Mowich Lake Campground Mount Rainier National Park Washington

Mowich Lake Overview

Mowich Lake Campground has 21 walk-to (tent only) campsites near the lake and in one of the most scenic locations in Mount Rainer National Park. All campsites are first-come first-serve but a Wilderness Permit is required to camp. Three of the campsites can accommodate groups.

Set in a glacial basin surrounded by fragile wildflower meadows, Mowich Lake is the largest and deepest lake in Mount Rainier National Park. It is located in the northwest corner of the park and is reached via State Route 165. The road is unpaved after the first three miles and may be rough.

The campsites are for tent camping only and require a walk ranging from about 250 to 400 feet from the parking area. Each campsite has a tent pad/platform, table and food storage locker. Fires and groups more than 12 are prohibited.

The campground is generally open early July to early October. Amenities include vault toilets. Potable (drinking) water and trash collection are not provided.

Mowich Lake Campground – Area Recreation & Activities

The campground is a great base camp for hiking and backpacking. Campers/hikers can access the 93-mile Wonderland Trail. A good day trip hike is the 6-mile round-trip to the Tolmie Peak Lookout. Another short hike will also take you to Spray Falls.  Other activities include canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, fishing and wildlife viewing. Stargazing can also be great on clear nights.

Built in 1922, Mowich Lake Patrol Cabin is one of the oldest backcountry ranger stations in Mount Rainer National Park.

Other campgrounds in Mount Rainer National Park include Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh and White River.

Reservations:

First Come, First Served

Amenities

• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - None
• Picnic Tables

Activities

• Backpacking
• Bird Watching
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• Nature Trails
• Paddle boarding (SUP)
• Paddle Boating
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Stargazing
• Walking Trails
• Wildlife Viewing