North Cascades National Park is just 20 miles east of Concrete, Washington, making this rural town a strategic base for exploring nearby camping destinations. The Skagit River flows through this region at elevations ranging from 200 to 6,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments from riverside sites to forest settings. Seasonal temperature variations are significant, with summer highs typically reaching 75-85°F while winter brings frequent precipitation and temperatures in the 30-40°F range.
What to do
Fishing along Skagit River: Howard Miller Steelhead County Park in Rockport offers prime river access for anglers. "The tent sites are right on the waterfront behind a row of foliage. The Skagit is a fishable river and spectacular when the salmon pinks run every other year. You can hear them jumping and splashing from your camp site," reports one visitor.
Hiking forest trails: Rasar State Park features multiple trail networks suitable for all abilities. "Trails everywhere with interpretive signs, gorgeous river banks, wide open fields, berry picking... If there were clear views of Mt. Baker, this might be five stars. That shy beast of a mountain is a few miles down the highway," notes a camper who appreciated the variety.
Kayaking on Baker Lake: Baker Lake offers multiple access points for water activities. The Swift Creek Campground provides convenient lake access where "most sites are a short level walk to the beach on a really beautiful lake. Across the main road from the campground is a 3+ mile trail to popular hot springs," according to a recent visitor who rated their experience highly.
What campers like
Campground privacy: Bayview Campground receives praise for its secluded sites. "All the sites seem to be very private. Lots of good swimming spots, it was a little too cold for us. This was the first time I've been camping in years and if you're looking for a beginner spot (like I was) this one's great!" reports a first-time camper.
Wildlife sightings: Natural encounters enhance the camping experience at many Concrete-area campgrounds. At Howard Miller Steelhead County Park, campers reported "two bald eagles were eating dinner on the shore of the Skagit River across from us," adding an unexpected wildlife viewing opportunity to their stay.
Mount Baker views: Several campgrounds offer scenic mountain vistas. "Campground provides plenty of sites so you are not on top of each other. Great activities and some of the best scenery to hike, picture taking or just relax," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails Grandy Creek, highlighting the appeal of the mountain backdrop.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds near Concrete operate on limited schedules. Swift Creek Campground is typically accessible only during summer and early fall months. "We spent one night here mid week. It is a solid camp ground, quiet and very clean," notes a camper who visited during the peak season.
Bear safety precautions: Wildlife management is necessary when camping in this region. At Maple Grove Campsites, "there are bear boxes located at almost every site to store food and scented items. Each site has a picnic table, fire pit and grill," explains a camper who appreciated these safety features.
Water access conditions: Baker Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting dock and boat launch usability. "The swimming area is great for kids and adults, lots of places in the shade on the hill next to it with or without picnic tables, a few bathrooms nearby and water spigots," reports a visitor at Swift Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
ADA-accessible options: Rasar State Park offers specialized facilities for all mobility levels. "Great ADA camping. Trails are smooth enough for an electric wheelchair and the path to the river is paved. Not many spots so book early," advises a camper who appreciated these accommodations.
Kid-friendly amenities: Structured activities keep children engaged during camping trips. "This weekend there is a lollipop toss, ice cream social, candy bar bingo, and an outdoor movie. The jumping pillow has been repaired and is (new?) better than ever! Great place to bring the kids," shares a parent about their experience at Thousand Trails Grandy Creek.
Easy hiking options: Family-appropriate trails provide outdoor experiences without overwhelming younger campers. "Three mamas and our young boys enjoyed a weekend camping at Rasar State Park. Trails abound through open fields and dense woods down to the gorgeous Skagit River on a series of connecting trails. There's also a volleyball court and playground," reports a parent who found the setting ideal for children.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Thousand Trails Grandy Creek offers comprehensive RV facilities. "Very limited full hookups if you're 1000 trails," notes one RVer, suggesting making reservations well in advance to secure preferred sites with complete utilities.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional setup effort for larger vehicles. At Rasar State Park, "the rv spaces are a little challenging to level in some back in sights," according to an experienced RVer who otherwise enjoyed the park's amenities and natural features.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "ATT cell service is solid. I was able to use my phone as a hot spot and work a bit, too," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Grandy Creek, making this location viable for those needing to maintain some connection while camping.
