TL;DR
Washington State is an RV camper’s dream, offering everything from oceanfront sites on the Olympic Peninsula to alpine lakes beneath the Cascades and sun-soaked escapes in the east. This guide spotlights the 10 best RV campgrounds across the state, complete with local insights, booking hacks, and travel tips to help you find your perfect site, even during peak season.
Why Washington is an RVer’s Paradise
Few states pack as much natural diversity into a single road trip as Washington. One day, you’re parked beside crashing ocean waves on the Pacific Coast, and the next, you’re gazing at snow-draped volcanoes in Mount Rainier National Park. Drive a few hours east, and you’ll find yourself in the high desert, where sandstone cliffs meet shimmering lakes and wide-open skies.
Harvest Hosts says, “Washington is a fantastic place for RV camping and experiencing unique natural landscapes such as its gorgeous coastline, dense forests, and towering mountains,” making it among the top RV destinations in the country.
This guide covers Washington’s top RV campgrounds by region: coast, mountains, and east, along with insider advice to navigate Washington’s notoriously competitive campground system and find hidden gems when it seems everything is booked.
Best RV Campgrounds on the Washington Coast
The Washington coast is raw, wild, and unforgettable. With its fog-draped beaches, driftwood-strewn shores, and roaring surf, this stretch of the Pacific is unlike any other in the country. Coastal campgrounds are prime real estate here, and the best sites often fill within hours of reservations opening. Still, with some planning and flexibility, you can land a perfect spot.
1. Kalaloch Campground, Olympic National Park
Perched on a bluff above the Pacific Ocean, Kalaloch Campground delivers one of the most iconic RV camping experiences in Washington. Waves crash below your campsite, bald eagles soar overhead, and the legendary “Tree of Life” stands just a short walk away.
There are no hookups or showers, and RVs longer than 40 feet are not permitted. But what it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in atmosphere. The chance to camp inside Olympic National Park is worth the tradeoff. Reservations on Recreation.gov are a must and open six months in advance.
Best For: Beachcombing, tide pooling, wildlife watching, and photographing stormy sunsets.
2. Grayland Beach State Park
For those who want sand between their toes and sea breeze in their hair, Grayland Beach State Park near Westport is unbeatable. More than a dozen pull-in RV sites face the dunes, with dozens more tucked behind for easy access to the surf.
This state park offers full hookups, modern restrooms, and miles of uninterrupted beach. The constant coastal wind keeps kites aloft year-round, and the sunsets here are pure Pacific Northwest magic. Sites can be booked on the Washington State Parks site.
Best For: Kite-flying, clam-digging, surfing, and evening walks along the beach.
3. Fort Worden Historical State Park
Where history meets natural beauty, Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend offers a rare combination of adventure and nostalgia. Set on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, the park features restored military barracks, coastal bunkers, and maritime museums.
There are two distinct camping areas: a forested section with privacy and a beachfront loop with sweeping views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The park is famous for its summer festivals and films. It was even featured in An Officer and a Gentleman! Fort Worden is one of the state’s most sought-after campgrounds, so make sure to book early!
Best For: History buffs, families, and photographers.
Best RV Campgrounds in the Cascade Mountains
From alpine lakes to glacier-capped peaks, Washington’s Cascade Range offers endless possibilities for mountain RV camping. These campgrounds serve as perfect basecamps for hiking, fishing, and exploring some of the Pacific Northwest’s most dramatic scenery.
4. Cougar Rock Campground, Mount Rainier National Park
If there’s one bucket-list spot every RVer should experience, it’s Cougar Rock Campground inside Mount Rainier National Park. Nestled among towering firs and cedars, the campground is just minutes from the park’s most iconic viewpoint.
Sites are shaded, rustic, and set within old-growth forest. There are no hookups or showers, but clean restrooms and potable water are available. Maximum RV length is 35 feet. Reservations fill up quickly, especially in the summer, so plan ahead through Recreation.gov.
Best For: Hiking wildflower meadows, waterfall chasing, and photographing Mount Rainier’s grandeur.
5. Colonial Creek Campground, North Cascades National Park
Few campgrounds can match the jaw-dropping setting of Colonial Creek Campground, located directly on the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake.
Sites are surrounded by mossy trees and glacier-fed streams, offering direct access to trails such as Thunder Knob and the Thunder Creek Trail. There are no hookups or showers, and the official RV length limit is 22 feet, though smaller motorhomes and camper vans fit perfectly. For larger rigs, nearby private parks, such as those around Newhalem or Marblemount, offer alternatives.
Best For: Kayaking, hiking, and immersing yourself in raw alpine wilderness.
6. Lake Wenatchee State Park
Set against the eastern slopes of the Cascades, Lake Wenatchee State Park offers a serene alpine lake experience within easy reach of Leavenworth.
The park has two distinct campgrounds: the North Campground, which accommodates RVs (with partial hookups and a dump station), and the South Campground for tents. Enjoy a sandy beach, boat rentals, playgrounds, and equestrian trails. Winter brings snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making this a year-round gem.
Best For: Families, paddleboarders, and anyone craving mountain-meets-lake relaxation.
7. Icicle River RV Resort
For campers who prefer comfort without sacrificing scenery, Icicle River RV Resort is the perfect balance. Located just three miles from downtown Leavenworth, it offers full hookups, pristine facilities, and a peaceful riverfront setting.
Premium riverfront sites book up fast, but even the interior ones provide beautiful mountain views. The resort is close to the top trailheads for Icicle Gorge and Snow Lakes, plus rafting and rock climbing opportunities. Check IcicleRiverRV.com for current availability.
Best For: Wine-tasting weekends, festival-goers, and families who want easy access to Leavenworth.
Best RV Campgrounds in Eastern & Central Washington
Cross the Cascades, and the climate shifts dramatically. Evergreen forests give way to open skies, desert cliffs, and sparkling lakes, making it a paradise for those seeking sunshine and space.
8. Steamboat Rock State Park
Dominated by a towering basalt butte rising from Banks Lake, Steamboat Rock State Park is one of Washington’s most distinctive campgrounds.
With 136 full-hookup RV sites, this park easily accommodates large rigs. Trails lead to the summit of Steamboat Rock for panoramic views of the Grand Coulee region, while the lake below beckons for swimming and paddling. Don’t miss the nightly laser light show at nearby Grand Coulee Dam.
Best For: Boating, water skiing, hiking, and scenic photography.
9. Lake Chelan State Park
Few destinations in Washington capture summer quite like Lake Chelan State Park. This deep-blue lake stretches 50 miles into the mountains and is surrounded by vineyards, marinas, and sunny beaches.
The campground offers full and partial hookup sites, boat launches, playgrounds, and SUP rentals. It’s a short drive to Chelan’s charming downtown for lakeside dining and wine tasting. Be warned: reservations disappear almost instantly once booking opens. For larger rigs or last-minute trips, check nearby Lakeshore RV Park or Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park.
Best For: Boaters, wine lovers, and water enthusiasts.
10. Peach Beach RV Park
Located along the Columbia River Gorge, Peach Beach RV Park is a peaceful private campground shaded by old cottonwoods and lined with riverfront sites.
Next to Maryhill State Park, it offers more privacy and shade, along with a private swimming lagoon. On clear nights, you’ll see stars like nowhere else! The Goldendale Observatory, located nearby, offers public viewing events. It’s a hidden treasure for road-trippers exploring southern Washington.
Best For: Stargazing, swimming, and relaxing by the water.
Pro Tips for RV Camping in Washington
How to Score a Last-Minute Campsite
Washington’s campgrounds are famous for selling out six months in advance, but all hope isn’t lost. The Washington State Parks system allows same-day reservations until 2 p.m., so cancellations can reopen spots instantly. After 2:30 p.m., unclaimed sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Insider Tip: Check Facebook groups and campground swap forums for last-minute cancellations. And if you’re traveling light, “hiker/biker” sites at many parks remain available even when standard sites are full.
Understanding the RV 10-Year Rule
Some private RV parks enforce a “10-Year Rule,” meaning they may restrict RVs older than a decade to maintain appearance standards. This doesn’t apply to state or national parks, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead when booking private resorts. If you own a restored vintage rig, just send some recent photos. Most park managers are flexible if your RV is well-kept.
Best RV Size for Washington’s Parks
Washington’s older state and national park campgrounds were built before today’s mega-rigs. The optimal site availability is 30–35 feet in total length, including the tow vehicle. Smaller rigs offer more flexibility, especially in Olympic and North Cascades parks. For large motorhomes, stick to modern parks like Steamboat Rock or Icicle River RV Resort.
RV camping in Washington isn’t just about finding a site; it’s about discovering the soul of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the coast, hiking alpine trails in the Cascades, or soaking up sunshine east of the mountains, Washington delivers adventure in every direction.
With the right planning and a few insider tricks, your next Washington RV trip could be your best one yet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Washington RV Camping
Is there RV camping in North Cascades National Park?
Yes! Colonial Creek Campground offers direct lake access and scenic mountain views. Sites are rustic and best suited for RVs under 25 feet. There are no hookups or dump stations, but nearby towns like Marblemount offer full-service RV parks.
Do I need a Discover Pass for Washington State Parks?
If you have a paid camping reservation, a Discover Pass is not required during your stay. However, you’ll need one for day-use access to any other state park. Annual and one-day passes are available online or at park kiosks.
What is the best time of year to RV camp in Washington?
Summer (July–August) offers the warmest, driest weather but also the biggest crowds. For fewer people and colorful landscapes, try late spring (May–June) or early fall (September–October). Some parks, such as Lake Wenatchee, even remain open for winter camping.