Mount Rainier National Park!
Mount Rainier National Park, located in Washington state, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This stunning park is home to the majestic Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano that stands as the highest peak in the Cascade Range. With its diverse landscapes, including lush forests, wildflower meadows, and breathtaking glaciers, Mount Rainier National Park offers everything. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Mount Rainier National Park during your visit to Washington.
In this Article
1. Must-See Attractions
Paradise
On the south slope of Mount Rainier, Paradise offers breathtaking scenery throughout the year. In summer, the meadows are filled with wildflowers, and during winter, this area receives heavy snowfall, making it a popular spot for sledding slopes and cross-country skiing. The Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center showcase exhibits, park information, and a gift shop. Visitors can explore hiking trails, including the Skyline Trail, which leads to Panorama Point, offering wide views of the landscapes. The Paradise Inn is a historic lodge, provides accommodations and dining during the warmer months.
Historic Christine Falls Area
The Christine Falls Area is one of the most scenic spots in Mount Rainier, offering a view of a 60 foot waterfall framed by a historic stone bridge. The Christine Falls Bridge, built in 1928, is a reinforced concrete span faced with native stone masonry, blending naturally into the surroundings, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. A short paved trail leads to an overlook below the bridge, providing a great view of the waterfall as Van Trump Creek flows through a narrow canyon. The waterfall is named after Christine Van Trump, one of the first climbers of Mount Rainier.
Mount Rainier History
Mount Rainier has a long and fascinating history, shaped by both nature and people. Indigenous tribes, including the Cowlitz, Muckleshoot, Nisqually, Puyallup, Squaxin Island, Yakama, and Coast Salish, lived in the region for thousands of years, using the land for food, hunting, and cultural traditions. Archaeological evidence shows that humans have been visiting the mountain for at least 9,000 years. The mountain was originally called Tahoma or Tacoma by Native Americans, but British explorer Captain George Vancouver renamed it Mount Rainier in 1792, after his friend Rear Admiral Peter Rainier.
Historic Narada Falls Area
The Narada Falls Area is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Mount Rainier, located 17 miles east of the Nisqually Entrance. The falls drop 168 feet over a rugged rock face, creating a scenic view from the roadside overlook. Built in 1928, the Narada Falls Bridge is a reinforced concrete barrel arch bridge faced with stone masonry, blending naturally into the area’s landscape. The bridge replaced an earlier 1908 crossing, making it a key part of the park’s historic road system. The Narada Falls Comfort Station, built in the 1930s, was designed with a heated waiting area for guest visiting in winter.
Grove of the Patriarchs
The Grove of the Patriarchs is a short, scenic trail that leads visitors through an ancient forest of towering trees. This 1.1 mile loop takes hikers across a suspension bridge over the Ohanapecosh River, adding a bit of adventure to the walk. The grove is home to old-growth Douglas-firs and Western red cedars, some over 300 feet tall and more than 1,000 years old. The trail is mostly flat and easy, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. A boardwalk passing through the grove, allowing hikers to walk among the massive trees while learning about the forest’s ecosystem through interpretive signs.
Naches Peak Loop Trail
The Naches Peak Loop Trail is a 3.5 miles scenic loop offering stunning views of Mount Rainier, alpine meadows, and lakes. The trail starts at Tipsoo Lake, located 0.5 miles west of Chinook Pass on State Route 410, and hiking in a clockwise direction provides the best views of Mount Rainier. Part of the trail follows the Pacific Crest Trail, passing through subalpine meadows that are full of wildflowers in summer. Along the way, hikers can see Dewey Lake from a viewpoint, offering a spots to take a break. The elevation gain is about 500 to 600 feet, making it a moderate hike suitable for most visitors.
Sunrise Views
At 6,400 feet, Sunrise is the highest point in the park and is one of the best places to see wide views of the mountain and surrounding valleys. This area is famous for its clear views of Mount Rainier and surrounding Glaciers in the Cascade Range, including Mount Adams. Sunrise Point offers nearly 360-degree views, making it a great spot for photography. The White River Campground, located nearby, is a good option for those wanting to stay overnight. The area has several hiking trails, including the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail, which leads to a historic fire lookout with stunning views of the park.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Hiking Trails
Mount Rainier National Park has some of the best hiking trails in Washington, offering a mix of easy walks and challenging routes with stunning views. The Skyline Trail is one of the most popular hikes, starting from Paradise and leading to Panorama Point, where visitors can see wide views of the surrounding mountains. The Wonderland Trail is a 93 miles loop that circles Mount Rainier, taking hikers through forests, rivers, and alpine meadows. For a shorter hike, the Trail of the Shadows near Longmire is a 0.7 mile loop that passes through historic sites and provides an idea about Mount Rainier.
Mount Climbing
Mount Rainier National Park is one of the famous spot for mountaineering with challenging yet rewarding climbs in the United States. Standing at 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier is the highest peak in Washington and every year, thousands of climbers attempt to reach the summit, navigating over 20 different climbing routes that vary in difficulty. The most popular route is the Disappointment Cleaver, which starts from Paradise and requires technical glacier travel. Climbers must be in excellent physical condition and have experience with roped glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and high-altitude climbing.
Winter Activities
Mount Rainier National Park transforms into a winter wonderland when snow entirely covered the landscape. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, with ranger-led walks available at Paradise, one of the most popular winter spots in the park. Cross-country skiing is another great way to explore the snowy terrain, with trails at Longmire and Paradise offering scenic routes. Snowboarding and backcountry skiing are possible in certain areas, though conditions can be challenging. Snowmobiling is permitted in specific sections, including the Westside Road and Cougar Rock Campground, for a thrilling experience.
Fishing Spots
Mount Rainier National Park has great fishing spots, offering peaceful settings and clear waters for anglers. Mowich Lake is the largest and deepest lake in the park, is a popular fishing destination, open for fishing and non-motorized boating. Fishing in the park is regulated to protect native fish populations, and a Washington State catch record card is required. The park allows fishing from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset, but fishing from motor road bridges is prohibited. Anglers should check regulations, as some streams and rivers have seasonal closures to protect spawning fish.
Photography Spots
Mount Rainier National Park has many great spots for photography, offering views of mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and wildflower meadows. Reflection Lakes is one of the best places to capture Mount Rainier’s reflection in the water, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light is soft. Tipsoo Lake, near Chinook Pass, is another beautiful spot, with wildflowers blooming in summer and snowy landscapes in winter. Paradise, one of the most visited areas, has meadows filled with colorful flowers, making it a great place for landscape photography.
Sunrise being the highest point here, offering wide views of the Mount Rainer and surrounding valleys, which can be accessible by car. Narada Falls and Christine Falls are two scenic waterfalls that provide great photo opportunities, especially in spring when water flow is strong. At 10,188 feet, Camp Muir is a challenging hike but rewards with stunning glacier views for photographers. Spray Park, in the northwest section, is known for open meadows and distant views of Mount Rainier, making it a peaceful place for photography.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Longmire
The Longmire is one of the most historic areas in Mount Rainier National Park, located 6.5 miles east of the Nisqually Entrance. It was originally the home of James Longmire, who discovered the mineral springs and developed this area into a resort in the late 1800s. When Mount Rainier became a national park in 1899, Longmire served as the first park headquarters. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark District, preserving its early structures and history. Visitors can explore the Trail of the Shadows, a 0.7 mile loop that passes bubbling mineral springs and remnants of Longmire’s early settlement.
Ohanapecosh
The Ohanapecosh is a peaceful area in the southeast corner of Mount Rainier, known for its old-growth forests, clear rivers, and hiking trails. The name Ohanapecosh, comes from the people of Taidnapam (Upper Cowlitz), meaning “standing at the edge”. The Ohanapecosh Visitor Center provides exhibits and guided programs about the area’s history. The Ohanapecosh Campground, located along the Ohanapecosh River, has 188 campsites providing a quiet place to camp. The 1.4 mile Silver Falls Trail leads to a waterfall, while the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail passes through an ancient forest.
Myrtle Falls
The Myrtle Falls is a 60 foot waterfall located in the Paradise area, offering one of the scenic views in the park. The waterfall is fed by Edith Creek, and it’s a popular spot for photography, with many visitors capturing the classic view of Mount Rainier behind the falls. The trail to Myrtle Falls is 0.4 miles from Paradise Inn, following the Skyline Trail, which is paved and easy to walk. A steep stairway leads to a viewpoint where visitors can see the waterfall up close. The area is beautiful in summer, when wildflowers bloom along the trail. Since the trail is short, it is a great stop for families and casual hikers.
Snoqualmie Falls
The Snoqualmie Falls is a 268 foot waterfall located on the Snoqualmie River, and is one of the most visited natural landmarks in the state, attracting over 1.5 million visitors each year. The falls are famous for their appearance in the television series Twin Peaks, adding to their cultural significance. It is surrounded by a 2 acres park, including an observation deck, a gift shop, and well-kept walking paths. The Salish Lodge & Spa, located nearby, offers dining and accommodations with views of the waterfall. Interpretive signs are everywhere, sharing information about the history and geology of the falls.
Silver Falls
The Silver Falls is a 60 foot waterfall along the Ohanapecosh River, offering a peaceful and scenic spot for visitors. The waterfall is surrounded by old-growth forest, creating a beautiful setting for hiking and photography. The Silver Falls Loop Trail is a 2.7 miles round-trip hike with an elevation of 600 feet, making it an enjoyable walk for visitors as it is moderate. The trail follows the river bed, takes you through a wooden footbridge that provides a great view of the falls. The trailhead is located near Ohanapecosh Campground, and hikers can access the falls from the Grove of the Patriarchs parking lot.
Carbon Glacier
The Carbon Glacier is the lowest-elevation glacier in the U.S., located at 3,617 feet. It is also known for thickest glacier on Mount Rainier, holding the largest volume of ice. The glacier feeds the Carbon River, flowing through the park, creating a lush environment for wildlife and plants. Visitors can see the glacier by hiking the Carbon River Trail, which follows the river through dense forests. The trail leads to the Carbon Glacier Overlook, offering a close-up view of the glacier’s rocky surface. The hike is about 17 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 1,900 feet, making it a challenging but rewarding trek.
Nisqually Glacier
The Nisqually Glacier is one of the most studied glaciers, and it has been monitored since the mid-1850s, making it one of the longest-surveyed glaciers in the park. It has gone through periods of retreat and advance, but in general it has been shrinking over time. It is accessible from Paradise, with the best views found along the Nisqually Vista Trail. Another great viewpoint is Glacier Vista, a short spur off the Skyline Trail, where visitors can see the glacier’s surface and surroundings. The glacier feeds the Nisqually River, flowing through the park and provides water for hydroelectric power production.
Emmons Glacier
The Emmons Glacier is the largest glacier by surface area, covering 4.3 square miles and stretching down the northeast slope of Mount Rainier into the White River Valley. Named after Samuel Franklin Emmons, a geologist who surveyed Mount Rainier in 1870, the glacier has been shaped by natural events, including a 1963 rockfall from Little Tahoma Peak, in which most of the parts of glacier are covered in debris and temporarily slowed its melting. Visitors can see the glacier from Emmons Vista near Sunrise Visitor Center or hike the Emmons Moraine Trail, which offers close-up views of the glacier.
Archaeology Tours
Mount Rainier National Park has a rich archaeological history, with evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore areas with historical significance and learn about past cultures through exhibits and guided programs. The park maintains active relations with six Indigenous tribes, including the Nisqually, Puyallup, Squaxin Island, Muckleshoot, Yakama, and Cowlitz, who have deep connections to the land. Archaeological sites in the park contain stone tools, cooking hearths, and plant remains, providing insight into how early people lived and used natural resources.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Paradise Meadows Exploration
Located on the south slope of Mount Rainier, Paradise Meadows is easily accessible from the Paradise area, known for its wildflower-filled meadows and stunning mountain views, and features a visitor center and hiking trails. The Skyline Trail is one of the best ways to explore the meadows, offering views of Mount Rainier, the Tatoosh Range, and nearby peaks. In July and August, the meadows are covered in lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies, creating a colorful landscape. The road to Paradise is covered with snow in winter, making it a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Field Trips
Mount Rainier National Park offers field trip opportunities for students and educators, providing a chance to explore nature and learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and geology. While the park does not currently offer ranger-led field trips, teachers can bring students for self-guided educational visits. The Mount Rainier Institute, a program run by the University of Washington, offers day-long and environmental education programs. Popular field trip locations include Paradise, where students learn about glaciers and alpine ecosystems, and Longmire, which provides insight into the park’s history.
Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program encourages young visitors to explore, learn, and protect the park while completing activities in the Junior Ranger booklet. The booklet includes puzzles, drawing exercises, and nature observations that help kids engage with the environment. After finishing the activities, participants bring their completed booklet to a visitor center, where a park ranger reviews their work and awards them a Junior Ranger badge. Junior Ranger booklets can be picked up at the Sunrise Visitor Center, Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, or Longmire Museum.
Ranger-led Programs
The Ranger-led programs provide insights through informal talks at visitor centers, junior ranger activities for kids, and evening campfire programs covering topics like mountaineering, conservation, and local ecology. In winter, guided snowshoe walks are held at Paradise, helping visitors understand how plants, animals, and people adapt to harsh conditions. Since these activities are led by experienced rangers, they provide a unique way to experience the park. Some programs take place along popular hiking trails, giving visitors a chance to explore areas while learning about history and geology.
Scenic Drives
Mount Rainier National Park has some of the most scenic drives in Washington, offering breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and rivers. The Chinook Pass Scenic Byway is a 92 miles route that pass through the eastern side of the park, passing through Tipsoo Lake. Another great drive is the White Pass Scenic Byway, a 124 miles route that takes visitors through forests and pass small towns, with several viewpoints along the way. The Sunrise to Paradise Road is a 38 miles route that connects two of the most popular areas in the park, offering views of the mountain and surrounding valleys.
Camping Sites
Mount Rainier National Park has several camping sites, each offering a unique outdoor experience. Ohanapecosh Campgroun d, in the southeast section, is surrounded by old-growth forests and is great for summer camping. White River Campground, in the northeast section, sits at 4,400 feet and is close to the Sunrise area, making it ideal for hikers. Cougar Rock Campground, in the southwest section, is near Paradise, offering easy access to scenic trails and viewpoints. Mowich Lake Campground is a primitive tent-only site, providing a quiet and remote camping experience.
Just outside the park’s North Arch entrance, Silver Springs Campground is located along the White River, offering beautiful scenery. La Wis Wis Campground, near the Ohanapecosh River, is another peaceful forest option. Reservations are always required for some sites during peak seasons, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some sites have picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, making camping more convenient. Since sites can fill up fast in peak season, booking early is recommended.
5. Natural Attractions
Reflection Lakes
Located 1.3 miles east of the Paradise Road wye along Stevens Canyon Road, Reflection Lakes is a well-known spot for its panoramic views of Mount Rainier mirrored in water and it is easy to reach by car during the summer months when the road is open. The area is popular for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset when the water is calm and creates a perfect reflection of the mountain. Hiking trails such as Lakes Trail pass through the area, which forms a 3 miles loop and offers views from Faraway Rock. Fishing and boating are restricted in Reflection Lakes to preserve the natural setting.
Box Canyon
Located 8.7 miles along Stevens Canyon Road, Box Canyon is a narrow slot canyon carved by the Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River, offering a classic view of the rushing water below. A short, paved loop trail leads to an overlook where visitors can look 180 feet down into the canyon. A wooden footbridge crosses the canyon, providing another great viewpoint. The area includes a picnic spot, comfort station, and interpretive signs that explain the geology and history of the canyon. The Box Canyon Bridge, built in the 1950s, is a 160 foot-long spandrel arch bridge that blends with the surroundings.
Wildlife Viewing
Mount Rainier National Park has a wide variety of wildlife, making it a great place to observe animals in their natural habitat. The park has 65 species of mammals, 182 species of birds, 14 species of amphibians, and 5 species of reptiles. Early morning and late evening are the best times for wildlife viewing, as many animals are active during these hours. Visitors must keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid feeding them, as human food can harm their health and disrupt their natural behavior. The park has strict rules for people to stay at least 50 yards (150 feet) away from animals like bears and elk.
Tahoma Creek
The Tahoma Creek is a rugged and scenic area known for its challenging trails and landscapes. The Tahoma Creek Trail is a 6.3 miles route that follows the creek through forests, rocky terrain, and riverbeds, offering a mix of climbs and muddy paths. One of the highlights of the trail is the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge, a 200 foot-long bridge that hangs 165 feet above the canyon. The bridge is narrow, and only one person should cross at a time due to its height and movement. The trail is not maintained, meaning hikers must navigate washouts and fallen trees, making it suited for seasonal hikers.
Picnic Areas
Mount Rainier National Park has several picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. The Paradise Picnic Area, located near the Paradise Visitor Center, offers picnic tables with views of the mountain on clear days. The Sunrise Picnic Area, open in summer, is near the Sunrise Visitor Center and provides a scenic spot with meadows and mountain views. The Ohanapecosh Picnic Area, in the southeast section, is surrounded by old-growth forests, making it a peaceful place for a break.
The Cougar Rock Picnic Area, near Longmire, is a quiet spot in the forest with picnic tables and restrooms. The White River Picnic Area, in the northeast section, is a good stopping point for travelers exploring the park’s White River Entrance. The Box Canyon Picnic Area, along Stevens Canyon Road, offers a unique setting near a narrow canyon carved by the Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River. The Narada Falls Picnic Area, near the waterfall, is a great place to stop for a meal while enjoying the view.
6. Day Trips & Excursions
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
A day trip from Mount Rainier to Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a great way to explore scenic viewpoints that covers 1.3 million acres and is one of the oldest national forests in the United States. Goat Rocks Wilderness is a great spot to explore, known for rugged peaks and alpine meadows. Ape Caves, a 2.5 miles lava tube, offers an underground adventure with sections requiring headlamps for visibility. The Windy Ridge Viewpoint provides a clear view of Mount St. Helen s, showing the impact of the 1980 eruption. Since the area is remote, bringing food, water, and gear is essential for an enjoyable trip.
Seattle
From Mount Rainier, a day trip to Seattle takes about 2 hours drive, and provides a mix of nature and city experiences. One of the best places to start is Pike Place Market, a historic market with fresh seafood, local produce, and unique shops. The Space Needle, an iconic landmark, provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The Seattle Waterfront is a great spot for a relaxing walk, with views of Puget Sound and ferries heading to nearby islands. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) offers exhibits on music, film, and gaming, making it a fun stop for visitors interested in pop culture.
Tacoma
A day trip to Tacoma takes about 2 hours drive from Mount Rainier National Park. One of the best places to start is the Museum of Glass, where visitors can see live glassblowing demonstrations and exhibits featuring stunning glass art. Nearby Tacoma Art Museum has a collection of Dale Chihuly’s glass pieces that showcases works by Northwest artists. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a pedestrian walkway connecting the museums, displays over 2,000 glass sculptures. The Washington State History Museum offers insights into the region’s past, with exhibits on early settlers and Native American history.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
From Mount Rainier, driving about 3 hours to reach Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, provides a chance to exp lore one of the famous volcanic landscapes in the United States. Start at The Johnston Ridge Observatory, offering exhibits, viewpoints, and a close look at the crater left by the 1980 eruption. The Eruption Trail, a 0.8 mile loop, provides stunning views of the blast zone and surroundings. Coldwater Lake is a peaceful destination for a short walk or picnic. The Hummocks Trail is a 2.5 miles loop, passing through landslide debris, showing how the landscape has changed over time.
Portland, OR
Start a day trip from Mount Rainier to Portland in Oregon, the drive takes about 3 hours, covering 162 miles, with scenic stops along the way. One of the best places to start is Pioneer Courthouse Square, a central gathering spot in downtown Portland. The Portland Japanese Garden, located in Washington Park, offers a peaceful escape with traditional landscaping and koi ponds. Nearby, the International Rose Test Garden showcases thousands of rose varieties, making it a great stop for flower lovers. The Oregon Zoo, also in Washington Park, is home to a variety of animals and conservation programs.
How to Reach Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park has several entrances providing access to different areas. The Nisqually Entrance, on the southwest side, is the most popular and is open year-round, with visitors driving from Seattle or Tacoma via Interstate 5 South, then connecting to State Route 7 and State Route 706. The White River Entrance, on the northeast side, is accessible via State Route 410, but it is only open in summer. The Stevens Canyon Entrance, on the southeast side, connects to U.S. Highway 12 and is open from late spring to early fall.
Since roads are narrow, so driving carefully and allowing extra time is recommended. To get to the park, visitors can fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), located 85 miles away, with connections to major U.S. and international cities. After landing, rental car agencies at the airport provide options for transportation. The drive to the park takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and which entrance is used — either Nisqually on the southwest or White River on the northeast.
Local Transportation
Mount Rainier National Park does not have a public transportation system, so visitors must rely on personal vehicles, rental cars, or guided tours to get around. The park has four main entrances, with the Nisqually Entrance on the southwest side being the most popular and open year-round. Roads in the park are narrow, and parking can be limited at popular spots like Paradise and Sunrise. Arriving early or visiting on weekdays helps avoid congestion. In winter, tire chains are required for all vehicles due to snow and ice.
The Carbon River Entrance, on the northwest side, allows foot and bike access, but vehicles must park outside the entrance. Some visitors choose to explore the park by bicycle, though steep roads and changing weather can make cycling challenging. Guided tours from Seattle offer a convenient option, providing transportation and park highlights without the need to drive. Since there are no shuttle services, planning ahead and checking road conditions before visiting is important.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the optimal time to visit Mount Rainier National Park?
The optimal time to visit the Mount Rainier National Park is during summer season, from July to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild, and most of the park’s roads and facilities are open. This is also when wildflowers are in full bloom and the snow has melted from the trails, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. Spring and fall are also beautiful but can be unpredictable, with snow and road closures possible. Winter brings opportunities for snow sports, but some areas may be less accessible.
2. What are the must-see attractions in Mount Rainier National Park?
Mount Rainier National Park has several must-see spots. Paradise offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and its beautiful wildflower meadows. Sunrise provides panoramic views of the Cascade Range and is the highest point you can reach by car. Reflection Lakes is perfect for capturing the majestic reflections of Mount Rainier in the water, while the Grove of the Patriarchs features a peaceful trail through a forest of ancient, giant trees.
3. Are there any guided tours available within Mount Rainier National Park?
Yes, there are several guided tours available within Mount Rainier National Park. Several companies offer guided hiking tours, scenic drives, and educational programs about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history. These tours can be a great way to learn more about the park and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. It’s a good idea to book these tours in advance, especially during the peak summer season.
4. What should I pack for a visit to Mount Rainier National Park?
When visiting Mount Rainier National Park, pack weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof and wind-resistant layers. Bring sturdy hiking shoes for exploring the trails, and don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure at higher elevations. Carry water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during hikes. Although trails are well-marked, having a map and compass is a good idea for navigation.
5. Can I camp in Mount Rainier National Park?
Yes, camping is available in Mount Rainier National Park, and there are several campgrounds to choose from. Some campgrounds are available but only on a first-come, first-served basis, while some require only reservations. Popular campgrounds include Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh. During the peak season, reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot. Additionally, backcountry camping is permitted with a permit, which can be obtained through the park’s visitor centers.
