The Best Fishing & Camping in Washington

The state of Washington is known for its natural beauty with its lush forests and scenic mountain ranges. With moderately mild temperatures and access to both saltwater and freshwater fishing, this Pacific Northwest state is a sought-out destination for both campers and anglers.

Deception Pass State Park is located 18 miles northwest of Seattle in Oak Harbor. It has 4,134 acres of land for campers to enjoy with more than 70,000 feet dedicated to Pacific Ocean shorelines and more than 33,000 feet devoted to freshwater shoreline, making it a prime fishing location. The park features breathtaking views of rugged cliff natural landscapes and a vast array of wildlife. Deception Pass State Park includes more than 38 miles of hiking trails, 3 miles of bike trails and 6 miles of equestrian trails for guests to enjoy. Anglers will appreciate the five boat ramps and 710 feet of dock available at the park while catching the likes of bass, bluegill, bullhead, catfish, cod, crappie, perch, red snapper, salmon, steelhead and trout.

Dosewallips State Park is a 425-acre complex located 20 miles south of Highway 101 in Jefferson County. The park features access to more than 5,000 feet of both saltwater and freshwater reserves on either side of the Dosewallips River. The camp features space for 70 tents and includes 55 utility sites for campers to use. The park has one boat ramp on the saltwater side, however, fishing is permitted in either area. Anglers can fish for local favorites such as bass, perch, red snapper and trout.

Fields Spring State Park is one of Washington’s best kept secrets in terms of camping locales. Located in Anatone, Washington just south of Lewiston, the park is open year round. This park is on the smaller side, with space for only 20 tents. It is a sought out destination because of the exquisite views. The 4,500-foot Puffer Butte in Fields Spring State Park offers guests the opportunity to view three states and the Grande Ronde River, which many find breathtaking. In May and June, guest can enjoy the wide array of wildflower displays while taking advantage of the 7 miles of available hiking and biking trails located at the park.

Rainbow Falls State Park is located just 17 miles west of Chehalis, Washington. It is a 139 acre complex that includes more than 3,000 feet of freshwater access on the shoreline of the Chehalis River. Campers may enjoy the rustic atmosphere of the old-growth forest and the stunning beauty of waterfall located at the park. Rainbow Falls State Park has 10 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of bike trails and 7 miles of equestrian trails for guests to use during their stay. Fishing in the Chehalis River can yield anglers rewards with the likes of bullhead, catfish, eel, salmon, steelhead and trout.

Curlew Lake State Park is located just 8 miles north of Republic, Washington and is considered by many to be one of the most relaxing campgrounds in the state of Washington. The park expanses 123 acres and has 57 tent spaces and 25 utility spaces for campers to use. During their stay, guests can enjoy the 2 miles of hiking and biking trails available at the park. Curlew Lake State Park has many fishable lakes and streams within the area that are rich in trout and largemouth bass. Curlew Lake State Park has two boat ramps with freshwater access and 80 feet of dock for anglers' use.