Cougar Rock Campground
4.33534 reviewsLongmire, WA 98361, USA
Cougar Rock Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $20 per night for standard sites and RV sites without hookups. Discounts are available for America the Beautiful Interagency Lifetime Access, Lifetime Senior, and Annual Senior passes, reducing fees to $10 per night.
About this campground
Nestled on the southwest slopes of Mount Rainier, Cougar Rock Campground serves as your gateway to one of America's most iconic volcanic peaks. This beloved basecamp sits just minutes from the legendary Paradise area, where wildflower meadows and glacier views await. Wake up to the scent of old-growth forest, enjoy modern conveniences like flush toilets and drinking water, and settle into your site complete with a sturdy picnic table—all while staying connected to the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest wilderness.
Cougar Rock Campground primarily caters to tent and RV campers, with options for group camping. It is one of only two campgrounds within Mount Rainier National Park that accepts reservations, making it ideal for summer visitors.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in a landscape that has captivated visitors since 1899, when Mount Rainier became the nation's fifth national park. Historic stone and timber buildings dot the area, echoing the craftsmanship of early park architecture. The Nisqually Glacier, visible from nearby viewpoints, has been sculpting these valleys for millennia. Come July and August, witness the same spectacular wildflower displays that have drawn nature lovers for over a century—a living tapestry of lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies that transforms the sub-alpine meadows into nature's own impressionist masterpiece.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Cougar Rock into a temperate haven where daytime temperatures hover pleasantly between 60 and 80°F, perfect for trail adventures without the swelter. As evening falls, the mountain's influence brings refreshing coolness that makes for ideal sleeping weather. Pack layers—Mount Rainier's moods can shift like a restless giant, occasionally blessing the forest with gentle rain that keeps everything emerald green and brings out the earthy perfume of cedar and fir.
ElevationPerched at 3,180 feet above sea level, Cougar Rock offers that perfect sweet spot—high enough to escape summer's heat but low enough to avoid the thin air of alpine zones. This elevation gifts campers with noticeably cooler temperatures than the valleys below, creating a natural air conditioning that makes summer camping a joy. The moderate altitude means most visitors experience no effects beyond perhaps sleeping a bit more soundly in the crisp mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient Douglas firs and western red cedars tower overhead, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. The rushing Nisqually River provides a constant mountain soundtrack just beyond your tent, its glacier-fed waters carving ever deeper into the landscape. On clear mornings, Mount Rainier reveals itself in all its 14,411-foot glory, often wearing a lenticular cloud cap like a jaunty hat. Short walks lead to thundering waterfalls, while longer trails climb toward Paradise's famous flower fields and panoramic viewpoints where the mountain fills your entire field of vision.
Geological RegionCougar Rock sits within one of the world's most dynamic volcanic landscapes, where fire and ice continue their ancient dance. Mount Rainier's 26 major glaciers—more than any other peak in the lower 48 states—grind and polish the volcanic rock, creating the dramatic valleys and ridges that define this landscape. Dense temperate rainforests cloak the lower elevations in a green embrace, gradually giving way to sub-alpine meadows and finally to the icy realm above. This is where the Cascade Range shows off its most dramatic personality, where tectonic forces built a giant that now hosts its own weather systems and ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is located on relatively level terrain, but some sites are uneven, and accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are limited. RVs over 35 feet and trailers over 27 feet are not permitted due to tight turns.
Sites SizeSites are of varying sizes, with most capable of accommodating one tent and two passenger vehicles. Larger pull-through sites are available for mid-sized RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacySites offer moderate privacy, with some loops (e.g., E Loop) providing more seclusion. However, many sites are noted to be close together with limited foliage between.
Total Campsites173 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Loop E for RVs needing generator use as it is designated no-generator. Select Loop D for tent camping with more privacy and designated tent pads.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include E22 (view of Mount Rainier) and B35 (spacious, quiet, and private).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-night consecutive stay maximum, and a total annual limit of 28 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum six people per campsite.
Groups
Group sites are tent-only and located in a separate area of the campground. They accommodate large parties but do not allow RVs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops (A, B, C, D, E, and R) with varying campsite sizes and amenities. Loops A, B, and C are most popular.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens May 23, 2025. Peak season reservations available June 24, 2025, to September 7, 2025. Closes fully October 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve sites are available during non-peak seasons, and limited during peak; early arrival recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed until midnight the day before check-in. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and the first night's fee is forfeited for late cancellations or no-shows.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cougar Rock Campground is a gateway to numerous recreational activities within Mount Rainier National Park, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and ranger-led educational programs. The Wonderland Trail, accessible from the campground, is a major attraction for experienced hikers.
Hiking
The campground offers direct access to the Wonderland Trail, a 93-mile loop encircling Mount Rainier. Shorter hikes like the Comet Falls trail (1 mile away) and Carter Falls trail are highly recommended. Trails range from moderate to strenuous and provide breathtaking views.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with opportunities to see foxes and other animals. Visitors are advised to store food securely due to wildlife presence.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground hosts interpretive programs at its amphitheater, focusing on the park's natural and cultural history. Topics like the Nisqually River and glacier systems are covered, especially on weekends.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground closes by October and is not operational during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not highlighted as an activity at Cougar Rock Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire pits. Gathering firewood from park vegetation is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced, generally after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsFalling branches and diseased trees are major hazards; approximately one-third of campsites may be closed for tree maintenance. Wildlife like bears and foxes frequent the area, requiring secure food storage.
Active alertsTree hazards have led to multiple campsite closures. The RV dump station is non-operational. Visitors should confirm campground status in advance due to ongoing maintenance.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available at Longmire Ranger Station (2 miles away). Closest hospital is Morton General Hospital in Morton, WA (approximately 45 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 24, 2025 - September 7, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, with designated areas for waste disposal near restrooms. However, some users noted noise from trash bins located close to campsites.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Nisqually River and close to waterfalls like Christine Falls and Narada Falls.
Common complaintsTree hazards, limited firewood availability, overcrowding, and campsite reservations being occupied illegally are recurring issues.
HostCampground hosts are available, offering interpretive programs and site management. Rangers are noted for being helpful and informative.
Campground Map
Longmire, WA 98361, USA
Driving directionsCougar Rock Campground is located 14 miles east of Ashford, Washington, on State Route 706/Paradise Road.
Access is via paved roads, generally well-maintained, but sections within the campground may have tight turns unsuitable for RVs over 35 feet and trailers over 27 feet. Seasonal road closures may affect access.Nearby places
Ashford (14 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Paradise (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Longmire (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Longmire General Store (2 miles away) offers basic groceries, camping supplies, and firewood ($15 per bundle). Ashford has additional supply stores approximately 30 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
534 reviews
Cougar Rock Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Cougar Rock Campground's convenient location near Paradise and its natural beauty. Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of restrooms and the proximity to trails but note issues like the lack of showers, uneven campsites, and maintenance of the dump station.
Review Summaries
Based on 534 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's scenic surroundings, proximity to popular attractions like Paradise, and well-maintained restrooms. Many reviewers appreciated the quiet atmosphere and...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include the out-of-service dump station, lack of showers, and the high price of firewood sold at nearby locations. Some visitors experienced issues with campsite assignments and...
Based on 534 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites, especially on weekdays. Bring firewood from outside the park to save costs. Set up your tent early to avoid squatters taking reserved sites.
Based on 534 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with visitors enjoying the mild weather and open trails. Fall reviews note reduced crowds but also limited loop availability. Spring reviews are sparse, as the...
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Camper Quotes
"Cougar Rock is awesome camping to explore the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier National Park." - Sheric Adventures
"The flush toilet is clean. It has soap and paper towel but the paper towel can run out...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site B25 is praised for its spaciousness and proximity to restrooms. E Loop sites offer more privacy but prohibit generator use. Some sites near restrooms or trash bins receive complaints about noise.
Based on 534 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some visitors with mobility issues noted challenges with uneven terrain and the distance to restrooms. Accessibility accommodations are limited.
Based on 534 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but noise from dogs has been a concern for some visitors. Ensure that pets are kept quiet during quiet hours.
Based on 534 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025