Boardman Group Camp
4.396 reviewsBoardman Group Camp
$140.00 - $140.00 / 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$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The daily rate for the Group Standard Nonelectric site is $140 during peak season (May 16 - Sep. 12). Out-of-season bookings are not available.
About this campground
Nestled along the winding Mountain Loop Scenic Byway, Boardman Group Campground beckons adventure seekers to gather where the Stillaguamish River whispers through ancient forests. Just 8 miles east of the Verlot Public Service Center, this riverside sanctuary accommodates groups of up to 35 people, serving as your gateway to pristine wilderness trails, world-class fishing spots, and endless mountain adventures. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout trip, or outdoor celebration, Boardman offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wild beauty.
Boardman Group Campground is a group site suitable for up to 35 people. It accommodates tents and RVs but is not designed for individual or family camping.
Historical SignificanceIn the shadow of mighty Mt. Baker, an active volcano that has shaped this landscape for millennia, Boardman sits within a region rich with geological drama. The snow-capped summit of Mt. Baker, visible on clear days, conceals a 1,300-foot-deep ice-filled crater—a reminder of the powerful forces that carved these valleys and peaks. This volcanic giant has long captured the imagination of Native peoples, early explorers, and modern adventurers alike, standing as a sentinel over the surrounding wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the North Cascades at Boardman. When winter blankets the landscape in snow, the campground becomes a launching pad for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures through hushed, frost-kissed forests. As spring melts into summer, the trails come alive with wildflowers and the river runs clear and cool—perfect for casting a line or cooling tired feet after a day of hiking. Early fall paints the surrounding peaks in golden hues, offering some of the year's most spectacular hiking and horseback riding conditions before the cycle begins anew.
ElevationThe campground's riverside setting provides a comfortable base camp for exploring the varied elevations of the surrounding Cascade peaks and valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of the Stillaguamish River as it dances over moss-draped boulders just steps from your campsite. Towering old-growth giants—ancient cedars, Douglas firs, and western hemlocks—create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into ethereal green shadows. The riverbank ecosystem reveals nature's artistry at every turn: emerald mosses carpet the forest floor, ferns unfurl in shaded groves, and the air carries the sweet scent of cedar. Nearby trails lead deeper into this enchanted landscape, promising breathtaking vistas and intimate encounters with one of the Pacific Northwest's most pristine forests.
Geological RegionBoardman Group Campground rests in the heart of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, where the Stillaguamish River has carved its course through a landscape of rugged Cascade peaks for countless centuries. This geological wonderland showcases the raw power of tectonic forces, glacial carving, and volcanic activity. The surrounding peaks thrust skyward in dramatic relief, while below, the patient river continues its ancient work, flowing through groves of cedar, fir, and hemlock that have stood sentinel for hundreds of years. It's a landscape that tells the story of fire and ice, time and transformation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible vault toilets. However, there are steep drop-offs to the river, which may pose challenges for visitors with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeThe site accommodates up to 35 people, with RVs welcome. It features 4 tent pads and one or two extra small spaces for additional tents, according to user reviews.
Sites PrivacyThe layout is long and narrow, offering some separation between individual sites. User reviews mention the sites being spread apart and not conducive to tight-knit group camping.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFamilies with small children should be cautious of steep riverbank drop-offs. Bring a raft for accessing the opposite bank of the river, which offers shallow water and a larger beach area.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001, according to user reviews, offers close river access via a small trail near the third campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time information not mentioned. Null.
Check-out
Check-out time information not mentioned. Null.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 35 people max
Groups
The site accommodates up to 35 people and allows RV parking in a driveway without a turnaround. User reviews describe several spots along the river side and a central area for multiple tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is described as a driveway with campsite spots spread along the river side and the road on the other side. The central area can accommodate multiple tents, but most sites are spread apart.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 through September 12 annually; no bookings outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up first-come-first-served availability is not mentioned. Null.
Cancellation PolicyYou can cancel the reservation any time before your scheduled arrival date for a refund, minus a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boardman Group Campground offers a variety of activities suitable for all seasons. Visitors can engage in hiking, fishing, and horseback riding during summer and early fall. Winter activities include skiing and snowshoeing. The Stillaguamish River provides opportunities for anglers, swimmers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Hiking
Reviews and authoritative sources highlight nearby trails such as Lake 22 and Mt. Pilchuck as excellent hiking options. The campground is also close to wilderness areas.Fishing
The Stillaguamish River offers fishing opportunities for chinook, coho, chum, pink and sockeye salmon, steelhead trout, sea-run cutthroat, and bull trout. User reviews describe the river as beautiful and suitable for fishing.Swimming
The river is suitable for swimming, though its temperature can be cold, especially in May and June. User reviews note access at specific sites for swimming or dipping.Wildlife viewing
The region is home to diverse wildlife, including rare species such as lynx, moose, wolves, wolverine, and black bears. Grizzly bears have been confirmed in the Cascade region.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing are available during the colder months.Water Sports
No mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours information is not mentioned. Null.
Hazards
General hazardsSafety concerns include steep drop-offs near campsites to the river below, as noted in user reviews. Wildlife hazards include black bears and occasional grizzly bears.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts are mentioned in the provided data.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.6 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
Closest emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative source. Null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 12
Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of specific trash and recycling facilities. Visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Stillaguamish River, users report steep drop-offs to the river below. However, limited direct access to the river is available near the third campsite.
Common complaintsUser complaints include steep drop-offs to the river, limited tent pads, and spread-out campsites which impact group camping experiences.
HostCamp hosts are available at the nearby Verlot Campground at milepost 11 on the Mtn. Loop Highway.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, go north on I-5 to Everett. Take exit 194 onto Highway 2. At Highway 204, go north to Lake Stevens. Turn north on Highway 9. Turn east on Highway 92 to Granite Falls. The campground is approximately 16 miles east of Granite Falls on Highway 7 Scenic Byway.
The campground is accessed via Highway 7 Scenic Byway, which is likely paved, though no specific information about its condition is mentioned. It is approximately 16 miles east of Granite Falls.Nearby places
Granite Falls, WA - 16 miles east
Nearby supplies
If assistance is required, visitors are advised to visit camp hosts at the nearby Verlot Campground (milepost 11 on the Mountain Loop Highway). Water and firewood are also available there.
Camper Reviews
4.4
6 reviews
Boardman Group Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate mixed sentiments about the layout and amenities of the campground. The tranquil river setting and forested surroundings are highly praised, but the spread-out layout of campsites is a common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include the tranquil river setting, access to trails such as Lake 22 and Mt. Pilchuck, and opportunities for fishing and swimming. Visitors also appreciate the privacy of...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often mention the spread-out layout of the campground, which is not conducive to group camping. Some users also highlight the steep drop-offs to the river as a safety concern for families...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing a raft for easier access to the shallow, calm waters on the opposite bank of the river. They also suggest bringing sufficient water and supplies due to the lack of potable...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that river temperatures are colder in May and June, becoming more suitable for swimming in late July or August. Winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing are popular during colder...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
User quotes include: “The river is beautiful and lovely for a dip, swim or for fishing!” (Sarah Bollard); “Spots are somewhat spread apart and separate but that worked fine for us!” (Stephanie L);...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for site 001 indicate it is long and narrow, with steep drop-offs to the river below. Users highlight its privacy and proximity to the river despite limited direct river access.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited due to steep drop-offs to the river. Vault toilets are available but may not be suitable for visitors with severe mobility challenges.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or mentions regarding pet policies or experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025