Great Escape: Camping Season is Upon Us

Memorial Day weekend is fast approaching.  Regardless of weather, this weekend is the official start to camping season here in Washington state.

While you might be brave enough to withstand those cold nights in the outdoors, the fainter of heart -- aka the rest of us -- can consider “half-camping.”

Cabins, yurts and teepees pepper the Northwest from Grayland to Battleground, from Mount Spokane to Deception Pass.  With prices starting at $49 to house six people, is there really a reason to forgo heat and electricity?  Check out Washington State Parks online for more information.

Notable locations for your destination might be the Quartz Mountain Fire Lookout perched at 5,129 feet to literally make you feel on top of the world, offering views of the Spokane Valley and Selkirk Mountains for $85 per night. 

Or if you really want to “camp” camp, maybe one of only two teepees offered in Washington state parks is a better fit.  Located at Fields Spring State Park, these teepees offer capacities of up to six people in their 18-foot in diameter space for $20 per night.

Whichever you choose, read the fine print and be sure to have all the camping supplies you need, as many of these properties do maintain their rustic nature -- meaning lack running water or bedding. 

You are, after all, camping.