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Established Camping

Big Creek Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Big Creek Campground, near Ashford, Washington, is a straightforward spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. It’s a no-frills campground that’s perfect for a quick getaway or as a base for adventures in nearby Mount Rainier National Park.

The campground offers a handful of sites, many of which are close to the creek, providing a refreshing spot to cool off on warm days. Visitors appreciate the picnic tables and fire rings at each site, making it easy to gather around for meals and evening chats. As one camper noted, “We had one of the best spots with access to the stream,” highlighting the appeal of the natural surroundings.

For those who enjoy hiking, there are several trails nearby, including some that offer uphill challenges with rewarding views. Campers have mentioned the friendly atmosphere and helpful hosts, which adds to the overall experience. While amenities are basic—think vault toilets and no showers—many find the simplicity refreshing.

If you’re planning a trip, keep in mind that the campground is open from mid-May to mid-September. Whether you’re camping with family or looking for a solo retreat, Big Creek Campground provides a peaceful setting to connect with nature and recharge.

Fee Info

Extra Vehicle Fee $8.00

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Location

Big Creek Campground is located in Washington

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Ashford, WA, take Forest Road 52 approximately 5 miles to the campground.

Coordinates

46.7352778 N
121.9702778 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Last on 7/17/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Detours Nearby

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Paradise Pines

Paradise Pines

2 min away

National Forest 84

National Forest 84

7 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Last on 7/17/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

11 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 19, 2024

Clean & Low-key

Big Creek is perfect for everyone who is looking for a decent, no-frills campground. Located a short distance from Mt Rainier NP, this is the perfect springboard for any NP adventure or chillax getaway. We were fortunate to snag site #2, which has easy access to the creek and a decent small swim spot to cool off on a hot day. No bathrooms, just vault toilets - and it looks as if a couple are on deck to be replaced as of this writing.

Site2
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Kristyn E., July 19, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 25, 2023

Near rainier

Cute little site just a short drive to the entrance of the park. The host seem sweet and there’s some hiking trails near.

Site27
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Candice M., October 25, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Candice M., October 25, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Candice M., October 25, 2023
Reviewed May. 25, 2022

Meh

We spent 2 nights at Big Creek and it was ok, nothing to write home about. We arrived on opening day and were one of the first campers, so we had our pick of sites. We chose#42, which was nice--spacious enough for a campervan, 2 humans, and 2 big dogs. Also nice were the 3 trails surrounding the campground (1 mostly flat, about 1.8 miles long, that encircled the campground, the other 2 were uphill hikes with views). The campground itself was ok, some sites more private than others. Bathrooms were pit toilets--no sinks, no showers--but clean enough. I think my biggest gripe (and the reason for the 3-star rating) is that Big Creek Campground just didn't deliver on the "exceptional scenery" part of the website's description. It's a second growth forest with mostly small Doug firs and (I think) vine maples, with a few hemlocks thrown in. I'd say "scrubby scenery" is more accurate.

Site42
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by L , May 25, 2022
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2021

Perfect Campsite

We love Big Creek! Our campsite was #25. It is a double site with pull through parking for our 17-foot camper. The site has a fresh water spigot at it, and there are several others around the loop. One of a few restrooms is nearby and relatively clean. The campground is small and quiet. Some of the other campsites are much smaller and good for car camping. Big Creek is very close to the entrance to Mount Ranier National Park. There are a couple of nice restaurants between the campground and the park too. This will be our “go to” site for camping on the southside of the park.

Site25
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Christopher F., August 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Christopher F., August 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Christopher F., August 22, 2021
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 20, 2021

Loved it!

We arrived at the NP at 10:30 am on a Friday. The campgrounds were already full, so we quickly backtracked to this one just outside the park. We would most definitely stay at this campground again for any exploring on the southwest side of the NP. Another great example of a great National Forest Campground. We had one of the best spots with access to the stream.

Site4
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Bobby B., July 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Bobby B., July 20, 2021
Reviewed Dec. 24, 2020

Great for family of 4

Great place to camp for our summer trips to Mt. Rainer! We have 2 little ones, so the close proximity to a small creek was great for the kids. Manager of camp was friendly and even entertained my kids Bigfoot questions! Firewood for sale, picnic bench, fire pit, map with hiking trails in the area, all helpful. Tried some fishing, mostly for fun with kids. Nice flat camp area for tents and no memorable issues with mosquitoes. Will keep this one on the camping map.

  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Marcus M., December 24, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Marcus M., December 24, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Marcus M., December 24, 2020
Reviewed Jul. 1, 2020

Nice little campground

I had reservations at Cougar Rock inside Mount Rainier NP, but unfortunately they were canceled due to COVID-related issues. This campground made a very nice backup plan. Just a few miles from the park entrance, so not much added travel time. Camp sites are very spacious and much more private than Cougar Rock. Site#6 was right on the creek(it looked like 1-6 were). Pit toilets were smelly but very clean for what they are(but bring hand sanitizer!). Fire wood for sale on site. Overall had a great experience here. If you're looking for backup plans for Cougar Rock or elsewhere, I highly recommend this campground.

Site#6
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Audrey E., July 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Audrey E., July 1, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 18, 2020

No Frills Camping

I chose to stayed here because of its location. It’s close to the entrance into Rainier NP and there’s plenty of Amazing hikes nearby. I camped alone (I’m a female) and I felt safe. Always important. It’s a primitive campground, which I love. ((Due to COVID you have to make reservations to stay here. 6/5/20))

  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Charyl B., June 18, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Charyl B., June 18, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Charyl B., June 18, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2018

Close to Mt Rainier, but not in parl

This is a small and primitive campground with a total of 29 sites. The campground does not have electric hook ups and it would be difficult to bring a larger camper or rv down the trail.

Sites are situated in a circle, with some in the trees and others sitting along Big Creek. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, with bbq grate. The site does not have showers and the toilets are the pit style.

There is tons of wildlife and lots of trails and some riverbank to explore. Open seasonally.

  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Mary C., June 26, 2018
Reviewed Jun. 5, 2018

Near the park

It’s a nice simple campground only minutes to the park. We camped here last year. Much quieter than in the park which is what we were looking for.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Big Creek Campground by Leah H., June 5, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Big Creek Campground located in Washington?

Big Creek Campground is located near Ashford, Washington, in the southwest region of the state. It's situated within the national forest just outside Mount Rainier National Park. The campground is positioned along Big Creek, providing a peaceful forest setting with convenient access to both the national park and surrounding forest recreational areas.

Is Big Creek Campground close to Mount Rainier National Park?

Yes, Big Creek Campground is very close to Mount Rainier National Park. It's located just minutes from the park entrance, making it an excellent alternative to in-park camping. Many visitors use it as a convenient basecamp for exploring the southwest side of the national park. The proximity allows campers to access the park's attractions and hiking trails with minimal travel time while enjoying a quieter, less crowded camping experience.

What do reviews say about Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground is described as a quiet, primitive campground with spacious sites that offer more privacy than those inside the national park. Campers appreciate the peaceful creek-side location with some sites situated along Big Creek, including a swimming hole near site #1. The small, family-friendly atmosphere receives praise, along with the helpful camp hosts. Visitors mention the campground is clean with basic amenities including picnic benches, fire pits, and fresh water spigots throughout the loop. While not luxurious, it's considered an excellent basecamp for Mount Rainier adventures.

What camping options are available at Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground is a small, primitive campground with 29 sites arranged in a circular layout. The sites vary, with some nestled in trees and others positioned along Big Creek. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. The campground has no electric hookups and lacks facilities for larger RVs and campers, making it better suited for tent camping or small camper vans. Some sites have pull-through parking, and fresh water spigots are available throughout the campground. Restrooms are provided but are basic. The campground also offers direct access to hiking and mountain biking trails.