Opportunities for camping can be found across the state, but if you’re looking for a peaceful stay without packing all the gear, glamping in Washington is the perfect alternative.
Glamping (glamorous camping) is the middle ground between camping and staying at a resort or hotel. These rustic-meets-cozy accommodations allow for more time to enjoy nearby trails or beaches and maybe even a s’more or two around the campfire. While some tents are simple, others offer a more upscale feel with plenty of amenities. No matter what style of glamping you choose, get ready to immerse yourself in nature. Here you’ll find spots for glamping in Washington State ranging from basic to luxurious.
Glamping in Washington State
Lakedale, San Juan Island
Nestled on 82 forested acres on picturesque San Juan Island, Lakedale offers multiple accommodations, from classic lodge rooms to upscale yurts and canvas-sided tents for glamping. From May through September, kick back in a Canvas Cabin or larger Canvas Cottage complete with a full bathroom, picnic table, outdoor fire ring, and serene lakefront views. Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast in the mess tent before strolling the property or heading out to fish, kayak, or paddleboard on one of three lakes. Later, grab snacks from the on-site General Store before setting out to explore the island’s scenic lighthouses, art galleries, and beaches (be sure to keep an eye out for orca whales).
Pacific Dunes Resort, Copalis
Just steps from the beach off Highway 109, Pacific Dunes Resort provides glamping tents, tiny houses, and cabin-style bungalows. Settle in for the night in a canvas tent with a king-sized bed, sitting area, and a wood-burning fireplace to warm up on chilly evenings. Each tent comes with a patio and fire pit. In the morning, grab coffee from the mercantile before making your way to the beach for a day of fishing, clamming or just relaxing on the sand (Ocean Shores is only a short drive away). Pick up a margherita flatbread from Corks & Taps or place an order for a clam chowder bread bowl at Bennetts’s Fish Shack. End the day roasting marshmallows over the glowing coals of your fire pit.
Snow Peak Campfield, Long Beach Peninsula
Tucked in the trees just minutes from the heart of Long Beach and less than 15 minutes from Cape Disappointment sits Snow Peak Campfield. This new property offers tent sites where you can use your own gear as well as four-person tent suites complete with lantern lighting, cots with inflatable mattresses (you’ll need to pack your own bedding), and a camp kitchen. Wake up to a crisp morning and a piping cup of coffee from the Campstore, which also offers a selection of camp gear, beer, wine, and ice cream. Bike or walk part of the scenic Discovery Trail and enjoy seasonal activities on the peninsula like digging for razor clams or slurping oysters from nearby Willapa Bay.
Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge
Nestled on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, Skamania Lodge offers plenty of cozy rooms in the main lodge. However, if you’re looking for elevated glamping in Washington State, there’s now an option for that too. Skip roughing it and settle into a raised canvas tent decked out with a resort-style king bed, mini fridge, and microwave. Roast s’mores on the deck while soaking in the tree-lined views. A private bathroom complete with oversized soaking tub can be found in a tent next door. The next day, head to the main lodge for breakfast before exploring the property’s extensive trails system and on-site amenities (zip lining, anyone?). Complete your day with some hiking or wine tasting and dinner in nearby White Salmon.
Doe Bay Resort & Retreat, Orcas Island
On the east side of Orcas Island, immerse yourself in nature along the Salish Sea at Doe Bay Resort. Stretching across 38 acres, this Washington glamping spot is known for its yurts and on-site saltwater soaking tubs overlooking the bay. Choose from yurts with electricity, a queen bed, and a seating area or try going off-grid from May through October in a yurt with no electricity but waterfront views. You’ll have access to a community kitchen to cook meals, along with the on-site organic farm-to-table café serving breakfast and dinner. Sip your morning coffee by the water before heading out for a day of kayaking or whale watching. While you’re visiting, don’t miss taking a dip in the clothing-optional soaking pools or taking a yoga class in the studio.
Cave Creek Farm, Trout Lake
Located 25 miles north of White Salmon, Cave Creek Farm is tucked in the forest near Trout Lake. The tree-bordered property is home to a working farm with an expansive herb garden producing everything from calendula and yarrow to mint, sage, and echinacea. While you can book the larger farmhouse, choosing one of four glamping tents provides a unique stay from May to October. The canvas tents are set up on platforms and have minimal furnishings, but guests can access the shared outdoor kitchen. There is also a bathhouse with an outdoor clawfoot tub. Spend the day exploring the hiking trails in Gifford Pinchot National Forest before heading to Trout Lake Hall for live music paired with a platter of pulled pork and mac and cheese.
Pampered Wilderness, Millersylvania State Park
Just 15 minutes south of downtown Olympia, the tranquil setting of Millersylvania State Park feels worlds away. On the outskirts of the park, Pampered Wilderness allows you to skip a lot of the packing with luxury camping options. Platform tents are set up with large, exposed logs and draped canvas under towering old-growth trees. Inside, you’ll find well-outfitted beds, a seating area, and a small kitchenette. Use the barbecue outside or cook over the fire pit before hitting the trails for a hike or bird watching. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding Deep Lake. Rentals and ice cream cones can be found at the park’s concession stand Lakefront Boats & Bites.
Mossquatch Resort, Olympic Peninsula
Looking to explore the rugged western edge of the Olympic Peninsula? Use Mossquatch Resort as your home base. Less than 15 minutes to the town of Forks and Rialto Beach, this upgraded camping option offers rustic cabins and canvas glamping tents. Though off-grid, the tents are comfortably furnished with beds and indoor/outdoor seating areas. Depending on your choice of tent, you’ll have either a forest view or can listen to the trickle of the creek from your bed. While each tent also has an outdoor fire pit, the property offers several covered cooking areas with grills. Spend the day on the coast or head out for one a waterfall hike in Olympic National Park (keep an eye out for Sasquatch!).
Rolling Huts / Methow Tents, Methow Valley
Situated between the small towns of Mazama and Winthrop in the Methow Valley, Rolling Huts and Methow Tents provide gorgeous mountain views just steps from the Methow River. At Methow Tents you’ll find canvas safari tents with cots, electricity, and water. Modern platform-style huts that resemble tiny homes are also available for added amenities, including bedding and a fireplace. Start the day with breakfast on your patio before heading out to hike, mountain bike, or fish. Or stop into the charming Western town of Winthrop to browse art galleries and enjoy a local beer at Old Schoolhouse Brewery. End your day back at the property with a game of volleyball or a visit to the sauna before grabbing wood-fired pizza from the on-site pizzeria.
Getaway House, Skagit Valley and Mount Adams
While Getaway House offers locations across the U.S., two glamping options in Washington State allow you to get away from it all and soak in nature views from the comfort of a plush bed. Kitchenettes, private bathrooms, hot running water, and a fire pit with a grill grate provide all the comforts. Head to the Skagit Valley Getaway House for nearby walking trails and waterfall views. Spend the day exploring the accessible interpretive nature trail at Little Mountain Park or take a short drive through the valley to La Conner for a waterfront lunch at Calico Cupboard. Those looking for a more remote forest experience should head to Glenwood near Mount Adams.
About the Author
Molly Allen is a freelance food and travel writer, hiker, and paddleboarder who has spent more than 14 years exploring the Pacific Northwest. When she’s not playing outside, you’ll find her perfecting her homemade pizza craft. Her work can be seen in Travel & Leisure, Wine Enthusiast, Business Insider, Taste of Home, and other publications.
Featured image courtesy of Pacific Dunes Resort