Silver Fir Campground
4.44104 reviewsSilver Fir Campground
$32.00 - $64.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$55.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $32 for Tent Only Nonelectric sites to $64 for Standard Nonelectric Double sites. Group Picnic Area is available at $55 per day/night. Holiday surcharges apply ($2 for single sites, $4 for double sites). Out of season, no reservations are available.
About this campground
Tucked away in the emerald embrace of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Silver Fir Campground offers an intimate escape where the North Fork Nooksack River provides a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. This charming, small-scale campground welcomes tent campers and smaller RVs into a world where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral and the mountain air carries whispers of wilderness. Here, scenic vistas unfold at every turn, recreational trails beckon explorers, and the peaceful rhythm of forest life replaces the rush of everyday concerns.
Silver Fir Campground is a smaller, more primitive campground. It accommodates both tent and RV camping and offers a group picnic shelter for up to 25 people.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Silver Fir into a temperate paradise where warm days invite river play and hiking adventures, though wise campers pack layers for the crisp mountain nights that remind you of your elevation. Late spring and summer bring clouds of mosquitoes eager to join your campfire stories, so insect repellent becomes as essential as your sleeping bag. When winter arrives, this hidden gem disappears beneath a thick blanket of snow, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall making the campground a memory until spring's return—nature's way of preserving this special place for the warmer months.
ElevationWhile the exact elevation remains one of Silver Fir's mysteries, the campground's mountain setting places you high enough to feel the crisp, clean air that defines the Cascade experience.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient giants of the old-growth forest stand as silent sentinels around Silver Fir, their moss-draped branches creating a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Nooksack River runs alongside the campground like a liquid highway, its clear waters telling stories of glacial origins and mountain springs. Just beyond your campsite, the legendary Mt. Baker Wilderness unveils its dramatic theater of jagged peaks crowned with glaciers, pristine alpine lakes that mirror the sky, and meadows that burst with wildflowers. This is prime habitat for the Pacific Northwest's most iconic residents—black bears forage for berries, sure-footed mountain goats navigate impossible cliffs, and the sky fills with the songs of migratory birds following ancient pathways.
Geological RegionSilver Fir Campground sits within the spectacular North Cascades ecosystem, a landscape sculpted by fire and ice where Mt. Baker reigns as the crown jewel. This active volcano, draped in glaciers and often wreathed in clouds, dominates the horizon and reminds visitors of the powerful forces that shaped these mountains. The surrounding Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases nature's architectural prowess with its collection of rugged peaks that pierce the sky, jewel-like alpine lakes cradled in ancient cirques, and valleys carpeted with old-growth forests that have stood watch for centuries. This is a living geological textbook where volcanic activity, glacial carving, and the patient work of wind and water have created one of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in North America.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available in the campground.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size, with some more spacious and others suited only for tents. For instance, site #14 is described as not suitable for trailers, while site #11 is highlighted for its privacy and suitability for a 19 ft travel trailer.
Sites PrivacySites are generally private, with dense trees and foliage providing separation between them. One reviewer noted, 'The thick trees and shrubs provide privacy between sites and the highway.'
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent campers, choose sites along the river for tranquility. Sites #11 and #19 are ideal for privacy and river access. Avoid site #14 as it is very small and unsuitable for trailers.
Best CampsitesSite #11 is frequently mentioned as the best site for its privacy and direct river access. Sites #5 and #19 also receive praise for scenic views and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay limit of 14 nights during a visit
- a rolling 30-day limit applies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Typically accommodates 1 vehicle and 2 tents per site.
Groups
The group picnic shelter can accommodate up to 25 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes 25 sites scattered among forested areas adjacent to the river. Sites vary in size and amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 16th to September 13th. Reservations are possible from June 27th to September 13th. Closed during winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere are 5-6 non-reservable sites available first-come, first-served. Demand is high during peak season, with sites filling up by 5 PM on weekdays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made earlier than midnight 1 day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Late cancellations and no-shows incur additional penalties. Same-day changes are not allowed.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Silver Fir can enjoy a range of activities amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Popular options include hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The campground's proximity to the North Fork Nooksack River and the Mt. Baker Wilderness makes it a prime location for outdoor exploration.
Hiking
Hiking is a primary draw for campers, with trails accessible from Hannegan Pass Road, less than a mile away, leading into the Mt. Baker Wilderness and North Cascades National Park. A reviewer stated, 'Lots of hiking trails, Heather Meadows, and Artists Point are very nearby.'Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including mountain goats, squirrels, and black bears. Birdwatchers may also find opportunities to spot migratory birds.Winter Activities
In winter, the campground becomes a non-motorized Sno-Park, offering opportunities for activities such as snowshoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are imposed due to dry weather. Firewood must be purchased on-site or locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMice are particularly problematic—campers report mice entering vehicles despite precautions. Mosquitoes and wildlife such as bears also pose hazards. Water availability can occasionally be spotty due to sediment in hand pumps.
Active alertsRegular fire bans during dry seasons; warnings about mice activity should be noted.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 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
Nearest emergency services are available in Glacier, WA, approximately 20 minutes away. This includes basic amenities and a fire station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16th to September 13th.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available near the host's campsite. Recycling facilities were also mentioned to be well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the North Fork Nooksack River, offering easy access for fishing and kayaking.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include mice infestations, generator noise, small site sizes for RVs, and occasional poor water quality.
HostHosts are generally reported as helpful and attentive, with notable mentions of Rick and Billy for exemplary service.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, Washington, go north on I-5 to Bellingham. Take exit 255 onto Sunset Drive/Mt. Baker Highway SR 542. Continue on SR 542 past the town of Glacier near mile 33 and continue approximately 12.5 miles to the campground. The campground is on the right (west) side of the highway after crossing the bridge over the North Fork Nooksack River.
The roads leading to the campground are well-maintained and paved but become windy and slow-going as you approach. Seasonal closures may occur due to snowfall or weather conditions.Nearby places
Glacier (approx. 12.5 miles, 20 minutes), Bellingham (approx. 65 miles, 1.5 hours), Seattle (approx. 130 miles, 2.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, firewood, and essentials can be purchased in Glacier, WA, approximately 20 minutes away. Larger provisions are available in Bellingham, WA.
Camper Reviews
4.4
104 reviews
Silver Fir Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The overall sentiment toward Silver Fir Campground is positive, with many reviews highlighting the scenic beauty, privacy, and cleanliness of the facilities. However, some reviews mention issues such as mosquitoes, water sediment, and occasional campground host behavior.
Review Summaries
Based on 104 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised features include the privacy provided by dense trees, the proximity to the Nooksack River, and the cleanliness of the vault toilets. Many reviewers also appreciated the access to...
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Common Concerns
Mosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a downside, as well as sediment in the hand-pump water. Some users also expressed dissatisfaction with specific campsites or interactions with the host.
Based on 104 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent, marking your reserved site to avoid confusion, and checking RV fit for specific sites in advance. One tip for using the hand water pumps is to pump...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are the most popular seasons for visiting, while winter turns the area into a Sno-Park. Mosquitoes are noted as a major issue during the summer months.
Based on 104 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'What a gorgeous campsite! The drive to reach the sites feels long - it's twisty, slow going, but well maintained.'
2. 'The vault toilets were kept spotlessly clean.'
3. 'We had a wonderful time...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #11 is frequently praised for its privacy and proximity to the river, making it suitable for travel trailers. Site #14 is criticized as being unsuitable for trailers, even small ones. Site #19...
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Accessibility Features
The vault toilets are accessible and well-maintained, but no specific feedback from users with disabilities is available.
Based on 104 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or comments regarding pets were found.
Based on 104 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025