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Troublesome Creek Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Troublesome Creek Campground, near Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Tucked away about two hours from the nearest urban area, this campground offers a peaceful retreat with a beautiful granite-lined river that many visitors rave about.

The campground features designated sites that provide a good amount of privacy, especially on the east loop, which is a favorite among campers. You can enjoy campfires under the stars, but keep in mind there are no electric hookups or drinking water available, so come prepared. As one camper noted, “Out here, the entertainment is happening in nature,” making it a perfect place to disconnect and soak in the stunning views.

For those who love outdoor activities, there’s a nice hiking loop along the river, and the sound of rushing water adds to the serene atmosphere. While some campers mentioned the pesky mosquitoes, especially away from the river, the overall experience is one of tranquility and natural beauty. Just remember to grab your firewood before you head off the highway, as it can be tricky to find once you’re in the area.

If you’re looking for a place that feels remote yet is still close enough to civilization for emergencies, Troublesome Creek Campground is a solid choice. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, you’ll find a welcoming environment that encourages you to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

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Location

Troublesome Creek Campground is located in Washington

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Everett travel east on US-2. Pass through Monroe and continue another 21 miles then turn north (left) on Index Galena Road. Continue for 11 Miles, arriving at Troublesome Creek Campground on the right.

Coordinates

47.898188 N
121.402685 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

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Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 24, 2022

I’ll be back

The campground at Troublesome Creek is an absolute gem. Located about two hours from any significant population base, accessible off of a (mostly) dirt forest service road, you'll marvel at the serenity of this idyllic campground. There are two sides to this campground, an east and a west loop. My spot was on the east loop, space 15 and I'd definitely recommend the spaces on the east loop, as they give you ample privacy with equally ample access to the creek and the North Fork of the Skykomish River. No power hookups means you can set the devices aside and worry little about what's happening in the city. Out here, the entertainment is happening in nature. Views of surrounding peaks, the rush of the water as it flows past and as night falls, the dotting of stars in the inky black sky will give you exactly what you need before heading back to civilization. Nature truly is the best. I'll be back to this campground again, no doubt.

Site15
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Jake G., August 24, 2022
  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Jake G., August 24, 2022
  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Jake G., August 24, 2022
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jul. 30, 2021

Beautiful granite bed river

I don't know why this is named as a "creek" when it is a full on river.  At any rate, the granite lined riverbed is truly spectacular!  The campground itself is nice, but the spots right on the river were really close in.  Being retired, we have the luxury of staying mid-week.  We were fortunate enough the the spots on either side of us were not occupied which gave us a little bit of privacy.  The sites in the rest of the campground that were further away from the river were much more isolated.  I would really hate to be there on the weekend.  Everything in this area is fully booked weekends thanks to all the covid campers.  Not knocking them, but it is a fact that everyone is flocking to the beautiful outdoors right now.  I just hope they leave it intact.  That being said, the campground was blissfully quiet for us.  I am sure the roaring river masked sounds.  There is nothing like that sound to put my insomniac brain out like a light a night!

Unfortunately there is no water right now for some unknown reason.  Signage at the water spigot directed campers to a campground down the road.  There is also a road closed, which creates a detour to get to our campground, which added an extra 1/2 hour to our journey.  The campground with the water is just before the detour which means that it will take you an hour to get your water if you didn't bring a water source with you.  

If there were available water and if the river camp sites were further apart, I would rate this a 5-star place.  But I am docking a star for each con.

  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Tracie W., July 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Tracie W., July 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Tracie W., July 30, 2021
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2020

Kids had fun, so did the Mosquitoes!

Paved road, dirt road (30min), paved road to get to campsite. Not a problem on the dirt road, saw plenty of sedans and small hybrids going in and out. Camp area was quiet, spaces spread apart well. Nice hiking loop along the river. Fun river for splashing and some baby fish chasing. Saw a snake, so watch where you’re stepping. Only major issue, which brought down a star, was Mosquitos! Seems to be less mosquitoes by the river. Once we got back to camp from activities, it was a rush to cook, eat, and jump into the tent, as the mosquitoes were relentless. Took my wife, 6 and 3 year old. Spent 2 nights. Had a lot of fun away from the Mosquitoes!

  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Marcus M., August 8, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 3, 2020

Loved it!

This place was a slice of heaven. Tip: get your firewood BEFORE turning off highway 2. We were there three days and never saw a host. Drove to multiple campgrounds to see if the host was there and no such luck.

  • Review photo of Troublesome Creek Campground by Kim D., August 3, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2016

Wild and Relaxing

My favorite type of campsite is when you're in the wild blue yonder on your own just using your own wits and tools around you to survive. My second favorite, is when you feel like you're out in the wild but you're really not too far from civilization. This campground fits the second description. There are plenty of amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings. You're just a short drive from town but it looks and feels like you're in the middle of nowhere. It's a great place to relax and feel at one with nature while knowing that if an emergency pops up, you aren't too far from help. If you're having doubts about camping, try Troublesome Creek out for sure! You get the best of both worlds here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Troublesome Creek Campground located and how do I get there?

Troublesome Creek Campground is located near Index, Washington, about two hours from major population centers. To reach the campground, take Highway 2 and then turn onto a forest service road. The access involves driving on paved roads, followed by approximately 30 minutes on a dirt/gravel forest service road, before reaching more paved road to the campground. Despite the unpaved section, the road is accessible for most vehicles including sedans and small hybrids. Be sure to get supplies and firewood before turning off Highway 2, as there are no services nearby.

What amenities and facilities are available at Troublesome Creek Campground?

Troublesome Creek Campground offers a rustic camping experience with basic amenities. The campground has designated campsites with fire rings for campfires. There are no electrical hookups or shower facilities, maintaining its wilderness feel. Visitors should bring their own firewood, as it's not readily available at the campground. There doesn't appear to be a permanent camp host onsite, so campers should come prepared with everything they need. This is an ideal location for those seeking a more primitive camping experience while still having some basic facilities.

Is there a campground map for Troublesome Creek and what are the best sites?

Troublesome Creek Campground is divided into east and west loops, providing different camping experiences. The sites located directly along the river (which is larger than a creek) are particularly desirable but tend to be closer together. For more privacy, consider sites set back from the water. The campground layout offers good spacing between most sites, creating a sense of seclusion. For specific site recommendations and an official map, contact the managing forest service office before your trip, as site conditions may change seasonally.

What activities can I do while camping at Troublesome Creek near Index, WA?

Troublesome Creek Campground offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. The main attraction is the impressive granite-lined riverbed where you can splash around, observe small fish, and enjoy the spectacular water views. There's a nice hiking loop that follows the river, perfect for day hikes and exploration. Wildlife viewing is also possible—visitors might spot various creatures including snakes. The serene setting makes this spot ideal for relaxation, photography, and connecting with nature. The remote location creates a peaceful environment away from crowds, perfect for stargazing and unwinding in the wilderness.