Goodell Creek Campground
4.3564 reviews810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284-1263
Goodell Creek Campground
$0.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
During peak season (May 19 - September 7), individual tent-only nonelectric sites are $20 per night. Outside the peak season, the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is free.
About this campground
Tucked away in a lush forest along the banks of the Skagit River, Goodell Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 19 secluded sites. This hidden gem wraps visitors in a canopy of towering trees, where the gentle sounds of the river blend with birdsong to create a perfect wilderness soundtrack. Each campsite promises privacy among the ancient woods, while modern conveniences like potable water, vault toilets, and secure bear boxes ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're seeking solitude, planning to explore nearby trails, or hoping to cast a line in the crystal-clear Skagit, this small but mighty campground serves as your gateway to Pacific Northwest adventure.
Goodell Creek Campground offers tent camping and group sites. RV camping is possible, but the lack of hookups limits the amenities available for RVs.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Goodell Creek into a temperate paradise, with afternoon temperatures hovering around a comfortable 68°F before cooling to crisp evenings in the 50s—perfect for gathering around the campfire. The long summer days stretch well into the evening, painting the forest in golden light and offering endless opportunities for exploration under mostly clear skies. While winter brings its share of rain and chilly temperatures to this corner of the Cascades, the summer months reveal the campground at its finest, when wildflowers dot the forest floor and the river runs strong with glacial meltwater.
ElevationNestled in the river valley at a gentle elevation, Goodell Creek Campground sits where the mountains meet the water, creating a unique microclimate that nurtures the surrounding temperate rainforest. This low-elevation setting along the Skagit River makes the campground easily accessible while still providing that coveted sense of mountain seclusion.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an emerald cathedral where ancient western redcedars stretch skyward alongside majestic Douglas-firs and western hemlocks, their branches weaving a living roof overhead. The understory bursts with native treasures—clusters of red huckleberries tempt hikers in late summer, while ferns carpet the forest floor in endless shades of green. The star of the show flows just beyond your tent: the Skagit River, its turquoise waters born from glacial melt high in the surrounding peaks. This pristine waterway serves as nature's highway for returning salmon, whose epic journey upstream draws eagles, bears, and wonder-struck visitors alike.
Geological RegionGoodell Creek Campground sits at the heart of the North Cascades National Park's river corridor, where millions of years of geological drama have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. Here, the mighty Skagit River has carved its path through ancient bedrock, creating a fertile valley that supports one of the most diverse ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest. The surrounding peaks feed the river with glacial meltwater, while the protected forests provide critical habitat for spawning salmon and serve as a vital rest stop for migrating bald eagles. This remarkable intersection of mountain, forest, and river creates an ecological wonderland that changes with each season, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing story of the North Cascades.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. Vault toilets and paved roads may offer some level of accessibility, but further details are lacking.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some capable of accommodating larger tents, camp kitchens, and screened tents.
Sites PrivacyMany sites are private and surrounded by dense vegetation, offering good natural privacy. Sites closer to the river are considered more desirable due to the view and background noise of the flowing water.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid campsite #9 due to proximity to poorly-maintained outhouses. Campsites 12, 13, and 19 are recommended for river views and privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsite #19 is highly rated for its river views and proximity. Campsite #13 is praised for privacy and access to a small river beach.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during peak season
- cumulative limit of 30 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Occupancy is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles per site.
Groups
Details about group sites specify that there are two available, but no maximum guest or vehicle limits are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops with heavily wooded sites. Some sites are directly adjacent to the river; others are set back but still private.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; reservable May 19 - September 7. First-come, first-served before and after the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityOutside peak season, all sites are first-come-first-served and free. During peak season, any sites not reserved are available on a same-day basis for one night only.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before arrival for a $10 fee; additional penalties apply for late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in). Late cancellations also 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, birding, and relaxing by the river. Boating and whitewater rafting can be accessed from the raft launch within the campground. Seasonal bald eagle sightings add to the area's recreational appeal.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible via a connecting trail to Newhalem Campground, including the River Loop Trail, Trail of the Cedars, and Rock Shelter Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and offer diverse natural scenery.Fishing
Fishing in the Skagit River is a popular activity. The river provides habitats for all species of Pacific salmon, though no specific details about fishing regulations or conditions are provided.Swimming
While swimming is possible in the Skagit River, the water is glacially fed and extremely cold. A strong current makes it unsafe in certain areas, as noted by reviewers.Boating
Boating access is available via the campground's raft launch, making it convenient for whitewater rafting and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to black bears, and bald eagles are commonly seen along the river, especially in winter. Visitors are advised to use bear boxes for food storage and stay vigilant when hiking or picnicking.Winter Activities
Bald eagle viewing is a notable winter activity as these birds gather along the Skagit River.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular water sports facilitated by the raft launch. Swimming is less common due to the river's cold temperature and strong currents.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings; firewood must not be transported due to pest concerns.
- Quiet hours are Specified in user reviews but exact hours not documented.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear habitat; food storage precautions mandatory; strong river currents make swimming hazardous. Mosquitoes are prevalent during warmer months.
Active alertsFire closures affecting nearby trails; seasonal closure of Cascade River Road; peregrine falcon nesting closures in nearby climbing areas.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
The nearest emergency services are the town of Newhalem, which has a visitor center and general store. For hospitals or major emergency services, Marblemount, WA is nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 19 - September 7
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available throughout the campground. However, a review mentions that recycling options could be improved.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Skagit River; Newhalem Creek nearby. Some campsites have private paths leading to the river.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about pit toilet cleanliness and odor. Noise from nearby highway traffic noted in some reviews.
HostNo on-site campground host.
Campground Map
810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284-1263
Driving directionsGoodell Creek Campground is located at mile marker 119 on State Route 20. From Burlington, WA, drive 60 miles east on State Route 20. From Twisp, WA, drive 82 miles west on State Route 20.
Access is via State Route 20, which is fully paved. No seasonal closures are specifically noted for the campground itself, but nearby routes may experience closures during winter.Nearby places
Burlington, WA (60 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
Twisp, WA (82 miles, approximately 1 hour 20 minutes drive)
Marblemount, WA (approximately 10 miles, 15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Marblemount, WA is the nearest source for firewood, ice, fuel, and other supplies. The general store in Newhalem also provides camping necessities, albeit at higher prices.
Camper Reviews
4.4
64 reviews
Goodell Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Goodell Creek Campground is consistently praised for its serene, private, and scenic setting along the Skagit River. Many users highlight the spacious sites and proximity to nature. However, vault toilet conditions and the lack of showers are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 64 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the large, private campsites surrounded by dense vegetation, the tranquil sound of the river, and the proximity to hiking trails. River access and the campground's serene environment...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most consistent complaints involve the poor condition of vault toilets, particularly in the smaller loop. Some users also mention mosquito issues during the summer months and the lack of on-site...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include booking riverside sites for the best experience, bringing bug spray to counter mosquitoes, and using the flush toilets at Newhalem's Skagit Information Center during peak seasons....
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight mosquito issues and the cold, strong river current. Winter reviews mention the campground's peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for bald eagle viewing.
Based on 64 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The happy burble of rushing water helped immensely in drowning out traffic noise from the highway," "The campground is beautiful. What caused us to leave early...only pit toilets and no showers,"...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #19 is often cited as the best campsite due to its views and proximity to the river. Sites #12 and #13 are also recommended for their small trails leading to a private river beach. Site #9 is...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No detailed accessibility reviews are available, but paved roads and basic facilities may offer some level of accessibility.
Based on 64 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and dog owners appreciate the pet-friendly environment. However, pets must be kept on a leash.
Based on 64 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025