Cosho Camp

For Washingtonians yearning for a true escape into the rugged beauty of our state's most pristine wilderness, Cosho Camp offers an unparalleled backcountry experience. Tucked away deep within the North Cascades National Park Complex, this hike-in campground is a destination for those who embrace the journey as much as the destination itself. It promises a serene and profound connection with nature, far removed from the sounds and distractions of civilization.

This article is crafted specifically for local Washington users, aiming to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Cosho Camp. We'll delve into its remote location and the commitment required to reach it, discuss the essential services it provides for backpackers, highlight its most captivating features, and provide crucial information to help you plan your next wilderness excursion. Our goal is to inspire you to discover the peaceful solitude and magnificent grandeur that awaits at Cosho Camp.

Cosho Camp is situated in the vast wilderness of Washington, USA, specifically within the North Cascades National Park Complex. It is located along the Fisher Creek Trail, a significant backcountry route in the park. To reach Cosho Camp, adventurers typically start from the Easy Pass Trailhead, located on State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway) at approximately mile 151.

Accessing Cosho Camp is a true backpacking endeavor. From the Easy Pass Trailhead, hikers embark on a challenging but incredibly scenic journey. The trail initially involves a steep ascent to Easy Pass, followed by a significant descent into the Fisher Creek drainage. Cosho Camp is found approximately midway along the Fisher Creek Trail, after descending from Easy Pass. While the precise distance can vary slightly depending on the exact starting point and trail conditions, it's generally a hike of several miles from the pass. This remote, hike-in only access means that vehicle camping is not possible, preserving the pristine and secluded nature of the campground. A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays in this area, and these permits are limited, so planning and booking well in advance are essential. The journey to Cosho Camp itself is an integral part of the adventure, immersing you in the diverse ecosystems and breathtaking vistas of the North Cascades.

• Designated Backcountry Sites: Cosho Camp provides a limited number of designated primitive campsites (typically 4 sites, each accommodating up to 4 people). These sites offer flat areas for tent pitching within the forest.
• Pit Toilets: For waste disposal, the campground is equipped with a pit toilet, which is a significant amenity in a remote backcountry setting, helping to maintain hygiene and minimize environmental impact.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: Cosho Camp provides bear-resistant food storage facilities, typically in the form of food hangs. This is crucial for visitor safety and to protect wildlife, as black bears are definitely in the area during summer months.
• Access to Water (Natural Source): The campground is situated "right on a beautiful river" (Fisher Creek), providing a natural water source. However, all water must be filtered or treated before consumption.
• Campfire Rings: Sites generally include a fire pit. However, it's vital to note that campfires may be banned, especially during dry seasons, as has been the case across portions of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip.
• No Hookups or Developed Facilities: As a backcountry site, there are no RV hookups, running water at sites, showers, or other developed amenities. Campers must be self-sufficient.

• Deep Wilderness Immersion: Cosho Camp offers a profound sense of solitude and immersion in the North Cascades wilderness. It's a place where you truly disconnect from the modern world and connect with nature.
• Scenic Backcountry Hiking: The journey to Cosho Camp along the Fisher Creek Trail is highly scenic, traversing diverse landscapes from high mountain passes to lush forested valleys. Reviews describe it as "lovely and spacious" and "right on a beautiful river."
• Views of Majestic Peaks: While the camp itself is in the forest, the surrounding Fisher Basin and areas along the trail offer "sweeping views of the Cascades" and glimpses of iconic peaks like Mount Logan and Mount Arriva.
• Pristine River Environment: Being located directly on Fisher Creek provides a serene backdrop and opportunities for quiet contemplation, photography, and water refills.
• Abundant Wildlife: The remote setting increases the likelihood of encountering various wildlife, including black bears, deer, and diverse bird species, enhancing the wilderness experience.
• Opportunity for Extended Trips: Cosho Camp can serve as an excellent base for further exploration of the Fisher Creek and Thunder Creek trail systems, or as an overnight stop on a longer backpacking loop.
• Authentic Backcountry Experience: The requirement for a permit and the need for self-sufficiency ensure that visitors are prepared for and respectful of the wilderness environment.
• Lush Forest Setting: The camp is nestled within "beautiful, but mostly viewless, forest" for a significant portion of the hike, providing a truly peaceful and shaded environment.

Address: Washington, USA (specifically, located along the Fisher Creek Trail within North Cascades National Park Complex)

Cosho Camp does not have a direct phone number as it is a backcountry campsite. For essential information, including wilderness permits (which are mandatory for overnight stays), current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and fire restrictions, contact the North Cascades National Park Service Complex.

Recommended contact for the North Cascades National Park:

Phone: (360) 854-7200

Reservations for backcountry permits are typically managed through Recreation.gov or directly with the park's wilderness permit office. It is crucial to obtain your permit well in advance, especially for popular routes during peak season.

For Washingtonians, Cosho Camp embodies the true spirit of wilderness adventure that defines our state's outdoor culture. It offers a profound opportunity to escape the everyday and immerse oneself in the unspoiled grandeur of the North Cascades, a treasure right in our backyard. This backcountry camp is ideally suited for locals who possess a passion for backpacking, a respect for raw nature, and a desire for genuine solitude.

The journey to Cosho Camp, though demanding, is immensely rewarding. The hike along the Fisher Creek Trail, with its varied terrain and stunning vistas, is an experience in itself. This deliberate effort to reach the camp ensures a quieter, less crowded environment, allowing Washington residents to truly disconnect and find peace amidst the ancient forests and majestic peaks that characterize our landscape. The presence of basic, yet essential, amenities like a pit toilet and bear-resistant food storage demonstrates a commitment to sustainable wilderness use, aligning with the strong Leave No Trace ethics common among local outdoor enthusiasts.

Cosho Camp provides a vital setting for Washingtonians to challenge themselves physically and mentally, to deepen their appreciation for the intricate ecosystems of the Cascades, and to experience the awe-inspiring dark skies unpolluted by urban lights. It’s a place where skills in self-sufficiency are honed, and memories of pristine rivers and towering trees are forged. For those who believe that the most meaningful outdoor experiences are earned, Cosho Camp offers that authentic connection to the wild, making it an indispensable destination for a true Washington wilderness adventure.

Cosho Camp

Washington, USA