About Bumping Lake Campground
Overview Bumping Lake Campground sits just off the forested shore of Bumping Lake. It is in the Cascade Mountains east of Mount Rainier National Park and about 45 miles northwest of Naches, Washington. Fantastic peaks, high-country lakes and old-growth forests provide visitors with unique and surprising landscapes, making the campground an ideal setting for both individual and family camping excursions.Recreation In addition to being a prime location for hiking, boating, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and mountain biking in summer and early fall, visitors can take advantage of skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the winter months. Bumping Lake is a popular destination for boating, water skiing, fishing and swimming. A boat ramp is located in the lower section of the campground. The American Ridge Trail is a popular among hikers and equestrians, meandering through more than 26 miles of towering forests, mountain meadows and past high elevation lakes from the Bumping River to the Pacific Crest Trail.Facilities This campground has an upper and lower section, offering sites that accommodate both tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided, but no hookups are available.Natural Features Bumping Lake was created naturally by glaciers and is fed by snowmelt. It is surrounded by rugged mountain terrain, wetlands and old-growth conifer forests. The area supports wildlife such as deer, porcupine, native fish and migratory birds. Endangered and threatened species, including the Northern Bald Eagle, the Northern Spotted Owl, gray wolves and grizzly bears also find havens in nearby ecosystems. Contact Info This location has limited staffing. Please call (661) 702-1420 for general information. Nearby Attractions Visitors enjoy making a day trip to nearby Mount Rainer National Park, which offers sublime views of glaciers, subalpine ecology and volcanic landscapes. Hikers may want to trav
How to Get There
From Yakima, 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 campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Bumping Lake Campground
Heading to Bumping Lake Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Bumping Lake Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Bumping Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232356) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Bumping Lake Campground?
From Yakima, 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 campground.
How do I contact Bumping Lake Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-338-7869 or email: jveulman@goexplorus.com.
References & Official Resources
