Explore Free Camping Options and Unique Sites in Cowlitz Valley Ranger District
Discover the natural beauty of the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, nestled within the stunning Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This pristine area covers over 1.3 million acres and offers a diverse range of camping experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular campgrounds such as the scenic Iron Creek Campground and the family-friendly Lawis and Cowlitz Campgrounds provide accessible amenities while allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. For those seeking a more budget-friendly experience, there are numerous free camping options available, including dispersed camping sites along the Cowlitz River, where you can enjoy starry nights and the soothing sounds of nature. With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and proximity to attractions like Mount St. Helens, the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District is an ideal getaway for families, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Experience the tranquility of this enchanting forest and create unforgettable memories in one of Washington's hidden gems.

















Adams Fork Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (2 hrs 59 min west of Yakima, WA) with an elevation of 2,557 feet. There are a total of 23 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 42 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $22.00 to $40.00. Some amenities include restroom. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Big Creek Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (1 hr 2 min southeast of South Hill, WA) with an elevation of 1,813 feet. There are a total of 29 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $22.00 to $40.00. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
Blue Lake Creek Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (1 hr 48 min southeast of South Hill, WA) with an elevation of 1,810 feet. There are a total of 11 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of June to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 29 and 48 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $18.00 per night. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
Iron Creek Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (1 hr 39 min southeast of South Hill, WA) with an elevation of 1,093 feet. There are a total of 99 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $24.00 to $44.00.
La Wis Wis Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (1 hr 48 min southeast of South Hill, WA) with an elevation of 1,243 feet. There are a total of 107 campsites including 34 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. 73 sites can accommodate RVs between 15 and 60 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Fees range from $24.00 to $100.00. Some amenities include amphitheater. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
North Fork Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (1 hr 41 min southeast of South Hill, WA) with an elevation of 1,404 feet. There are a total of 19 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. 17 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 15 and 40 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $22.00 per night. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
Takhlakh Lake Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (3 hrs 4 min west of Yakima, WA) with an elevation of 4,430 feet. There are a total of 54 campsites including 10 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of July to mid September. 44 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 15 and 99 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $22.00 to $40.00. Some amenities include boat ramp. Activities include fishing, hiking trails.
Tower Rock Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (1 hr 44 min southeast of South Hill, WA) with an elevation of 1,230 feet. There are a total of 20 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 16 and 32 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $22.00 per night. Activities include fishing.
Walupt Lake Campground is located in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Gifford Pinchot National Forest (3 hrs 2 min west of Yakima, WA) with an elevation of 3,923 feet. There are a total of 42 campsites including 15 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of July to mid September. 27 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Fees range from $25.00 to $45.00. Some amenities include drinking water, accessible, swimming, restroom. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.