, Elma WA” for accurate route.
Camping info: Standard tent sites; check state-park reservation system for availability.
What to expect: Gentle riverside forest, calm environment, fewer amenities than major parks—but plenty of peace.

What to Expect & Practical Tips

• Reservations: Book early via the official system at washington.goingtocamp.com (or by phone: 888-CAMPOUT).
• Pricing: Tent-site rates vary by park & season—commonly in the ~$20–$40/night range, with some higher on the coast or premium loops.
• Stay limits: As of Aug 2024, many parks limit stays to 10 nights within any 30-day period.
• Gear & conditions: Even in summer, nights can be cool—especially by lakes or coast. Pack warm clothes, rain shell, and a good sleeping bag.
• Location matters: Coastal sites mean salt, wind, driftwood; mountain sites mean sun + cool nights; forest sites mean shade and mosquito guards.
• Book early for popular loops: Especially coast, islands and near-Seattle options—they fill fast in high season.
• Leave no trace: Use designated fire rings (if allowed), pack out trash, follow wildlife rules.

And under no circumstances forget the coffee!