Concrete, Washington sits at the gateway to the Cascade Mountains, with elevations ranging from 270 feet in town to several thousand feet in surrounding areas. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with July and August bringing daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s°F. Most campgrounds near Concrete require advance planning during peak summer weekends when visitation reaches capacity.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Multiple trails connect directly to campsites at Swift Creek Campground, providing immediate access to forest exploration. "Great views along the lake of forests and mountains, small beaches to explore, lots of small local trails and long challenging trails. The campground is simple. All sites are a short walk from the water's edge," notes Justin S.
Fishing opportunities: Baker Lake fishing is popular from May through September, with sockeye salmon runs in summer months. "You might catch a sockeye salmon. The facilities are very basic and it fills up fast in the summer," explains Ryan L. from Swift Creek Campground.
Water activities: Kayaking, swimming and boating options exist throughout the area with several designated swimming areas. From Horseshoe Cove Campground, "The beach has a roped of shallow swim area that was great for the kids and the dog. Lots of trees for the hammock," reports Caitlin.
Mountain views: Drive the 30-mile Mountain Loop Highway for access to multiple hiking trailheads and viewpoints. "Campground provides plenty of sites so you are not on top of each other. Great activities and some of the best scenery to hike, picture taking or just relax," notes Clinton M. about the Thousand Trails experience.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with natural separation. At Marble Creek Campground, "Campsites are super spacious and spread out, so it felt very private. No water, so pack yours in! There was access to the Cascade River from the campground, and we had a great time hanging out at the beach," shares Olivia.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise across the region. "The bathrooms (vault toilets) are well maintained and clean, BUT BE AWARE THERE IS NO WATER HERE. Repeat, there is no water spouts here, so you'll have to bring all you need," advises Maria S. about Clear Creek Campground.
Waterfront access: Many sites provide direct water access for recreation. "We stayed in site 46, and loved it because it is very close to the beach. 47 and 44 are also very nice and close to the beach," recommends Annie B. about her stay at Swift Creek.
Security features: Some campgrounds offer added security measures. At Deception Pass State Park, "Want to feel safe and secure? I reserved space 97 at deception state park for just myself and was just amazed of the feeling safe when I arrived. Set way back from the road the campsite was surrounded by wilderness with a cute trail to the bathroom," shares Aletta M.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends, requiring advance planning. "We arrived in Mid August and got one of the last sites. If you are going in the summer, probably better reserve a site!" warns Brian N. about Swift Creek.
Water availability: Several campgrounds lack potable water sources. At Clear Creek Campground, "There are 2 vault toilets (one by the host area at Site 3 and one by campsite 10). There is no plumbed water on site but there are a couple of vault toilets and dumpsters available," notes Kimmy G.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer. "Be prepared for rain," advises Leonard H. about Deception Pass State Park, which maintains year-round accessibility.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region, with most forest campgrounds offering limited service. Paul B. notes about Grandy Creek, "ATT cell service is solid. I was able to use my phone as a hot spot and work a bit, too. BONUS!!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds feature recreational options designed specifically for children. "This weekend there is a lollipop toss, ice cream social, candy bar bingo, and an outdoor movie. The jumping pillow has been repaired and is (new?) better than ever! Great place to bring the kids," shares Kathy A. about Grandy Creek.
Swimming areas: Look for designated swim zones with shallow water access. At Panorama Point Campground, "Less than three hours from Seattle, sweeping mountain and lake views, bathrooms, parking, and clean campsites?! Honestly a car camping dream," writes Henry H.
Glamping options near Concrete: Family-friendly glamping in Concrete, Washington provides comfort without roughing it. "The campsite is great for kids because of the amenities like the pool and other games. Good for people now into glamping," explains Stephanie P.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "Deer stroll through camp. Clean bathrooms. Large beach for swimming. Great camping in the woods," Jennifer M. notes about Horseshoe Cove Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are limited to select campgrounds. "The RV pads are double wide concrete pads about 50 feet long with full hook-ups. All sites include a fire pit, picnic table, and grill with ash bucket and grill cleaning brush," explains Christina F. about Jim Creek Naval Recreation Area.
Site size considerations: Many forest campgrounds have size restrictions for larger rigs. "The campground reservation site did not have a good map of the campground. The reservation site said site 46 could only accommodate a vehicle up to 15 feet in length, but there was plenty of room," shares Annie B. from her Swift Creek experience.
Dump station access: Plan your waste management needs in advance as not all campgrounds offer dumping facilities. "There is a gate and you must show id to get in. Because of this and the base police roll through once or twice a day, I felt very safe compared to a state park or even a private campground," notes Christina F. about the military recreation area near Arlington.
Luxury glamping options: For those seeking higher-end glamping in Concrete, Washington without towing an RV, various cabin and yurt accommodations exist. "We've now stayed at this campground twice. It's a bit unique as half the sites are KOA and half are Thousand Trails, but both sections are serene, well maintained, and peaceful," explains Paul B.
