Lake Camping in Olympia, Washington, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
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Washington
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Olympia

94% (948 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Olympia

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

100%

(2)

Olympic Gateway Cottage And RV Site

1 site · RV11 acres · Shelton, WA

Easy on/off from US 101 at SR 3 (Shelton). Pull-through RV Site can accommodate most RV lengths**. Electric and potable water hook-ups. Public RV dump site at Potlatch State Park - 14 miles. 17 mins to Hood Canal, 30 mins to Lake Cushman, 50 mins to the Staircase Entrance of Olympic National Park (33 miles). Perfect location for setting up camp with your RV, then taking your car up into the Olympics. Looking for dog-friendly hikes? Several Olympic National Forest and Skokomish Wilderness trails can be accessed from Lake Cushman, including Mt. Ellinor, Mt. Rose, and Mt. Washington. When returning to camp, enjoy what our property has to offer. Of the 11 acres, 10 acres are comprised of a Cat II wetland, a Cat III wetland, and their associated buffers. A legal trail winds down to Mill Creek just 1/4 mile downstream from the outlet of Lake Isabella. Here the creek is wide and it is permissible to hand launch non-motorized vessels (eg, kayaks, canoes). The stretch of creek between our property and the lake is conservation land, and a beaver dam crosses the creek, but kayakers can usually navigate over the beaver dam and paddle into Lake Isabella. The lake is over 200 acres and boasts Lake Isabella State Park and a Dept of Fish and Wildlife public boat launch. Our wetland is critical for maintaining local water quality and supporting the local shellfish industry; access is confined to the trail and creek access needs to be respectful and gentle. But if you pause for a moment or two along the trail or shoreline, you'll be rewarded as the local wildlife begin to stir from their hiding places. Song birds, rabbits, deer, voles -- yes. But also river otters, beavers, ducks, cormorants, and owls. Mountain lions and coyotes are possible, but we have not personally seen these. Salmon do run Mill Creek, as well. Dogs are permitted on the trail during summer, fall, and winter if leashed but should stay up near the RV site during spring to avoid disturbing nesting wildlife. Back at the RV site, there is a picnic table for outdoor cookouts (propane stoves are permissible). Inside the driveway circle is a large propane fire pit with half-moon seating on either side - perfect for roasting S'mores late into the evening. The majority of our outdoor lighting shuts down at midnight to allow for stargazing in a region remote from city lights. A 1-bed, 1-bath cottage is currently under construction, tucked into a cove of maple, hemlock, and alder. Availability expected in spring 2025. With just a single RV site, our nearest neighbor several acres away, and only State and County land between us and Hwy 101, you can expect a private stay in a forested setting with easy freeway access to the Olympics on one side of the property and an idyllic private creekside nature preserve on the other. We welcome you to share this place we call home. In omnibus rebus serviunt Terrae, non homini. ** Larger RV's would pull-in/back-out to avoid the tear-drop curve at the end of the driveway (please see photos). Driveway entrance is 22' wide, first curve is 18' wide and gradual, leading to RV site if pulling in -- best option for Class A's. Most Class C's and smaller will find it easier to circle the entire driveway and use the site as a pull-through.

Skokomish Park At Lake Cushman

60 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Hoodsport, WA

2024 Reservations are Open 2024 Season runs from March 29 - November 3 KING5 Evening Magazine's "The Best of the Northwest Escapes" competition voted us 2nd Best Campground. Come on out and check out the natural beauty Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman has to offer. Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman, formerly known as Camp Cushman or Lake Cushman State Park, covers over 500 acres with three boat-launch ramps on the 41,500 feet of freshwater shoreline on Lake Cushman. Park facilities include campsites, RV pull-thru and back-in sites, walk-in campsites, and two group camping areas. Plus, two fantastic day-use areas with picnic sites, a picnic shelter, and comfort stations located throughout the park. The natural beauty of the area can be explored on any of our trails. The eastern part of the Olympic Peninsula has loads of great trails around us in the Olympic National Park. Trailheads nearby include Big Creek, Mount Rose, Mount Ellinor, Dry Creek, Copper Creek, Wagonwheel Lake, Staircase Rapids, Big Log Camp, and Flapjack Lakes. Mount Ellinor Trail is rated 5 stars by many.

Camp Birdwatch

13 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Elma, WA

Camp Birdwatch is 15 acres up against a wetland slough that has wildlife galore. Many bird species, come and see what birds you can find. A mile from the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds which has car racing all summer long. Capital Forest entrances are nearby. Located in Elma, WA. Local access to Chehalis river, Porter Creek falls and Vance Creek Park for your fishing, swimming and hiking needs.

Trails End Canal🌿

1 site · RV2 acres · Belfair, WA

Mobile home which sleeps 4 comfortably, 1 bd., full shower, kitchen, dining area. Beautiful secluded land, surrounded by 100 ft Pine trees, plenty of shade with private access to Trails End Canal which leads beautiful Serene Trails End Lake, Great swimming, fishing and kayaking (no gas boats allowed) also Mason Lake is 5 mins. away which allows all motorized vehicles ,also 5 mins. away from Hood Canal (warmest saltwater body in Pacific Northwest) 15 mins. away from Twanoh State Beach Park, plenty of parking spaces, tent spaces available

Cozy Canal Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · WA

Located on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula smack dab in the middle of the Hood Canal in the Olympic National Forest. Our modest but conveniently located property is perfect for exploration along this beautiful stretch of highway 101. Whether you enjoy clamming and oyster picking on nearby beaches, taking a picnic to the river, hiking on the countless nearby trails, or taking a day to explore nearby local farms for all of your fresh produce needs, breweries, cideries, and countless eateries this is the spot for you.

12 top lakeside campgrounds near Olympia

94%

(67)

Skokomish Park At Lake Cushman

60 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Hoodsport, WA

2024 Reservations are Open 2024 Season runs from March 29 - November 3 KING5 Evening Magazine's "The Best of the Northwest Escapes" competition voted us 2nd Best Campground. Come on out and check out the natural beauty Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman has to offer. Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman, formerly known as Camp Cushman or Lake Cushman State Park, covers over 500 acres with three boat-launch ramps on the 41,500 feet of freshwater shoreline on Lake Cushman. Park facilities include campsites, RV pull-thru and back-in sites, walk-in campsites, and two group camping areas. Plus, two fantastic day-use areas with picnic sites, a picnic shelter, and comfort stations located throughout the park. The natural beauty of the area can be explored on any of our trails. The eastern part of the Olympic Peninsula has loads of great trails around us in the Olympic National Park. Trailheads nearby include Big Creek, Mount Rose, Mount Ellinor, Dry Creek, Copper Creek, Wagonwheel Lake, Staircase Rapids, Big Log Camp, and Flapjack Lakes. Mount Ellinor Trail is rated 5 stars by many.

Pipe Lake Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Maple Valley, WA

Woodsy cabin nestled on Pipe Lake in Maple Valley, Washington. Quiet, private dock and deck overlooking the lake. Nestled in between Snoqualmie National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park, this cabin is a quaint spot to have a beverage by the lake with friends, play board games as the sun goes down and go for a swim.

Cozy Canal Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · WA

Located on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula smack dab in the middle of the Hood Canal in the Olympic National Forest. Our modest but conveniently located property is perfect for exploration along this beautiful stretch of highway 101. Whether you enjoy clamming and oyster picking on nearby beaches, taking a picnic to the river, hiking on the countless nearby trails, or taking a day to explore nearby local farms for all of your fresh produce needs, breweries, cideries, and countless eateries this is the spot for you.

Camp Birdwatch

13 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Elma, WA

Camp Birdwatch is 15 acres up against a wetland slough that has wildlife galore. Many bird species, come and see what birds you can find. A mile from the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds which has car racing all summer long. Capital Forest entrances are nearby. Located in Elma, WA. Local access to Chehalis river, Porter Creek falls and Vance Creek Park for your fishing, swimming and hiking needs.

Trails End Canal🌿

1 site · RV2 acres · Belfair, WA

Mobile home which sleeps 4 comfortably, 1 bd., full shower, kitchen, dining area. Beautiful secluded land, surrounded by 100 ft Pine trees, plenty of shade with private access to Trails End Canal which leads beautiful Serene Trails End Lake, Great swimming, fishing and kayaking (no gas boats allowed) also Mason Lake is 5 mins. away which allows all motorized vehicles ,also 5 mins. away from Hood Canal (warmest saltwater body in Pacific Northwest) 15 mins. away from Twanoh State Beach Park, plenty of parking spaces, tent spaces available

Olympic Gateway Cottage And RV Site

1 site · RV11 acres · Shelton, WA

Easy on/off from US 101 at SR 3 (Shelton). Pull-through RV Site can accommodate most RV lengths**. Electric and potable water hook-ups. Public RV dump site at Potlatch State Park - 14 miles. 17 mins to Hood Canal, 30 mins to Lake Cushman, 50 mins to the Staircase Entrance of Olympic National Park (33 miles). Perfect location for setting up camp with your RV, then taking your car up into the Olympics. Looking for dog-friendly hikes? Several Olympic National Forest and Skokomish Wilderness trails can be accessed from Lake Cushman, including Mt. Ellinor, Mt. Rose, and Mt. Washington. When returning to camp, enjoy what our property has to offer. Of the 11 acres, 10 acres are comprised of a Cat II wetland, a Cat III wetland, and their associated buffers. A legal trail winds down to Mill Creek just 1/4 mile downstream from the outlet of Lake Isabella. Here the creek is wide and it is permissible to hand launch non-motorized vessels (eg, kayaks, canoes). The stretch of creek between our property and the lake is conservation land, and a beaver dam crosses the creek, but kayakers can usually navigate over the beaver dam and paddle into Lake Isabella. The lake is over 200 acres and boasts Lake Isabella State Park and a Dept of Fish and Wildlife public boat launch. Our wetland is critical for maintaining local water quality and supporting the local shellfish industry; access is confined to the trail and creek access needs to be respectful and gentle. But if you pause for a moment or two along the trail or shoreline, you'll be rewarded as the local wildlife begin to stir from their hiding places. Song birds, rabbits, deer, voles -- yes. But also river otters, beavers, ducks, cormorants, and owls. Mountain lions and coyotes are possible, but we have not personally seen these. Salmon do run Mill Creek, as well. Dogs are permitted on the trail during summer, fall, and winter if leashed but should stay up near the RV site during spring to avoid disturbing nesting wildlife. Back at the RV site, there is a picnic table for outdoor cookouts (propane stoves are permissible). Inside the driveway circle is a large propane fire pit with half-moon seating on either side - perfect for roasting S'mores late into the evening. The majority of our outdoor lighting shuts down at midnight to allow for stargazing in a region remote from city lights. A 1-bed, 1-bath cottage is currently under construction, tucked into a cove of maple, hemlock, and alder. Availability expected in spring 2025. With just a single RV site, our nearest neighbor several acres away, and only State and County land between us and Hwy 101, you can expect a private stay in a forested setting with easy freeway access to the Olympics on one side of the property and an idyllic private creekside nature preserve on the other. We welcome you to share this place we call home. In omnibus rebus serviunt Terrae, non homini. ** Larger RV's would pull-in/back-out to avoid the tear-drop curve at the end of the driveway (please see photos). Driveway entrance is 22' wide, first curve is 18' wide and gradual, leading to RV site if pulling in -- best option for Class A's. Most Class C's and smaller will find it easier to circle the entire driveway and use the site as a pull-through.

98%

(154)

Roundtop Retreat stunning acreage

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Mineral, WA

With views, gardens, ponds, and a year-round creek -- Roundtop Retreat offers a range of ecosystems. Wander from small woods to grassy yards, from spring-fed ponds to babbling creek. Visit with the hens and collect their eggs. I'm probably around, working on one of my many projects to rehabilitate this land and make it more enjoyable. Feel free to say hi and chat - or keep to your solitude. It's all good!

88%

(62)

Rainier's Roadside RV

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Ashford, WA

Welcome to Rainier Roadside RV, the ideal base camp for visiting Mt. Rainier! The closest RV site to Rainier's Nisqually entrance and a two minute drive to the gate! Beat the morning rush and be first into the park. Site amenities include a covered pavilion for afternoon picnics, a central fire pit area, electrical connections, and trash bin. This desirable location is both close to the entrance but also the road. During the busy season the line for the Nisqually entrance can back up over three miles long. This campsite is close to the park and less than a mile to the gate. This mean a couple things: You can be the first in line in the mornings, but traffic also backs up past the campsite starting around 8 am (see picture of road proximity from Google Earth for reference). The road traffic dies down in the evenings, as visitors tend to leave the park before dark. When you're not in the park check out the local sites including The Elbe Outdoor Shooting Range, Nisqually River (387th Ave Ct E), Ice cream at Elbe Junction or the Wildberry Restaurant across the street, just a stroll away! I appreciate feedback and reviews, I'm always trying to make the experience better!

100%

(14)

Madrona Meadow Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Anderson Island, WA

This secluded meadow has sweeping views, including a stunning shot of Mount Rainier on clear days. Surrounded by forested land including a park preserve, the land is quiet and private. A great place to watch birds, access multiple park trails by foot, or just enjoy being outside in nature. There are old fruit trees on the land that give plentiful fruit (most years) starting in August, and depending on the time of year you'll also find blackberries, huckleberries and salal berries. Additional tent sites are tucked into the trees. Serving all is an outdoor/covered compost toilet tucked into the trees a couple minutes walk from the meadow. There is also a spigot with hose where you can rinse off gear etc. A public swimming hole on Lake Florence is a short drive way, along with beaches. Check back with us in the future as well, because we have big plans for additional amenities.

100%

(2)

Graceland

1 site · RV, Tent24 acres · Mineral, WA

We have a peaceful camp setting that can accommodate tents or one RV. Miles of hiking trails with beautiful views. Relax while enjoying the fresh mountain air, evergreens, croaking frogs, birds singing and beautiful sunsets. Located in Mineral Washington, just 11 miles from the Nisqually entrance for Mount Rainier National Park and close to Gifford Pinchot National Forest. We are 5 minutes from Mineral Lake for some great trout fishing, paddle boarding canoeing or kayaking. Amenities include water, electric and sewer hookup. There are no on-site toilets available. Guests are required to have their own bathroom accommodations.

63%

(55)

RV Camping in Ashford!

5 sites · RVs1 acre · Ashford, WA

This is the old historic wagon road to Mount Rainier Park and is home to many old homesteads from the late 1800's and early 1900. Its a very pretty drive in the fall when the colors are changing and the local elk are bugling.

99%

(49)

Pleasant Places

3 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Onalaska, WA

Pleasant Places campground is clean, quiet, spacious, and private with lots of nooks for R&R as well as ample space for play and activities. It is an ideal location for large groups, family reunions, workshops, or what have you. A rustic kitchen, two 6' folding tables (bring tablecloths), and a fire pit with accessories make setting up camp a cinch. Centrally located and with 10 acres of field, forest and farm, there is something of interest here for everyone. If you're looking to explore the area, Mt Rainier, Mt St Helens, the East Side, and the Pacific Coast are all just day trips from here. We are midway between Portland and Seattle and just 15 minutes off of I-5 making Pleasant Places a perfect meet in the middle vacation. Locally, Mayfield, Ike Kinswa, and Riffe lakes provide lots of boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities. Even closer, Carlisle Lake offers walking trails, outdoor exercise equipment, fishing opportunities, summer concerts, and a playground for the kids and is just five minutes down the road. Enjoy communing with our goat, chicken and duck friends. The local fauna include deer, skunk, coyote, rabbit, weasel, and possum. Bear and cat are not common, but please do be conscientious about leaving food out. While the campsite, play space, and driveway loops are mowed, most of the grounds are wild so bring your tromping shoes. We also have a play field (with a net) so pack your movie screen, volleyball, soccer ball, badminton set and lawn games. We are Judy and Summer and Chula, mother and daughter and dog, and we are pleased you are considering a stay with us. If you do book, we are certain you’ll enjoy making Pleasant Places your outdoor home-away-from-home.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping near Olympia guide

Overview

Looking to plan a camping trip near Olympia, Washington with a preference for a lake? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 440 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether it's swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of a lake, there's something for everyone. Don't just take our word for it, check out the top campsites with rave reviews like The Landing at Index WA (597 reviews), Horse Lovers Paradise (237 reviews), and sol duc rainforest retreat (232 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and showers. So whether you're into boating, surfing, horseback riding, or just enjoying the great outdoors, Hipcamp has got you covered. And with prices starting as low as $20 per night and an average price of $50 per night, you can enjoy the camping experience without breaking the bank.