Mount Vernon camping areas occupy the fertile Skagit Valley at approximately 180 feet elevation where the region's wet climate creates lush green surroundings year-round. The area serves as a strategic basecamp between the Cascade Mountains to the east and Puget Sound to the west, with campsites typically located within 30 minutes of downtown Mount Vernon. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round due to the relatively mild Pacific Northwest climate.
What to Do
Woodland trails for pets: Greenstone Farm Camping provides dedicated pet exercise areas on its property. "Woodland trail on the 10+ acres was a real plus for our two dogs. Hosts were helpful and responsive," notes Ken F. The quiet rural setting gives dogs ample space while maintaining close proximity to town.
Beach access at sundown: La Conner RV offers shoreline paths for evening walks. "Walks to 'Lone Tree' at sunset are amazing," says kimberly W., who found the coastal views particularly striking during evening hours. The waterfront location provides scenic routes for morning and evening strolls.
River exploration: Rasar State Park Campground includes riverside recreation areas. "There are trails everywhere with interpretive signs, gorgeous river banks, wide open fields, berry picking... good ranger presence keeps things cleaner and quieter," says Bjorn S. The paved path to the Skagit River accommodates mobility devices and strollers.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Bay View State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and showers. "Clean, quiet and friendly Rangers + volunteers! Bayview is one of my husband and I's favorite state parks for short term camping. Even when it's full, it's peaceful," says CJ W. The park staff sells firewood and ice on site during booth hours.
Family recreation options: Burlington-Anacortes KOA offers various amenities for children. "The campground itself is very clean, you can tell the owners take pride in it. The showers are warm, not as hot as I'd like but very very nice," notes wherervgoing. The campground includes rental recumbent bikes popular with families.
Privacy between sites: Many campsites feature natural vegetation barriers. "Most sites have decent privacy via trees + shrubs," reports CJ W. about Bay View State Park. This natural separation provides a sense of seclusion even when campgrounds reach full capacity during summer months.
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment to level RVs. "The sites in the new section are strangely not level, you can tell by the amount of blocks under the motorhomes," reports Kathy A. about Burlington-Anacortes KOA. Rasar State Park also has "rv spaces; they are a little challenging to level in some back in sites," according to Deborah H.
Train noise considerations: Larrabee State Park Campground experiences railroad disruptions. "Downside was the trains barreling through all night. Could barely sleep with earplugs," warns Daryl N. Families with children should note that trains pass regularly through certain camping areas.
Seasonal facility closures: Check which amenities remain available during off-season visits. "The hot tub, indoor pool, and gym are closed for the season. Not sure how those are seasonal," notes wherervgoing about Burlington-Anacortes KOA. Winter campers should verify which facilities remain operational before booking.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Great newer looking playground for kids: bonus for families!" notes Izzy H. about Larrabee State Park. These areas provide convenient recreation without leaving the campground.
Shared campsites: Deception Pass State Park Campground accommodates group camping. "We went with family in two different vehicles and were able to secure two spots next to each other. Busy place, but the spots are partitioned off by natural trees and shrubs," shares Briggetta B. This arrangement works well for extended families camping together.
ADA-friendly options: Rasar State Park offers accessible camping facilities. "Great ADA camping. Trails are smooth enough for an electric wheelchair and the path to the river is paved. Not many spots so book early," advises Bryan G. These accessible sites require advance reservations due to limited availability.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: La Conner Marina RV Resort offers complete utility connections. "Each campsite has full hookup. Easy short walk to town," says Maegan M. Premium sites include double-wide spaces with room for both RV and vehicle parking.
Pull-through access: Several campgrounds feature drive-through sites for easier RV positioning. "There are about 5 or 6 newer pull through that are good size," notes Jim about La Conner Marina RV Resort. These sites typically cost more but eliminate the need for complex backing maneuvers.
Wi-Fi considerations: Internet connectivity varies significantly between locations. "If you need wifi to plan your next days this location is not for you. Wifi available at the lodge only and very slow," warns Clément S. about Thousand Trails Mount Vernon. Campers requiring reliable internet should verify service availability before booking.