How much does camping cost at Gold Basin Campground?

Camping fees at Gold Basin Campground are $37 - $279/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Gold Basin Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Gold Basin Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Gold Basin Campground before I book?

Yes! Gold Basin Campground has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Gold Basin Campground?

Gold Basin Campground is open May 15 to September 11. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Gold Basin Campground?

Gold Basin Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Gold Basin Campground?

Fire policies at Gold Basin Campground: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Gold Basin Campground have?

Gold Basin Campground has 99 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Gold Basin Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Gold Basin Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Gold Basin Campground?

Gold Basin Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Gold Basin Campground?

Popular activities at Gold Basin Campground include Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Gold Basin Campground

3.98

77 reviews

Top 23% in WASummer

CReport Card

Featured in:Fishing Camping Washington

Quick Facts

1,135 ft

Price

$37 - $279/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

99 campsites

Season

Open May 16 to Septe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,135 ft

Price

$37 - $279/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

99 campsites

Season

Open May 16 to Septe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Gold Basin Campground

$37.00 - $279.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $275.00 (+$4.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $74.00 (+$4.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $37.00 (+$2.00 holiday); TENT ONLY...

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Provider

360-804-1103

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Campground Map

Gold Basin Campground

48.0776, -121.7380

Weather at Gold Basin Campground

Current alerts(8)

Click here for more information about Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests.
Extra Vehicles: One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per single tent site. Two RVs with tow vehicle per double site or two vehicles per double tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee.
Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

Best Time to Camp at Gold Basin Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and full access to Gold Basin's trails and river — expect daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s. This is prime time for hiking, river swimming, trout fishing on the South Fork Stillaguamish, and mountain biking, with wildflower meadows and great views of Mt. Baker. Facilities are fully staffed during the open season (May 16–Sept 13) but expect higher visitor numbers and a reservation period (June 27–Sept 13), so book early. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in WA

Best season: full trail and river access, reliable weather, peak use and prime camping months.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 11. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 16 to September 13; closed outside this period including a reservation period from June 27 to September 13.

About Gold Basin Campground

Gold Basin Campground sits along the South Fork Stillaguamish River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, a short drive from Granite Falls in the Cascade foothills. Managed by the Forest Service, this large campground serves as a basecamp for hikers tackling Lake 22 and other nearby trails, with spacious sites spread among old-growth forest and river access for fishing and swimming. Reviewers consistently praise the privacy between sites, wildlife sightings, and helpful camp hosts during the seasonal operating window.

Gold Basin Campground offers diverse accommodation options, including primitive camping, tent sites, and RV spots. There is also a large group site that accommodates up to 75 guests.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and full access to Gold Basin's trails and river — expect daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s. This is prime time for hiking, river swimming, trout fishing on the South Fork Stillaguamish, and mountain biking, with wildflower meadows and great views of Mt. Baker. Facilities are fully staffed during the open season (May 16–Sept 13) but expect higher visitor numbers and a reservation period (June 27–Sept 13), so book early. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1135 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a river valley at 1,135 feet, where Douglas fir, western hemlock, and old-growth cedar create dense canopy and privacy between sites. The South Fork Stillaguamish runs clear and cold through the property. Popular for swimming and fishing. On clear days, Mt. Baker's glaciated peak is visible to the north. Moss covers the forest floor, and the river provides constant background noise throughout the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Gold Basin Mill Pond interpretive trail offers educational insights into the area's natural and cultural history, including interpretive signs discussing mill relics and local wildlife.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights

Guests Allowed Per Site

Single sites allow for 1 vehicle and 1 legally towed vehicle
extra vehicles incur an $8 fee.

Groups

The group site can accommodate up to 75 people. It is designed for larger gatherings and includes access to the same amenities as individual sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityGold Basin Campground offers a short, barrier-free interpretive trail across the street at the Gold Basin Mill Pond, which is wheelchair accessible. However, no specific details about site or restroom accessibility were provided.

Site SizeSites range in size from standard to group-sized, accommodating up to 75 people at the group site.

PrivacySites are described as 'spacious,' with many offering privacy due to trees and vegetation. Some sites, like #93, are specifically noted for their seclusion.

Total Campsites99 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites with tables placed too close to fire pits for better usability. Site maps are recommended for locating river access points.

Best CampsitesSite 71 sits close to amenities with decent privacy. Site 93 offers better seclusion and proximity to the river. Many sites benefit from spacing and old-growth vegetation, though expect more noise during busy summer weekends.

Need help booking Gold Basin Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

This is a NO WATER facility, so campers will need to bring their own supply.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Gold Basin Campground

Gold Basin Campground caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for hiking, fishing, biking, picnicking, and horseback riding during the warmer months. Winter activities include skiing and snowshoeing. The nearby Gold Basin Mill Pond interpretive trail offers a cultural and historical perspective of the area.

Hiking4.0/5

Basecamp for Lake 22 and other trails; Lake 22 trailhead ~1 mile away and hikers use the site as staging.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Area hosts deer, ravens, eagles and rarer species; wildlife spotting is commonly mentioned.

Fishing3.5/5

Water Sports2.0/5

River is clear and cold but no kayaking facilities or mentions; likely limited for kayaks.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5River, old-growth forest and Mt. Baker vistas provide varied photo subjects; wildlife sightings add interest.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

77 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Gold Basin Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Gold Basin Campground is appreciated for its scenic beauty along the Stillaguamish River, spacious campsites, and proximity to hiking trails. However, recent closures and maintenance issues, including vault toilets and shower availability, have been points of contention.

Review Summaries

Based on 77 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 77 reviews.

Site #93Loved
Site #93 is highly rated for privacy and proximity to the river.
Site #71Loved
Site #71 offers convenience near restrooms and amenities but is less private.

What Campers Love

Highlights include scenic river views, spacious and private campsites, and proximity to popular hiking trails like Lake 22. Wildlife spotting is common, and many reviewers appreciated the helpfulness...

Based on 77 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of running water, showers, and flush toilets, as well as maintenance issues with vault toilets. Noise from neighboring sites and the absence of a walk-in policy for...

Based on 77 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing drinking water, bug spray, and extra toilet paper. Site #71 is noted for its good location near amenities, while site #93 offers privacy. Reviewers advise reserving sites...

Based on 77 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular camping season, with access to hiking and river activities. Winter is less frequented but offers activities like skiing and snowshoeing. Multi-day stays during holidays are...

Based on 77 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The North loop of the campground is along the river and great for views, but use caution near drop-offs." – Troy Center. "This used to be a city; the campground layout reflects its unique history."...

Based on 77 reviews

Accessibility Features

The short, barrier-free interpretive trail provides an accessible option for exploring local history. No specific campsite accessibility features were noted.

Based on 77 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed and welcomed by most campers, though no specific pet-related facilities are mentioned.

Based on 77 reviews

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Gold Basin Campground

$37.00 - $279.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $275.00 (+$4.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $74.00 (+$4.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $37.00 (+$2.00 holiday); TENT ONLY...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

360-804-1103

Go if

You want a well-spaced basecamp for hiking Lake 22 with river access and don't mind premium rates.

Skip if

You need flush toilets or want to avoid weekend crowds during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

3.8

(25)

Wiley Creek Group Camp

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Wiley Creek Group Camp sits along the Stillaguamish River in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest foothills near Granite Falls. This primitive group site offers spacious shelters and trailhead access surrounded by mossy old-growth forest. Managed by the Forest Service, it draws groups seeking riverside camping and summer fishing, though maintenance and signage have been inconsistent.

Gold Basin Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Gold Basin Campground

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Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Gold Basin Campground

Planning Tips

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Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Gold Basin Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Gold Basin Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns