Big Creek (Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Wa)
4.33128 reviewsnull
Big Creek (Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Wa)
$25.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$45.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates range from $25 to $45 depending on the type of site reserved. Extra vehicle fee is $8.00. Firewood available on site for $10 per bundle.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Big Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into the Pacific Northwest wilderness. This charming, rustic retreat features thoughtfully arranged campsites along a peaceful loop, where lucky visitors can claim one of the coveted creekside spots that promise both the gentle soundtrack of flowing water and an extra measure of solitude beneath towering evergreens.
Big Creek campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping (with limitations), and primitive camping setups.
Historical SignificanceBig Creek Campground serves as a gateway to some of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic volcanic wonders. Nestled within the storied Gifford Pinchot National Forest—named for America's first Chief Forester—the campground provides easy access to the majestic Mount Rainier National Park and the dramatic landscapes of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, where visitors can witness nature's power and resilience firsthand.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late May through September, Big Creek transforms into a temperate paradise where morning mist gives way to dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy. While the Pacific Northwest's signature rain showers make frequent appearances—keeping the landscape lush and vibrant—summer days typically bring mild, comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures. During shoulder seasons, crisp nights dip to 30-40°F, reminding visitors they're camping in true mountain country where weather can shift from sunshine to showers in moments.
ElevationWhile the exact elevation remains one of Big Creek's quiet mysteries, the campground's mountain setting places visitors in that sweet spot where dense lowland forests begin their transition to alpine meadows, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring the vertical diversity of the Cascade Range.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient Douglas firs and western hemlocks tower overhead like nature's cathedral, their massive trunks creating a sense of reverence and scale. Below, graceful alders and big-leaf maples add layers of green that shift with the seasons, from spring's electric lime to autumn's golden finale. The campground's namesake creek weaves through it all, its crystal-clear waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and glimpses of the vibrant ecosystem that thrives along its banks.
Geological RegionBig Creek Campground sits at the crossroads of geological giants within the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District. This remarkable location places campers in a natural amphitheater surrounded by the Cascade Range's most famous volcanic peaks: mighty Mount Rainier commanding the northern horizon, snow-capped Mount Adams rising to the east, and the dramatically transformed Mount St. Helens standing sentinel to the west. This volcanic trinity has shaped not just the landscape but the very character of the forest, creating a dynamic environment where ancient lava flows have given way to thriving ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not appear to have explicit ADA-compliant features mentioned in the source material. However, reviews noted the size and spacing of campsites vary, making some sites more accessible than others.
Sites SizeCampsites range in size from small to large, accommodating setups like a 9x13 tent or trailer. Some sites, such as #10 and #16, are noted for their spaciousness.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites provide good privacy due to dense vegetation, but some sites near the road or creek (e.g., #1-3) offer less seclusion. User reviews highlight sites like #6 as private and scenic.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside spots like site 6 for a more scenic and private experience. Sites further from the entrance offer better quiet and isolation.
Best CampsitesSites 1-6 are highly rated for their proximity to Big Creek. Site 6 is particularly popular.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unclear from the source material.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a loop, offering varying levels of privacy and access to creekside views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-May through late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-ups; some sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly sites near the creek such as 1-6.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee and incur a $10 service fee. No-show reservations are charged a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Big Creek offers a variety of activities to complement its serene, natural environment. Anglers can fish for brook trout in Big Creek, and hikers can explore the Osborne Mountain Trail, which starts within the campground and is described as steep yet rewarding. The trail is suitable for foot, horse, mountain bike, or dirt bike travel.
Hiking
The Osborne Mountain Trail starts within the campground and features steep terrain with scenic views. Trail access is suitable for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and dirt bikers.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include brook trout angling in Big Creek. Reviewers did not specifically comment on the quality of fishing.Biking
Mountain biking is available on the Osborne Mountain Trail, which originates within the campground loop.Wildlife viewing
Campers often observed deer, squirrels, and birds. One reviewer mentioned hearing 'strange animal sounds' that added to the experience.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not applicable, as the campground operates seasonally from May to September.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not supported in this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to purchase firewood locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsNearby hazards include steep trails, swift-moving creek waters, and wildlife such as squirrels and deer. Roosters from nearby properties may cause early morning noise.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Ashford, WA, including general stores for basic supplies.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is from May 23rd to September 20th, annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but no recycling programs are explicitly mentioned. One review noted a dumpster nearby their site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Big Creek, with some campsites directly overlooking the water.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include early morning rooster noise, small campsite sizes, and issues with vault toilet cleanliness.
HostCamp hosts are generally praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. Notable hosts include Annette, who adds personalized touches to restroom maintenance.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Ashford, WA, take Forest Road 52 approximately 5 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, although some of the turns inside require tight turning radiuses, making it less suitable for large vehicles.Nearby places
Ashford (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Nisqually entrance of Mount Rainier National Park (6 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise (21 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel are in Ashford, WA, approximately 5 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
128 reviews
Big Creek (Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Wa) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Big Creek campground generally receives positive reviews, with campers appreciating its proximity to Mount Rainier, clean vault toilets, quiet environment, and helpful camp hosts. Negative reviews focus on reservation issues, noise disturbances, and small campsite sizes.
Review Summaries
Based on 128 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback emphasizes the cleanliness of facilities, privacy between campsites, peacefulness, and proximity to Mount Rainier National Park. Specific highlights include the friendly camp hosts...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include misleading reservation systems, noisy neighbors, strong odors from vault toilets, and disturbances from a nearby rooster. Some campers also struggled with small campsite...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray, baby wipes, or items for makeshift bathing due to the lack of showers. Site #6 is highly recommended for its creekside location and privacy. Additionally,...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During peak summer months, Big Creek experiences high traffic and full reservations, which can lead to crowding and noise complaints. Reviews from late spring or early fall highlight quieter stays...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campsite managers were warm and welcoming. Sure, there are no flush toilets or showers---but you're camping." - Gina Kette
"The vault toilets we used were clean and well stocked, and the host...
Based on 128 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #6 is frequently mentioned as the best site for privacy and proximity to the creek. Sites #1-3 are less private and near the road. Site #10 is described as secluded and spacious.
Based on 128 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited; however, some sites are larger and better suited for trailers or families. Vault toilets and water spigots are accessible throughout the campground.
Based on 128 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and the campground is noted as pet-friendly. One reviewer stated, "WAY more dog friendly than Cougar Rock campground."
Based on 128 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025