Best Campgrounds near Darrington, WA

Campgrounds near Darrington, Washington include a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Clear Creek Campground, just ten minutes from Darrington, provides 13 tent and RV sites with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings along the Sauk River. Squire Creek Park & Campground offers year-round camping options with flush toilets and picnic areas, while campgrounds like Bedal and Buck Creek operate seasonally from late spring through early fall. Many developed campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some sites featuring electrical hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations.

The Mountain Loop Highway serves as the primary access route to many campgrounds, with most sites opening from May through September or October due to seasonal weather conditions. Several campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. One camper shared that "firewood is not available on site, but local residents have firewood for sale at the roadside" near Clear Creek Campground. Primitive vault toilets are common at forest service campgrounds, while county and state parks typically offer more developed facilities. Cell service remains limited throughout much of the area, especially at campgrounds farther from town along forest roads. Winter access becomes challenging as snow accumulates at higher elevations, with many forest service roads closing seasonally.

Waterfront camping locations receive consistently positive reviews from visitors exploring the North Cascades region. The Sauk River provides a scenic backdrop for several campgrounds, with one reviewer noting that "the creek and the Sauk river are absolutely beautiful" at Clear Creek Campground. Most developed campgrounds feature well-maintained tent pads and fire rings, though privacy between sites varies considerably. Campers appreciate the relative solitude of smaller forest service campgrounds compared to larger state parks. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with visitors reporting sightings of deer, eagles, and occasionally larger mammals. Sites along rivers tend to mask highway noise with the sound of flowing water, creating a more immersive outdoor experience despite proximity to roads. The densely forested landscape provides ample shade at most campgrounds, with towering evergreens creating a classic Pacific Northwest camping atmosphere.

Best Camping Sites Near Darrington, Washington (337)

    1. Squire Creek Park & Campground

    11 Reviews
    Darrington, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 436-1283

    "This Snohomish County Park is close to Darrington, WA which makes it perfect for exploring the North Cascades and the Mountain Loop Hwy."

    "We had a site away from the road so minimal road noise. Good connectivity on verizon"

    2. Clear Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Darrington, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $32 - $36 / night

    "Clear Creek is only ten minutes or so from Darrington WA. Only 13 campsites with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Vault toilets were also available."

    "It's a beautiful drive. The campground is nestled in some great trees. Only 13 campsites with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings."

    3. Verlot Campground

    16 Reviews
    Granite Falls, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $32 - $72 / night

    "Stopped through here on a trip around the mountain loop. This is in a great location being accessible from the city but near all the great trails in the area."

    "This amazing little campground on mountain loop highway has it all."

    4. Howard Miller Steelhead County Park

    19 Reviews
    Rockport, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 853-8808

    "These camp sites are located so close to the river that it drowns out any nosy neighbors and it also makes for a nice convenient place to go fishing and camping."

    "There’s trash bins located throughout the campground as well as restrooms and shower houses (quarters needed). Dump station is $5. Several free options to pick from based on your setup."

    5. Bedal Campground

    11 Reviews
    Darrington, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $27 - $58 / night

    "The Bedal Campground is off the mountain loop highway in the Mount Baker- Snoqualmie National Forest. Settled in some old Growth forest it provides a good amount of shade to most sites."

    "We stayed at this campground two nights as a base camp for some mountain loop highway hiking."

    6. Buck Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Darrington, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $27 - $54 / night

    "The road in is EXTREMELY bumpy, you have to drive really really slow, at least down the right side of the airstrip."

    "This campground is easy to find but a long drive into the woods on a bumpy gravel road. I made it in a Camery but it was a bumpy ride."

    7. Rasar State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Hamilton, WA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    "Great trails in and near this park we enjoy walking the dogs and riding bikes and watching birds if you like any of these activities this is the place and fairly quiet as well."

    "The water hookups were shut off during the time, but we were able to fill up our water tank near the entrance without any trouble."

    8. Gold Basin Campground

    6 Reviews
    Granite Falls, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $37 - $78 / night

    "This campground is close to the river and has amazing views. The natural qualities of the alpine river are on full display here."

    "Gold Basin Campground is on the Mt Loop highway, in the Mount Baker- Snoqualmie National Forest.  It is stunning. I really love this area!"

    9. Red Bridge Campground

    5 Reviews
    Darrington, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $27 - $58 / night

    "Great access to many Tails along this Rd. 4 Big Mountains is a Must to see , only 1 mile Hike to the Glacier.Next to the Road but very little Traffic. $ 25 a Night with Pass 50 % Off"

    "It's a very beautiful drive. Nestled in some great trees, there are 13 sites with shade, right along the river. The camp host was very nice and sold firewood on site."

    10. Turlo Campground

    7 Reviews
    Granite Falls, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $32 - $36 / night

    "It’s a little close to the road, but most sites are very close to the river so you may not mind. Simple campground with pit toilets and water spigots, plus fire rings, but not much else."

    "A number of them have paths to the river, but if you don’t have one of these sites it can be kind of awkward to get down there. But the river is always beautiful and the campground is always clean."

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Recent Reviews near Darrington, WA

1088 Reviews of 337 Darrington Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Best Spot along PNW

    This was our favorite site during our PNW road trip from Alabama. We found this site tucked amongst the trees; a very large clearing creek side. The turn in was tight so ended up having to back our Ram 3500 (DRW) towing tear drop in due to narrow opening between two large trees. Once on site the setup was easy; level ground. No cell service but the sound of the creek was all the music we needed. There is a small path to the creek but requires a small climb up.

    The morning we were able to watch a fish swim upstream and large buck taking a stroll along the creek.

    We did not see any busted up cars like a previous reviewer but there was a grill that was used as target practice. Overall great site.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

    Bigfoot Lives Here

    If he doesn't, then he's missing out on the most Idyllic campsite ever! There are no fewer than 9 campsites within less than a mile either side of the bridge. The one directly on the south side of the bridge is 4wd access only because of the big rocks protruding into the road bed. But if you go about 3/4 mile up from the bridge, you'll find the most superb spot ever. There is nothing here for TT or large RV's, for small van-lifers and such, it's a pot of gold. There are two absolutely beautific sites at the 3/4mile area. Both sites can access the river for water (it's a small, steep hill). There are no toilets, cell service was spotty, Starlink worked fine.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Cascades RV Resort

    Cascades RV Resort

    We are long term RV campers here at Cascades. It is a lovely RV resort with large concrete pads with astroturf lawn and picnic table. Everyone is friendly. Nightly noise is never excessive. Gracie’s place is an onsite cafe that serves food, alcohol, deserts, coffees, and other drinks. You can get package delivery just no USPS. They do offer monthly discounts. Would highly recommend for anyone in an RV.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Thousand Trails Mount Vernon

    Private wooded site

    I loved the forest here. It was a very wooded site. Groceries were reasonably priced. We took a day trip to the cascades.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful spot for truck camping. Do not recommend for rvs.

    Lovely spot right by the National park. We camped in our truck.

    The road was rough. We have a 27 foot rv I would not bring any trailers down here. Vans were there.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Baker Pull-Off

    Pull-off site

    Cute little off the road site. About 6 cars drove by throughout the night and into the morning, it was Friday so that was expected. There’s 2 little walkways down to your own little private section of the lake. Beautiful.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    Peaceful Camping

    Stopped here in the month of September and there were very few people around the lake. Quiet and beautiful views! We parked our vehicle off the road at the top of the flat and walked down to the lake for sunrises and sets. Definitely set up for a good time during the summer break with rope swings hanging from the branches. Star link works OK here.

  • Nicole L.
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Woodlands at Lake Stickney

    BEAUTIFUL LOCATION

    I myself have never parked my RV at the campsite. However, I've been to the public Access area and have to say that it's very peaceful and has a restroom which is nice. I'm a local. I live inside my RV and it has been a major adjustment but having places like this has been extremely helpful.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Baker Lake Tent camping

    Beautiful tent site

    Didn’t stay here but hiked in it and it’s very spacious. There are 2 fire rings set up with an uppper and lower camping option. The lower is right by a river that spills into the lake on the other side of the road.


Guide to Darrington

Camping near Darrington, Washington, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. Campers love the scenic hikes around the Newhalem Creek Campground, where one reviewer mentioned, "The proximity of the Visitor Center was appreciated due to the recent fires and not knowing what was open and what was not."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Howard Miller Steelhead County Park, are located near rivers, making them great spots for fishing. A visitor noted, "Saw a boat on the river with people fishing."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. One camper at Rasar State Park Campground shared, "Great trails in and near this park... it’s very close to Birdsview brewery."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A review for Goodell Creek Campground highlighted, "The scenery is stunning. The river is a beautiful shade of green because of the glacial 'milk.'"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. A visitor at Howard Miller Steelhead County Park remarked, "The bathrooms were very clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Swift Creek Campground. One reviewer said, "Most sites are reasonably private, water spigots and bathrooms... are not too far of a walk from any site."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Marble Creek Campground, do not have drinking water available. A camper advised, "No water, so pack yours in!"
  • Road Conditions: Accessing some campgrounds may involve rough roads. A visitor at Bedal Campground mentioned, "You’re definitely deep in the forest and at the doorstep to some of western WA's best hiking."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are known in the area, so it's essential to store food properly. A camper at Goodell Creek Campground noted, "There are bear containers, picnic tables, and fire pits."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Rasar State Park Campground. One parent shared, "The playground is an easy walk from all sites and the bathrooms are constantly clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A reviewer at Flowing Lake Park & Campground said, "Campsites are spacious and private."
  • Plan for Mosquitoes: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A camper at Swift Creek Campground mentioned, "There are plenty of mosquitoes but they seem to be kept mostly at bay with standard bug spray."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to reserve a site that fits your RV. A visitor at Flowing Lake Park & Campground noted, "The roads and some spots are pretty tight and windy so 5th wheels be aware."
  • Dump Stations: Some campgrounds may not have dump stations, so plan accordingly. A camper at Rasar State Park Campground mentioned, "The tank dump site was free as well for those with a reservation."
  • Electric Hookups: If you need power, check for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Thousand Trails Grandy Creek. A reviewer said, "Very nice place clean and quiet."

Camping near Darrington, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families, RVers, and nature lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do visitors say about Squire Creek Campground near Darrington?

Squire Creek Park & Campground is praised as a hidden gem in the Darrington area. This Snohomish County Park has been described by campers as an excellent alternative to busier state and federal parks, especially during peak periods like holidays. Visitors appreciate that the campground still had availability even during busy times like the 4th of July weekend. The campground's proximity to Darrington provides convenient access to town amenities while maintaining a natural setting. The park makes a great base camp for exploring the surrounding mountains and offers a more peaceful alternative to some of the more crowded destinations in the region.

What campgrounds are available in and around Darrington, WA?

The Darrington area offers several excellent camping options within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Clear Creek Campground is just 10 minutes from Darrington along the scenic Mountain Loop Road, featuring 13 sites with tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets in a beautiful forested setting along the Sauk River. Swift Creek Campground provides great access to Northern Cascades trails with stunning scenery. Other nearby options include Bedal Campground, Buck Creek Campground, and Gold Basin Campground, all offering drive-in access with basic amenities like toilets and some with water availability.

Are there RV rental options available in Darrington, Washington?

While Darrington itself has limited RV rental services, visitors have options in the surrounding region. Chom's RV Campground provides RV accommodations near the area. For those seeking alternatives, consider cabin rentals like Mt. Baker Lodging, which offers fully-equipped accommodations with amenities like fireplaces, WiFi, and even EV chargers. Most RV rentals will need to be arranged from larger nearby cities and driven to Darrington. Several campgrounds in the area accommodate RVs, including Howard Miller Steelhead County Park which is big-rig friendly.