Boulder Creek Campground

Star4.49
44 reviews
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Boulder Creek Campground
$32.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The peak season nightly fee ranges from $32 to $34 for standard nonelectric sites and $90 for group sites. Holiday rates add $2-$4. Taxes and...
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Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$122.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
360-804-1103null

About this campground

Tucked away in the heart of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Boulder Creek Campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of Boulder Creek provides nature's soundtrack. This charming woodland retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts with thoughtfully spaced individual sites and a dedicated group camping area. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under towering evergreens. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilets and no drinking water (so pack plenty!), its peaceful atmosphere and creek-side setting create the perfect basecamp for your Pacific Northwest adventure.
Boulder Creek Campground accommodates both tent and RV campers, and also features a group site.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the nearby Baker Lake Trail, where nature tells its own dramatic story. Here, silent sentinels – ancient trees scarred by Mt. Baker's powerful 1843 eruption – stand as monuments to the mountain's volcanic fury. These weathered survivors, along with evidence of historic forest fires, create a living museum that speaks to the dynamic forces that have shaped this landscape for centuries. Each twisted trunk and fire-blackened snag serves as a reminder of nature's raw power and remarkable resilience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the North Cascades at Boulder Creek. Winter blankets the campground in deep snow while powerful Pacific storms unleash torrents of rain, creating a wonderland that's beautiful but challenging to access. As spring melts into summer, the campground awakens to reveal its true glory – warm, sun-dappled days perfect for creek-side relaxation and endless trail exploration. These dry summer months offer the ideal window for camping adventures, with comfortable temperatures that invite you to linger around the campfire long into the starlit evenings.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, Boulder Creek Campground sits comfortably within the varied terrain of the North Cascades, where mountain valleys meet ascending ridgelines in a landscape that offers both accessibility and that authentic high-country feel.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine wilderness where ancient giants of the old-growth forest stretch skyward, their moss-draped branches creating natural cathedrals of green. Beyond the campground, jagged peaks pierce the sky while hidden alpine lakes sparkle like sapphires in their rocky basins. This stunning backdrop serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife – keep your camera ready for glimpses of sure-footed mountain goats navigating cliff faces, black bears foraging in berry patches, and the seasonal parade of migratory birds that fill the forest with song. Every turn of the trail promises a new vista, every quiet moment a chance for wildlife encounters.
Geological RegionBoulder Creek Campground sits in the geological wonderland of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, where the Earth's powerful forces are on full display. Dominated by the brooding presence of Mt. Baker – an active volcano that still steams and rumbles – this region showcases nature's artistic handiwork through soaring rugged peaks carved by ancient glaciers, crystalline alpine lakes cradled in granite bowls, and vast stretches of old-growth forest that have stood witness to millennia of geological drama. This is a landscape actively being shaped by ice, fire, and time, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing story of the Cascade Range.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe nearby Shadow of the Sentinels Trail is an accessible interpretive trail with asphalt and boardwalks, featuring grades no greater than 8%.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some accommodating multiple tents. Site #6 is described as "huge" and capable of holding several tents, while Site #3 is noted to be tighter, particularly for trailers.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer varying levels of privacy, with some being spacious and secluded. Site #9 is highlighted as good for a very secluded camping experience.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #5 is close to the creek but does not provide direct water access due to a shifting riverbed. Site #3 is better suited for tent camping due to uneven terrain.
Best CampsitesSites #9 and #10 are noted for seclusion, while Site #6 is spacious and suitable for multiple tents.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out must be completed by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Total maximum stay per month is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
The group site is spacious and private, located in a separate area from other campsites. "Group site 1 is awesome! It's very spacious and has a bathroom at the site," according to one user review.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has 9 individual sites and 1 group site. Sites near the creek, such as #8 and #9, are walk-ins.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 13 during peak season. Reservations can start on June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites are held until check-out time the day after arrival but generally cannot be modified once the reservation start date has begun. Walk-up availability is not explicitly addressed.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies if canceled before arrival. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's fees. Reservations cannot be modified after the start date.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground and nearby areas offer a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, climbing, and winter sports. Recreational opportunities are abundant in the surrounding Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails nearby, including the family-friendly Baker Lake Trail and the accessible Shadow of the Sentinels Trail. Both offer unique experiences with old-growth forests and views of historical forest remnants.
Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
Fishing
Fishing is popular at nearby Baker Lake, where anglers fish for a variety of species. Specific fish types are not detailed.
Boating
Baker Lake, a short distance from the campground, supports boating activities including canoeing and water skiing. Boat ramps are accessible at other nearby campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including mountain goats, black bears, and migratory birds. The surrounding old-growth forest provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation.
Winter Activities
Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity in the area.
Water Sports
Water sports such as canoeing and water skiing are available at nearby Baker Lake.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are imposed due to weather.
  • Quiet hours are unspecified but reviews mention disruptions like partying until 2 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears and theft, as reported in user reviews. Vault toilets may lack supplies, so campers should bring their own.
Active alertsnull

Weather forecast

54
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 83%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 1.6 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast
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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

The nearest hospital or emergency services are approximately 25 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 16 - September 13 during peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but no recycling facilities are specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Boulder Creek, with Baker Lake nearby offering opportunities for recreation.
Common complaintsLack of drinking water is a frequent complaint. Site #10 has experienced theft issues, and some sites are uneven.
HostUser reviews mention intermittent visits from rangers and sheriffs, but no dedicated camp hosts.

Campground Map

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Driving directionsFrom Seattle, go north on I-5 to Burlington. Take Exit 230 East on State Route 20. Go past the Mt. Baker Ranger District Office in Sedro-Woolley and follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue for 17.8 miles to the sign for Boulder Creek Campground on the right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Some users have mentioned nearby road noise, but overall road access seems straightforward.
Nearby places
Burlington (approx. 33 miles), Sedro-Woolley (approx. 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Fuel and phone services are approximately 25 miles away. Firewood is available at Horseshoe Cove Campground and at a junction from Highway 20 East and Baker Lake Road.

Camper Reviews

4.5
44 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Boulder Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The majority of campers appreciate the natural setting, cleanliness, and solitude of Boulder Creek Campground. However, some find the lack of water and limited facilities to be drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, particularly the vault toilets, and its peaceful setting by Boulder Creek. Campers also enjoy the proximity to hiking trails and Baker Lake.
Based on 44 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms include the lack of potable water, no cell service, and occasional noise from nearby roads or other campers. One user noted theft at an isolated site, highlighting security concerns.
Based on 44 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water, firewood, and toilet paper. They also suggest visiting nearby attractions like Baker Lake and the Shadow of the Sentinels Trail. Specific sites, like #9,...
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Based on 44 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular during summer and early fall when recreational activities like hiking and fishing are in full swing. Winter brings snowmobiling opportunities but fewer visitors.
Based on 44 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The vault toilets were some of the cleanest I've ever seen." "Campsites #9 and #10 are the best for a very secluded camping experience." "Group site 1 is awesome! It's very spacious and has a...
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Based on 44 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #9 is noted for its seclusion, while Site #6 is described as huge and perfect for multiple tents. Site #3 is considered tight for trailers but good for tent camping. Group Site 1 is praised for...
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Based on 44 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features directly, but the nearby Shadow of the Sentinels Trail is noted for its accessible design.
Based on 44 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews mention pet-related experiences or features.
Based on 44 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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