Bumping Lake Campground
4.61129 reviewsBumping River Road, Goose Prairie, WA 98937, USA
Bumping Lake Campground
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates vary by site type and season, ranging from $24 to $48. Extra vehicle fee is $8.
About this campground
Discover your mountain sanctuary at Bumping Lake Campground, where pristine waters meet ancient forests in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. This beloved destination draws families and solo adventurers alike to its forested shores, where towering old-growth giants frame breathtaking lake views. Here, the rhythms of nature replace the noise of everyday life, offering intimate campsites that serve as gateways to rugged mountain adventures and peaceful moments of reflection.
The campground accommodates various camping styles with sites for tents, RVs, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceYour campground serves as a gateway to legendary terrain, sitting in the shadow of Mount Rainier National Park—one of America's most iconic volcanic landmarks and ecological treasures. The famed Pacific Crest Trail weaves through this storied landscape, carrying the footsteps of thousands of through-hikers chasing their 2,650-mile dreams. This convergence of natural wonders has made the region a crossroads for adventurers, naturalists, and those seeking communion with the Pacific Northwest's most dramatic scenery.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Bumping Lake into an outdoor paradise, with azure skies dominating nearly 78% of the season and rainfall barely touching 6% of days. Perfect hiking weather arrives with comfortable highs of 68°F, while evenings cool to a refreshing 48°F—ideal for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. As autumn paints the surrounding forests in gold and crimson, temperatures drop and mountain mists roll in more frequently, creating an enchanting atmosphere for those seeking a quieter wilderness experience.
ElevationPerched within the dramatic folds of the Cascade Mountains, Bumping Lake's mountain elevation creates its own microclimate and adds an element of adventure to every visit. The winding mountain roads leading to your campsite offer glimpses of the vertical world you're entering, where weather can shift with the terrain and each turn reveals new vistas. This elevated setting means cooler temperatures, clearer air, and the kind of pristine mountain environment that refreshes both body and spirit.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient sentinels of Douglas fir and western hemlock stand guard over Bumping Lake, their centuries-old branches creating a living cathedral above your campsite. The lake itself tells a story of ice and time—fed by pristine snowmelt and glacial streams that keep its waters crystal clear and refreshingly cool. Verdant wetlands border the forest edges, creating a mosaic of habitats where curious deer browse at dawn, porcupines waddle through the underbrush, and countless migratory birds fill the air with song. Lucky visitors might glimpse the majestic Northern Bald Eagle soaring overhead or catch signs of the elusive gray wolves that still roam these protected lands.
Geological RegionWelcome to a landscape sculpted by ice and time, where ancient glaciers carved the dramatic valleys and ridges of the eastern Cascades. This rugged terrain east of Mount Rainier showcases nature's raw power—from knife-edge ridges to gentle wetlands, all blanketed in emerald conifer forests that have stood for centuries. The interplay of volcanic forces and glacial artistry has created a geological wonderland where every trail reveals new perspectives on the Earth's creative forces, making Bumping Lake a basecamp for understanding the dynamic story written in stone and forest throughout the Cascade Range.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap spots are available, and the campground layout provides options for accessibility.
Sites SizeStandard sites are available, with some large enough to accommodate RVs as long as 36 feet.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Some users highlight the spaciousness and privacy of many sites, while others note issues with neighbors walking through sites.
Total Campsites65 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for scenic views. Upper loop offers larger, more private sites; lower loop is closer to water activities but may be dusty and less private.
Best CampsitesSites #10, #8, and #9 are highly praised in user reviews for their proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check in at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per campsite are unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground has upper and lower sections with tent and RV sites. Sites are equipped with tables and fire pits.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from May 16 to October 4 (reservable dates). Out of season from October 5 to June 4.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come, first-served sites are available; reviews mention these filling up by Friday during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur $10 fee; cancellations within 1 day forfeit the first night's use fee. Late cancellations and no-shows incur additional penalties.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bumping Lake Campground provides a wide variety of recreational activities throughout the year. From hiking, fishing, and boating in the warmer months to snowshoeing and snowmobiling during the winter, there's something for everyone.
Hiking
The American Ridge Trail offers 26 miles of hiking through forests and meadows, with direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with some users noting good shore access near the boat launch. However, one user mentioned no fish in the lake during July 2022.Swimming
The lake is suitable for swimming, with clean and warm water during the summer. Designated areas near the boat ramp are family-friendly.Biking
Biking is a favored activity, especially for families. The paved roads within the campground are suitable for cycling, and there are nearby dirt roads for more adventurous rides.Boating
A boat ramp is available on-site. Activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular, especially during the morning and evening. Motorized boats are also common.Wildlife viewing
The area supports diverse wildlife, including deer, porcupines, migratory birds, and occasionally endangered species like the Northern Bald Eagle.Beach activities
Users enjoy sunbathing, paddleboarding, and swimming. The lake features sandy areas and "Deadwood Beach," which is a highlight for families.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling around the area.Water Sports
Water skiing and paddleboarding are popular during the summer months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits unless under fire restriction during certain seasons.
- Quiet hours observed; most campers report respectful noise levels.
Hazards
General hazardsPotholes on access roads, presence of bears and cougars, occasional wind storms causing falling trees.
Active alertsSeasonal fire bans and low water levels in late summer. Occasional evacuation due to nearby wildfires.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Limited staffing at the campground; nearest hospital and emergency services are likely in Yakima, WA (~1 hour drive).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 24 to October 4.
Trash and recyclingMultiple dumpsters are available, but some users report trash overflow during busy weekends.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Bumping Lake, with a boat ramp and close access to fishing and kayaking areas.
Common complaintsOverflowing trash bins, inconsistent water spigot functionality, and lack of privacy at some campsites.
HostHosts are described as friendly and efficient, maintaining clean bathrooms and enforcing campground rules.
Campground Map
Bumping River Road, Goose Prairie, WA 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Yakima, Washington, travel 25 miles on Highway 12 to the junction with Highway 410. Travel 29 miles on Highway 410 (Chinook Pass Highway) to milepost 88.4. Take Forest Road 18 (Bumping River Road) for 11.7 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads, but Forest Road 18 is reportedly rocky and contains significant potholes, requiring caution and possibly a spare tire.Nearby places
Yakima, WA (approximately 54 miles, 1 hour)
Naches, WA (45 miles, 50 minutes)
Enumclaw, WA (80 miles, 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies such as groceries and fuel are located approximately 20 miles away. Full services available in Yakima, WA (~54 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
129 reviews
Bumping Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, cleanliness, and variety of activities. However, users report occasional issues like overcrowding, trash overflow, and limited facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 129 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground for its clean and spacious campsites, well-maintained vault toilets, and proximity to the lake. The camp host's helpfulness is also frequently noted.
Based on 129 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include overflowing trash bins, occasional noise from fighter jets, and issues with water access. Some users found the campground overcrowded during peak times.
Based on 129 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring firewood as it may not always be available for purchase on-site." "Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season." "Be prepared for cold weather in early and late seasons."
Based on 129 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the lake's warmth and suitability for swimming. Winter reviews focus on snow-based activities. Spring and fall are quieter but may have limited amenities.
Based on 129 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This place was so nice!!! We planned on staying for 5 days, and by the 4th day decided to spend the rest of our vacation there." (Anita Tibbetts) "The sites were very well kept as well as the...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some highly rated sites include #10 and #8 for their privacy and proximity to the lake. Site #47 is noted for its convenience but lacks privacy.
Based on 129 reviewsAccessibility Features
Handicap spots receive positive mentions. One reviewer noted that there are plenty of good options for accessible camping.
Based on 129 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but users recommend keeping them leashed and cleaning up after them. No specific pet-related amenities are mentioned.
Based on 129 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025