Camping near Ape Canyon

The Ape Canyon/Smith Creek Loop is a great trail that shouldn't be missed. You can camp at some primative campsites at the Marblemont Snowpark or along the road to the snowpark. There are also some campgrounds along Yale Lake closer to Cougar, WA.

There are primative campsites that are good for car-camping just know that there won't be any water/services around.

Here's some more info:
http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/recreation/campgrounds/definitions.shtml#dispersed

While you're in the area, you should probably ride the mossy-green-goodness of the Lewis River trail.

Ryan

Yes, you can camp at the Marble Mountain Snow Park.  No water though, so bring plenty of water.  There are spots along the north side (uphill) of the parking lot where you can easily pitch a tent without any problem.  There are composting toilets at the parking lot, and you can eat inside the snow shelter, but not sleep inside.  Be aware that elk hunting season is fast approaching.  You might google elk, and deer, hunting seasons in Washington state and see when they open.  Wear bright clothing and I'd even recommend a bell on the handle bar which you should ring now and then as a precautionary measure - espically when riding in forests, and espically if you ride the Smith Creek portion of the Ape Canyon/Smith Creek loop trail system.  If you do the Ape Canyon trail as an out/back, then you have only about 4 miles of trail thru forest. 

Siouxon Creek is another trail in the area that will definitely put a smile on your face!