Lower Goodell Group Campground
4.266 reviews810 STATE ROUTE 20, SEDRO-WOOLLEY, WA, 98284, USA
Lower Goodell Group Campground
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Shelter Nonelectric sites are $75.00 per night during the peak season. No discounts for group campsites. Reservation fees ($8-$9) and cancellation fees ($10) may apply.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of towering ancient giants, Lower Goodell Group Campground offers two intimate group sites where the melodic sounds of Goodell Creek provide nature's soundtrack. Each thoughtfully designed site comes equipped with covered picnic shelters perfect for gathering, secure bear boxes to protect your provisions, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, and convenient vault toilets. The cleared camping areas welcome both tent enthusiasts and small RV adventurers, all beneath a magnificent canopy of old-growth forest. Just moments away, the charming town of Newhalem offers convenient amenities while you remain immersed in wilderness tranquility.
Lower Goodell Group Campground offers group camping sites with no hookups or advanced facilities.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the storied landscapes of North Cascades National Park, where millions of years of geological drama have created today's spectacular scenery. Ancient crystalline rocks tell tales of tectonic forces and volcanic fury, while the scars of massive glaciers reveal how ice sculpted these dramatic peaks and valleys. The life-giving Skagit River below has served as a highway for Pacific salmon for millennia, continuing their epic journey from ocean to mountain streams, sustaining both ecosystem and cultural traditions that stretch back to time immemorial.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of camping season from late May through September, when warm sunshine filters through the forest canopy and gentle breezes carry the scent of cedar and fir. Summer days invite endless exploration with reliably dry, sunny weather—though wise campers pack bug spray for those twilight hours when mosquitoes emerge. As autumn approaches, crisp air and changing light transform the landscape. Winter brings a dramatic transformation as heavy snowfall blankets the region in pristine white, closing the campground but creating a winter wonderland for those who venture nearby.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable elevation that offers the perfect balance of mountain ambiance and accessibility, the campground provides a gentle introduction to the vertical world of the North Cascades.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an emerald cathedral where massive western redcedars, their bark deeply furrowed with age, stand sentinel alongside graceful western hemlocks and mighty Douglas-firs. The crystalline waters of Goodell Creek tumble over moss-covered stones, carrying glacial meltwater from the high country down to join the powerful Skagit River. This liquid lifeline creates a rich tapestry of habitats where wildlife thrives. Each winter, the river becomes a grand theater as magnificent bald eagles return in impressive numbers, their white heads gleaming against the dark forest as they feast on spawning salmon—nature's ancient cycle continuing before your eyes.
Geological RegionWelcome to the heart of the North Cascade Core, where the raw power of Earth's forces is written in stone and ice. This rugged mountain sanctuary showcases nature's architectural mastery through soaring peaks of ancient crystalline rock, carved and polished by glaciers that continue their slow dance today. The landscape tells a story of fire and ice—volcanic origins transformed by millions of years of uplift, erosion, and glaciation. Fed by the melting ice of surrounding glaciers, Goodell Creek and the mighty Skagit River serve as liquid highways, carrying the essence of the high country down through valleys clothed in primeval forest, creating one of the most spectacular mountain environments in North America.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and campsites are available.
Sites SizeEach group site comfortably accommodates 12 to 20 people, with a maximum capacity of 50 people per site.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews describe the campground as private and secluded, with a clean environment and plenty of nooks.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring potable water as none is provided. Site B is recommended for privacy and scenic settings.
Best CampsitesSite B has been praised for privacy and cleanliness in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during peak season (July through September). Maximum stay per year is 30 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site: 50 people.
Groups
Each group site can host up to 50 people, 9 tents, and 25 vehicles, with space for small RVs or tents. The cleared areas are equipped with bear boxes for food storage.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo group sites, each with multiple cleared areas for tents or small RVs. Each site includes picnic shelters, trash cans, vault toilets, and bear boxes.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from late May to early September annually. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and the National Park Service mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served availability from June 21 to June 22 each year. Walk-up availability may vary.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Changes within the cut-off window may incur a $10 change 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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lower Goodell Group Campground offers hiking, fishing, birding, wildlife viewing, and photography. Hiking trails are accessible from within the facility, while fishing opportunities are available in Goodell Creek and the nearby Skagit River. Wildlife viewing includes bald eagles and black bears.
Hiking
Multiple hiking options are accessible within the facility. The nearby trails offer opportunities to explore lush forests and rugged terrain.Fishing
Fishing is available in Goodell Creek and the Skagit River for trout, salmon, and steelhead. Users are advised to follow local guidelines and safety procedures.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles, which return to the Skagit River in winter, and other local fauna such as black bears.Winter Activities
The campground's proximity to forested areas may provide winter wildlife viewing opportunities. Snow-related activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
There are no motorized or non-motorized water sports available at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but restricted to designated fire pits within the group sites.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are active in the area; food storage in bear boxes is mandatory. High water alerts may occur due to hydro-electric project activities.
Active alertsPotential high water warnings from hydro-electric activities. Seasonal closures from September through May.
Weather forecast
93
°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
Nearest emergency services are in Marblemount, WA, approximately 11 miles away, including medical facilities, police, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 19, 2025 - September 7, 2025; May 18, 2026 - September 6, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly alongside Goodell Creek. Skagit River is nearby with fishing and rafting access.
Common complaintsNo potable water is available directly at the campground, which has been cited in user reviews as a notable inconvenience.
HostHosts located at nearby Newhalem Creek Campground. Provide assistance with hydro-electric alerts and bear reports.
Campground Map
810 STATE ROUTE 20, SEDRO-WOOLLEY, WA, 98284, USA
Driving directionsLower Goodell Group Campground is located at mile marker 120 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.
Easy access on paved roads. Located directly off State Route 20, which is a major highway. Seasonal closures or hydro-electric project warnings may apply.Nearby places
Newhalem (0 miles, walking distance)
Marblemount (11 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Burlington (60 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes)
Twisp (82 miles, approximately 2 hours).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Marblemount, WA. Firewood, ice, camping essentials, and gas are not available within the park complex.
Camper Reviews
4.3
6 reviews
Lower Goodell Group Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as clean, private, and cozy, with plenty of space for tents and enjoyable group sites. The lack of potable water is a recurring concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's private and secluded nature, clean environment, ample space, and maintenance of vault toilets. The covered patio and picnic tables were appreciated by groups.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints involve the absence of potable water, which created challenges for families relying on RV tanks for overnight stays. The need for clearer communication about water availability was...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing bug spray and ensuring adequate water supplies ahead of arrival.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground's peak season is summer, with reviewers appreciating the shaded canopy and nearby attractions. Winter activities are less emphasized.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Would have given five stars except there was no water at this group site." - JUDITH D. - "Great group site for large gatherings and daily maintenance to the bathrooms!" - WENDY E. - "The group...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site B from Lower Goodell Group Sites was praised in multiple reviews for its cleanliness and suitability for large gatherings.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and campsites are available. There are no specific reviews from campers with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground. There are no specific user reviews mentioning pet-related experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025