Best Tent Camping near Skykomish, WA
The Skykomish region of Washington offers several established tent campgrounds in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. San Juan Campground provides tent sites along the North Fork of the Skykomish river with relatively quiet and scenic camping options. Barclay Lake offers hike-in tent camping with mountain views after a moderate trail approach. Several backcountry options exist farther into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, including Lake Janus and Hyas Lake, which require wilderness permits.
Tent campsites at these locations typically feature rustic amenities with minimal development. Most have vault toilets but no running water, making it essential to bring filtration systems for water collected from nearby lakes or streams. Many campsites require permits, particularly in wilderness areas. San Juan Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, though reviews indicate some sites may have reservation signs. Fire regulations vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry summer months. The camping season generally runs May through September, with snow often blocking access to higher-elevation sites until early summer.
Tent campers at San Juan Campground experience considerable privacy with one visitor noting, "Car passed by once every few hours. Very private and quiet." Sites near Barclay Lake provide rewarding views after a relatively short hike, making them accessible for weekend trips from Seattle. The primitive nature of these campgrounds suits those seeking a more authentic outdoor experience without the noise of RV generators. Higher elevation options like Lake Janus remain largely unused despite being located along the Pacific Crest Trail. Reviews indicate that mosquitoes can be problematic at many sites, particularly at alpine lakes in July, so bringing appropriate repellent is advisable. A visitor to Hyas Lake commented, "We saw bear and cougar prints on our way. Large camp area big enough for a group of people."
