With everyone worried about the economy and searching for affordable vacations don’t forget about camping as an amazing TRAVEL THERAPY option. Here’s a look at one of the best places in the country to pitch your tent where it can cost you just $12 a night!

Camping in Washington State has never been more popular and if you don’t mind roughing it a bit then head straight to the great Northwest where you’ll find some of the best camping in the country.

 The Cascade Mountains are where you want to be and there are literally hundreds of places to camp where you can relax in a rustic cabin or go all out and pitch a tent.

Washington has more than 120 state parks and the Parks Department says the average cost for a campsite for your camper or tent runs between $12-$30 dollars a night.

To help narrow down your choices the Washington State Tourism site is packed with information about all the different campgrounds and includes photographs to give you a feel for the area. Another great resource to try is the Parks Department.

Insider tip: Be sure to check out the reservation policy. Some of the popular campgrounds fill up fast but the good news is there are so many top campgrounds in Washington State if you try one and it’s full you can just head down the road to the next one!  

Other great camping destinations out west include Utah, Idaho, Oregon, California and Arizona. You’ll want to head south as the weather gets colder.  

Have fun!