Cold Creek Campground

Welcome, Washington outdoor adventurers! For those who truly love to earn their views and prefer a quiet, trail-oriented camping experience, Cold Creek Campground offers a unique and rewarding escape. Nestled at Mile Post 2123.2 along the historic Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail (PTCT) on the tranquil shores of Lake Keechelus, this primitive campground is designed for a specific kind of explorer: the hiker, the cyclist, and the intrepid bikepacker. Unlike drive-up campgrounds, Cold Creek requires you to arrive on foot or by bike, ensuring a more intimate connection with the natural surroundings and fostering a peaceful atmosphere away from vehicular noise.

Cold Creek Campground is part of a series of primitive camping areas strategically located along the expansive 287-mile Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, which stretches from the Cascade Mountains to eastern Washington. This particular spot offers not only a convenient overnight stop for those traversing the trail but also a serene destination in itself. Imagine setting up camp right by Lake Keechelus, waking up to the sounds of nature, and having immediate access to miles of scenic trail. While it's a rustic experience, with basic amenities, it promises a genuine immersion in Washington's stunning mountain and forest landscapes, with the added thrill of potential wildlife sightings, including black bears, as noted by previous campers. It's a perfect fit for locals seeking a true wilderness feel without venturing too far into deep backcountry.

Cold Creek Campground is uniquely situated at Mile Post 2123.2 on the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, specifically on the shores of Lake Keechelus, near Snoqualmie Pass, WA (zip code 98068, USA). This address immediately highlights its defining characteristic: it is primarily a bike-in or hike-in only campground, directly accessible from the PTCT. This makes it an integral part of the multi-use trail experience, rather than a destination reached by car.

For Washington locals, especially those in the Puget Sound region, Snoqualmie Pass is a familiar and relatively accessible mountain gateway. To reach Cold Creek Campground, you would typically drive to a trailhead parking area for the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail (such as the Hyak Trailhead at I-90 Exit 54) and then proceed by foot or bicycle along the trail. From the Hyak trailhead, Cold Creek Campground is approximately 10 miles east along the trail. The trail itself is well-maintained, as it follows a former railroad grade, making it generally flat and suitable for cycling or walking.

The location on Lake Keechelus provides scenic views and a tranquil lakeside setting. While the main Interstate 90 runs nearby, the campground's placement directly on the trail and its primitive nature create a sense of seclusion. It's important for visitors to understand that vehicular access is not typically available directly to the campsites, which contributes to the campground's quiet charm and appeal for those looking for a more immersive outdoor experience away from car noise. This walk-in/bike-in access ensures that Cold Creek remains a haven for trail users, offering a truly unique and accessible backcountry-lite experience within a reasonable distance from major population centers in Washington.

Cold Creek Campground offers fundamental, primitive services that cater specifically to the needs of hikers and bikepackers traversing the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. As part of the Washington State Parks' primitive trailside campgrounds, the amenities are basic but essential for an overnight stay in the wilderness.

• Campsites: The campground typically features a limited number of designated campsites, generally three to four sites. These are set up to accommodate tents and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning early arrival is often key, especially on weekends.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for food preparation, dining, or simply relaxing.

• Vault Toilets: The campground includes a vault toilet for sanitation. While one review mentioned a temporary issue with a full toilet and lack of toilet paper, generally, these facilities are intended to be kept clean and functional, as noted by other campers. It's always advisable for campers to carry their own toilet paper as a backup.

• No Potable Water: Cold Creek Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring all their own water or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources like Lake Keechelus, adhering to safe wilderness practices.

• No Fires Allowed: Open flames, including campfires, are generally prohibited at Cold Creek Campground to ensure safety and protect the environment, especially given its location along a state park trail. Campers should plan for cooking with portable stoves or cold meals.

• No Electrical Hookups: As a primitive campground, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available, reinforcing its rustic nature and focus on self-sufficiency.

• Bear Country Precautions: The presence of black bears in the area (as noted by previous campers) necessitates proper food storage. Campers should bring bear-resistant containers or utilize bear hangs to secure all food and scented items.

These services, while minimal, are precisely what one would expect from a primitive, trailside campground, providing the necessary basic infrastructure for a comfortable overnight stop without detracting from the natural experience.

Cold Creek Campground offers several distinct features and highlights that appeal to a specific kind of outdoor enthusiast, particularly those exploring the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.

• Direct Palouse to Cascades Trail Access: The most significant highlight is its direct location on the PTCT. This makes it an ideal overnight stop for long-distance hikers, cyclists, and bikepackers, providing convenient access to a vast, scenic trail system that stretches across Washington State.

• Lakeside Setting on Lake Keechelus: The campground is situated right on the shores of Lake Keechelus. This provides beautiful water views, potential access for non-motorized water activities (like dipping feet after a long ride), and a serene backdrop for camping.

• Primitive & Quiet Ambiance: Because it's a walk-in/bike-in only site, Cold Creek Campground maintains a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, free from the noise and traffic of car camping. This rustic feel appeals to those seeking a deeper connection with nature.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting, particularly in areas like Snoqualmie Pass, means opportunities for wildlife sightings. As noted in reviews, black bears have been seen in the area, adding a touch of wilderness excitement (and requiring responsible food storage).

• Covered Picnic Area: One source mentions a "very nice covered picnic area with two full tables and a fire pit" near Cold Creek. While open fires are generally not permitted at the individual campsites, this communal covered area could offer a sheltered spot for gathering or cooking with approved stoves, depending on current regulations and its specific location relative to the individual sites.

• Gateway to Extensive Trail System: Beyond the campground itself, being on the PTCT opens up miles of exploration. Campers can venture east or west along the trail, enjoying varied landscapes and connecting to other areas like the Snoqualmie Tunnel (to the west).

• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains, including forests and open meadows, the campground offers a visually appealing environment for outdoor relaxation and activity.

These features combine to create a unique and appealing experience for those who value tranquility, trail access, and a more rugged, self-sufficient approach to camping.

For those planning a visit to Cold Creek Campground, here's the essential contact information and important details for this unique trailside destination:

• Address: Mile Post 2123, 2 Palouse to Cascades State Pk Trl, Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068, USA

• Phone: There isn't a direct phone number for Cold Creek Campground itself, as it's a primitive site on the trail. Instead, inquiries would typically go through Washington State Parks, which manages the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail and its associated campgrounds. The general contact for Washington State Parks is often: (360) 902-8844 or you can check their main website for specific park inquiries.

Key information to consider before your visit:

• Access: Remember, Cold Creek Campground is a bike-in or hike-in only site. There is no direct vehicle access to the campsites. You will need to park at a trailhead, such as the Hyak Trailhead (I-90, Exit 54), and then travel approximately 10 miles east along the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail to reach the campground.

• Reservations: Campsites at Cold Creek Campground are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means you cannot typically reserve a spot in advance through services like Recreation.gov. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure a site.

• Operating Season: While not explicitly stated, primitive trailside campgrounds in this region are typically open seasonally, usually from spring (once snow melts) through fall. Always check the Washington State Parks website for the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail for current operating dates and conditions.

• Passes: A Discover Pass is typically required for parking at Washington State Parks trailheads. Be sure to purchase one before your trip.

• Be Prepared: Due to its primitive nature, pack all necessary supplies, including plenty of water (as no potable water is provided), and be prepared for potential wildlife encounters (e.g., bear-resistant food storage).

• Current Conditions: Always check the Washington State Parks website or relevant trail condition reports for any alerts regarding trail closures, fire bans, or facility updates before heading out.

Utilizing these resources will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Cold Creek Campground.

For locals in Washington State, Cold Creek Campground offers a uniquely suitable and deeply rewarding outdoor experience that perfectly aligns with the Pacific Northwest's love for trail adventures and natural immersion. Its primary suitability stems from its specific mode of access: being a bike-in or hike-in only campground directly on the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. This characteristic instantly filters out casual car campers, guaranteeing a quieter, more peaceful, and often more respectful environment that many Washingtonians seek for a true escape.

The location on the tranquil shores of Lake Keechelus, amidst the stunning landscapes of Snoqualmie Pass, provides an incredibly scenic backdrop for camping. It’s a chance to wake up to lakeside views and have immediate access to miles of flat, easy-to-traverse trail for cycling or walking. For the growing community of bikepackers, Cold Creek is an essential and celebrated waypoint, offering a dedicated spot to rest and recharge without having to venture too far off the main route. This accessibility for trail users means it integrates seamlessly into longer adventures or serves as a perfect destination for a focused overnight trip.

While the amenities are primitive (no potable water, no fires), this very simplicity is a highlight for many, fostering self-reliance and a deeper connection to the wilderness. The clear indication of bear presence, as noted by previous visitors, further underscores the authentic nature experience, prompting responsible outdoor practices. Ultimately, Cold Creek Campground is ideal for Washington locals who cherish quiet moments in nature, embrace self-sufficiency, and desire a rewarding outdoor experience directly accessible from one of the state's most iconic multi-use trails, all within a reasonable distance from urban centers. It's an opportunity to truly unplug and appreciate the raw beauty of the Cascades.

Cold Creek Campground

Mile Post 2123, 2 Palouse to Cascades State Pk Trl, Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068, USA