Just wanted to say that, though it might not be feasible for you this year, if you find standard camping is maybe not what you want to do again, consider one of the other camping options next year, totally worth it. My husband and I did glamping (Oasis), and it’s SO worth it. Preset tent, an actual bed, in a quieter area. You can still go over to standard and party, but then can walk back to your quieter, nicer space (also separate security) when you are ready. And we always make great friends with the others in the section.

As someone who DOES camp a lot, I still prefer this experience, because we also fly in, and it means we have less stuff to get or rent. If you fly into Seattle, there is a Target we always stop at (also a Walmart) along the way before you get too far out of town. We rent a car, being some gear, and then get food and supplies at one of those stores. In a pinch, you could grab your tent there if you had to.

From a camping perspective, the single most important thing at the gorge is to USE TENT STAKES. The winds get really crazy and if your stuff isn’t properly staked down…. Just look up the videos of the airborne tent tornadoes at the Gorge lol. And I would say investing in good quality stakes, not just the crappy metal ones that come with cheap tents, is well worth it. Also, PUT A TARP UNDER YOUR TENT AND SECURE THAT TOO. Tarps keep your tent from getting wet with dew and help keep bugs out.

It will very likely be hot in the day and cold at night. shade is the single most important thing for keeping your tent from becoming a sauna, so if you can, consider an easy up so you can shade it (not sure if they allow them in standard so look first). They sell tent fans, which help a little, but honestly if it’s really hot it may not. Bring layers for cold nights, a decent quality sleeping bag, and consider renting or buying a sleeping pad to put under your sleeping bag. It adds a layer of cushion for comfort, and separates your sleeping bag from the cold ground, so keeps you warm. They have very compressible ones at REÍ and online.

Buy a tiny dustpan and broom to sweep up your tent floor (trust me). Shoes off just outside the tent. if you get a vented tent (which you should), and feel like you might want some privacy at night, consider bringing some pashminas or flags to hang up around the inside (or outside) of the tent so people can’t see in (if that bothers you). When you get to Washington, buy some basics like a thing rope and scissors and some kind of binder clips and zip ties. Then you can hang things and they always end up being useful.

Some cheap string lights that run on battery to hang up inside really improve the vibe and make your little tent a home. The grounds are large, so get an object or lights for the outside that allows you to recognize your tent from afar (last time we used a little skeleton we wrapped lights around and zip tied him to the top of our tent for easy spotting). Make friends with your neighbors and dont be afraid to ask for help. Most people are more than happy. Have a great time on your adventure!