Horseshoe Cove Campground

Star4.25
312 reviews
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

801 ft

Price

$37 - $74/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

39 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Horseshoe Cove Campground
$37.00 - $74.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric sites range between $37.00 and $74.00 per night depending on season and booking window. An additional $2 or $4 applies for...
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Standard Site Fee$37.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$98.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
360-804-1103
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What Campers Say

4.25

Satisfactory

Based on 312 reviews

169 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsspacioushikinglake

Some mention

crowded

"Overall, Horseshoe Cove Campground is well-received for its scenic location on Baker Lake, spacious campsites, and access to a variety of recreational activities. However, issues such as poorly maintained bathrooms, mosquitoes, and noise from other campers are commonly mentioned."

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Campground Map

Horseshoe Cove Campground

48.6719, -121.6764

Driving directionsFrom Seattle, go north on I-5 to Burlington. Take Exit 230 on State Highway 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 15.1 miles. Turn right at the Horseshoe Cove Road junction. Head 2 miles down Horseshoe Cove Road, past Bayview Campground to the campground.
Good access but may include unpaved sections. Some reviews note that the non-National Forest roads leading to the campground may not be well-maintained. User review: 'The non-National Forest roads into the campground aren't well maintained by the county or state but as soon as you cross into the National Forest those comfortable brown signs appear and the area feels welcoming again.'

Best Time to Camp at Horseshoe Cove Campground

Experience the authentic rhythms of the Pacific Northwest, where misty mornings give way to sun-dappled afternoons and summer temperatures hover in the comfortable 70s. While the region's signature rainfall nurtures the lush forest canopy, it also creates those magical moments when sunbeams pierce through the trees after a shower. Summer visitors should come prepared for the local welcoming committee of mosquitoes—a small price to pay for camping in this thriving ecosystem. Pack your rain jacket alongside your sunscreen, and you'll be ready for whatever moods the mountain weather brings.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and busiest May 16–Sep 13; warm (~70s), great activities, but crowded and buggy in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
Not recommended

Campground is closed outside May 16–Sep 13, so typical fall season is not supported.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Late spring (after May 16) offers mild weather and open facilities, but access is limited early spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed outside May 16–Sep 13; winter camping/activities not available at this site.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 16 to September 13.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open for reservations from May 16 to September 13 during peak season; closed outside these dates.
  • Current Alerts: Flush toilets are frequently reported as out of service. Mosquito outbreaks are common in summer. Camp host availability has been spotty based on reviews.

About Horseshoe Cove Campground

Tucked beneath a verdant canopy of towering evergreens, Horseshoe Cove Campground offers an enchanting escape along the pristine shores of Baker Lake. This gem within Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest seamlessly blends waterfront charm with forest serenity, where campers can choose between sites that whisper with lake breezes or those sheltered in the embrace of ancient trees. Wake to the gentle lapping of waves, launch your boat from the convenient ramp, or spend lazy afternoons on the sandy swimming beach. Well-maintained trails beckon explorers, while modern amenities like flush toilets and on-site firewood sales ensure comfort meets wilderness. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Horseshoe Cove delivers the quintessential Pacific Northwest camping experience.
Horseshoe Cove Campground provides a variety of camping options, including standard nonelectric sites and group sites. It caters to both tent and RV campers, with some sites located directly near the lakeshore and others nestled under forest canopies.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 14 nights,

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Horseshoe Cove Campground provides a range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The highlights include boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife observation. The location on Baker Lake offers direct access to water-based recreation, while nearby trails provide hiking opportunities with scenic views.
HikingSeveral trails, including the Baker Lake and Baker River Trails, are accessible nearby. The Baker Lake Trail stretches 13 miles along the eastern shoreline, and the Baker River Trail offers a 2.25-mile hike through old-growth forests into North Cascades National Park.
FishingFishing is a popular activity at Baker Lake, with opportunities to catch various types of trout. The lake's glacial waters provide a scenic backdrop for anglers.
SwimmingThe campground features a designated sandy swim beach with roped-off areas, making it safe for families and children. However, some user reviews mention the swim area getting crowded during peak times.
BoatingBoating is supported with a boat ramp provided on-site. The lake accommodates both motorized and non-motorized watercraft, with some reviews highlighting the busy nature of the lake during summer weekends.
Wildlife viewingThe area offers opportunities for wildlife observation, with its old-growth forests and proximity to glacial mountains.
Beach activitiesBeach-related activities include sunbathing and picnicking, primarily centered around the campground's sandy swim beach. Some reviews note that the beach area can become congested, particularly with day-use visitors.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes and unpredictable weather are common. Wildlife encounters are possible. Some reviews mention issues with theft and disruptive campers.
Active AlertsFlush toilets are frequently reported as out of service. Mosquito outbreaks are common in summer. Camp host availability has been spotty based on reviews.

Weather at Horseshoe Cove Campground

Reviews

4.3
312 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Horseshoe Cove Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Horseshoe Cove Campground is well-received for its scenic location on Baker Lake, spacious campsites, and access to a variety of recreational activities. However, issues such as poorly maintained bathrooms, mosquitoes, and noise from other campers are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 312 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the campground's proximity to the lake, spacious and private campsites, and abundance of recreational opportunities like swimming, hiking, and boating. Many also note the stunning views...
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Based on 312 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include inadequate restroom maintenance, loud and disruptive visitors, overcrowded swim areas, and the prevalence of mosquitoes. Some users also report a lack of enforcement of...
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Based on 312 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers advise bringing mosquito repellant and extra toilet paper due to inconsistent restroom maintenance. Early arrival is recommended to secure desirable spots, especially near the lake....
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Based on 312 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are the most popular, with peak crowds and busy facilities. Mosquito activity is reported to be high during this time. Some users mention that the swim beach and boat ramp can become...
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Based on 312 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake is beautiful for swimming and water sports, and it's super easy to get to." "The campground is beautiful and right on the lake. Nice swimming area and small boat ramp." "Plenty of trash...
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Based on 312 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #23 is noted for its large size and partial lake views. Campsite #35 is described as spacious and good for larger groups, but with no direct water access. Campsite #18 is frequently praised...
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Based on 312 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features include flush toilets and trails. However, some reviews note that certain sites with steep or uneven access paths may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 312 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but leash rules are not always enforced. Some campers mention issues with off-leash dogs causing disturbances.
Based on 312 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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