Baker Lake and the Skagit River provide the primary water features for campers near Concrete, Washington, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet throughout the camping area. The Concrete region sits in a transitional climate zone between the wet western slopes and the drier eastern slopes of the Cascades, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during day and 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Waterfront access: At Howard Miller Steelhead County Park, tent sites line the riverbank with convenient fishing access. "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," notes Kayko S.
Hike to hot springs: From Bayview Campground, access a 3+ mile trail leading to popular hot springs. "There's a trail system that connects with Horseshoe Cove Campground," explains Meghan B., who stayed there before Labor Day weekend. This connection creates numerous hiking options for campers looking to explore beyond their campsite.
Wildlife observation: At Rasar State Park, trails through open fields provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "Love the open fields and walking trails with possibility of seeing elk," shares Deborah H. The diverse habitat transitions from forested areas to open meadows and riverfront, creating multiple ecosystems to explore.
What campers like
Quiet campsites: Many campers appreciate the serenity at Swift Creek Campground. "My son and I spent one night here mid week. It is a solid camp ground, quiet and very clean," reports Lucas. "Most sites are reasonably private, water spigots and bathrooms are not too far of a walk from any site."
Lake access for cooling off: Bayview Campground offers excellent swimming opportunities. "We were pleasantly surprised with the beautiful lake and rope swing to cool off after hiking at North Cascades NP," writes Alyson M. The day-use area includes a roped-off shallow swimming section that works well for families with children and pets.
Mountain views: Baker Lake provides dramatic mountain scenery. "If you walk out along the creek bed you can see great views of snow-capped Cascades," explains Kim B. about Boulder Creek Campground. At Panorama Point, Henry H. advises: "You can't see Mt Baker from the campsite, but head out onto the water and look behind you and there she is."
What you should know
Pet regulations: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Concrete enforce specific regulations. "We brought our dog for his first camping trip. He wasn't a huge fan of the gunshots that we heard all afternoon coming from a neighboring property," shares Shelby P. about Rasar State Park Campground. Wildlife concerns require dogs remain under control.
Seasonal challenges: Bugs can be problematic during certain seasons. "Only downside is the beach is small, the campground doesn't have any extra hiking. It was very relaxing," notes Sophia S. about Bayview Campground. At Swift Creek, Melinda C. warns: "Really glad I had bugspray because the mosquitoes are everywhere."
Campground facilities: Facility availability varies significantly between campgrounds. Boulder Creek offers "primitive with only water and pit toilets but an absolute delight," according to Tom K. At Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp, Jessica M. notes: "There's a single pit toilet and no running water. Seems like a pretty popular spot but we were able to get a site mid week."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Thousand Trails Grandy Creek offers extensive recreation options. "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 better than ever!" reports Kathy A. The structured activities provide entertainment beyond typical outdoor recreation.
Lake swimming options: Swift Creek provides safe swimming for children. "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," describes Lucas. The gradual entry points make water access easier for younger children.
ADA accessible options: Several campgrounds offer accessibility features. "Great ADA camping. Trails are smooth enough for an electric wheelchair and the path to the river is paved," shares Bryan G. about Rasar State Park. These accessible sites typically require advance booking due to limited availability.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Howard Miller Steelhead County Park provides essential services for RVs. "RV sites equipped with water & electric hookup. Nice clean gravel sites with fire ring & picnic tables," reports Jackie S., who notes it's "20 miles to North Cascades National Park." This proximity makes it a convenient base for park exploration.
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "Only downfall is the rv spaces; they are a little challenging to level in some back in sights," notes Deborah H. about Rasar State Park. At Boulder Creek, sites accommodate smaller vehicles but may be difficult for larger RVs to navigate.
Security features: Secure campgrounds provide peace of mind. "Because it's off the road and has a security gate, I have no problem letting my kid be a kid," mentions Kathy A. about Thousand Trails Grandy Creek. Cell service is available at some locations, with Kathy noting: "ATT cell service is solid. I was able to use my phone as a hot spot and work a bit, too."
