Camping Near Mount Rainier in 2025
Your Guide to Open Campgrounds: If you’ve heard the news about Ohanapecosh Campground closing for renovations in 2025, you may be wondering how this impacts your plans to visit Mount Rainier National Park. While this iconic campground is temporarily unavailable, plenty of alternative camping and glamping options are open to welcome you. Whether you’re looking for a rustic tent site or an RV-friendly spot, the region offers something for everyone.
Why is Ohanapecosh Campground Closed?
The closure is part of an extensive improvement project aimed at enhancing facilities and infrastructure. These upgrades will ensure the campground remains a treasured spot for years to come. While it’s bittersweet to lose a favorite campground for a season, this temporary closure offers a chance to explore other wonderful options in and around the park.
Alternative Campgrounds Inside the Park
Mount Rainier National Park has two additional campgrounds that remain open for 2025:
- Cougar Rock Campground (near the Nisqually Entrance): Perfect for accessing Longmire and Paradise, with reservable sites.
- White River Campground (near the Sunrise Entrance): A first-come, first-served option close to breathtaking alpine views and trails.
- Mowich Lake Campground (northwest area): A primitive, tent-only site accessed via gravel roads for those seeking a rugged experience.
Alternative Campgrounds Near Mount Rainier National Park
If you’re looking for options outside the park, here’s a comprehensive list grouped by location:
Ashford:
- Big Creek Campground: A peaceful setting with access to fishing and hiking near the Nisqually Entrance.
- Gateway Inn RV and Camping: RV sites with full and partial hookups, located just 50 feet from the park entrance.
- Mounthaven Resort: Offers RV, tent sites, and cabins with a tranquil forest atmosphere.
- Timber River Glamping: A furnished bell tent with queen-size bedding for a comfortable glamping experience.
Carbonado:
- Lo Tahoma Camping: Secluded RV and tent sites near the Carbon River Entrance with firewood and a clean pit toilet.
Crystal Mountain:
- Crystal Mountain Resort: Offers 47 RV campsites within walking distance of trails, dining, scenic gondola, and other attractions.
Eatonville:
- Alder Lake Park Campground: Features full hookups, boating access, and a family-friendly atmosphere near the Alder Lake shoreline.
Enumclaw:
- Enumclaw Expo Center RV Campground: Full-hookup RV sites with amenities close to the downtown historic Enumclaw.
- Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed Camping: Primitive camping location for both RVs and tents, with around 100 sites available.
- Silver Springs Campground: Situated on the banks of the scenic White River, this campground accommodates tents or RVs, with both standard and accessible sites available.
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The Dalles Campground: Located near the Dalles River View Trail, this campground offers a section of old-growth forest with widely-spaced sites.
Mineral:
- Elkamp Eastcreek Campground: Offers RV and tent sites with modern amenities like 30 AMP hookups, a heated bathhouse, and a peaceful creekside setting.
- Mineral Lake Lions Den Campground: Provides spacious sites along Mineral Lake with fishing, a boat launch, and dock access.
Packwood:
- Packwood RV Park and Campground: Features RV and tent sites with laundry and showers, making it an ideal base for exploring the park’s southeastern areas.
Tips for a Great Camping Experience
- Reserve Early: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- First-Come, First-Served: Some campgrounds, like White River and Mowich Lake, operate on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early to secure a site.
- Plan for Amenities: Check campground features ahead of time to ensure they meet your needs.
- Prepare for Conditions: Some sites, like Mowich Lake, are accessed via gravel roads—confirm your vehicle is suitable for the terrain.
Looking Ahead to 2026
When Ohanapecosh reopens in 2026, it will feature upgraded amenities that enhance the visitor experience while maintaining its natural charm. In the meantime, these alternative camping options ensure you won’t miss out on the beauty and adventure of Mount Rainier National Park.