It may be a cliche to call a place epic these days, but we’re pretty sure the North Cascades earned that designation before it was used for everything else. The dramatic granite peaks that form the jagged horizon are, afterall,
If you are planning a trip to the majestic Pacific Northwest this summer, you’d be remiss if you didn’t make your way inland to get a taste of the snow-capped mountain brilliance that is the North Cascades. This region is straight out of a mountainous fairy tale. And it’s one region that EVERY camper should experience at some point in their life.
Where to Camp in the Magical North Cascades
Campers love these moss-covered campgrounds, dripping in all there is to love about the Pacific Northwest.
1. Newhalem Campground, North Cascades National Park
Image by The Dyrt camper Cierra A.
Sleep under the stars amongst a forest of noble red cedar and towering Douglas firs. A must-see for fishermen and nature-lovers alike, campsites are within walking distance of a salmon-viewing station that leads into the picturesque Skagit River. As with many campgrounds in the Cascades, Newhalem is known for its Grizzly bear population, so be sure to take all necessary precautions when staying in the area.
2. Goodell Creek Campground, North Cascades National Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Shari G.
With direct access to some of the Cascade Range’s most rugged and scenic trails, look no further than Goodell Creek. An opportune spot for kayakers and boaters, the campground boasts an on-site launch that sits right on the banks of the Skagit. Although these sites provide basic amenities, like toilets and potable water, they are not reservable. Make sure you get there early, especially during the often crowded high season.
3. Swift Creek Campground, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Image from The Dyrt camper Ryan L.
This well-kept, mid-sized campground gives campers and RVers a front-row seat to Mt. Baker’s towering splendor. All 50 sites provide sprawling views of the active volcano’s highest point, Grant Peak, a 1,300-foot-deep piece of ice that sits atop its crater. Don’t forget to bring along those binoculars; guests frequently catch glimpses of mountain goats, pine marten, porcupines, and high-flying migratory birds.
4. Baker Lake Horse Camp, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Image from The Dyrt camper Kayko S.
A superb option for campers who are hoping to snag a free, no-frills site right on the pristine banks of Baker Lake. The lake itself houses plenty of fish, including trout and kokanee, a type of sockeye salmon that is unique to the area. Although the lake sits at an elevation that’s under 1,000-ft., the temperatures are still known to get frosty, even during the height of summer. Be sure to pack along a survival kit, along with plenty of warm, waterproof layers. Beyond Clothing has the perfect options for this type of environment with their survival clothing systems.
We can only assume you’re now booking flights or packing the car for a camping trip to the North Cascades. Share the joy when you get there, and post your photos and campground reviews from this stunning region on The Dyrt. Not only will you contribute to making camping better for everyone, you’ll earn points for free camping gear from our friends at Belmont Blanket and Beyond Clothing.
Related Campgrounds:
- Bayview Campground, Whatcom County, WA
- Ross Lake Camping, Rockport, WA
- Detroit Lake Oregon Camping, Detroit, OR
