Red Bridge Campground
4.2776 reviewsRed Bridge Campground
$27.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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
Fees range from $27-$54 per night depending on the site type and season. A holiday surcharge applies ($2 for lower-rate sites, $4 for higher-rate sites).
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine pebble shores of the South Fork Stillaguamish River, Red Bridge Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This charming riverside retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV adventurers seeking a peaceful connection with nature. While the campground maintains a refreshingly simple approach with limited facilities, its stunning riverfront location and old-growth forest setting create an authentic Pacific Northwest camping experience that draws visitors back season after season.
Red Bridge Campground caters to tent and RV campers. Primitive camping is available, and some group sites are also accessible. However, the campground does not support large RVs or luxury camping options.
Historical SignificanceRed Bridge Campground sits within a forest steeped in American conservation history. Just a short drive away, the iconic Verlot Public Service Center stands as a testament to the dedication of the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose craftsmanship during the Great Depression earned this rustic structure a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the surrounding wilderness, historic fire lookouts perch atop distant peaks, silent sentinels that once watched over these ancient forests and continue to inspire modern-day adventurers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Pacific Northwest summers at Red Bridge, where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire stories. While the region's signature mist may make an occasional appearance, summer typically delivers ideal conditions for riverside relaxation and forest exploration. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a quieter retreat before winter snow blankets the surrounding peaks, temporarily closing access and creating a pristine wonderland that awaits spring's return.
ElevationPositioned at an inviting low elevation, Red Bridge Campground remains accessible for outdoor enthusiasts throughout much of the year. This gentle elevation creates a perfect basecamp for visitors of all ages and abilities, offering comfortable conditions whether you're planning ambitious day hikes to higher peaks or preferring leisurely riverside strolls. The mild elevation ensures that even as mountain snow limits access to alpine areas, this riverside sanctuary often remains open for those seeking year-round forest therapy.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering old-growth giants frame dramatic views of rugged Cascade peaks reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the South Fork Stillaguamish River. This remarkable ecosystem pulses with life as majestic Chinook salmon and resilient steelhead trout return each season to their ancestral spawning grounds, creating unforgettable wildlife viewing opportunities. Morning mist rises from the river to reveal a landscape where moss-draped cedars and Douglas firs create nature's own cathedral, while eagles soar overhead and the gentle sound of river stones tumbling in the current provides a constant, soothing soundtrack to your camping adventure.
Geological RegionRed Bridge Campground occupies a spectacular position within the diverse geological tapestry of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, where ancient volcanic forces and patient glacial sculpting have created today's dramatic landscape. The South Fork Stillaguamish River has carved its course through millennia, exposing fascinating rock formations and creating the pebbled beaches that define the campground's character. Surrounded by peaks that tell the story of the Cascade Range's fiery birth and icy transformation, visitors can witness firsthand how powerful natural forces continue to shape this dynamic environment where old-growth forests cling to steep valley walls and pristine waters flow from high alpine sources.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available, but the campground lacks other stated accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. Reviewers mentioned both single and double sites, as well as ample room for tents.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels at campsites. Some are close together, while others provide better separation, especially sites near the river.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for better views and quieter surroundings. Avoid sites close to the highway to minimize traffic noise (e.g., Site 4).
Best CampsitesSites 5-8 are highly recommended for river access and family-friendly layouts. Site 5 is particularly praised for its privacy and location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is officially at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is officially at noon.
Stay Limit
The stay limit is 14 consecutive nights. Campers cannot exceed 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows a maximum of 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes single-family tent and RV sites with some double sites. Sites are arranged in a loop near the river and highway.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open annually from mid-May to mid-September. Specific dates vary slightly by year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but most sites are reservable. Walk-up availability varies and may be limited due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee if made before midnight of the day prior to arrival. Late cancellations additionally forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Red Bridge Campground offers access to diverse recreational activities. Its proximity to the South Fork Stillaguamish River allows for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Hiking opportunities abound within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, with trails catering to various skill levels.
Hiking
The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest features 1,500 miles of trails. Popular options include the Mt. Dickerman Trail, which ascends steeply for 3 miles through a forest to an alpine meadow at a 5,723-foot summit. Nearby hikes such as Lake 22 and Heather Lake are also frequently mentioned by visitors.Fishing
Fishing is available in the South Fork Stillaguamish River, known for salmon runs including Chinook, Coho, chum, pink, and sockeye salmon. Steelhead trout and sea-run cutthroat are also commonly found.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible along the river, including spots under the red bridge. One reviewer described it as a "great swimming spot during summer months."Boating
Kayaking and other small boating activities are possible on the South Fork Stillaguamish River. Docking facilities are not available.Wildlife viewing
The area sustains diverse wildlife, including species such as lynx, moose, wolves, and wolverines. Bird watching is popular, and campers frequently mention observing local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking opportunities are available, though not heavily emphasized in reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated rings unless restrictions are imposed due to weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are generally implemented from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (e.g., bears), cold river currents, and slippery riverbanks.
Active alertsThere are seasonal closures and potential fire restrictions during dry conditions.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Granite Falls provides the nearest emergency services, including medical facilities and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from May 16 through September 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are provided, including dumpsters, as noted in one review. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the South Fork Stillaguamish River, some campsites have direct river access. Swimming, fishing, and kayaking are popular activities.
Common complaintsSome visitors have complained about traffic noise due to proximity to the highway, limited privacy at some sites, and issues with campsite reservations.
HostReviews mention varying experiences with campground hosts, ranging from helpful and friendly to intrusive behavior.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, take I-5 north to Everett. Take Exit 194 onto Highway 2, then head north on Highway 204 toward Lake Stevens. Turn north on Highway 9, then east on Highway 92 to Granite Falls. Continue about 19.5 miles past Granite Falls to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads that are well-maintained. It is located along the Mountain Loop Highway, which may experience seasonal closures and challenging terrain during winter months.Nearby places
Granite Falls: 19.5 miles, approximately 25 minutes
Nearby supplies
The nearest source of groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Granite Falls, approximately 19.5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
76 reviews
Red Bridge Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews paint a mixed picture of Red Bridge Campground. Positive highlights include its serene riverfront location, clean vault toilets, and proximity to hiking trails. Criticisms often focus on campsite privacy, road noise, and occasional management issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 76 reviews
What Campers Love
Access to the South Fork Stillaguamish River, clean and well-maintained vault toilets, and proximity to hiking trails are frequently praised. Sites 5-8 are noted for river access and suitability for...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include invasive or unprofessional camp hosts, campsite proximity to the road and resulting noise, and issues with booking and reservations. Mice and mosquitoes are also mentioned.
Based on 76 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water and toilet paper, and choose sites away from the road for quieter camping. Sites near the river are highly recommended for families.
Based on 76 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are positive regarding swimming and hiking opportunities but note heavy mosquito presence. Fall reviews highlight overcrowding and noise issues.
Based on 76 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The river provides white noise all day and night." "Vault toilets are surprisingly clean but often run out of toilet paper." "Sites 7 and 8 are perfect for families—they open into each other and are...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #4 is noted as too close to the highway, while sites 7 and 8 are praised for family-friendly features and proximity to the river. Site #5 is described as the best location overall. Site #16...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible, but no further accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 76 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, provided they are kept on leashes and cleaned up after. One review notes off-leash dogs from dispersed camping nearby as an occasional issue.
Based on 76 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025