
What we’re about
If you've recently embarked on your van life journey or are considering joining the ever-growing community of nomadic adventurers, you've arrived at the perfect destination. Here in the PNW, van life isn't just a way of travel, but a vibrant culture that celebrates exploration, creativity, and connection.
This region is renowned for its eclectic festivals and gatherings that embody the unique spirit of the Pacific Northwest. From music festivals nestled in scenic valleys to off-grid gatherings celebrating sustainability and self-expression, the PNW hosts a myriad of cool events that are sure to captivate your imagination and create lasting memories.
Join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who embrace the van life ethos, and you'll discover a wealth of opportunities to connect with fellow nomads, share stories around campfires, and forge friendships that span the globe. Whether you're seeking advice on the best spots to park your van, looking for a travel buddy to explore the hidden gems of the region, or simply craving the company of kindred spirits, the PNW van life community will welcome you with open arms.
Upcoming events (4)
See all- Seattle Area Van/Camping: Squire Creek Campground (Arlington, WA) July 11-13Squire Creek Campground, Arlington, WA
Hello Van/Camping Enthusiasts!
We are continuing to scour the interwebs for camping sites that aren't taken during the busy PNW season. We've found another one, a Snohomish County campground that's got good reviews. Let's camp at Squire Creek Campground July 11-13! Vans are not required, we've had folks in cars and tents are welcome. You don't have to attend the whole time, but note that the campground requires a 2-night reservation. A few first come, first served sites are available.
Summary:
Squire Creek Campground in Arlington, Washington is a peaceful, forested spot ideal for van campers looking for a quiet base near the North Cascades. Nestled along Squire Creek and surrounded by towering old-growth trees, it offers basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets—no hookups, but van campers will find flat spots for easy parking.
Nearby hikes include the Squire Creek Trail, a rugged route offering views of Whitehorse Mountain, and Boulder River Trail, just a short drive away, known for lush greenery and waterfalls. The campground is also a gateway to the Mountain Loop Highway, which leads to several excellent trails such as Heather Lake and Mt. Pilchuck. Other activities include creekside lounging, wildlife watching, and exploring the small-town charm of Arlington just 20 minutes away. Perfect for those seeking a rustic, nature-immersed camping experience with access to some of Western Washington’s best hiking.Details:
- Fees: $74 for two nights, booking one night is not allowed
- Electricity: no hookups
- Bathrooms: one bathroom near entrance (see map in photos), no showers
- Pets: Allowed (please leash/control at ALL times)
- Hiking: Alltrails shows a few hikes nearby, see summary
- Activities: we'll have campfires if there isn't a fire ban, hiking, birdwatching, van show and tells, some say you can swim in the creek
- Reviewers say: some highway and other camper noise (no onsite staff), bring earplugs if desired
I will be in site 11 (see campground map in photos), the campground is pretty small so it shouldn't matter where you reserve. RESERVE SOON at the link below as I found that the link on the main website doesn't work. They do have a refund policy if you request 14 days before the reservation date.
Squire Creek Campsite Reservations (choose campground and dates on the left)
- Seattle Area Van/Camping: Blue Fox Drive In Theater (Oak Harbor, WA) July 26-27Blue Fox Drive-In Theatre, Oak Harbor, WA
Hello Van/Camping Enthusiasts!
The Blue Fox Drive-In Theater in Oak Harbor allows overnight camping in vans/RVs and tents, let's spend Saturday night July 26th there! You'll need to get there at 4:00 p.m. so they can direct us to the correct area to park. There will be two movies and we don't know what they'll be yet, but Superman is coming out early July and we may see that. I'll post the movies they will be playing as soon as I know. They provide radios to listen to the movie and you can also listen on your van/car radio.They charge $50 for the night per vehicle and $6.50 for each additional person and give each vehicle $30 snack bar credit. It may not be the healthiest food, but you should be able to fill up for the night. See the website link below, and note that they discourage bringing in outside food (I'm thinking they don't want you to BBQ, etc.). Of course, we won't be able to have a campfire, so maybe we can go for brunch on Sunday?
Details:
- Fees: $50 per vehicle (plus $6.50 "movie fee" for additional people), includes $30 voucher for food (movie food, some vegetarian and gluten free options available)
- Electricity: None
- Bathrooms/shower: Bathroom
- Pets: Allowed (please leash/control at ALL times)
- Activities: Of course two movies and they have an arcade, go karts, and a tavern. We'll have a camp chair circle, van show and tells, and since we won't be able to build a fire, perhaps we can go to brunch together on Sunday?
- Getting there: It's on Whidbey Island, you may need to take a ferry, note that you should get there by 4 to park in the right place.
Click here for more details and here is the snack bar menu. No need to register ahead of time, but again please be there by 4.
- Seattle Area Van/Camping: Fort Ebey State Park (Coupeville, WA) Sept 12-14Fort Ebey State Park, Coupeville, WA
Hello Van/Camping Enthusiasts!
Let's van/camp at Fort Ebey State Park September 12-14, right now they only have about 6 non-utility reservable sites available, get your reservation SOON! Another meetup, We Love Camping - Seattle Area, will also be there and we plan to, um, meet up with them 🤣. Mary will be at site 32 and will send attendees her phone number so we can also, um, meet up (there's a trend here).
This park is very popular, there are many activities at the campground and nearby. As always, vans are optional, we've had folks in cars and tents, all are welcome, but you may have to listen to our "van talk"! Paragliding is of course also optional, I couldn't get the AI image generator to stop putting so many paragliders in.
Summary:
Fort Ebey State Park on Whidbey Island offers a scenic mix of coastal beauty, history, and outdoor recreation. The campground includes several amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas. Popular activities include hiking over 25 miles of forested and bluff-side trails, including the Bluff Trail with sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet and the Olympics. Lake Pondilla, nestled within the park, is ideal for fishing, wildlife watching, and easy walks. The beach is great for tide pooling and, in season, seaweed harvesting with a license. Fort Ebey’s WWII-era bunkers and gun emplacements offer a historic and adventurous element—bring a flashlight for exploring. The park also attracts surfers thanks to its windy conditions and exposed shoreline. Nearby attractions include Ebey’s Landing for prairie hikes and birdwatching, Fort Casey’s lighthouse and more bunkers, the historic town of Coupeville for dining and shopping, and Deception Pass State Park, known for its dramatic bridges and old-growth trails. Fort Ebey is a peaceful yet adventurous spot, ideal for campers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.Details:
- Fees: $82 for two nights, booking one night is allowed
- Electricity: no hookups at sites left
- Bathrooms/shower: Yes, both, near the center of the campground
- Pets: Allowed (please leash/control at ALL times)
- Activities: we'll have nightly campfires/BYO food and firewood if there isn't a fire ban, and van show and tells. Also hiking, beach activities, paddleboarding, paragliding, kite flying and other activities are available. See the other meetup to learn about the biking trip they're planning.
- Getting there: It's on Whidbey Island, you may need to take a ferry, note they'll be crowded, make reservations/get there early as needed.
- Caveats: There may be noise from the nearby naval station, bring ear plugs and/or check the flight schedule before the event (listed on the Ft. Ebey campground website)
I will be in site 32, here's the link to make reservations:
Fort Ebey State Park Van Camping Reservations Sept 12-14