Startup, Washington camping areas see significant temperature fluctuations during peak season, with daytime highs reaching 80°F and nighttime lows dipping into the 40s from May through September. The Skykomish Valley experiences different rainfall patterns than nearby regions, with mountainside campgrounds receiving up to 10 inches more precipitation annually than valley-floor sites. Most camping sites near Startup, Washington close between late October and early May due to heavy snowfall and flood risks.
What to do
River activities at Verlot Campground: Located near the South Fork Stillaguamish River, this campground offers excellent spots for swimming and fishing. The campground provides a sandy beach area at its edge for water access. "We had a spot right by the South Fork Stillaguamish River. We fell sleep and woke up to river sounds and were able to walk down to it straight from our site," notes one camper at Verlot Campground.
Rock climbing near Eagles Reach: Eagles Reach provides a convenient base camp for climbers heading to nearby crags. With 5 acres of flat land for tent camping and water hookups available, it serves as a practical starting point for climbing trips. "Located near the Skykomish River, this is a great place to relax after a long day of exploring," mentions a reviewer.
Hiking trails from Middle Fork Campground: This campground serves as an access point for numerous trails, including the popular Mailbox Peak Trail. The campground's location offers quick access to multiple difficulty levels of hiking. "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," reports a camper at Middle Fork Campground.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers specifically request waterfront locations at campgrounds throughout the region. At Gold Basin Campground, riverside sites remain the most popular. "The river is gorgeous, so get a site along the river obviously! Wildlife viewing abound," recommends one visitor to Gold Basin Campground.
Alternative accommodations: Beyond traditional tent and RV sites, several Startup-area campgrounds offer cabins, yurts, and glamping options. Tolt MacDonald Park features unique shipping container conversions. "Spent a night in the yurt. Everything worked," reports a camper, while another notes, "They offer the typical primitive campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as yurts and shipping container conversions for those who want more of a 'GLAMping' outdoor experience."
Water recreation: The multiple rivers and lakes around Startup offer swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. Flowing Lake provides a popular swimming area for families. "Playground is awesome for little kids. Amazing play structure," says a camper at Flowing Lake Park & Campground.
What you should know
Restroom availability varies: Facility access differs significantly between campgrounds, with some offering full shower facilities while others provide only pit toilets. "The toilets were clean but dark, needed headlamps even if it was daylight and cloudy," notes a Gold Basin camper. At other locations, facility hours may be restricted.
Weather preparation required: Despite summer camping popularity, weather can change rapidly, requiring preparation for rain even during peak season. "We did get a bit of rain and had to put tarps up. The trees close to camp made it very easy to do so," shares a visitor to Middle Fork.
Site differences at same campground: Many campgrounds have significant variations between sites. At Tolt MacDonald Park, one visitor explains: "If you venture across the Shakey bridge there are hiking trails, access to the water, and plenty of trees to hang your hammock in. There are also additional more remote camping spots on the other side of the bridge."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds near Startup offer dedicated play areas for children. Flowing Lake Park features an extensive playground structure that younger campers particularly enjoy. "The playground is awesome for little kids. Amazing play structure," notes a visitor.
Field sports areas: Gold Basin Campground includes a large open field perfect for group activities. "There is a huge grass field with plenty of space to get a baseball or soft ball game going, maybe a soccer game," explains a camper at Gold Basin.
Swimming safety considerations: River swimming spots require careful assessment due to variable currents and cold water temperatures. At Cascades RV Resort, campers appreciate the nearby swimming access with more controlled environments. "A new and clean RV resort about 1 hour from Seattle," says one visitor, noting its proximity to family-friendly recreation areas.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV services vary significantly between campgrounds, with some offering full hookups while others provide only basic services. "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet," notes a camper at Tolt MacDonald Park.
Road conditions: Access roads to more remote camping areas may present challenges for larger rigs. At Thousand Trails Thunderbird, one camper advises: "Riverside no sewer hookups but have dump station by where you check in. Perfect to check in dump if you stay on river side."
Pad surfaces: RV campsites feature different parking surfaces throughout the area. "This campground is set up as expected for a county park campground. Pretty much all the lots are hard pack gravel with no tent pads," reports a visitor to Flowing Lake Park & Campground, while Cascades RV Resort offers "large concrete pads with astroturf lawn and picnic table."
