North Fork Bear Group Camp
04 reviewsQuick Facts
4,838 ftPrice
$130/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Typically open mid-M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
4,838 ftPrice
$130/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Typically open mid-M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsNorth Fork Bear Group Camp
$130.00 - $130.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The group standard non-electric site fee is $130 per night during peak season (May 16–September 20 and June 5–September 19).
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$130.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$130.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider541-338-7869
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 4 reviews
7 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanlocationhiking
"The North Fork Bear Group Camp receives mixed but generally positive reviews. Most users appreciate the secluded and well-maintained group site. However, some issues were noted, including the location of drinking water and the conditions of the vault toilets."
Fees & Passes at North Fork Bear Group Camp
$130/night
Campsite fees
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Late cancellations 14 days or fewer before check-in forfeit the first night's use fee and incur a $1...
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 North Fork Bear Group Camp
Experience the gentle rhythms of Pacific Northwest weather, where temperatures hover comfortably between 40°F and 54°F during autumn visits. While the region receives its share of rainfall—about 2 inches during peak fall weeks—blue skies grace campers nearly 40% of the time, creating perfect conditions for both cozy camp moments and outdoor exploration. Plan your escape between mid-May and late September, when wildflowers bloom, wildlife is active, and the forest showcases its full splendor.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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 16–September 20 and June 5–September 19.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Typically open mid-May through late September.
About North Fork Bear Group Camp
Nestled beneath a canopy of towering pine, fir, and cedar trees, North Fork Bear Group Camp offers an intimate retreat along the pristine waters of the Cispus River. This exclusive group site, one of three tucked within the greater North Fork Campground, promises privacy and tranquility behind its gated entrance. Here, your group can gather around the campfire while the river's gentle melody provides nature's soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.
The North Fork Bear Group Camp is tailored for group camping, supporting both tents and RVs. It is secluded with gated access and accommodates up to 25 people. There is no mention of cabin lodging or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the storied Gifford Pinchot National Forest, a conservation legacy established in 1982 that includes the awe-inspiring Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The surrounding landscape, carefully stewarded by the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, encompasses four magnificent wilderness areas: the alpine meadows of Goat Rocks, the pristine peaks of Glacier View, the rugged beauty of Tatoosh, and the old-growth sanctuaries of William O. Douglass—each preserving unique ecosystems and centuries of natural history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Pacific Northwest weather, where temperatures hover comfortably between 40°F and 54°F during autumn visits. While the region receives its share of rainfall—about 2 inches during peak fall weeks—blue skies grace campers nearly 40% of the time, creating perfect conditions for both cozy camp moments and outdoor exploration. Plan your escape between mid-May and late September, when wildflowers bloom, wildlife is active, and the forest showcases its full splendor.
ElevationAdventure seekers will find themselves perfectly positioned to explore varying elevations, with the nearby Tongue Mountain Trail ascending to a breathtaking 4,838 feet. This dramatic climb rewards hikers with panoramic vistas and the chance to experience multiple ecosystems as they journey from riverside forests to subalpine meadows.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of southwest Washington's wilderness, where ancient forests of pine, fir, and cedar create a living cathedral around your campsite. The crystalline Cispus River winds through the landscape, offering both peaceful reflection spots and exciting water features. Keep your camera ready for encounters with the area's charismatic residents—majestic elk grazing in meadows, deer stepping delicately through the underbrush, and the occasional glimpse of black bears foraging in their natural habitat. Three volcanic giants frame your wilderness experience: the still-active Mount St. Helens, the snow-capped splendor of Mt. Adams, and the iconic silhouette of Mt. Rainier.
Geological RegionDiscover your place within the magnificent 1.3-million-acre tapestry of Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southwest Washington state. The North Fork Campground sits at the heart of the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, a landscape sculpted by volcanic forces and carved by ancient glaciers. This remarkable location places you at the intersection of three of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic peaks—Mount St. Helens, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Rainier—offering unparalleled access to some of America's most dramatic volcanic terrain and the diverse ecosystems that thrive in their shadows.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no explicit mention of accessibility features in the provided materials.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates up to 25 people with tents and RVs. User feedback indicates room for 3-4 tents and 3-4 trailers, depending on length, with plenty of turnaround space.
Sites PrivacyThe site is described as secluded with gated access, providing a sense of privacy for group campers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for groups due to its spacious and secluded layout, with amenities like picnic tables, grills, and fire pits. Water is located at a separate group campsite (user review by Kattie Taufa).
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The group site accommodates up to 25 people.
Groups
The group site supports up to 25 people with tents and RVs. User feedback specifies enough room for 3-4 tents and 3-4 trailers, depending on their length. There is ample turnaround space for vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe group site offers a gated and secluded location with room for tents and RVs. Features include picnic tables, grills, and a single fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open mid-May through late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided about walk-up or first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations 14 days or fewer before check-in forfeit the first night's use fee and incur a $10 cancellation fee. No-show visitors face a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes, and applicable add-ons.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities abound at the North Fork Bear Group Camp. Activities include hiking, fishing, and biking. The nearby multi-use Valley Trail offers access to over 50 miles of off-road vehicle trails. The North Fork Loop Trail is open to foot traffic. Anglers can fish the Cispus River for brook trout, steelhead, and salmon. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot elk, deer, and bears in the area. One reviewer mentioned, 'Grandkids had fun playing in the wide open area or going hiking.'
Hiking
The North Fork Loop Trail is dedicated to foot traffic and is easily accessible. The nearby multi-use Valley Trail provides a network of over 50 miles of additional trails for off-road vehicles, biking, and hiking.Fishing
Fishing is supported in the Cispus River, with opportunities to catch brook trout, steelhead, and salmon.Biking
The campground offers biking opportunities along the multi-use Valley Trail, which connects to over 50 miles of off-road vehicle trails.Wildlife viewing
Elk, deer, and bears are among the wildlife species that campers might encounter in the area.Winter Activities
No information on winter-specific activities is provided.Water Sports
No details available about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated areas, such as fire rings at the group site.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with bears, elk, and deer, as well as possible water hazards due to proximity to the Cispus River.
Weather at North Fork Bear Group Camp
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency contact is the main office at (360) 686-3008. Specific emergency services such as hospitals or police stations not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16–September 20 and June 5–September 19.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities, including their locations and pickup schedules, is provided in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Cispus River, which is suitable for fishing for brook trout, steelhead, and salmon.
Common complaintsComplaints include unpleasant restroom conditions, such as foul odors and lack of hand sanitizer (user review by Nick Landry).
HostThere is a host on-site who sells firewood for $10 per bundle.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom I-5, take Highway 12 east to Randle, and from there go south on Road 25 and continue until you reach a fork in the road. Take the left fork onto Road 23 and travel for about 10 miles to North Fork Campground & Group Camps.
Road access is available via Highway 12 and Forest Roads, which might include unpaved sections. No specific seasonal closures or challenging terrain mentioned.Nearby places
Randle (approximately 0 miles, travel time unavailable)
Nearby supplies
The nearest town for supplies is Randle, WA. Specific supply locations for groceries, camping gear, or fuel are not identified.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
4 reviews
North Fork Bear Group Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The North Fork Bear Group Camp receives mixed but generally positive reviews. Most users appreciate the secluded and well-maintained group site. However, some issues were noted, including the location of drinking water and the conditions of the vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the site's seclusion, ample space for tents and RVs, open areas for activities, and the scenic location near the creek. One user mentioned, 'Beautiful campsite and very clean.' Another...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints were about the vault toilet maintenance ('The bathrooms smell really bad and never had hand sanitizer in them the entire time even after "serviced"') and the inconvenient...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest being mindful of the vault toilet conditions and bringing hand sanitizer. Additionally, campers may want to prepare for the distance to access drinking water by bringing their own...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not explicitly mention seasonal variations. However, the campground is only open from mid-May to late September, suggesting that user experiences are concentrated in the summer months.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The bathrooms smell really bad and never had hand sanitizer in them the entire time even after "serviced" other than that the place is absolutely amazing.' 2. 'Grandkids had fun playing in the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific details include mentions of room for 3-4 tents and 3-4 trailers with ample turnaround space. No specific site numbers are referenced in the reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews address accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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