We’re only a week into February, but if you haven’t booked some of your summer camping trips you might want to consider doing it ASAP! Many places open their reservation systems 6-9 months in advance, and the most popular campgrounds book up fast. It seems like every year things fill up earlier. Many places already have all their summer weekends booked solid – but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great spots left for your camping adventure.
Here are some fantastic camping options for this summer that still have weekend tent sites available – but you better reserve your space soon, before someone else grabs it!
Pearrygin Lake State Park – This is a super popular campground near Winthrop that actually still has a few weekend openings. Activities for everyone – boating, fishing, swimming…or just sitting around and enjoying the view! (Image Credit: Washington State Parks)
Leavenworth KOA – Not so sure you can handle a rustic weekend? Then make it a mini-vacay to Leavenworth at the popular KOA resort. You can explore the Bavarian Village and all it offers while camping with comforts such as a game room, pool…even a coffee stand! And you don’t even have to sleep on the ground if you reserve one of their cabins. Hey, we’ll still let you call it “camping.” (Image Credit: Pine Village KOA)
Seaquest State Park – This is another one of my personal favorites. Its close proximity to Mt. St. Helens makes the perfect landing point for a lovely day trip to see the majesty of the volcano. Plus, there are several hikes (of varying difficulty) around the volcano that you probably wouldn’t be able to check out if you just went for a quick trip to the observatory. If you make it part of a weekend camping adventure, you get to see and experience so much more of the beauty!
Lake Easton State Park – Frequently visited because of its close proximity to Seattle (just 15 minutes past Snoqualmie Pass), this might be a great option if you don’t want to spend hours on the road. There is a playground for the kids and a nice swimming beach. Right now it looks like there are LOTS of openings, so you haven’t missed your chance! (Fair warning, when we visited this campground I recall trains running into the night. I don’t know if it was our specific site location, or if it’s pervasive around the park, but the popularity of this campground means it certainly isn’t a deterrent for all of its fans!)
West Beach Resort – Want to check out Orcas Island but don’t want to pay for a hotel or B&B? The state park campground is already booked up, but West Beach Resort has openings for you – and lots of fun, too! Another great option for the nervous camper, West Beach Resort offers daily kids’ activities, kayak & canoe rentals, a hot tub, and even wi-fi in some places. They also have “tent cabins” if you want to upgrade your camping experience. For some local recreation, hike up Mt. Constitution – you can drive up if you want to, but the view from the top is better after a good workout! (Image Credit: West Beach Resort)
Dash Point State Park – This one is close to home between Seattle and Tacoma! It’s got miles of hiking and biking trails, and 3,301 feet of saltwater shoreline. Low tide turns the sand flats into the best outdoor play area for kids. Bring your kayak, bucket, swimsuit, and fishing rod for your weekend at Dash Point. (Image Credit: Washington State Parks)
Lake Sylvia State Park – Located outside the town of Montesano, this campground is located on an old logging camp. There are old logging roads to bike or explore – but the real reason to come is the lake! There’s a great playground for the kids and plenty of space on the beach. Mind the map when you make your reservations, though. Some campsites are located directly on the waterfront so if you’ve got littles, make sure you’re choosing one that keeps their safety in mind. (Image Credit: Washington State Parks)
Alta Lake State Park – Can’t get into Chelan? Try Alta Lake! It’s only 30 minutes away and offers swimming, boating, and fishing. Alta Lake was devastated a couple of years ago during wildfires, but the lake – and the fun – remains. If you’re seeking Eastern Washington heat with a cold, refreshing lake experience – this is your spot. (Image Credit: Washington State Parks)
Fort Townsend Historical State Park – This is a great alternative to Fort Worden! Lots of history, six miles of trails, and 3,960 feet of saltwater shoreline along Port Townsend Bay. And best of all – they’ve got the weekend openings you’re looking for! (Image credit: Washington State Parks)
Larrabee State Park – Visit Washington’s first State Park! This park has tide pools and rugged shoreline to explore, giant boulders to climb over, a playground for the kids, and (of course) the beach! Located on the outskirts of Bellingham, it’s hit-or-miss as to whether it will be warm enough to take a dip but there’s plenty of other stuff to do to keep you and the family busy. Fragrance Lake hike (and viewpoint) is right across the street.
Pacific Beach State Park – Here’s a bonus eleventh option for those of you looking for the ocean. You’ll find it here! Pack your kites, shovels, and buckets and head to Pacific Beach State Park to be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves crashing outside your tent. If you’re looking for additional tourist-y activities, it’s a short 30-minute drive to all the fun of Ocean Shores. (Image credit: Washington State Parks)
Browse all your Washington State Park camping options by geographical area here (hint: put in your selected dates, then choose “Washington State Parks” to view everything available instead of searching through specific parks), or your National Park options here. Before you go make sure you read our advice on camping with small children, and use our Ultimate Camping Checklist for Families so you don’t forget any gear. And if you’re feeling frustrated you can’t get a reservation at your favorite location – check out our list of First-Come, First-Served Campgrounds!
Happy Camping!
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No Reservations? No Problem! First-Come, First-Served Campgrounds in Washington State
