Mount St. Helens is at a considerable distance from major metropolitan areas, approximately midway between Seattle and Portland. The closest cities offering a variety of amenities and accommodations are Chehalis and Centralia to the north and Kelso and Longview to the south. Castle Rock is the closest town to the entrance to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
Camping looking for Mount St. Helens
If you plan to spend more than a day enjoying the views and recreation around the volcano, camping is an excellent option, providing the most convenient access. You’ll find a wide range of camping facilities at Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Seaquest State Park. Reservations are recommended.
- Gifford Pinchot National Forest Camping : There are dozens of campgrounds to choose from within GPNF, offering everything from showers, trailer sites, and horse camps to rustic locations with just a handful of sites. Many campgrounds are within the boundaries of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
- National Forest Cabin Rentals – Staying in a historic cabin or fire lookout can be a fun and unique lodging option. Such lodges generally offer few amenities other than shelter, but provide easy access to recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and berry picking.
- Camping at Seaquest State Park – Campground at Seaquest State Park is conveniently located across the road from the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center in Silver Lake. Campgrounds, trailers, and group sites are available, and amenities include cooking shelters, horseshoe pits, a children’s play area, and comfort stations.
Accommodations near Mount St. Helens
While there are very few luxury accommodations near the entrance to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, there are several comfortable options.
- Red Lion Hotel – Kelso / Longview – If you want to enjoy a visit to Mount St. Helens without giving up the amenities, the Red Lion Hotel in Kelso is the closest luxury hotel. The hotel has elegant and informal restaurants, meeting facilities and a lounge.
- Lewis River Bed & Breakfast – Located on the banks of the Lewis River, this B&B offers comfortable rooms with private baths, home-cooked breakfasts, and access to a variety of recreational activities. The Lewis River Bed & Breakfast is a good choice for those planning to visit the south and east sides of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
- Silver Lake Resort – Just off Interstate 5 and on the shoreline of Silver Lake, this modest resort offers incredible views of Mount St. Helens on clear days. Accommodations include motel rooms, cabins, and RV and RV camping sites.
- Lakeview Vacations – Located near the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center in Silver Lake, Lakeview Vacations offers a cozy cabin for four.
