Excelsior Group Camp
4.986 reviewsExcelsior Group Camp
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates are not explicitly listed in authoritative content, and no rates are available. Reservation rules include service fees: $8 online or...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider360-804-1103
About this campground
Nestled alongside the thundering waters of the Nooksack River, Excelsior Group Camp offers an authentic Pacific Northwest wilderness experience in the heart of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This secluded retreat features two spacious group sites—Camp A and Camp B—each designed to host gatherings of up to 50 people. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or outdoor wedding, the camp serves as your basecamp for endless adventures, from challenging mountain hikes to peaceful riverside picnics and world-class fishing in pristine alpine waters.
Excelsior Group Camp is designed primarily for group camping, with two large group sites available. It is suitable for tent camping and offers basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceExcelsior Group Camp sits within the ancestral lands that have witnessed centuries of human connection to these mountains. The surrounding Mt. Baker Wilderness and North Cascades have long served as sacred spaces for indigenous peoples and later became a beacon for mountaineers, naturalists, and conservationists who fought to preserve these wild places. Today, the camp continues this legacy, offering modern adventurers a chance to experience the same awe-inspiring landscapes that have captivated visitors for generations.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Excelsior into a snow-laden wonderland, with recent conditions bringing heavy snowfall and rain that blanket the landscape in pristine white. Temperatures hover between a crisp 32°F at night and 41°F during the day, creating that perfect alpine atmosphere where morning frost sparkles on tent walls and afternoon sun warms the forest canopy. While winter camping offers its own magical appeal for the hardy adventurer, most visitors find the summer and early fall months ideal for experiencing all the camp has to offer.
ElevationWhile the mighty Mt. Baker soars to an impressive 10,781 feet above sea level, dominating the eastern horizon with its glacier-clad summit, Excelsior Group Camp rests at a more accessible elevation in the river valley below. This strategic position offers campers the best of both worlds—easy access and comfortable camping conditions while still being immersed in the dramatic vertical world of the North Cascades, where elevation changes create distinct ecological zones from temperate rainforest to alpine tundra.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering old-growth giants—Douglas firs, western red cedars, and hemlocks centuries old—create a natural cathedral around Excelsior Group Camp, their massive trunks rising like pillars into the misty canopy above. The Nooksack River provides a constant soundtrack of rushing water, while the volcanic cone of Mt. Baker dominates the skyline, its glaciers and permanent snowfields gleaming in the alpine light. This pristine ecosystem supports an incredible array of wildlife: majestic elk browse in nearby meadows, bald eagles soar overhead, black bears forage for berries in season, and countless migratory birds fill the forest with their songs. Alpine lakes dot the higher elevations like sapphires, reflecting the rugged peaks that define this corner of the Cascade Range.
Geological RegionExcelsior Group Camp offers front-row seats to one of North America's most geologically dynamic landscapes within Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Here, the forces that shaped the Cascade Range are on full display—from the active volcanic presence of Mt. Baker, whose steaming fumaroles remind visitors of the Earth's restless power, to the carved valleys and cirques left by ancient glaciers. This is a landscape still being written, where avalanches reshape mountainsides each winter, rivers carve ever-deeper channels, and the slow grind of ice continues to sculpt the peaks. The surrounding old-growth forests and pristine alpine lakes complete this geological masterpiece, creating an outdoor classroom where every trail tells the story of our planet's incredible forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information on accessibility features is available.
Sites SizeThe campground offers two large group sites, each accommodating up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides a reasonable level of privacy according to user reviews. Catherine V stated, 'The site felt very private and was quiet.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite B is noted for immediate access upon entry, while Site A is described as offering privacy and tranquility based on user reviews.
Best CampsitesSite A and Site B accommodate up to 50 people each and are described as spacious, clean, and private in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Exact check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Exact check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights, and visitors may stay up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site accommodates up to 50 people.
Groups
Two group sites are available, each accommodating up to 50 people. Site A includes a group fire ring and individual fire pits at tent sites, while Site B provides picnic tables and fire pits.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo large group sites (A and B) with picnic tables, fire pits, and a group fire ring in Site A.
Open and Closed SeasonNo seasonal closures mentioned; open year-round with specific peak-season dates unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up/first-come-first-served availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyChanges and cancellations can be made ahead of arrival date. $10 cancellation fee applies; additional fees may apply for late cancellations. Late fees include forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to dates outside original reservation incur $10 change fee. No-shows incur $20 fee and loss of first night's fees.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Excelsior Group Camp offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The nearby Horseshoe Bend Trail and Skyline Divide Trail provide scenic hiking opportunities through old-growth forests and alpine meadows. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with species like salmon, elk, and bald eagles in the area.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity, with trails such as Horseshoe Bend Trail and Skyline Divide Trail offering varying levels of difficulty. Horseshoe Bend Trail features old-growth forests and views of East Church Mountain, while Skyline Divide Trail leads to meadows with views of glacier-covered Mt. Baker.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Nooksack River, which is fed by snowfields and glaciers. Wildlife includes five native salmon species.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with opportunities to see elk, bald eagles, salmon, black bears, and migratory birds. Catherine V reported seeing a bear near the campsite.Winter Activities
No specific details on winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are available, though the area experiences heavy snow in winter.Water Sports
No information on non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding was provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Campfires must adhere to local guidelines.
- Quiet hours are Specific quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with wildlife (such as black bears) and risks associated with rugged terrain and proximity to the Nooksack River.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories are mentioned.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Oct 8
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season date ranges are mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Catherine V mentioned, 'We appreciated having potable water and trash cans available.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Nooksack River and surrounded by streams fed by nearby glaciers.
Common complaintsNo common complaints explicitly listed. User reviews highlight general satisfaction.
HostGate keys are available from Douglas Fir Campground hosts. Host availability or contact information is not listed.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, Washington, go north on I-5 to Bellingham. Take exit 255 onto Sunset Drive/Mt. Baker Highway SR 542. Turn right (east) on SR 542 and continue past the town of Glacier near mile 33. Continue past Glacier approximately 7 miles to the campground. The sign for the campground is located on the left (north) side of the highway. The campground access road is on the right (south) side of the highway, just before mile post 40. Turn right on the access road and then take the first right through the gated entrance of the campground. Site B is the first site on the left. Site A is the loop at the end of the driveway.
The campground can be accessed via Mt. Baker Highway SR 542, which is a paved road. Access road conditions and seasonal closures are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.Nearby places
Glacier, WA is approximately 7 miles away. Distances and travel times to other nearby cities are not mentioned.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, firewood, and other conveniences are available in the nearby community of Glacier, WA, approximately 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Excelsior Group Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to recreational activities. Wildlife sightings, including bears, emphasize the need for proper food storage.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the privacy and serenity of the campground. Stephanie H described it as 'peaceful and serene,' while Catherine V noted the 'spotless' restrooms and the convenience of potable water and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of showers was noted as a downside by Stephanie H. Some users also mentioned minor micro-trash issues, but overall, cleanliness was highly praised.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring games for in-camp entertainment, as suggested by Bonnie B. Ensure proper food storage to prevent attracting wildlife, as Catherine V observed a bear near the campsite.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are the most popular seasons due to accessible hiking trails and mild weather. Heavy snow in winter may limit access.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. Bonnie B: 'It is a good place to stay with as much privacy as you will find in the mountains.' 2. Stephanie H: 'No showers. Decent vault toilet areas. Well-kept campground.' 3. Catherine V: 'The...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A: Patricia B described it as having 'many spots to set up tents' and noted spotless restrooms. Site B: Stephanie H appreciated its spaciousness and peaceful setting.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences were provided.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025