Camping in Washington is an amazing experience, even for those who would rather sleep indoors. It’s an incredible way to experience nature, something our state is well known for. But if you haven’t already reserved a spot at some of our more popular campsites, you may be out of luck — they fill up fast. That being said, there are still some wonderful campgrounds in Washington where you can go camping without reservations. No reservation camping in Washington isn’t hard to find because there are so many beautiful places. Bring spontaneity back by heading to one of these sites that offer first come first serve camping in Washington.

1. Camano Island State Park

2269 Lowell Point Rd, Camano, WA 98282, USA
rusty_fwg / TripAdvisor
Camano Island State Park features 88 standard campsites and five cabins with restrooms, dump sites, and showers. Reservations are required during the peak season from mid-May to mid-September. These are first-come, first-served during the off-season.

2. Colonial Creek Campground

State Route 20, State Rte 20, Rockport, WA, USA
sandiegogirl79 / TripAdvisor
Located in the North Cascades National Park near Diablo, Colonial Creek Campground is one of the most beautiful campgrounds in the state. Stunning lake views and spacious campsites make it a must-see for all serious campers. And if they're completely full, you can head to the nearby George Lake Campground, which has six primitive campsites and no fee.

3. Owhi Campground

Owhi Campground, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA
George Wesley & Bonita D / Flickr
Located near Roslyn along Cooper Lake, Owhi Campground has 22 campsites and pit toilets for your convenience. While this place once remained hidden, the secret is definitely out - but if you arrive early, you can still get a spot without a reservation.

4. White River Campground, Mount Rainier National Park

White River Campground, Washington 98304, USA
everwindingroad / TripAdvisor
Mount Rainier National Park is a beautiful place to camp, but it can be tricky to snag a last-minute spot. White River Campground opens when the snow melts, which is later than most other campgrounds in the area, meaning it sometimes gets overlooked. There are 112 campsites here, and the views are incredible.

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5. Beacon Rock State Park

34841 WA-14, Stevenson, WA 98648, USA
Michael G/Google
The Columbia Gorge's most beautiful park has 26 tent sites and five full-hookup sites for RVs with restrooms and showers. Reservations aren't required, but if you want a last-minute spot during the summer, you should go during the week.

6. South Beach Campground, Olympic National Park

South Beach Campground, Forks, WA 98331, USA
Maggie Tacheny / Flickr
This gorgeous campground in Olympic National Park is entirely first-come, first-serve. It has 55 sites and there are flush toilets, but no potable water. The campsites are set on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, so while there isn't much privacy, there are some seriously stunning views.

7. Rock Island Campground

Rock Island Campground, NF-7609, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
Jason Williams/Google
You'll find Rock Island Campground in the Wenatchee National Forest near Leavenworth, bordering the Icicle Gorge Trail. It has 20 campsites, potable water, and vault toilets.

8. Spencer Spit State Park

521 Bakerview Rd, Lopez Island, WA 98261, USA
Christopher Blalock/Google
Lopez Island is a super laid-back place, and this gorgeous state park is no exception. Admittedly, reservations are both accepted and recommended here, but they're not required. In fact, some campsites are first-come, first-serve... and if you're lucky, you'll end up camping right on the beach.

9. Cape Disappointment State Park

Cape Disappointment State Park, 244 Robert Gray Dr, Ilwaco, WA 98624, USA
Lee LeFever / Flickr
It probably goes without saying that there is nothing disappointing about this place. Located on the mouth of the Columbia River, Cape Disappointment features both standard campsites and yurt rentals. Everything is reservable, but last-minute campers are welcome.

Did these sites for no-reservation camping in Washington inspire you to pack up your tent and hit the road? We hope you’ll be enjoying some camping in Washington this year. Let us know about your favorite places to camp in the comments. Get ready to pack a good tent and check out some more fantastic camping options in Washington:

These 15 Rustic Spots In Washington Are Extraordinary For Camping

 

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More to Explore

Campgrounds in Washington

Jessica Wick | June 07, 2019

What are some of the best campgrounds in Washington?

Since everyone's preferences are different, the best campgrounds are subjective. However, there are a few that are especially beloved by the general population. Some of the best campgrounds in Washington include:

  • The Kalaloch Campground on the Olympic Peninsula is surrounded by both forest and beach
  • At Pacific Beach State Park, you can camp right on the beach (there's no shortage of oceanfront camping in Washington)
  • Jones Island offers a peaceful and secluded experience on the San Juan Islands
  • The White River Campground at Mt. Rainier National Park sits right on the river

 

These are just a few of the hundreds of beloved campgrounds here in the Evergreen State, so do some exploring and find the right one for you.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?

This will obviously depend on your style of camping -- RV camping in Washington is very different than sleeping in a tent! Aside from the obvious (a tent or camper, sleeping bags, and flashlights), you'll want to pack, some of the things You need to take on a camping trip include:

  • Extra batteries
  • Layers of clothing
  • Bug repellant
  • Sunscreen
  • Everything you'll need to keep yourself comfortable, such as camping chairs or hammocks
  • If you're tent camping, take extra stakes and a tarp
  • Pack plenty of food for meals and snacks and lots of extra water
  • Find out if the campground or campsite you're visiting has flush toilets, showers, firewood, and other basic amenities, and plan accordingly
  • Also, pack a lantern or two for any late-night lighting needs

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