The Pacific Northwest and camping are about as synonymous as, well, the Pacific Northwest and craft breweries. The stereotype holds true—some of the best craft beer in the world is brewed in this outdoor-minded region. Something about the surrounding old growth forests and fresh mountain air makes for a flavorful, earthy brew that perfectly complements camping and outdoor adventures.
With some of the nation’s most popular natural areas occupying this craft beer paradise, we selected five top PNW breweries and paired them with nearby campgrounds and can’t-miss attractions. So sit back, crack open a cold one and get ready to plan your next Pacific Northwest beer-cation.
Here is your ultimate Pacific Northwest craft brewery camping guide.
1. Brewery: Backslope Brewing
Destination: Columbia Falls, Montana
What to Do: Situated less than 10 minutes away from Glacier National Park’s west entrance, Columbia Falls has all the amenities of a mountain town and a central location fit for outdoor adventures. Enjoy a guided raft trip with Glacier Guides, or hike some of the most iconic family-friendly trails in the country through Glacier National Park. Don’t forget to stop by Backslope Brewing to “rehydrate” and refuel with delicious handcrafted beer and their locally-sourced menu.
Where to Camp: Good Sam’s Columbia Falls RV Park is located only one mile away from Backslope Brewing, home to over 70 spaces, with full-hookup sites and WiFi connectivity. Bring your dog, hiking boots and appetite to enjoy all that West Glacier has to offer.
Also Read: 7 Outdoor Adventure Bachelor Party Destinations
2. Brewery: Ninkasi Brewing Company
Destination: Eugene, Oregon
What to Do: Named Ninkasi after the ancient Sumerian Goddess of Fermentation, this fully-independent craft brewery is known for its top-selling IPA in Oregon. The Eugene community is not only about beer; from impressive waterfalls and swimming holes, to wildflower hikes and fishing opportunities, Eugene offers an outdoor adventure for the entire family.
Where to Camp: Less than 15 minutes away from Ninkasi, Shamrock RV & MHP Village is a prime central location for Eugene and the surrounding natural areas. It’s positioned on the banks of the Williamette River, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, hiking and fishing.
3. Brewery: Backwoods Brewing Company
Destination: Carson, Washington
What to Do: A relatively new brewery in Carson, Backwoods is proud of its local logging town heritage. Their flagship Logyard IPA is a fan favorite, and hikers, mountain bikers and anglers can all be found gathering in the tasting room reminiscing about their outdoor exploits over a pint or two. The Wind River is known for its Chinook salmon and steelhead trout fishing, as well as kayaking and canoeing. If watersports aren’t your thing, explore hiking trails in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Where to Camp: Panther Creek Campground is located in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, 15 minutes away from the brewery, with around 30 non-electric campsites available. In the unlikely event you are unable to find a spot at Panther Creek, Beaver Campground is nestled in the forest just a few miles down the road and also offers ample hiking and fishing opportunities.
4. Brewery: Salmon River Brewery
Destination: McCall, Idaho
What to Do: This award-winning brewery is located on the banks of Payette Lake and offers great beer with a famed food menu and live music calendar. Before you have your fill, get outside and explore this underrated mountain town. Enjoy the wildlife and wildflowers along the extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, fish from the banks of Payette River or cruise the slopes at Little Ski Hill.
Where to Camp: There are two great campgrounds within two miles in either direction of Salmon River Brewery. We recommend Ponderosa State Park campground, on a 1,000-foot peninsula on picturesque Payette Lake. Hot showers and hookups are available at this pet-friendly spot. McCall RV Resort is slightly more inland, and includes an indoor heated pool, sauna and WiFi connectivity.
Also Read: The Top Mountain Biking Destinations in America
5. Brewery: pFriem Family Brewers
Destination: Hood River, Oregon
What to Do: This go-to brewery and restaurant for locals has become a not-so-hidden secret of the Pacific Northwest. The Belgium-style artisanal beers and seasonal menu capture the flavor of the Hood River area—known for its strong sense of community and ample outdoor recreation activities. Located where the Hood River meets the Columbia River, many take advantage of the renowned kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and wildlife viewing in the region.
Where to Camp: Located on the banks of the Columbia River and just two miles away from pFriem, Bridge RV Park & Campground features pull-thru sites with full-hookups for RVs and a dedicated tenting area. Viento State Park is an alternative (but slightly further away), nestled in a lush, forested landscape with river access for fishing, stand-up paddle boarding and windsurfing.
ReserveAmerica reminds 21-and-up readers to always drink responsibly, and to never drink and drive under any circumstances.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!