The best star host campgrounds in Washington

Sandwiched between Oregon and British Columbia on the Pacific Ocean, Washington state has long been celebrated for its pristine waterways, old-growth forests, soothing hot springs, and epic mountain lakes and peaks. The northwestern-most state in the contiguous 48 is home to three national parks—North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park, and Mount Rainier National Park—along with miles and miles of beautiful coastline and lush temperate islands. While there are abundant opportunities for outdoor exploration in the aptly nicknamed Evergreen State, there’s also plenty for those looking for a bit of indoor appeal, from fine arts and culture museums to fantastic wineries.

99% (36K) • 1,416 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Washington

Sandwiched between Oregon and British Columbia on the Pacific Ocean, Washington state has long been celebrated for its pristine waterways, old-growth forests, soothing hot springs, and epic mountain lakes and peaks. The northwestern-most state in the contiguous 48 is home to three national parks—North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park, and Mount Rainier National Park—along with miles and miles of beautiful coastline and lush temperate islands. While there are abundant opportunities for outdoor exploration in the aptly nicknamed Evergreen State, there’s also plenty for those looking for a bit of indoor appeal, from fine arts and culture museums to fantastic wineries.

99% (36K) • 1,416 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Washington

1. The Forest Cupcake

99%

(190)

1 site · Lodging · Lyle, WA

This unique place in Lyle, Washington - part of the Columbia River Gorge scenic area - is magical and utterly beautiful. The property is set in a magnificent meadow as far as the eye can see with soft rolling hills, edged up to a deep oak woodland/ponderosa pine forest. Wildlife, stars, trails, and rivers all abound here. We think it is one of the finest, most precious and beautiful places on the planet. For outdoor recreation, this area is a windsurfing and kiteboarding mecca. Mount Adams and Mount Hood, await hikers and skiers, and kayaking is popular on the Klickitat and White Salmon Rivers. Heart-stopping beauty and peacefulness whichever way you turn. You will feel like you have gone to your own little Shangri-La and you will not soon forget the experience. Even sleeping is special here, as you look up into the dome of the yurt and behold the stars, while twinkle lights gently illuminate the interior. We live in a slice of heaven, and we want to share it with others.

2. WindWoodRivers

97%

(916)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Home Valley, WA

One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, St. Martin homestead-started in the late 1800s. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply in these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, 60 minutes east of Portland, 25 minutes west of Hood River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

3. Cedar River Retreat

99%

(429)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hobart, WA

Welcome to Cedar River Retreat—a hidden oasis just beyond a historic fishing village on the river. Close enough to town for convenience, yet tucked away so you can slow down, unplug, and immerse yourself in nature. Since 2016, we’ve been creating memories here and are excited to share this special place with you. Whether you’re looking for an off-grid cabin getaway, a peaceful RV spot, or a tent-only camping experience, there’s a little something for every kind of adventurer. We believe the outdoors are for everyone, and we can’t wait to welcome you. See you by the river! 🌲✨ Follow along on Instagram: @cedar_riverretreat

4. Dungeness Riverside Castle

1 site · Lodging · Sequim, WA

Camping in style—bring only your suitcase. Dungeness Castle is a 12 × 12 Four Seasons tent that is fully furnished with a plush queen bed, pellet heating stove, refrigerator/freezer, propane camp stove, electricity, propane hot water, shower, and portable potty—everything you need for a great camping experience. There’s no need to spend days packing gear, transporting equipment, or setting up camp. It’s all right here for you.

5. The Hideout

99%

(76)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashford, WA

"Osborne's Den" (tiny A-Frame Cabin) and "The Moose Site" (a full hook up RV/Camp site) both nestled on this quaint 1/2 acre lot (they rent separately... not together). Just minutes from Mt. Rainier National Park. "Osborne's Den" has basic power inside the building and a water spigot just outside. There is a queen sized bed (you bring your own bedding). There is a shared Honeybucket Toilet just across the driveway. You will see the other details in the "site listing" "The Moose" is a level, graveled RV/Camping site. Water and 30 AMP and 20 AMP power and sewer connection. Each site has it's own picnic table, firepit and chairs... perfect for relaxing. Short 10 minute walk/hike down to the Nisqually River. Restaurants/shops/coffee/stores 1 mile away! Please read the listing details carefully before booking either option.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

a

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at The Forest Cupcake

Chilly and wet weekend at the Cupcake... so we made the most of a cozy fire and the quiet which made for a peaceful retreat.

R

Robert

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at The Forest Cupcake

Irene's yurt was super cozy and unique. Even with it being sub-freezing outside the fireplace kept us warm (just make sure to bring plenty of firewood during the winter!). Directions were very clear and Irene was very welcoming. We would definitely visit again.

J

Jon

1 week ago

With pets

3 nights at The Forest Cupcake

We had such a wonderful winter Adventure at the cupcake. We really enjoyed hiking around the property and the sun sets were absolutely breathtaking. Irene was very flexible and accommodating. We highly recommend this hip camp and will return.

K

Kimberly

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

We stayed 2 nights in the yurt for an agyer Christmas getaway and it was perfect! The wood stove kept us so toasty through the chilly nights-- we woke up to the owls in the morning. Everything was just as explained and the host was amazing and so friendly! We were able to have peaceful family time without wifi and just playing games and eating good food! We are off the grid kind of campers, so we even showered in the outhouse in December! What a cool touch that was to the place! The yurt was super comfy and cozy with just the basics but everything you needed for off the grid experience. We would 100% stay again. Thank you for the beautiful weekend!

Seung

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cedar River Retreat

Another relaxing and rejuvenating stay at Cedar River Retreat! Brittany has spoiled me for other camping/cabin stays. The cabin is so well maintained and the extra amenities available make for a top notch experience. My pup loves staying here so much! 🐾

a

alissa

December 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cedar River Retreat

Brittany's space is a sweet little haven. I have booked this spot a few times for a Winter Solstice celebration and it never disappoints. We love gathering around the big fire pit for hours, sharing in ceremony, music, and reflection, and ending the night with a cozy sleep in the cabin. I happily recommend this spot!

M

Maxence

December 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

The Yurt was just amazing. The fireplace kept us warm and everything was very clean and tidy. Highly recommend!!!

Jamie

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

Irene's place is pure magic. I've stayed at some pretty unique and amazing Hip Camps, but this was most definitely in the top two. The yurt itself is so comfortable and cozy; nothing like what you would get at a state park. The wood stove kept us warm all night, and the bed/sheets/pillows were heavenly. We unfortunately had an overcast night, so we didn't get to enjoy the stars (although I have no doubt that this would be a phenomenal stargazing location), but we did get to fall asleep to the sounds of owls all around us. Irene has put so many little touches into her property/yurt that make it feel like you are in another land, yet you're so close to the adorable city of Hood River, or The Dalles for bigger box stores. Please be sure to walk up the hill to find the bench by the tree. The views are spectacular! Thank you Irene, for everything. I hope to come back in every season. :)

B

Bridget

November 2025

2 nights at WindWoodRivers

Absolutely stunning location. The time I went was also superb in that no one else was camping so nature really presented itself. I saw bald eagles, great blue heron, salmon jumping up river. It was unforgettable. The sauna experience was lovely. There was a suggestion to pour water over rocks but I'd recommend that as mandatory to maintain heat & steam. There wasn't hot water which I didn't entirely mind since a cold outdoor shower after sauna was invigorating & exciting to the sense. The moment I wanted hot water was at end of stay when I had to dispose of the compost toilet liquids & wanted to wash hands with warmer water. It is a truly beautiful landscape & an enjoyable glamping experience.

Brandy

November 2025

1 night at The Forest Cupcake

The yurt was large and private, and had great mood lighting. We were able to warm the yurt up quickly with the wood stove and it kept us warm through the night. The bed was very comfortable. Irene was quick responding back to me. We had a wonderful stay for my husbands birthday!

K

Kelly

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

A wonderful stay at the Cupcake Yurt. Irene and Bill’s land is beautiful and peaceful. Plenty of wildlife to enjoy it with including a Great Horned Owl and a pack of coyotes. We enjoyed the little town of Lyle and even ran into Bill at the Confluence Cafe while sipping coffee and watching Bald Eagles on the Columbia. Having the convenience of a compost toilet, a small sink and well water with the peace of being off grid was the perfect way to disconnect for the weekend.

Danie

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

We had a wonderful time here. We were nice and cozy with the fire stove and enjoyed exploring the area. Thanks for having us!

J

James

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Cedar River Retreat

Great site, super comfortable cabin. Great weekend spot being so close to the city!

A

Adam

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to WindWoodRivers

The sites are all very unique. We loved out stay. Lots of salmon making a run up river right now. It was very cool to watch the salmon and also a big group of kayakers going by. Sites were clean. Wish we would have added the sauna add on. They looked really neat.

L

Larisa

October 2025

With pets

1 night at The Forest Cupcake

I needed a last minute escape from the city and took a chance–this was my first experience using Hipcamp! I brought my dogs, Lewis and Luna, on a fall day with very mixed weather. Irene met us and was SO lovely and informative. We felt so welcome. They set up a fire in the wood stove ahead of our arrival, 🥹 so the yurt was warm and cozy when we opened the doors. It had everything we needed and a lot more! I was so moved by the rolling grasslands and the oak and pine woodlands we explored. We didn't mind the weather and can't wait to come back as a family! 👩‍❤️‍👨 🐶 🐶 Next time, we'll [remember to] bring the dogs 50-foot leashes to give them a bit more freedom to explore during our hikes. For what its worth, we completely agree with the leash policy. Our dogs get around, but they live in a city. They both have high prey drives 🐇🐿️ and would not do well with an off-leash wildlife encounter. 🦌🐓🫣 We also understand there are kids nearby and Luna is afraid of small, unpredictable humans. 🤦 We're working on it. 😅 They did meet our old 'host dog' briefly! All were respectful and curious. 🐾 We hope they feel welcome to stop by again next time we're around! Final note: I'm glad we brought extra towels. We came during tick season–something the house manual mentions. There were plenty but it wasn't a big problem. The dogs get a monthly flea and tick treatment and we just picked them off. Thank you so much for hosting us Irene & Bill! 🙏✨

Chris

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to WindWoodRivers

Great spot, great family, we will always return! Thanks!

A

Andrew

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

Delightful hosts with an amazing property and extremely well appointed yurt. Yurt was cozy and warm, even is some rainy and cool fall weather. Easy communication with hosts. Easy check in. Everything as described and more. Lovely to find such a special spot so close to Portland. We can't wait to go back.

E

Emmet

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hideout

We had a really nice time. The space was bigger inside than I had expected. USB-ready outlets were handy, and the little plug-in faux wood stove kept us warm and created a nice ambiance. My favorite thing about the structure is the large triangular window providing a beautiful view into the forest understory out back. Thank you!

R

Rick

October 2025

18 ft Class B

1 night at The Hideout

Jayson and The Moose spot checked all the boxes. Safe, quiet, power, water and dump. Great communication and a wonderful first Hipcamp experience. Clean porta potty was a nice surprise. Thank you Jayson for a great stay so close to beautiful Mt Rainier!

becky

October 2025

Weekend Trip to WindWoodRivers

This was such a beautiful space! So thoughtfully designed and had everything we could’ve wanted. The walk down to the spot was a littler steeper than expected but absolutely worth it. The rain on the tin roof at night was so lovely. Host was also so accommodating and kind! Absolutely would come back to this space.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping in Washington guide

Where to go

Greater Seattle

Straddling the Puget Sound, this region includes Washington's biggest city--Seattle--and the area around it. While urban adventure takes center stage in this populated region, there are also plenty of spots to commune with nature, and even if you're based in Seattle, you'll have easy access to numerous Washington state parks.

The Washington Coast and Islands

If you want gorgeous Pacific Coast scenery, ancient forests, and whale watching to feature in your next camping trip, the Washington Coast, the Olympic Peninsula, and the state's many islands are just the ticket. Here you’ll find Olympic National Forest and its ancient Hoh Rainforest, plus plenty of small Coastal towns, such as charming Port Angeles and Port Townsend.

Northern Washington

This remote section of the state is characterized by old-growth forests, alpine lakes, and ancient glaciers. It’s also the site of North Cascades National Park, an enormous expanse of wilderness that offers mile upon mile of hiking trails and excellent campground and backcountry options for campers.

Central and Eastern Washington

With a mix of towering mountains, pristine forests, arid prairies, and plenty of cute small towns, Washington's central and eastern stretches offer some of the best camping and outdoor recreation areas in the state. Washington's second-largest city, Spokane, is located in the region, as is the Bavaria-inspired town of Leavenworth, full of German restaurants, beer gardens, and plenty of faux-world kitsch in this region.

Southern Washington

The southern part of the state is known for beautiful scenery, snow-capped peaks, and excellent wine. On the Oregon border, the Columbia River Gorge is full of beautiful spots for hikers--come in the spring and you'll be rewarded with spectacular flurries of wildflowers. The region also boasts a few world-class wineries of its own, with more to be found further north and east in Walla Walla and Yakima. The area is also home to Mount Adams, Mount Rainier and its surrounding national park, and Mount Saint Helens, which famously erupted back in 1980.