Forest Camping in Washington

Forest Camping in Washington

Discover the best forest camping across Washington. Immerse yourself in the forest. Towering trees, dappled sunlight, and the sounds of nature.

20+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: Year-round

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Forest Camping in Washington

Forest camping Washington offers some of the most spectacular old-growth woodland experiences in North America, where ancient Douglas firs, western hemlocks, and Sitka spruces create natural cathedrals that have stood for centuries. From the moss-draped temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the towering giants of the Cascade Range, Washington's forest campgrounds immerse visitors in primeval wilderness that feels worlds away from civilization.

Best Time

Late June through September offers the most reliable weather for forest camping in Washington, with July and August providing the warmest temperatures and driest conditions, though even summer brings occasional rain in these lush ecosystems. Spring (May-June) showcases vibrant green growth and rushing rivers swollen with snowmelt, but campgrounds at higher elevations may remain closed due to snow.

Scenery Highlights

  • Towering tree canopies
  • Shaded, cool campsites
  • Diverse wildlife viewing
  • Peaceful woodland atmosphere


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Forest Camping in Washington

Map Key
1
Douglas Fir Campground
2
Hoh Rainforest Campground
3
Ohanapecosh Campground
4
Ohanapecosh Group Campground
5
North Fork Campground (Wa)
6
Paradise Creek Campground
7
Beckler River Campground
8
Newhalem Creek Campground
9
Heart O' The Hills Campground
10
Klahowya Campground
11
Falls Creek Campground
12
Bumping Lake Campground
13
Troublesome Creek Campground
14
Dalles Campground
15
Campbell Tree Grove Campground
16
East Sullivan
17
Gatton Creek Campground/Day Use Area
18
North Fork Campground
19
Upper Goodell Group Campground
20
Jubilee Lake Campground (Or)

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Hiking through old-growth forest trailsPhotography of ancient trees and forest landscapesWildlife viewing (Roosevelt elk, black bears, varied thrushes)Nature study and forest ecology observationFishing in forest-shaded rivers and streamsBirdwatching for forest species

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites well in advance for summer weekends at popular destinations like Ohanapecosh and Hoh Rainforest—these book out within hours of becoming available six months ahead.
  • 2Bring waterproof gear regardless of season; even summer brings misty mornings and occasional showers in Washington's forests.
  • 3A quality rain fly and ground tarp are essential, as forest floor moisture persists even during dry spells.
  • 4Pack layers for temperature fluctuations—forest canopies create cool microclimates that can be 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby clearings.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Forest Camping in Washington

Forest Camping in Washington FAQ

We've ranked 20+ forest campgrounds in Washington based on tree coverage, wildlife viewing, and hiking access. Top options offer shaded sites and peaceful woodland settings.

Forest campgrounds in Washington are home to diverse wildlife including deer, various bird species, and small mammals. Store food properly and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Washington offers excellent forest camping with diverse woodland ecosystems, well-maintained trails, and shaded campsites perfect for summer escapes. Many sites offer both developed and primitive options.

Availability Alerts

Popular Washington Campgrounds Book Fast

The best forest camping in Washington book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

Checks every 2 min
SMS, email, push
150,000+ campsites

Outdoorithm

Just now

🎉 Site opened up!

Douglas Fir Campground
Your preferred dates

Quick! This site typically books within hours.


Outdoorithm

Find Your Perfect Washington Campground

Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.

  • Search 20+ forest camping in Washington
  • Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
  • Get personalized recommendations for your trip
  • Compare campground amenities
  • Check weather forecasts

No credit card required. Every feature is free to use.