Ultimate Camping Guide for Seattle-Area Families

Let’s go camping!

When your family needs a reset from your day-to-day chaos, retreat to nature for some much-needed adventure and fresh air. We’ve rounded up our best camping guides on where to go, what to bring, awesome gear, easy meals and so much more.

Click the arrows above to start planning your ultimate family camping trip. 

Where to camp

The Pacific Northwest is blessed with a myriad of amazing camping options — but if you have yet to find a favorite family spot, the options can seem overwhelming. Thankfully, we have your back with plenty of lists specific to your family’s woodsy, beachy or sunny preferences. 

• If you’re new to the Seattle area or are simply searching for a new favorite camping location, try our nearby camping destinations list. 
• Want some sun? Try one of these great camping locations in Eastern Washington perfect for shoulder-season camping. 
• For reluctant campers — or to help kids practice for an upcoming camping trip — try our top tips for an awesome backyard camping experience. 
• Looking for a last-minute camping spot? Peruse our panic-free guide to finding a great camping spot — no reservations required. 
• Have you tried yurt camping yet? It’s quirky, comfortable and oh-so fun. Check out our list of fab yurt spots!
• Whether you own a trailer or are interested in renting one, we’ve got suggestions for three awesome trailer camping itineraries. 

Essential tips

Let’s face it: Camping with kids can get complicated. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our best camping hacks to make your trip fun and easygoing. 

If you’re hoping to cultivate lifelong campers, start young! Camping with toddlers and babies can be a great family bonding experience. Stay warm, safe and happy with our top tips for camping with tots and babes.  

Speaking of safety: Have you brushed up on your nature safety knowledge? We have a whole list of essential safety tips, from what to do if your kiddo gets separated from you on a hike to how to handle encounters with wild animals. 

Occupy your little hikers — and get them excited about observing the natural world — by playing a fun family trail game or two.

Gear

Ready to invest in some new awesome gear for parents and kids alike? Make yourself at home in nature with the very best gear for sleeping, relaxing, cooking and adventuring with kids.

This list of gear for families on the go with babies and tots has some options that suit camping as well as car or plane travel.

If you’re the hardy Northwest sort who goes camping even when the weather is iffy, bring along the tot-sized rain gear.

For tons of fun at your campsite, remember to bring along some campground games as well!

Fun eats

Don’t forget dinner! After a long day of playing and exploring the woods, there’s nothing better than a great meal that you can make right over the fire. Check out ourlist of 10 ultra-easy campfire meals here.

If you have access to a grill, get the dads cooking with this list of tasty burger recipes.

What would a great camping trip be without s’mores? We’ve rounded up 7 fun and easy campfire desserts, from super s’mores to other sweet snacks.