Outdoor Blog

20 Best Places to Camp Within Two Hours of Seattle, WA

Published

4 years ago

December 2, 2020

Break out your Swiss Army Knives and Leatherman tools, because it’s time to go camping! The best thing about living in the Pacific Northwest is hands down the abundant surrounding nature. Nowhere else in America has the kind of diversity in climate or animal life. You can climb up to the stop of glacier-plugged volcanoes or hunch over humble tidepools. Eagles and coyotes in the mountains and we get to participate in the majesty of it all.

The downside to all of that majesty, however, is picking exactly which slice of it to see with your limited free time.

Don’t worry about combing through the catalogs, we have here the 20 best places for camping without having to stray too far from home.

The Pacific Northwest is full of dense evergreen forests.

1. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse places in Washington. If you have the opportunity to visit this pristinely protected plot of American park ground, it’s positively paramount you participate.

You can access the coast as well as kayak on famously beautiful Washington lakes and rivers. The shoreline is also host to some excellent tide-pooling. Come find weird starfish and rare sea snails, as long as you follow their outlined tide pool etiquette.

Pros:

Tons of events, camping, and diverse locales
Ranger led programs, and year-round activities
Freshwater and saltwater access.
Some of the best camping in the state

Cons:

Could be overwhelming for newcomers

2. Mount Rainier National Park

This is your chance to face down Mount Rainier. This active volcano is the single most glaciated peak in the lower 48, and it’s worth seeing up close.

Mount Rainier National Park is naturally home to tones of wilderness hiking, exquisite camping, and mountain climbing. This national park is a camper’s delight. You can visit the national park in the warmer or colder months, and you’ll see two totally different sides to the same coin.

Pros:

The most robust camping experience you could ask for
No permits required for day hiking
Get up close and personal with one of the most famous mountains in the country

Cons:

A permit is required for overnight camping

3. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Mt. Baker National Forest almost has too much to do. Luckily their website is a handy tool that breaks it all down for you.

There’s bicycling, OHV riding, camping, scenic driving, hunting, winter sports, and water activities, and that only scratches the surface. Their website neatly catalogs all of the park activities, whether they’re open or not, the current weather, and where you can find each of them.

If you know what you’d like to do, but not quite where to go, maybe pick this national forest, and allow your weekend to unfold in front of you.

Pros:

Neatly organized website points you to all of its activities

Cons:

There’s so much to do, it may be hard to figure out where to begin

4. Deception Pass

Deception Pass’s intimidating name hasn’t scared off visitors. It’s Washington’s most-visited park.

This park was brought to life by the hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps and still stands to this day. Roosevelt’s army of nature preservationists built something that brings simple pleasures to millions of people every year.

Those efforts manifest now as one of the most beautiful parks in the state, white water kayaking, saltwater boating, access to Rosario Beach, and robust beach exploration.

Pros:

Full of activities on land and sea
Stunning landscapes

Cons:

The most popular park in the state, so you’ll be sharing the space with lots of folks

5. Lake Wenatchee State Park

Great for climbing or staying at sea level. Lake Wenatchee offers everything from mountain climbing to stand up paddling.

You can take guided horseback rides or hikes through the highland forest.

Enjoy winter activities like cross-country skiing, dog sledding or snowmobiling, if you’re not up for scaling your way to the top of a mountain during the cold months.

Grab a recreational license and do some fishing and shellfish harvesting, or just settle in with a book in your tent, and take it all in.

Pros:

Winter camping comes with heated restrooms
The park is open all year
Amenities for group gatherings

Cons:

One of the two kitchen shelters are first-come-first-served.
Here there be bears

7. North Cascades National Park

The North Cascades National Park is home to the Stehekin Valley. Stehekin means “the way through,” and it brought travelers through Washington and into the Cascade Mountains.

Today, you can take a boat out on the water and travel that same historic route. Transport yourself to the past and imagine what it must have been like to travel through this beautiful slice of America.

The North Cascades National Park has preserved the spirit of this passageway, and you can still only make the voyage by boat, no roads will cut through to this fascinating page of living history.

Pros:

The trip through the Stehekin is unlike anything else

Cons:

Keep an eye on your food
There’s no cellphone reception, be sure to bring a calling card with you

Mt. Rainier dominates almost the skyline around Washington’s abundant nature.

8. Seattle Tacoma KOA

Simply the best way to camp along the Green River. The Seattle Tacoma KOA site is easy, well maintained, and fun.

No matter what kind of camper you are, you’ll find something to do in this KOA campsite. There’s a game room full of breakfast in the mornings, wine tastings, community fire pits, and all manner of public gathering spaces. It’s easy to meet new people that love getting out under the sky and relaxing just like you.

You can set up your tent or RV in one of their many sites, and wake up to a hot breakfast served on the campground.

Pros:

Easy camping helped along by the KOA facility
KOA campsite connects to Seattle bike and trail system
Access to public transportation

Cons:

No hiking

9. Issaquah Village RV Park

Issaquah Village RV Park is just 15 minutes outside of Seattle.

Once you’ve settled in with your RV and gotten everything hooked up, you can take a short stroll down the path right outside of the RV park to check out downtown Issaquah.

Make sure the family doesn’t miss the Snoqualmie Falls or the Snoqualmie Pass if you’re staying a few days.

This RV park has everything a family taking a long RV trip may need, including a 24 coin laundry, a playground for the kids, and free WiFi.

Pros:

Close to Gilman Village and Lake Sammamish State Park
Full hookups in all 56 sites
Free cable

Cons:

Not much in the way of wilderness

10. Fay Bainbridge Park & Campground

This modest 17-acre seaside camping park is designed to get you in and get you camping.

Despite the size of the campgrounds, you won’t be battling for elbow room. There are only a handful of individual sites here in Fay Bainbridge. You have your selection of 14 tent sites, 26 RV sites with full hookups, or one of three cabins.

Making reservations is simple, and locating the campground is a breeze. Just set down your thing, and dash back outside to bask in the glory of Puget Sound.

Pros:

Small campsite you won’t have to battle for space in

Cons:

Water level in the winter may shut down the restrooms

11. Joemma Beach State Park

If you catch Joemma Beach State Park from above, you might think you’re looking at a labyrinth. Don’t let that aerial view scare you away, though. Once you’re in the thick of it on the ground, the landscape reveals its secrets.

This is a park that’s meant to be explored on foot. The paths wind through a modest 100 acres, and you’ll want to comb through every single inch of it.

If your wanderlust can’t be quenched by searching on foot, then bringing a watercraft and using the on-site boat launch will continue the adventure.

Pros:

Great for exploring the beach, the hiking trails, and the water
Intimate birdwatching and wildlife viewing

Cons:

If you’re not up for an adventure, this is not the park for you

12. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Are you looking for a place to get your winter activities in? Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has winter sports in spades. You can take on everything from mushing to tubing down the side of a hill.

With over four million acres of forest and water sprawled out over the eastern slopes of the Cascade range, there’s bound to be something for you and your crew in this beautiful national park.

If you’re not on the lookout for a specific distraction, you can take part in the plethora of events the forest-park will put on. You can volunteer to help clean-up the mines and directly contribute to restoring Washington landscapes, or you can come through just to celebrate the diversity of the wildflowers dappling the forest.

Pros:

A massive swath of forest full of any kind of recreation imaginable
Constantly has an event of some kind in progress

Cons:

If you’re caught out in the forest when the restrooms close, you’ll have to do your dark business in the woods/.

13. Verlot Campground

Verlot Campground is surrounded by an old-growth forest. The undisturbed ecosystem is a snapshot into an alternate Earth.

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a chance to really get yourself knee-deep in the nature you’ve been separated from for so long. There are several salmon species that make their temporary homes in the tributaries here in the shadow of the active ice-capped volcano.

Pros:

Home to a unique ecosystem due to the complex nature of old-growth forests
View of Mt. Baker
Easy access to a variety of fishing

Cons:

You’ve got to be vigilant about your firewood usage to avoid introducing invasive species

14. Tinkham

At first brush, Tinkham’s campsite seems like it might not offer much, but the simplicity is one of its hidden amenities.

You come to Tinkham for quiet hiking on the multiple trails and the half-mile Tinkham Discovery Trail. You come to Tinkham for peaceful and diverse fishing. You come to Tinkham to see how many different species of bird, fish, and mammal you can spot in the quiet.

Children love poking around the campgrounds for interesting insects, and fantastic flower and fungi.

Pros:

ADA accessible campsites
Awe-inspiring views of Mt. Baker on clear days
Diverse ecosystem
Access to drinking water

Cons:

No electrical hookups
No flushing toilets

Get a view of Mt. Baker without dealing with the knee-deep snow.

14. Camano Island State Park

Cradled gingerly in the arms of Whidbey Island, is Camano Island and its state park. This island state park is home to a short breezy hike, birdwatching, and beautiful views of the Puget Sound.

There are also opportunities for boating, crabbing, and saltwater fishing. Once you’re all seaside-ed out, you can settle into your campsite with your tent or RV, and cook up your catches.

Pros:

Interpretive hiking, and lots of island saltwater activities
Cabins and tents to choose from
Beautiful community-supported park

Cons:

Some campsites may close in the winter
No sandy shorelines here

15. Lake Sammamish State Park

Lake Sammamish State Park means beach day!

You don’t have to stray far from Seattle to get here, and you don’t have to bring a boat to get out on the lake. There are two lakefront beaches to choose from once you get here, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse at a bald eagle while you work on your sandy beach vibes.

If your group is less aquatic, there’s ample geocaching, hiking, and room for biking, and community events hosting by the state park.

Pros:

Dogs are welcome in the park
Plenty to do, and close to home

Cons:

Dogs aren’t allowed on the swim beaches

16. Fairholme Campground

The glaciers of the past methodically carved out this idyllic lake. Following the slow brutal work of the glaciers, a landslide ambled down the mountains and totally isolated Lake Crescent. Today, that means one of the most beautiful lakes in Washington, and a first-hand look at natural selection if you catch one of the Crescenti trout and compare them to their cousins on the other end of the landslide.

Pros:

A breathtaking lake that’s sure to give you a new appreciation of the world’s natural processes.
The choice between primitive camping and cabin resorts.

Cons:

Not much to do other than relax by the lake

17. Larrabee State Park

Larrabee State Park is home to some unique trainspotting vantage points. You’ll have up to 16 opportunities each day to catch Amtrak or the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.

Once you’re done snapping pictures of the trains, take a stroll down to the main attraction, the shoreline. The cliff sides and tidepools make for some choice spots to seek solitude.

Before you tuck yourself into your tent, you may want to wind yourself down by biking through some of the forest trails.

Pros:

Kids will get a kick out of the trains
Over a mile of saltwater shoreline

Cons:

Trains come through at night

18. Ohanapecosh Campground

You’ll find this campground on the southeastern side of Mount Rainier National Park. This campground is a great spot to focus on the mountain. It is the focal point of the skyline here, and most visitors to this area will want to make a beeline straight towards it.

Bring some food and your awe, and Ohanapecosh Campground will give you an unforgettable weekend.

Pros:

Pure and simple camping

Close to the majesty of Mount Rainier

Cons:

No electrical hookups
Not much in the way of recreation
Bears are known to roam around here

19. Orcas Island

If you take the trip out the Orcas Island, you’ll be treated to any kind of camping you can imagine. If you’re looking to really get into it, you can take the primitive camping approach. There are tent cabins, tent camping, and RV sites.

Orcas Island is flexible and scenic. If you’re looking to do some whale watching on Orca Island rather than on the San Juan Islands, you’re in luck. If you want to make it out to the San Juans, you’re also in luck.

Pros:

An island camping experience away from the mainland gives you the chance to slow your roll
You’re not sacrificing any camping quality by making your way out to the island

Cons:

You’ll have to take the ferry to get out to Orcas Island
Despite its name, Orcas aren’t as common here as you would imagine

20. Mora Campground

Just two miles away from Rialto Beach, Mora Campground is a quiet retreat with all you need to have a peaceful time away from the buzz of your daily life.

There are 94 campsites with easy access to potable water and flush toilets. Each campsite has a fire ring for easy cooking, or just to have the comfort of a nice fire nearby, and a picnic table. You’ll be keeping it lo-fi out here because there aren’t any electrical hookups to distract you from the tranquility. Set up camp and take a short walk to the beach, or if you’d like to do some tide pooling, take a slightly shorter walk to Hole-in-the-Wall.

Pros:

Highly ADA accessible.
Close to the beach while remaining tucked in the woods

Cons:

Tidepools aren’t always accessible
Dumpsite fee is not included in park access fee

Final Verdict:

The Olympic National Park is an absolute no-brainer. The park is practically dripping with outdoor activities. Any camper would have a blast here. There’s day hiking, backpacking, boating, and night sky viewing worth driving all the way across the country for. If you can make it out to Olympic National Park and you’re on the fence, just pack up your stuff and head straight there without another thought. And if you want to turn your camping experience up a notch, check out our selection of the best canvas tents for camping in the Pacific Northwest!

Bonus tip: Bone up on some primo solo-camping tips and learn more with this awesome video!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter