Map showing campground location near Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

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Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites — Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park manages Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites as part of the Wonderland Trail system, requiring backpacking permits for overnight stays. The group site accommodates three medium-sized tents and provides direct lake access with logs for cooking setup. An outhouse serves the camping area.

Hikers report minimal spacing between individual sites, which can lead to noise from neighboring groups. The campground connects to Mowich Lake Campground via a relatively straightforward trail. Water access ranks among the better options along the 93-mile Wonderland Trail route. Reserve permits well in advance, as walk-up availability remains limited during peak hiking season.

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Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites — Mount Rainier National Park is located in Washington

Coordinates

46.8836304 N
121.89817718 W

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Drive Time

2 hrs 6 min from Olympia, WA
2 hrs 20 min from Bremerton, WA
2 hrs 24 min from Seattle, WA
3 hrs 15 min from Yakima, WA

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1 Review

Katie K.

Ranger

Reviewed Sep. 21, 2019

Ranger Review: Mountain House Meals at Golden Lakes Campground

Campground Review:

My partner and I were hiking the Wonderland Trail (93+ miles around the base of Mount Rainier) and this was our final site on our long trek. Since we got a walk-up permit, we didn't have much choice in what campsites we got, but really felt lucky to land the group site at Golden Lakes. It was sizeable, but not gigantic- could fit three medium sized tents comfortably. It overlooked the lake and had the best water access of the entire campground. There were logs to set things on as you cooked, a really nice outhouse, and lots of trees to give you some privacy from the other campsites. Unfortunately, there were some louder groups staying next to us, and there isn't much spacing between sites so it can get pretty noisy. Overall, we agreed it was one of our favorite sites on the trail (and we stayed at 8!). Pretty simple hike from Mowich Campground, too!

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Product Review:

As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I got an opportunity to try out MH Mac and Cheese! We saved this meal for last because we were SO. EXCITED. We literally couldn't stop talking about how excited we were to try it out- calorie rich, lightweight, and mac and cheese in the backcountry?! What's not to be excited about. Although it didn't FULLY live up to our expectations (I mean, we really talked it up in our mind), it was delicious and the perfect end to a long day of hiking- we definitely didn't go to bed hungry. The 3 servings is great after a 15+ mile day and was one of the few dinners that didn't leave us wanting. It was a little soupier than I expected, but tasted like homemade mac. Super easy to make, takes MUCH shorter time to cook than Backpackers Pantry meals, and is a perfect addition to any backpacking/camping trip. Will purchase again, just wish MH made more vegetarian options….

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Golden Lakes Campground located in Mt. Rainier?

Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites are located along the western side of Mount Rainier National Park. The campsites are positioned on the Wonderland Trail, which circumnavigates the base of Mount Rainier (93+ miles total). Hikers typically access these sites after a significant trek along the trail, making it a remote backcountry destination rather than a drive-up campground. The location offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness area within the national park.

What facilities are available at Golden Lakes Campground?

Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites offer primitive facilities typical of backcountry camping in Mount Rainier National Park. The site includes a group camping area, toilet facilities, and a designated water source nearby. There are no showers, electricity, or other amenities. The campground provides flat areas suitable for tents. As a backcountry site, campers should be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all trash.

How do I reserve a site at Golden Lakes Campground?

Golden Lakes Backcountry Campsites require a backcountry permit from Mount Rainier National Park. Reservations can be made through the park's wilderness permit system, with a portion of permits available for advance reservation and others kept for walk-up visitors. For those hiking the Wonderland Trail, the campsite may be included as part of a larger itinerary permit. Walk-up permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at wilderness information centers in the park. It's recommended to secure permits well in advance, especially during peak summer season.

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