Cougar Rock Campground

CAMPSITES: 173 | GROUP SITES: 5

SEASON: late May – late September

MAX RV/TRAILER LENGTH: RV: 35 feet, Trailer: 27 feet

Welcome to Cougar Rock Campground, located in the SW area of Mount Rainier National Park

This campground offers 173 individual sites and 5 group sites, along with picnic tables, fire platforms, flush toilets, and drinkable water. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during the summer season and holiday weekends. The campground provides a sense of privacy with its layout and large green spaces between sites. It is open from late May to late September, allowing a maximum stay of 14 days.

The nearby Carter Falls trail, a section of the Wonderland Trail, is popular among hikers staying at Cougar Rock. The trail leads to Carter Falls and Madcap Falls, offering a scenic experience.

Cougar Rock Campground is located near the Longmire district and Paradise area. Longmire features historic buildings, while the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise offers educational displays and presentations. 

At just over 3,100 feet, nights can be cool, even in summer.

While fires are permitted, firewood gathering is not. Campers should first check to see if a burn-ban is in place and then plan to purchase firewood locally. During the summer, ranger-led presentations take place in the amphitheater, as well as a Junior Ranger events for younger campers. Schedules and topics posted at the kiosk near the entrance.

The trail to nearby Carter Falls (a section of the Wonderland Trail), is among the most popular in the immediate area. Just across the main road from the campground, the well-signed trail drops down to the Nisqually River, crosses it, and continues on up the other side. The trail meanders through magnificent old-growth as it climbs gradually toward the falls. Trees and underbrush partially obscure the view of the Carter Falls but Madcap Falls awaits a short distance further up the trail, easily visible.

The historical Longmire district is located less than two miles down the hill. Paradise a short (but stunningly beautiful) five miles in the other direction. Each of these locations offer a variety of day-hiking possibilities as well as visitor services that can add significantly to the park experience. The historic buildings at both areas stand as reminders of park history and development, while the new Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise (built in 2008), offers excellent displays and dynamic presentations that bring nature and history alive for travelers of all ages.

At Cougar Rock Campground, not only do you have a place to camp, but also an opportunity to learn and appreciate the park’s natural and cultural history. Stop by the on-site amphitheater for interpretive programs that expand your knowledge and deepen your connection with the park. Discover the captivating stories of the land, its wildlife, and the people who have cherished this place throughout history. 

New to camping at Mount Rainier National Park? 

Contact the park directly if you have any questions or need assistance with planning your trip. Call (360) 569-6575 for park information. Campground reservations not accepted over the phone.