Glamping near Maple Falls, Washington offers rustic luxury accommodations in the North Cascades region at 2,300 feet elevation. The area typically experiences warm summer days with temperatures around 75°F and cool evenings in the 50s. Camping options range from primitive tent sites to luxury yurts with heating and electricity, with most locations providing gravel or wooden tent pads to keep campers dry during occasional summer showers.
What to do
Swimming and beach activities: Baker Lake has designated swimming areas with roped-off sections suitable for children. "There's a roped off shallow swim area that was great for the kids and the dog," notes one visitor to Horseshoe Cove Campground, who also appreciated the "large beach for swimming" with lake access via trails from campsites.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes near Maple Falls are known for sockeye salmon fishing during summer months. A camper at Horseshoe Cove Campground mentions, "Sockeye Salmon are actually native to Baker Lake and Baker River since it's a tributary to the Skagit river. This is a prime spot for fishing in the Northwest."
Hiking access: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail networks. At Swift Creek Campground, "Across the main road from the campground is a 3+ mile trail to popular hot springs," according to a recent visitor, making it convenient for day hikes without moving your vehicle.
What campers like
Lake views and water access: Sites with water proximity are particularly valued. At Panorama Point Campground, "Nearly all the sites have their own beach. Lots of tree cover and perfect views from every site," mentions one camper who visited for canoeing. Another notes that "site 6 double site (best group site)" has "our own access to the water and the fire pit is located with an excellent view of the mountains."
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention well-maintained amenities. At Lynden-Bellingham KOA, "The grounds are well kept and the bathrooms are clean," states one review. Another camper notes it's "a very clean campground" with staff who "take a lot of pride in keeping the facility clean."
Privacy between sites: Natural spacing between camping spots receives positive comments. "The campground has 39 sites but no hookups. It has a swimming beach and boat ramp, as well as flush toilets," reports a visitor to Horseshoe Cove Campground, noting that site separation allows for a more private experience.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "This is not a big campground at all so make sure you reserve in advance," advises a Panorama Point Campground visitor. Sites with premium features like lake views are especially in demand.
Mosquito presence: Bug protection is essential during summer months. At Swift Creek Campground, visitors report that "mosquitoes will eat you alive" but also note that "they seem to be kept mostly at bay with standard bug spray and candles."
Water quality varies: At some locations, tap water may have mineral content. At Thousand Trails Grandy Creek, the water is described as "serviceable" by one camper, while another at Panorama Point recommends "bringing your own drinking water" due to minerally taste at nearby water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized facilities for children. "Great amenities including swimming pool, mini golf, arcade games, and paddle boats," mentions a Lynden-Bellingham KOA visitor, adding that "kids can ride their bikes and fish and parents don't have to worry."
Safety considerations: Gated campgrounds provide additional security. At Thousand Trails Grandy Creek, one parent notes, "Because it's off the road and has a security gate, I have no problem letting my kid be a kid," highlighting the importance of controlled access for family camping.
Tent pad selection: For family-sized tents, site selection matters. "Site 30 had a nice flat tent pad but was overall smaller. Site 28 took a little more effort to set up our family's tent on level ground, but was overall more spacious," explains a visitor to Birch Bay State Park Campground, providing practical insight for tent placement.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should verify length accommodations before booking. "Depending on where they put you, the spots are pretty close if you're next to someone with a tip out," warns a camper at Lynden-Bellingham KOA, though they note it remains "a safe" location with "nice" staff.
Hookup availability: Water and electrical connections vary by location. At Thousand Trails Grandy Creek, a visitor notes "Limited full hookups if you're 1000 trails," suggesting travelers confirm utility access prior to arrival, particularly during busy periods when premium sites may be allocated first.
Level parking surfaces: Some campgrounds offer more even terrain for larger vehicles. The Cedars RV Resort provides "plenty of pull thru spots. Full hook ups," according to a reviewer who appreciates the "hedges between spots so you're not eating lunch at the table, staring at your neighbors sewer hose and power box."
