Nothing says summer like camping on the beach. While Washington may not be the first destination you imagine camping in the sand, it should be. With approximately 3,026 miles of shoreline, Washington is a mecca for beach camping. From the Puget Sound and Salish Sea islands to the Olympic Peninsula and Strait of Juan de Fuca, Washington is home to some of the best beach campsites in the country. If you’re planning a summer road trip, dive in below for The Camp N Car Guide to Beach Camping in Washington.
Beach Camping in Washington
Deception Pass State Park
If you’re looking for beach camping in Washington without straying too far from Seattle or Bellingham, take the ferry to Whidbey Island and head to Deception Pass State Park. Deception Pass spans two islands connected by a series of bridges. Deception Pass offers visitors a mix of stunning coastal cliffs and old-growth forests. Deception Pass has three campgrounds and three primitive boater-only campgrounds with a total of over 300 total campsites. Deception Pass has become one of Washington’s most popular destinations, with stunning Sound and Strait views. Make your reservations several months in advance to secure your campsite. There are multiple restroom facilities and coin operator showers.
Rialto Beach Campground
Located on the Olympic Peninsula just north of the mouth of the Quillayute River, Rialto Beach is one of the state’s most iconic stretches of sand. Home to the famed Hole in the Wall rock structure, Rialto is a popular destination for hikers, tide pool explorers, campers, and day trippers. As part of the Wilderness Coast Trail, a backcountry permit is required for camping on Rialto. While you won’t be able to sleep in your van while camping in Rialto, waking up to the sound of crashing waves will be worth the momentary discomfort. There are no facilities for campers, so pack out everything you brought in.
Salt Creek Recreation Area
Salt Creek Recreation Area is located just outside Port Angeles on the Olympic Peninsula’s northern shoreline along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Known for its craggy coastline, views of Canada, and exceptional diving, Salt Creek offers stunning coastal camping for ocean lovers. Salt Creek’s underwater world is teeming with sea urchins, wolf eels, anemones, and other marine life. If you’re not a diver, you can explore the tide pools at low tide to get a taste of what’s below the surface. Salt Creek has 92 campsites, including some with full hookups. The facilities include restrooms and showers. Whether you’re a diver, a paddler, or an ocean lover, Salt Creek should be high on your list for beach camping in Washington.
Spencer Spit State Park
Spencer Spit State Park is located on Lopez Island, one of the 172 islands that make up the San Juan Islands. The 138-acre marine and camping park is named for the nearby lagoon-enclosing. The park offers visitors access to a sandy beach stretching out into the Salish Sea and on the spit with a tidal lagoon. The park features two miles of coastal hiking trails and 37 campsites. There are two restrooms but no showers or RV hookups. The park’s tent sites are spacious and private, so you’ll have plenty of room for your van. To reserve a campsite, call (888) 226-7688. If you’re looking for island beach camping in Washington, you can’t go wrong with Spencer Spit State Park.
Camano Island State Park
Camano Island State Park has it all, from breathtaking beaches and gorgeous coastal trails to panoramic views of the Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier. Tucked away on the western side of Camano Island, the park is accessible by State Route 532, approximately 15 miles south of Mount Vernon and 60 miles north of Seattle. The park has two miles of rocky beach, offering easy access to Puget Sound. The campground at Camano Island State Park has 88 campsites, including standard and utility sites. Some sites have water and electric hookups, while others are more primitive.
Make the most of your summer with Camp N Car. We have everything you need to elevate your car or van camping experience. Whether you’re heading to the coast or the mountains, we’ll help you get there in comfort and style.