Iron Creek Campground
4.50227 reviewsGifford Pinchot NF Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Randle, WA 98377, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$27 - $50/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
99 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$27 - $50/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
99 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsIron Creek Campground
$27.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $27 to $50 per night depending on the type of site. An extra vehicle fee is $8 per night.
Standard Site Fee$27.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$77.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider541-338-7869
What Campers Say
4.50
Recommended
Based on 227 reviews
156 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanfriendlysites
"The campground receives high praise for its scenic beauty, spacious and private sites, and proximity to recreational opportunities like hiking and fishing. However, occasional maintenance issues with water spigots and vault toilets are noted."
Fees & Passes at Iron Creek Campground
$27 - $50/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Premium Site
Best views or amenities
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit is 14 nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations up to 2 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations or no-shows incur addi...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Gifford Pinchot National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Iron Creek Campground
Summer brings the perfect camping weather to Iron Creek, with sun-dappled days that warm the forest floor and refreshingly cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. The maritime climate means occasional rain showers that release the intoxicating scent of cedar and fir, while keeping the forest vibrantly green. As seasons change, so does the campground's character – from summer's lush abundance to winter's quiet majesty, each visit offers its own unique Pacific Northwest experience.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025, to September 20, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 23, 2025, to September 20, 2025.
About Iron Creek Campground
Nestled where Iron Creek meets the mighty Cispus River, Iron Creek Campground offers an enchanting escape into the Pacific Northwest's ancient forests. Here, towering Douglas firs, majestic cedars, and graceful hemlocks create a cathedral of green, their branches forming a living canopy overhead. Each campsite feels like its own private sanctuary, thoughtfully tucked among dense vegetation that ensures peaceful solitude for every visitor. This is camping as it should be – immersed in nature, yet comfortably secluded from neighboring sites.
Iron Creek Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites.
Historical SignificanceIron Creek Campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Gifford Pinchot National Forest, a landscape forever changed by the dramatic 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Just a short drive away, the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument tells the powerful story of nature's destruction and remarkable rebirth. This forest, named after America's first Chief Forester, represents over a century of conservation heritage and continues to inspire visitors with its pristine wilderness and volcanic legacy.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the perfect camping weather to Iron Creek, with sun-dappled days that warm the forest floor and refreshingly cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. The maritime climate means occasional rain showers that release the intoxicating scent of cedar and fir, while keeping the forest vibrantly green. As seasons change, so does the campground's character – from summer's lush abundance to winter's quiet majesty, each visit offers its own unique Pacific Northwest experience.
ElevationElevation information available at ranger station.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a fairy-tale forest where ancient giants wear thick coats of emerald moss and sword ferns carpet the forest floor in prehistoric splendor. The melodic sounds of Iron Creek and the Cispus River provide nature's soundtrack, while shafts of sunlight pierce the canopy to illuminate this enchanted woodland. On clear days, glimpses of the region's volcanic sentinels – Mount Rainier's icy crown, Mount St. Helens' distinctive crater, and Mount Adams' snow-capped summit – remind visitors of the powerful forces that shaped this landscape.
Geological RegionIron Creek Campground lies in the heart of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, a spectacular corner of southwest Washington where ancient forests meet volcanic peaks. This remarkable region showcases the Ring of Fire's influence, with three major volcanoes – Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens – standing guard over pristine old-growth forests that have thrived here for centuries. The interplay between volcanic soils and abundant rainfall has created one of the most biodiverse and lush forest ecosystems in North America.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Iron Creek Campground Trail is barrier-free and designed for all ages and skill levels, with benches and resting points along the way. However, some trails leading to the river may have steep banks and are less accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites are designed to accommodate a range of setups, including midsized trailers and RVs. Some sites can fit larger RVs, up to 36 feet. Most sites have ample space for tents.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-spaced with lush vegetation and old-growth trees providing excellent privacy. However, some sites have visibility from the trails, particularly in Loop D.
Total Campsites99 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites D95, C64, and loops C/D are praised for river access, privacy, and proximity to trails.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
General guest capacity per site noted but specific number not stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes four loops, A through D, with paved roads and campsites spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to September 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available from June 20, 2025, to June 24, 2025. Limited walk-up sites available year-round.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations or no-shows incur additional costs including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Iron Creek Campground offers numerous activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to the Cispus River provides opportunities for water-related activities, though water safety is emphasized due to swift currents.
Hiking
The campground features the .3-mile Iron Creek Old Growth Trail, which weaves through the forest and along the Cispus River. This barrier-free trail is accessible to all skill levels. A longer trail circles the campground and provides access to the river.Fishing
The Cispus River, which runs adjacent to the campground, offers fishing opportunities for cutthroat trout, whitefish, and rainbow trout. However, some users reported mixed success with fishing, influenced by seasonal factors such as water clarity and flow.Swimming
Designated swimming areas are not explicitly mentioned, but the river has spots where campers can wade. Families commonly find shallow, calmer areas suitable for children near Loop A and elsewhere along the river.Biking
The paved roads within the campground are ideal for biking and scootering, particularly for children.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in an old-growth forest, offering opportunities to observe native wildlife and birds. The Woods Creek Watchable Wildlife Interpretive Site is a nearby attraction.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground operates seasonally from late May through September.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned or supported at this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is sold on-site by the camp hosts.
- Quiet hours are From 10 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include fast-moving sections of the Cispus River, steep trails, and high insect activity at certain times of the year.
Weather at Iron Creek Campground
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Randle, WA, approximately 20 minutes away. This includes basic medical services and law enforcement.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025, to September 20, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides dumpsters for trash disposal on all loops. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, and some users noted confusion about recycling availability.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to the Cispus River, with easy access via campground trails.
Common complaintsVault toilets are described as unpleasant by some users due to odor and flies. Water spigots are limited and may require searching to locate functional ones.
HostCamp hosts have been described as friendly, helpful, and attentive, with several accounts of exemplary assistance provided to visitors.
Campground Map
Gifford Pinchot NF Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Randle, WA 98377, USA
Driving directionsTake Highway 12 from I-5 and proceed 40 miles to Randle, turn south on Forest Road 25 and continue for 12 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Forest Road 25, which is a paved road but described as having rough patches and potholes. Visitors have suggested driving carefully due to poor road conditions.Nearby places
Randle (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Packwood (approximately 15-minute drive), Mount St. Helens Windy Ridge Viewpoint (approximately 20 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Randle, WA, which is a 20-minute drive away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
227 reviews
Iron Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives high praise for its scenic beauty, spacious and private sites, and proximity to recreational opportunities like hiking and fishing. However, occasional maintenance issues with water spigots and vault toilets are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 227 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised features include the dense old-growth forest, well-spaced and private campsites, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many users also appreciate the helpfulness of the...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Reported issues include occasional maintenance lapses with vault toilets, non-functional water spigots, and lack of recycling facilities. Some users also expressed concerns about noisy neighbors and...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure first-come, first-served sites and bringing bug repellents and extra tarps due to mosquitos and potential rain. Users also advise purchasing firewood...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are highly popular, with warm days and cooler nights. However, the campground can become busy during holiday weekends, leading to maintenance challenges. Mosquito activity is higher...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Each camp site is incredible. If you want to be close to the creek, sites C and D are what you want while A and B are a little quieter." - Case Van Kooten. "The trail is an easy and enjoyable hike,...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Popular sites include D95 for its proximity to the river and bathrooms, and multi-sites that offer larger spaces for groups. Some sites near the vault toilets were deemed less desirable due to odor...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Several users appreciated the accessibility of the Iron Creek Campground Trail, which is barrier-free and includes benches for resting.
Based on 227 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and many campers brought their dogs. However, some users noted issues with off-leash dogs causing disruptions.
Based on 227 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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