Troublesome Creek Campground
4.2723 reviewsIn Gold Bar, WA, at the intersection of 10th St. and US Rt. 2, take Rt. 2 east 7 miles to Index Galena Rd. (Forest Rt. 63). Turn left onto Index Galena Rd. and go 11 miles to campground on right.
Troublesome Creek Campground
$16.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$26.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range between $16 to $26 per night depending on site type. A 50% discount is available for single site camping with passes like Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access. Day use requires a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass.
About this campground
Nestled where Troublesome Creek meets the North Fork Skykomish River, this hidden gem offers 25 thoughtfully placed campsites across two intimate loops. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping or seek the solitude of walk-in sites, you'll find yourself immersed in the untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Wake to the gentle symphony of converging waters, spend your days exploring forest trails, casting lines into pristine waters, or simply watching for the abundant wildlife that calls this remote sanctuary home.
Troublesome Creek Campground caters to tent camping and group camping with 25 combined sites available. RV camping is not accommodated.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect camping weather to this mountain retreat, with comfortable days hovering in the 60s and 70s°F—ideal for outdoor adventures without the sweltering heat found at lower elevations. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, closing access to the campground but creating a pristine wonderland that awaits spring's return.
ElevationPerched at 1,200 feet above sea level, the campground sits in nature's sweet spot—high enough to escape summer's heat yet low enough to extend the camping season. This perfect elevation creates a refreshing microclimate where cool mountain air mingles with the mist from rushing waters, offering relief on warm afternoons and crisp, star-filled nights.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an emerald cathedral where ancient Douglas firs stretch skyward, their massive trunks creating natural pillars in this living sanctuary. Beneath their protective canopy, bigleaf maples paint the understory with dappled light, while wild salmonberry bushes offer seasonal treats to both visitors and wildlife. The crystalline waters of Troublesome Creek dance over smooth river stones before joining the mighty North Fork Skykomish River, their snow-fed currents maintaining a refreshing coolness even in summer. This lush riparian corridor bursts with life—from delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor to the moss-draped branches creating nature's own hanging gardens.
Geological RegionThis enchanting campground claims its place within the vast Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, where the dramatic Cascade Range has sculpted a landscape of remarkable diversity. Here, in the heart of a thriving riparian ecosystem, the marriage of mountain and river has created a unique environment where mixed conifer forests flourish alongside the life-giving waters of the North Fork Skykomish River and Troublesome Creek. This convergence of ecosystems makes the area a natural crossroads for wildlife and a paradise for those seeking to experience the raw beauty of the Cascades.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, but there are no further details provided about other accessibility features.
Sites SizeStandard campsite sizes are provided, suitable for tents and smaller vehicles. The parking aprons are paved.
Sites Privacy"The upper section with a spur and loop enjoy good privacy between sites, but the lower section, with the spur and walk-in sites, has only fair privacy." Some reviewers noted that sites on the east loop are more secluded and spaced out, while the west loop sites, particularly creek-side ones, were less private.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEast loop sites are more secluded, while west loop sites offer creek-side tent pads. Consider bringing mosquito repellent and planning for a longer drive due to detours.
Best CampsitesSites on the east loop, particularly 15 and 18, are praised for privacy and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: an east loop with more secluded sites and a west loop with creek-side access. There is also a walk-in tent area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 24 through September 9.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up sites available; reservations are strongly recommended for weekends and peak times.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made through Recreation.gov. Specific penalties or refund policies are not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and non-motorized boating. It is situated in a picturesque location with access to the North Fork Skykomish River and Troublesome Creek.
Hiking
A mile-long nature trail follows the creek, offering opportunities for day hikes and exploration.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in the river and stream. Species like Steelhead and Rainbow trout are available.Swimming
Swimming is available; however, the creek is described as being potentially dangerous due to cold, fast-moving water.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as kayaking is possible in the river; however, specific facilities like a boat ramp are not available.Wildlife viewing
The site provides opportunities to observe wildlife, though specific species are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood may be available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsSwift waters in Troublesome Creek and the North Fork Skykomish can be dangerous, especially for swimmers. Aggressive mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent in summer.
Active alertsRoad access via Index-Galena Road remains closed due to long-term flood damage. The only access is through Beckler River Road.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.1 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
Skykomish Fire Department and basic emergency services in Skykomish (approx. 15 miles). For major emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Monroe, WA, approximately 40 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May to early September.
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information regarding trash and recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresTroublesome Creek runs through the campground, and the North Fork Skykomish River borders it, offering easy access for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsRoad access challenges, lack of potable water, and closure of some restrooms in the west loop are recurring issues.
HostHosts are noted for keeping the campground clean and providing helpful local information. No contact details provided.
Campground Map
In Gold Bar, WA, at the intersection of 10th St. and US Rt. 2, take Rt. 2 east 7 miles to Index Galena Rd. (Forest Rt. 63). Turn left onto Index Galena Rd. and go 11 miles to campground on right.
Driving directionsDrive US Highway 2 to just west of milepost 50. Turn north on Beckler River Road (Forest Service Road 65) toward Beckler River Campground. Stay on Forest Service Road 65 for 15 miles to the junction with North Fork Skykomish (Forest Service Road 63). Continue straight on the paved road for .7 miles. San Juan Campground will be on your left. Continue past for another 2 miles to Troublesome Creek Campground.
Access is significantly impacted by a washout on Index-Galena Road. The most reliable route is via Beckler River Road and Forest Service Road 63. Some reviewers note that the roads are mostly gravel and require extra travel time, especially during summer when the detour adds 30 to 45 minutes.Nearby places
Gold Bar (approximately 18 miles), Index (approximately 11 miles), Skykomish (approximately 15 miles).
Nearby supplies
The closest store for gas and minimal food supplies is located near Beckler Road, approximately 45 minutes from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
23 reviews
Troublesome Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users praise Troublesome Creek Campground for its scenic and remote location, describing it as a tranquil and well-maintained site ideal for escaping city life. Accessibility issues due to road closures and the lack of potable water are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the beautiful natural surroundings, including views of the river and nearby trails. Many appreciated the peaceful and remote setting as well as the cleanliness of the campground and...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the difficulty in accessing the site due to road closures, the lack of potable water, and aggressive mosquitoes. Some users also noted issues with privacy at certain sites.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and mosquito repellent. Follow the campground-provided directions to avoid road closures, and plan for a longer drive due to detours. East loop sites are recommended for more...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, but users noted the presence of mosquitoes and aggressive insects during this time. Mid-week visits are recommended for solitude.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful campground off the beaten path. This is as remote as you can get and still be car camping." - Chris Lagueux; "Google directions warning! This was very hard to get to but well worth the...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 on the east loop is recommended for its privacy and creek access. Site 18 is described as beautiful with shared access to the river but lacking privacy. Sites 17-20 have some space between...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No detailed reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found. However, the vault toilets are noted as wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences were found.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025