Swift Creek Campground
4.57147 reviewsSwift Creek Campground
$37.00 - $190.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$37.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$74.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$190.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates vary by season and site type. Standard Nonelectric ranges are $37.00 to $74.00 nightly, group standard nonelectric sites are $190.00 nightly, and yurts cost $70.00 nightly. Additional holiday charges apply ($2-$4). Rates exclude taxes and discounts.
About this campground
Nestled within the emerald embrace of a mixed-conifer forest along the shores of Baker Lake, Swift Creek Campground offers an enchanting retreat where modern amenities meet wilderness charm. Whether you're setting up a tent beneath towering evergreens or parking your RV with a view of pristine waters, you'll find everything needed for a comfortable stay—from refreshing drinking water and clean vault toilets to convenient picnic areas complete with tables and grills. Adventure beckons just steps away at the campground's intimate beach, while the nearby marina and boat ramp invite you to explore Baker Lake's crystalline waters at your leisure.
The campground offers spaces for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping, with additional options for multi-use sites.
Historical SignificanceHistory comes alive along the nearby Baker Lake Trail, where nature tells a dramatic story written in fire and time. Here, visitors can witness the haunting legacy of Mt. Baker's powerful 1843 eruption—ancient cedar giants still standing as blackened sentinels, their charred forms creating an otherworldly forest gallery. These ghostly snags serve as a humbling reminder of the volcano's raw power and the forest's remarkable resilience, offering a unique window into the Pacific Northwest's volcanic past.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring's awakening through early fall's golden days, Swift Creek welcomes visitors with a delightful mountain climate. Expect sun-drenched days perfect for hiking and water activities, followed by refreshingly cool evenings ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Summer visitors should come prepared with insect repellent, as the warm months bring out the local mosquito population—a small price to pay for experiencing this pristine wilderness at its peak.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details for Swift Creek Campground await documentation, visitors can expect the characteristic mountain environment typical of the Baker Lake region, where crisp air and varying terrain create an invigorating alpine atmosphere.
Natural Features and ScenerySwift Creek Campground serves as your gateway to a breathtaking natural amphitheater where old-growth forest titans frame sapphire alpine lakes, all watched over by the magnificent Mt. Baker—its glacier-draped summit gleaming against azure skies. This living landscape pulses with wildlife encounters: watch for sure-footed mountain goats navigating rocky outcrops, listen for black bears foraging in berry patches, and marvel at the seasonal parade of migratory birds painting the sky with their formations. Every view offers a postcard-worthy scene, from misty morning reflections on Baker Lake to alpenglow painting the volcanic peaks at sunset.
Geological RegionPositioned within the spectacular Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Swift Creek Campground sits at the heart of one of the Pacific Northwest's most dramatic geological showcases. This rugged wonderland of soaring peaks and jewel-like alpine lakes tells the story of fire and ice—where the active Mt. Baker volcano, adorned with permanent glaciers, presides over a landscape sculpted by millennia of volcanic activity and glacial artistry. The surrounding mixed-conifer forest represents centuries of ecological succession, creating a living tapestry that changes with every season and vista.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating regular tents and RVs. Some reviews note spacious sites, particularly the group area.
Sites PrivacySome reviews highlight limited privacy for sites near roads or other campsites. Reviewer comments include, 'Campsites nicely spaced so you aren’t too close to neighbors.'
Total Campsites66 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Site 41 due to proximity to vault toilets. Opt for sites near swimming areas for families or sites with good tree cover for privacy.
Best CampsitesReviews highlight Site 41 for its proximity to the lake but caution visitors about its smell due to nearby bathrooms. Site GP6-10 in the Group Loop offers privacy near the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at noon.
Check-out
Check-out is also at noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Groups
There are two reservable group sites, but no specific information about guest limits or vehicle capacity was provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged close to camp roads. Some lack privacy due to proximity to neighboring sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 16 and closes September 20 for reservable sites.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible. Reserved sites are held until noon the day following the scheduled arrival date, after which they may be forfeited and released to other guests.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee applied. Late cancellations (less than one day before arrival) incur an additional penalty—loss of the first night's fees.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Swift Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, boating, fishing, picnicking, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The nearby Baker Lake Trail provides easy hiking opportunities with historical and scenic elements.
Hiking
The Baker Lake Trail provides family-friendly hiking along Baker Lake with views of Douglas firs and remnants of virgin cedar trees. It has historical significance as visitors can see burned snags from Mt. Baker's 1843 eruption.Fishing
Fishing is available in Baker Lake but reviews are mixed regarding success. One reviewer noted, 'The fishing was not the best though, and I heard this from several anglers. They do have sockeye, but it seems that the salmon ate all the other species of trout.'Swimming
The campground features a small beach area for swimming. User reviews describe it as 'nice but small,' with rocky entry points. Water shoes are recommended.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Swift Creek, supported by a concrete boat ramp and marina. Many reviews describe convenient access for boats and kayaks.Wildlife viewing
Mountain goats, squirrels, black bears, and migratory birds are commonly spotted in the area.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and launching paddleboards and kayaks. The beach area is described as 'small but nice' in reviews.Winter Activities
Snowshoeing is possible during winter months.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular in Baker Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be enforced due to weather conditions. Campfires may not be allowed during hot, dry periods.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are abundant during summer. Additionally, vault toilets emit strong odors near certain campsites (e.g., Site #41). Bears are present in the area.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is mid-May through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available throughout the campground, but some reviews complain about odors near campsites located close to trash bins. For instance, 'The stench from the trash cans was unlike anything I've ever experienced.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Baker Lake, with access to a marina, boat ramp, picnic areas, and swimming areas.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include crowded conditions, noise disturbances, lack of showers, and unpleasant odors from vault toilets. Reviews suggest mosquitoes are a significant nuisance.
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. "Ryan is so friendly and knows everything around here that's good to do!"
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, go north on I-5 to Burlington. Take Exit 230 on State Highway 20. Go past the Mt. Baker Ranger District Office in Sedro-Woolley and follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue for 20 miles to the sign for Swift Creek Campground Road (Forest Service road 1142). Turn right and travel about 1/3 mile to the campground at the end of the road.
Access is via paved roads from the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11) to Forest Service road 1142. No seasonal closures mentioned in authoritative sources.Camper Reviews
4.6
147 reviews
Swift Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User experiences at Swift Creek Campground are diverse. Many praised the beautiful views, clean facilities, and helpful camp hosts, while others expressed concerns over odors from bathrooms and trash bins, mosquito infestations, and lack of privacy in some sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 147 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews highlight stunning lake views, clean vault toilets, spacious campsites, and friendly staff. Quotes include: 'Beautiful campground and most helpful & friendly camp host ever,' and 'Lake access...
Based on 147 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the smell from trash bins and bathrooms, lack of privacy in some sites, and mosquito infestations. 'Spot #41 should be closed, free, or come with a warning,' one user mentioned due...
Based on 147 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and water shoes. Some users suggest choosing sites further from the trash bins or bathrooms. 'Make sure to bring bug spray, as mosquitoes will eat you alive,' noted one...
Based on 147 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are busiest, with higher mosquito activity reported. Late July through August is preferred for swimming due to warmer water temperatures. Winter activities like snowshoeing are possible...
Based on 147 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Amazing views with lots of camping,' 'Vault toilets were cleaned daily,' and 'This is our 3rd Annual Family camping trip here. We ALWAYS have a great time!'
Based on 147 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #41 received negative feedback for its proximity to a bathroom and resulting odors. Site #44 was noted for spaciousness and lake access.
Based on 147 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but reviews recommend monitoring them to avoid confrontations with wildlife or other campers. 'Nice pier and swimming area...but if you can somehow put up with the skeeters, it's a...
Based on 147 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025