Blue Lake Creek Campground

For Washingtonians seeking an authentic and somewhat rugged outdoor experience, Blue Lake Creek Campground in Randle offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the vast beauty of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This charming, smaller campground provides a true escape from the everyday hustle, appealing to those who appreciate natural scenery, river access, and a rustic camping style. If you're a local resident eager to explore hiking trails, enjoy the sounds of a nearby river, and embrace a first-come, first-serve adventure, Blue Lake Creek Campground is a destination that promises genuine outdoor charm.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the essential details about Blue Lake Creek Campground. We'll delve into its specific location, discuss the amenities (or lack thereof, for a more primitive feel), highlight its key features, and explain why it's a suitable choice for Washingtonians looking for a back-to-basics camping trip. From understanding the best ways to access water to being prepared for local wildlife, this overview will help you plan a successful and enjoyable visit to this notable spot in the Pacific Northwest.

Blue Lake Creek Campground is located in Randle, WA 98377, USA, nestled within the sprawling and diverse Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This position places it in the northernmost portion of the forest, near the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District. For residents across Washington, particularly those in the southern and central parts of the state, Randle serves as a gateway to this stunning natural area, making the campground an accessible option for weekend trips or longer excursions.

Access to the campground is typically via State Highway 12 to Randle, then by following State Highway 131 to Forest Road 23. The campground itself is just off Forest Road 23. While the drive generally leads to beautiful scenery, prospective visitors should be aware that the road can get "a little rough at times," indicating that while a standard vehicle should be fine, caution is advised on unpaved or less maintained sections. It's also noted that once you turn off the main highway, it "is a minute" before you reach the site, suggesting a short, perhaps less-maintained, access road directly to the campground.

One of the significant access points from the campground is to the Cispus River, which offers nice views and river access from the main road. However, direct water access from within the campground can be limited, with some campers noting that you "love to hike!" to reach the river from their site. Blue Lake itself, which the campground is named after, can be reached via trails from the campground, leading to a small mountain lake with beautiful turquoise waters.

• Campsites: Blue Lake Creek Campground features a small number of sites, with sources varying between 7 and 11 sites. These sites are generally open and grassy, located in a well-shaded area among maple trees and ferns. They are designed to accommodate both tents and RVs, though RV length may be limited (around 20-30 feet).

• First-Come, First-Serve (FCFS): All sites at Blue Lake Creek Campground are operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. This means campers cannot make reservations and should arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets (pit toilets). While reviews note that a "window" might need replacement in some, they are generally functional.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that there is "no potable water" available at this campground. Campers must bring all their drinking and cooking water or be prepared to treat water from natural sources like the Cispus River. Some older information might state drinking water is available, but current and more consistent data indicates it is not.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, allowing for outdoor cooking and campfires (always subject to current fire restrictions).

• No RV Hookups: For those with recreational vehicles, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available, signifying a primitive RV camping experience.

• Scenic Views: The campground offers beautiful views, particularly due to its location within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, surrounded by resplendent conifers and open, grassy spaces. The nearby Cispus River and Blue Lake contribute significantly to the scenic appeal.

• River Access: While direct campsite access to the river may require a short hike, the presence of the Cispus River nearby offers opportunities for fishing, enjoying tranquil pools, and general riverside relaxation.

• Waterfall: A notable highlight mentioned by campers is the presence of a waterfall accessible from the main road, adding another natural attraction to explore in the vicinity.

• Motorbike Campground / OHV Access: Blue Lake Creek Campground is popular with off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts and provides direct access to a large network of OHV trails, including the Valley Trail #270 (over 50 miles of trails). This makes it an ideal staging area for those looking to explore the forest on motorized vehicles.

• Hiking Opportunities: Despite its popularity with OHVs, the campground also offers access to hiking trails. The High Log Trail #295 is a hiker-only trail directly across from the campground that leads to a nice pool on the Cispus River. The Valley Trail #270 is a multi-use trail for hikers, mountain bikers, and OHV riders, which can also lead to the Blue Lake Trail for a moderate hike to Blue Lake itself.

• Wildlife: The area is rich with wildlife, offering opportunities for observation, though campers are advised to be prepared for ticks and other insects with appropriate repellents.

• Small, Intimate Setting: With only 7-11 sites, Blue Lake Creek offers a more intimate camping experience compared to larger campgrounds. This can foster a sense of community among campers, though privacy between sites may be minimal due to its small size and popularity with OHV users.

• Paved & Level Sites (partially): While the ground around the sites can be uneven, the paved parking spurs for the sites are noted to be "pretty level," which is a convenience for setting up tents or parking RVs.

Address: Randle, WA 98377, USA

Phone: (541) 338-7869 (While this number is provided, it typically belongs to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest general information line or a regional recreation management office. For specific campground inquiries, it's often best to also check the Gifford Pinchot National Forest website or Recreation.gov for the most direct and up-to-date contact information or alerts.)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-338-7869

For Washingtonians seeking a genuine, unpretentious, and accessible outdoor adventure, Blue Lake Creek Campground offers a compelling option right in the heart of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Its first-come, first-serve availability caters to spontaneous road trippers and those who appreciate the traditional camping ethos, where securing a spot is part of the adventure itself. While it may require some preparation—like bringing your own water and extra bug spray—these aspects contribute to the authentic, rustic charm that many local campers seek.

The campground’s intimate size, with its limited number of sites, fosters a close-knit atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a quieter environment away from massive, bustling campgrounds. The surrounding landscape, with its beautiful views, river access, and nearby waterfall, provides ample opportunity for photography and peaceful enjoyment of nature. For the active outdoor enthusiast, the direct access to an extensive network of OHV trails is a significant draw, making it a perfect base for motorized exploration of the forest. Simultaneously, dedicated hiking trails ensure that non-motorized adventurers also have plenty to explore.

Blue Lake Creek Campground truly embodies a "little oasis" within the Washington wilderness. Despite some minor imperfections like uneven ground or the need for facility updates, the core experience—immersion in nature, accessibility to varied recreation, and a sense of genuine escape—makes it highly suitable for locals. It's a place where you can disconnect, enjoy the natural beauty of your home state, and create lasting memories without traveling far from the familiar landscapes of Washington.

Blue Lake Creek Campground

Randle, WA 98377, USA