Middle Fork Campground offers rustic camping within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, 35 miles east of Seattle. Located at 1,100 feet elevation near the base of Mount Garfield, this camping area features sites nestled among mature Douglas fir, western hemlock and cedar trees. Winter snow typically closes access from mid-September through late May, with early summer bringing significant mosquito activity due to the nearby Snoqualmie River.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Several trailheads branch out from Middle Fork Campground, offering routes for all skill levels. "The campground was quiet, not too crowded and so close to many trails. A quick walk to the river was a nice way to finish the day," notes one camper. The Mailbox Peak trail starts just minutes from camp.
Riverside exploration: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park provides access to the Green River with natural swimming areas. "Each site seems to have a trail connecting to the outer trail that runs along the river. Big entertainment for three boys who explored the woods and played on the rocks and in the eddy pools at the public river take-out," writes Julie M.
Winter recreation: Lake Easton State Park Campground maintains year-round access with winter camping options. "Nice for camping in the snow," reports Jennifer M. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails surround the park when snow conditions permit.
What campers like
First-come, first-served availability: Middle Fork Campground rarely requires advance planning. "We loved it here! Non of the sites are reservable, so it's great for last minute trips when everything else has been booked out. Just over an hr from the city," shares Gemma A.
Berry picking opportunities: The forest understory produces seasonal harvests for foragers. "We enjoyed our stay at the middle fork camp ground. We stayed there to be close to the mailbox trail head. There were so many berries around the camp and we could literally sit in camp and pick blue berries," writes Dan P.
Well-maintained facilities: Eightmile Campground near Leavenworth gets high marks for cleanliness. "This Is a fantastic campground kept very clean by wonderful hosts," mentions Steve M. The campground includes vault toilets noted for their excellent upkeep.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Store food properly at all times in designated areas. "There is an active 'problem bear' around this campground. A cooler got raided the morning of August 1. Bear was also sighted near the campground earlier in the week," warns Price C. about Bedal Campground.
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. "The riads ads leading in from I90 were passable but confusing with 'Road Closed' signage when the road wasn't actually closed," explains Jules R. about reaching Middle Fork Campground.
Campground noise levels: Interstate proximity affects some locations. "Noisy, noisy, noisy, and noisy. From the sound of the highway to the insurmountable number of inconsiderate neighbors... forget getting any sleep," cautions Kate I. about Lake Easton State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt options for easier setup: Tolt MacDonald Park offers alternative glamping near Skykomish with heated accommodations. "Spent a night in the yurt. Everything worked," notes Chris A. Yurts include electrical outlets, heating, and beds with mattresses.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "The camp was very clean. Felt very safe about leaving our gear in camp," reports Dan P. Kanaskat-Palmer features individual bathroom facilities with private showers especially appreciated by families with young children.
Water activities for kids: Riverside campgrounds provide natural water features. "River, nice size, clean, glorious," describes Jenny S. about Eightmile Campground. Accessible shallow areas allow supervised play during summer months when water levels drop.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Tall Chief Campground provides partial services for larger rigs. "We love Tall Chief because it is super close to a lot of great spots around the Seattle region... No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it," explains Brodie D.
Dumping station access: Plan waste management accordingly when glamping near Skykomish in an RV. "There's a charge dump station at the ministorage at the turn off," mentions Russ H. about facilities near Tolt MacDonald Park. Most forest service campgrounds lack dump stations completely.
Cell reception variables: Coverage varies significantly within campgrounds. "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it," advises an experienced Tall Chief camper.
