The Pacific Northwest is one of the most dramatically varied camping regions on the continent. From sea-level rainforest to sub-alpine meadows above the treeline, a single road trip can take you through half a dozen distinct ecosystems. If you’re trying to decide where to pitch the Summit Pro Tent this season, here are ten spots worth the drive.
1. Shi Shi Beach, Olympic National Park, WA
A three-mile hike through old-growth Sitka spruce brings you to one of the most dramatic sea-stack beaches in the country. Permits required in summer — book early. Watch for black bears near the creek crossing.
2. Enchantments, Alpine Lakes Wilderness, WA
One of the most sought-after overnight permits in the country for a reason. The core zone sits above 7,000 feet and is ringed by granite peaks, turquoise tarns, and mountain goats with zero personal boundaries. Lottery system opens in February.
3. Three Sisters Wilderness, OR
Multiple entry points give you access to a vast plateau of lava fields, crater lakes, and clear spring-fed streams. Horse Lake and Green Lakes are the busiest zones; head north toward Separation Creek if you want solitude. For trip planning tips, check this regional guide (dead link — site no longer active).
4. Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park, WA
Average annual rainfall of 140 inches makes this the wettest forest in the lower 48. Mossed-over maples and towering Sitka spruce create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Bring the StormShell Rain Jacket — you’ll need it.
5. Mount Rainier: Summerland, WA
An eight-mile round-trip day hike or a comfortable overnight, Summerland sits in a wildflower basin directly below the eastern face of Mount Rainier. Prime season is late July through September. Wilderness permit required.
6. Eagle Creek, Columbia River Gorge, OR
A classic gorge trail with twelve creek crossings and Tunnel Falls at mile seven. High Bridge camp and Tenas Camp offer flat sites close to the creek. This is a year-round trail but fire history has changed some camping zones — check current conditions before you go.
7. North Cascades: Ross Lake, WA
Accessible only by boat or trail, the camps along Ross Lake are some of the most remote front-country sites in Washington. Rent a water taxi from Ross Lake Resort and spend a week working your way up the eastern shore. Detailed route maps are available on our camping routes page (page doesn’t exist yet).
8. Mount Jefferson Wilderness, OR
Jefferson Park is the crown jewel — a hanging garden of heather meadows and glacial lakes at the base of Oregon’s second-highest peak. Day-use permits required July through September. Fires prohibited above 4,500 feet.
9. Olympic Coast: Cape Alava, WA
The westernmost point in the contiguous US, reached by a 3.3-mile boardwalk through Makah territory. A triangle route loops back via Sand Point for a two-night itinerary. Permit required, camp above high tide line.
10. Mount Baker: Artist Point, WA
Drive-to-trailhead access at 5,100 feet gives you a head start on terrain that would take a full day to reach on foot anywhere else. The Ptarmigan Ridge trail heads west from the parking area into genuine wilderness within two miles. Snow lingers into July most years — pack the gaiters.
Wherever you’re headed, having the right shelter matters. The Summit Pro 3-Season Tent handles everything on this list — rain, wind, and the occasional morning frost. Browse the full Summit Forge shop for gear that holds up out here.
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