RVing in Washington is an outdoor adventurer’s dream come true. The state is home to beaches, forests, and mountains, so you can park your RV in the middle of some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. The many Washington bucket list destinations provide even more reasons to hop in your RV and drive to this Pacific Northwest state.
If you’re not sure what to add to your Washington bucket list, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in the state below.
Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve is on the cliffs of the Puget Sound. It was named after the Ebey family, the first permanent European settlers in the area. You can also learn about the Native American people who have lived in the area since 1300 and much more about the history of the area.
RV camping is not allowed on-site, but you can camp at Fort Ebey State Park and Forest Casey State Park, both located on Ebey’s Reserve.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site has a rich and complex history. It has been used as a fur trading post, a military fort, and much more. Hear stories of the past and learn about one of the places that helped shape the Pacific Northwest into what it is today.
There is no RV parking at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. However, there are RV parks nearby.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
The Klondike Gold Rush was an important event in Washington and Alaskan history. At Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, you can dive into the past, learn the stories of the people who trekked to Alaska in search of gold, and discover how the gold rush helped shape the city of Seattle.
This park is located in downtown Seattle and it can be challenging to drive an RV through the area. Instead, consider camping at one of the many RV parks surrounding the city like Tall Chief RV Campground.
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
At Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, you can explore shorelines and learn about the Native Americans who once called this place home. You can also learn about the settlers and trappers who passed through. Finish off the day by fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
This NPS site features onsite camping, and you can make reservations online.
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park stretches through Oregon and Washington, with a number of historic sites in several areas. Guests have the opportunity to learn about the incredible journey that Lewis and Clark took across the country.
While you can’t camp in Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, RV camping is available in the nearby Fort Stevens State Park.
Manhattan Project National Historical Park
Manhattan Project National Historical Park also has a few different sites across the US. These sites work together to tell the story of the creation of the atomic bomb that helped to end World War II. You can pay a visit to the Washington site to learn more.
The Washington branch of the park does not have RV parking. You may be able to park a smaller rig in the lot during slow times of the year, but it might be easier to take a tow vehicle to the park and leave your RV at the campground.
Mount Rainier National Park
An iconic part of Washington’s landscape, Mount Rainier stands a full 14,410 feet above sea level. Not only is the mountain an active volcano, it’s also home to more glaciers than any other peak in the contiguous United States. Visit Mount Rainier National Park to see the mountain and explore the area surrounding it.
Mount Rainier is home to a few RV-friendly campgrounds, but be sure to make reservations to camp in the park.
Nez Perce National Historical Park
The Nez Perce people have called this area home for hundreds of years. They survived the Europeans settling in their home country and adapted to an ever-changing world. Today, this area has been made into the Nez Perce National Historical Park. There are 38 sites that are important to the culture of the Nez Perce, striving to educate visitors by sharing stories of the past.
North Cascades National Park
Home to dozens of jagged peaks and more than 300 glaciers, North Cascades is a rugged wonderland that spotlights the wild beauty of Washington. Visit this park to witness cascading waters and lush forests.
Because of the snow, most of this park is only open in summer. During this time, there are a few RV campsites available on the park grounds, but they must be reserved in advance. It is possible to drive an RV through this national park, and you’ll want to check out the North Cascades Highway to take in the scenery.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a diverse place with lots to explore. It’s home to rainforests, ocean beaches, glacier-capped mountains, and more. You can spend several days investigating the different ecosystems and areas of the park.
There are several RV campsites scattered throughout this park, but the Hoh Campground is an especially pretty one. You can drive an RV through much of this park, but parking at beaches and visitor centers can be hard during the busy season.
San Juan Island National Historical Park
San Juan Island National Historical Park has incredible vistas, a beautiful shoreline, lovely woodlands, and areas to watch for whales. This was also the site where the US and Great Britain almost went to war over possession of the island back in 1859.
You’ll need to take a ferry to San Juan Island and the park, and RVs are allowed on the ferry. While there is no RV camping at the NPS site, there are RV campsites on the San Juan Islands. You’ll have to decide for yourself whether you prefer to ferry your RV over or leave it on the mainland. If you do choose to ferry your RV, be sure to make reservations for both the ferry and your campsite well in advance.
Whitman Mission National Historic Site
Marcus Whitman was a doctor and missionary to the Cayuse Nation in an area near what is now Walla Walla. Whiteman, his wife, and eleven other adult men were killed by a small group of Cayuse men after a series of miscommunications and tensions. Learn about the Cayuse people, the missionaries, what led to the attack, and the actions by the United States that followed at the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. This site does have dedicated RV and bus parking available for day visitors.
National Trails
Of course, there are also some national trails to explore when in Washington state. Hike some, or all, of these trails and stop in at their visitor centers to learn more about the history.
These trails include:
- Oregon National Historic Trail
- Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
- Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail
Explore Chihuly Garden and Glass
Dale Chihuly has played an important role in the international glass art scene and is one of the most well-known glass artists in the world. See some of his work at the super cool Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit inside the Seattle Center.
Cross the Chihuly Bridge of Glass
Want to see even more amazing work by Chihuly? The Chihuly Bridge of Glass in Tacoma is a beautiful piece of art that can be seen for free. The bridge ends at the Museum of Glass, where you can admire works of art in this delicate medium.
Discover The Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight can teach you all about the history of aviation. This museum is the largest privately owned air and space museum in the world. It is home to more than 150 aircraft, including a replica of the plane flown by Amelia Earhart herself.
There is dedicated RV and bus parking during operating hours at the museum.
Learn at The Future of Flight Aviation Center
Those more interested in learning about where aviation is headed should visit The Future of Flight Aviation Center. This spot is dedicated to educating the public about the future of aviation and is home to a Boeing factory tour.
RVs can park onsite when visiting this museum for the day.
Shop Pike Place Market
No visit to the Seattle area is complete without a visit to Pike Place Market. This famous historical marketplace is bursting with restaurants, food stands, craft shops, and more. Because the market is in a dense area, it would be easier to leave your RV at your campsite and use a tow vehicle or public transportation to get to the area.
Wander The Wing Luke Museum
Learn about the history and culture of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders as you browse the beautiful exhibits on display in the well-thought-out and unique Wing Luke Museum.
This museum is in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District. It’s easier to access the area if you leave your RV behind. If you do not have a car, it is also possible to park your RV in the Woodland Park Zoo and take the #5 bus to the city center.
Look Up at the Space Needle
The Space Needle defines the Seattle skyline. It is a popular city stop and offers a number of great photo opportunities. Whether you head to the top of the needle for a great view or just snap photos of the structure from the bottom, you’re sure to enjoy a visit to this iconic spot.
Take in the View at Sky View Observatory
If you choose to skip the observation deck at the Space Needle, you might want to head to Sky View Observatory & Bar instead. This place offers views of the city, and folks who visit are able to snap photos of the skyline that includes both the Space Needle and Mount Rainier. You can also enjoy a drink while appreciating the view.
Check Out LeMay – America’s Car Museum
LeMay – America’s Car Museum is a great stop for anyone who appreciates automobile history and design. The museum contains an impressive 350 cars, including super fast cars, well-designed cars, technologically advanced cars, and more.
Explore the Hands On Children’s Museum
People who visit Washington with kids should head to the Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia. As the name suggests, kids are encouraged to touch and interact with everything in this museum, making it a fun learning experience.
Admire Mount St. Helens
On May 18th, 1980, Mount Saint Helens erupted, changing the Washington landscape forever and completely wiping out anything in its path. Today, guests can visit the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center to learn more about this historic eruption and the events surrounding it before seeing the volcano itself.
There are several campgrounds near Mount St. Helen’s. Additionally, RVs, especially smaller motorhomes, can usually find places to park when visiting this National Forest Service site.
Hike Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
The Columbia River Gorge spans Oregon and Washington and is the place to go for a nature escape. Multnomah Falls is in this scenic area and is the tallest waterfall in Oregon. You’ll also find lots of scenic overlooks and areas where you can enjoy the view.
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a National Forest site with two camping areas. You’ll also find lots of private campgrounds nearby.
Have Fun at the Museum of Pop Culture
The Museum of Pop Culture is an entertaining stop that focuses on contemporary pop culture. Interactive displays draw visitors in, and the unique topics such as cinema, video games, and literature make it easy to find exhibits that interest you.
Go Whale Watching
Washington is famous for its whale sightings. You can often see the magnificent creatures while you’re simply hanging out on the beach. For the best chance of seeing whales, however, we recommend going on a whale-watching tour with a company such as Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching.
Befriend an Animal at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park can help you learn about the animals of the Pacific Northwest. This beautiful park is home to a huge number of native animals and offers self-guided and guided tours of the grounds.
Although RVs are not allowed on driving tours of the park, the parking lot is large enough that it may be able to accommodate an RV in order for you to go on a walking tour or tram tour.
Stroll Port Angeles Fine Arts Center
The Port Angeles Fine Arts Center encompasses an art gallery and Webster’s Woods Art Park. You can enjoy more than 100 sculptures that are crafted to blend into the natural environment. The gallery features a variety of exhibitions and artwork.
This attraction does not have dedicated RV parking and the lot is relatively small, so it may be hard to bring along an RV. The city bus does drop off at the museum, so taking it from your Port Angeles RV Park may be an option.
By heading to Washington in an RV, you give yourself the freedom to wander, checking off bucket list items as you go. Additionally, you’ll be able to do and see it all in complete comfort. Luckily for you, we have tons of Washington RV rental options available.
