Bayview Campground
4.5225 reviewsBayview Campground and Bayview North Group Site, Baker Lake Road, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, WA
Bayview Campground
$7.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Firewood is available for $7 per bundle. Additional fees for campsite reservations may be listed on Recreation.gov.
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Baker Lake in the heart of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Bayview Campground offers a perfect blend of wilderness adventure and modern comfort. Following a complete reconstruction in 2017, this lakeside retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts with thoughtfully designed amenities including spacious tent pads, sturdy picnic tables, clean vault toilets, and traditional campfire rings where memories are made under starlit skies. While the campground embraces a back-to-nature experience without hookups, its updated facilities ensure a comfortable stay for all who seek the tranquility of the North Cascades.
Bayview Campground provides camping options for tent campers, RVs, and groups.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Pacific Northwest at Bayview, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow and freezing temperatures create a wonderland for the hardy adventurer. As spring melts into summer, the campground comes alive with warm, dry days perfect for lake activities and forest exploration. Seasoned campers know to pack bug spray for the summer mosquito season and to bring extra water containers, as potable water can be limited during peak times. Each season paints Baker Lake in different hues, from the misty mornings of spring to the golden afternoons of autumn.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable elevation within the Cascade foothills, Bayview Campground offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to mirror-like reflections of towering peaks on Baker Lake's glassy surface, where morning mist dances between ancient Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The campground's prime waterfront location treats visitors to an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty, from dramatic sunrises over the lake to alpenglow on distant summits. Dense coniferous forests provide a emerald backdrop and natural shade, while curious chipmunks entertain campers with their acrobatic antics. Wildlife enthusiasts should stay alert for the occasional black bear passing through the area, a reminder of the wild nature that surrounds this peaceful retreat.
Geological RegionBayview Campground rests in one of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular geological settings, where ancient glaciers carved deep valleys now filled by the turquoise waters of Baker Lake. This glacially-fed reservoir, cradled within Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, showcases the raw power of ice and time. Towering peaks crowned with permanent snowfields feed the lake through cascading streams, while the surrounding alpine terrain tells a story millions of years in the making through its dramatic ridgelines and pristine coniferous forests that blanket the mountainsides in endless green.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not discussed in the provided materials.
Sites Size"Big graveled sites" according to one user review. Another reviewer stated tent pads are large, capable of fitting up to "three 2-man tents."
Sites PrivacyDescribed as "super private" in several reviews, though one reviewer noted site 7 lacks shade during midday hours.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor lake access, Panorama Point or north campsites closer to water are suggested.
Best CampsitesSite 7 is noted for privacy but lacks shade between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Site 23 and the day-use area are popular.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
User reports mention stays exceeding the usual limit, such as 13 nights. Official limits are unspecified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
User reviews mention tent pads that accommodate multiple tents but do not specify guest limits.
Groups
Bayview North Group Site is approximately a quarter mile north of the main campground, but specific details regarding capacity and vehicle limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are large and private, with gravel pads and a mix of shaded and open areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season dates are referenced on Recreation.gov but not explicitly detailed in the provided materials.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov as per authoritative sources.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome user reviews state walk-up availability is very limited and may only support one-night stays.
Cancellation PolicyUser reviews indicate confusion over the reservation system and lack of walk-up availability. Official cancellation policies are unspecified.
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
Bayview Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The scenic views and proximity to Baker Lake are praised in user reviews.
Hiking
"Several hiking trails and climbing routes are within a short driving distance," per the authoritative description. Shadow of the Sentinels, a short half-mile interpretive trail, and the Blue Lake hike are recommended in user reviews.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Swimming
Users report lake access for swimming but note limited beach areas and difficult access points. "Day use area is cute," but some sites lack direct lake access.Boating
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities. Reviews mention a "great launch point" for kayaks and SUPs, but crowded landings and interference from motorized boats are noted as challenges.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include chipmunks and occasional bears, according to user reviews.Beach activities
Limited beach area noted, with only one small beach accessible via trail.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities, with users recommending bringing equipment for Baker Lake exploration.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted at designated fire rings. Firewood is available for $7 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCritters such as chipmunks and mice are common. Some users report mouse infestations in campers. Bears have been sighted in the area.
Active alertsUser reviews state no potable water availability during 2023 season and seasonal challenges like crowded day-use areas.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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 in Sedro-Woolley, which includes hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the source materials. Users are advised to keep food stored to avoid issues with critters such as mice and chipmunks.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to Baker Lake. Access includes a beach and paddle launch points, but lake access from campsites is limited.
Common complaintsMouse infestations, lack of potable water in recent years, and limited lake access from campsites.
HostCamp hosts are described as helpful and friendly. Host availability is at Horseshoe Cove, not Bayview Campground.
Campground Map
Bayview Campground and Bayview North Group Site, Baker Lake Road, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, WA
Driving directionsFrom the Mt. Baker Ranger District in Sedro-Woolley, WA, follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue for 18 miles to the Horseshoe Cove Campground Road (Forest Service road 1118). Then turn right and go approximately 1.75 miles to Bayview Campground signs.
Access is via paved roads until the Horseshoe Cove Campground Road (Forest Service Road 1118). Roads are generally accessible year-round but may be subject to seasonal conditions typical of forest roads.Nearby places
Sedro-Woolley (approximately 34.8 miles, about 45 minutes drive), Concrete (approximately 16 miles, 20-25 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
The nearest store is approximately 30 minutes away, likely in Concrete. Campers should bring sufficient supplies or be prepared for a drive to restock items like ice, food, and camping gear.
Camper Reviews
4.5
25 reviews
Bayview Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is mixed, with positive highlights on cleanliness, helpful camp hosts, and scenic views. However, complaints about mice infestations, crowded day-use areas, and lake access are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, scenic views, helpful camp hosts, and a quiet atmosphere are frequently praised. Multiple users commend the availability of recreational activities like kayaking and hiking.
Based on 25 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lake access challenges, crowded day-use areas, and mice infestations are noted in reviews. Some campers reported inconsistent information on site availability and reservations.
Based on 25 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, store food securely to avoid mice and critters, and consider bringing water purification methods due to inconsistent potable water availability. Kayaks and paddleboards are highly...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight recreational opportunities but also mention overcrowding and cleanliness issues later in the season. Spring reviews are more positive regarding privacy and quiet conditions.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Bring bug spray!" - Rachel Hollowell 2. "Absolutely bomber campground!" - TJ Gerrity 3. "Camp host Jason was especially helpful." - Danny Ziebelman 4. "Facilities are basic – vault toilets and no...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific mentions include: Site 7 - lacks shade during midday hours; Site 14 - severe mice infestation reported; Site 17 - potable water nearby; Site 23 - scenic views and proximity to day-use...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically addressed in the reviews or authoritative materials.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific pet-related details mentioned.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025