Esswine Group Camp
3.757 reviewsEsswine Group Camp
$100.00 - $100.00 / 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$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group campsite rate is $100 per night during the peak season (May 16 - September 13). Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or additional charges.
About this campground
Escape to your own private wilderness retreat at Esswine Group Camp, where the pristine Stillaguamish River winds through ancient forests, creating the perfect backdrop for unforgettable group adventures. This exclusive single-site campground welcomes both tent enthusiasts and RV travelers, offering complete privacy for family reunions, scout troops, or friends seeking to reconnect with nature. Summer days invite exploration through hiking trails, fishing expeditions, and scenic horseback rides, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-lover's paradise perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures.
Esswine Group Camp is designed as a group camping facility, accommodating up to 25 people. The site allows a combination of tent and RV camping, providing flexibility for diverse group needs. It is well-suited for families and friends seeking a private camping experience.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the legendary Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Esswine Group Camp stands as a gateway to one of the Pacific Northwest's most treasured landscapes. This protected wilderness has served as a vital sanctuary for centuries, preserving irreplaceable old-growth forests and providing critical habitat for countless species. The forest's rich heritage reflects the region's commitment to conservation, ensuring future generations can experience these ancient woodlands just as nature intended.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the Pacific Northwest, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for cold-weather enthusiasts. As spring melts into summer, the forest awakens with temperate days perfect for camping, when wildflowers bloom along riverbanks and warm sunshine filters through the canopy. The prime camping season stretches through the mild summer months, offering comfortable temperatures for outdoor adventures and cozy evenings around the campfire.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's mountain forest setting promises that refreshing alpine air and cooler temperatures that make Pacific Northwest camping so memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering old-growth cedar, fir, and hemlock trees, where centuries-old giants create a verdant canopy overhead. The crystalline Stillaguamish River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its gentle rapids and quiet pools providing sanctuary for wild salmon during their epic upstream journeys. In the distance, the majestic Mt. Baker rises like a sentinel, its snow-capped volcanic peak and sprawling glaciers creating a breathtaking backdrop that changes with every shift of light and weather.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of the Cascade Range at this Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest gem, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of unparalleled diversity. The campground rests in a valley carved by the Stillaguamish River, surrounded by slopes clothed in magnificent old-growth forests of cedar, fir, and hemlock. This dynamic region showcases the Pacific Northwest's volcanic heritage, with the iconic Mt. Baker standing as a stunning reminder of the Earth's power—its active volcanic peak adorned with extensive glaciers that feed the pristine waterways below.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited. The trail to the river has been described as steep and difficult to access for some users: 'The path to the river could be a bit more accessible,' stated one reviewer.
Sites SizeThe single group site accommodates about 25 campers and allows for a mix of tent and RV setups. User feedback highlights the ample space, with one review noting, 'Tiene mucho espacio. Puedes poner 6 casas/tiendas de acampar con su propio lugar para fuego.'
Sites PrivacyThe group site offers moderate privacy. While there is plenty of room for multiple set-ups, reviews mention both 'hidden spaces for camping' and shared areas like the fire pit and table. Privacy may depend on the configuration of tents and vehicles.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers should bring their own water as the site lacks water facilities. Those seeking river access should be prepared for steep or obstructed trails.
Best CampsitesThis is a group-only campsite accommodating up to 25 campers, so individual campsite preferences are not applicable.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and up to 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 campers allowed in the group site.
Groups
The single group site accommodates up to 25 campers. It is ideal for a mix of tent and RV camping setups. Users have highlighted the spaciousness of the site, with one review noting 'plenty of space for campers and tents.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group campsite accommodating tent and RVs, with areas designated for campfires and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates in a seasonal manner, with bookings allowed from May 16 to September 13 during peak season. It is closed for reservations during off-season (September 14 to May 15).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis is a reservable campsite and walk-up availability is not mentioned in the sources.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up to the reservation start date at a $10 cancellation fee, plus additional penalties for late cancellations. For group sites, late cancellations within 14 days of the reservation forfeit the first night's 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
Esswine Group Camp offers a variety of activities year-round, catering to both summer and winter visitors. During the warmer months, campers can enjoy hiking, fishing, picnicking, and horseback riding. The Stillaguamish River, which runs adjacent to the campground, provides opportunities for fishing and wading. Winter visitors benefit from proximity to skiing and snowshoeing areas. The old-growth forests and natural surroundings make this site ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity in the area. The campground is surrounded by old-growth forests and trails winding through moss-covered rocks. However, access to certain trails may be challenging as some are described as 'very steep at the beginning.' Nearby attractions such as the Pacific Crest Trail expand hiking opportunities for experienced adventurers.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Esswine Group Camp. The Stillaguamish River is known for its diverse salmon population, including Chinook, coho, chum, pink, and sockeye salmon. Additionally, steelhead trout and bull trout are present. One user review describes the river as 'sufficiently deep for fishing.'Wildlife viewing
Visitors have the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife in the surrounding area, including rare species such as lynx, moose, wolves, and wolverines. Grizzly and black bears have also been sighted in the region. Bird-watching and exploring the old-growth forests are popular among nature enthusiasts.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing and snowshoeing in the surrounding areas, making Esswine Group Camp a year-round destination.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but restrictions may apply during dry weather.
Hazards
General hazardsPossible hazards include common wildlife like black bears, and, although rare, grizzly bear sightings have occurred. Visitors should also be cautious around potentially steep trails to the river.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather. Campground is a no-water facility.
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
Assistance can be sought at the nearby Verlot Campground at milepost 11 on the Mtn. Loop Highway, where additional resources like firewood and water are available. For facility-specific inquiries, campers can call 360-804-1103.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present on-site. However, some users reported issues with maintenance, stating, 'Many of the garbage cans were already full.'
Proximity to water featuresSet along the Stillaguamish River, the campground is close to the water for fishing and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsCommon issues include strong odors from vault toilets and steep or overgrown trails to the river.
HostA campground host named Kevin was mentioned in a recent review, providing local assistance.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, Washington, go north on I-5 to Everett. Take exit 194 onto Highway 2, then at Highway 204 go north toward Lake Stevens. Turn north on Highway 9, then 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 accessible via the Highway 7 Scenic Byway, which is suitable for regular vehicles given no challenging terrain or seasonal closures are mentioned in the source.Nearby places
Granite Falls (16 miles east).
Nearby supplies
The nearby Verlot Campground has water and firewood available for purchase.
Camper Reviews
3.8
7 reviews
Esswine Group Camp has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Esswine Group Camp receives mixed reviews. While many appreciate its spaciousness, scenic location, and suitability for group camping, issues such as restroom cleanliness, trash maintenance, and river access detract from the experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include ample space ('Plenty of room for everyone to have their own space'), proximity to the river ('Pretty close to the water'), and the natural surroundings...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the poor condition of the vault toilets ('so smelly,' 'outhouse was grubbier/stinkier than usual') and challenges accessing the river due to steep or blocked trails. Trash...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing adequate lighting for the restrooms, such as a solar motion light, and being prepared for the absence of potable water by carrying sufficient supplies. They also recommend...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the site's spaciousness and suitability for group activities, while winter reviews focus on its potential as a base for snowshoeing and skiing. Maintenance issues with...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Tiene mucho espacio. Puedes poner 6 casas/tiendas de acampar con su propio lugar para fuego.'
2. 'The path to the river could be a bit more accessible, but that was the only negative.'
3....
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is the only designated group site in the campground. User reviews specifically mention its ample space and suitability for group gatherings, but also note issues with trail maintenance and...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is limited, with several users mentioning the steep and blocked paths to the river as a challenge. Vault toilets may also be difficult to use for some due to their condition.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or details are available regarding pet policies or experiences.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025