Bedal Campground
4.3142 reviewsBedal Campground
$27.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.00
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
Nightly rates for standard non-electric sites during peak season range from $27.00 to $54.00, with additional charges for holidays ($2.00 or $4.00). No discounts, taxes, or incremental charges included.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Bedal Campground, where 21 rustic campsites nestle alongside the rushing waters of the Sauk River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This primitive wilderness retreat invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. Each site comes equipped with the camping essentials—a sturdy picnic table, level tent pad, and crackling campfire ring—while vault toilets and a charming Adirondack shelter provide basic comforts. Launch your kayak or canoe from the convenient boat ramp and explore the pristine river waters, or simply relax to the soothing soundtrack of flowing water and rustling forest.
Bedal Campground primarily offers primitive camping with standard non-electric sites. It caters to tent campers and smaller trailers, with few accommodations for larger RVs.
Historical SignificanceBedal Campground sits within the storied Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, a landscape that has captivated adventurers, loggers, and nature lovers for generations. This corner of the Pacific Northwest tells tales of ancient forests, indigenous heritage, and the American conservation movement. While the campground itself offers a peaceful retreat, history buffs and curious minds can venture to the nearby North Cascades and Mt. Rainier National Parks, where ranger-led interpretive programs bring the region's rich cultural and natural heritage to life through engaging stories and educational experiences.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the North Cascades at Bedal. Summer brings warm days perfect for river activities, though wise campers come prepared with insect repellent to ward off the buzzing mosquito welcoming committee. As autumn arrives, crisp air and changing leaves create a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, bringing freezing temperatures and potentially challenging road conditions. Spring can be unpredictable with heavy rains that may make the already rugged access roads impassable—always check conditions before your journey.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted wilderness where nature puts on its finest show. In July and August, the forest floor erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers—brilliant Indian paintbrush, delicate phlox, fiery tiger lilies, purple asters, elegant columbines, and towering lupines create a living tapestry of color. This pristine habitat serves as a sanctuary for some of North America's most elusive creatures. Lucky visitors might spot tracks or signs of the rare Canada lynx, majestic moose, mysterious wolves, or the legendary wolverine—wildlife that reminds us we're guests in their untouched domain.
Geological RegionPerched on the dramatic western slopes of the Cascade Range, Bedal Campground showcases the raw geological power that shaped Washington State. Here, glacier-carved peaks pierce the sky while ancient ice fields glisten in the distance. The campground rests in a valley where centuries-old Douglas firs and western red cedars tower overhead, their massive trunks testament to the region's temperate rainforest climate. The star of the show is the Sauk River, whose crystal-clear waters have carved through volcanic rock for millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness adventure in this land where fire and ice continue their eternal dance.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite accessibility varies. Site 7 requires walking up a short dirt path and may not be accessible for users needing flat surfaces. No ADA-specific accommodations were noted in the provided data.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. Some sites are suitable for tents and smaller trailers, while others cater better to single tents and vehicles. "Most sites seem a little small for anything more than a tent and one vehicle," noted one reviewer.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at sites varies. Riverfront sites are noted for being less private but offer scenic views. "Riverfront sites are close together with little brush between," remarked a camper.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river have better views but less privacy. Consider bringing insect repellent for bugs in summer.
Best CampsitesSites 12 and 13 are noted for proximity to the river but lack privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by check-out time the day following the arrival date.
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One RV or tow vehicle per site
- or one vehicle for tent camping site. Double sites allow two RVs or vehicles.
Groups
Group camping options were not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is laid out in loops, with sites along the Sauk River and others near the road.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 16, 2025, and closes September 13, 2025. Out-of-season dates include September 14, 2025 to May 15, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are described as reservable through Recreation.gov. First-come-first-serve availability is not explicitly detailed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled one day before check-in to avoid late cancellation fees ($10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fees). Changes also incur a $10 fee. Once the reservation start date begins, cancellations or modifications are not allowed.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bedal Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and river access for non-motorized watercraft. "Great nearby trails," commented a user, referring to the area's 1,500 miles of hiking opportunities within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the surrounding Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest cater to all skill levels, from leisurely forest walks to challenging mountain ascents. "Great waterfall and old growth stand of cedars," one camper noted, referencing nearby attractions. Highlights include the Sauk Mountain Trail, which offers stunning vistas and wildflowers.Fishing
Fishing is available, with access to the Sauk River provided. Detailed information about fish species or fishing quality is not provided.Biking
Biking opportunities are present, though specific trail details are not provided.Boating
Non-motorized watercraft can access the Sauk River via a provided boat ramp. "Visitors can access the Sauk River from the campground," noted a source.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes rare species such as lynx, moose, wolves, and wolverines, alongside numerous mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are noted for Bedal Campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as paddling, are supported via river access and a boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry weather. Campfires and charcoal fires may be prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsBears may be present; bear boxes are provided for food storage. Roads leading to the campground are rough and require careful navigation.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 13, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo recycling facilities were mentioned. Trash cans are described as bear-proof, enhancing safety and cleanliness. "Bear-proof trash cans were a nice amenity," stated a camper.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Sauk River, with direct access for whitewater paddling. Riverfront sites are available.
Common complaintsRoad to the campground is reportedly rough, with potholes causing issues for low-clearance vehicles. Some sites near the road experience dust and traffic noise. Insects such as mosquitoes are prevalent.
HostCamp host available; noted for selling firewood and assisting guests.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Darrington, Washington, travel 16 miles southeast on the graveled single lane section of the Mt. Loop Scenic Byway. The campground is located on the west side of the road at mile post 37, just beyond the junction of Mt. Loop and Forest Road 49.
The campground is accessed via Mountain Loop Scenic Byway, which includes a graveled single-lane section for the last 7.5 miles. Road conditions can be variable due to weather and maintenance, causing bumps and potholes. It is recommended to access the campground via Darrington rather than from Barlow Pass, which may be gated.Nearby places
Darrington, WA: 16 miles southeast (Travel time not specified)
Nearby supplies
Darrington, WA, is the nearest town offering essential supplies, groceries, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
42 reviews
Bedal Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's secluded and rustic nature, praising its proximity to the river and old-growth trees. "This drive-in campground is remote enough to really give you the deep woods feel," remarked one camper. However, concerns about road conditions, lack of amenities, and bugs are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Users commonly praise the natural beauty, including the Sauk River and surrounding old-growth forest, and the remoteness of the campground. "Excellent river," and "Beautiful location and sites," are...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include poor road conditions, seasonal bugs, lack of privacy in some sites, and limited amenities like potable water.
Based on 42 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing insect repellent and driving carefully due to potholes on the gravel road. "Bring your own locally purchased firewood and enough water," advised one camper.
Based on 42 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention bugs and high heat but praise the lush greenery and proximity to the river.
Based on 42 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great nearby trails," "Bedal is smaller campsite and rather quiet and pretty," "Vault toilet was clean," and "Several sites were unoccupied including two right next to me on the river," are notable...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Notable site-specific feedback includes privacy concerns for riverfront sites and dust issues near the road. "Site 12 seemed to have the best sandy beach area and river access, but also lacked any...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is limited, as some sites require uneven walking paths. "Site 7 required walking up a short dirt path from the parking area," noted a reviewer.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific pet-friendly features were noted.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025