Excelsior Group Campground

For Washingtonians planning a memorable outdoor gathering, whether it's a family reunion, a scout troop outing, or a friends' adventure, finding the perfect large-capacity campsite can be a challenge. Look no further than Excelsior Group Campground, nestled within the magnificent Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This dedicated group camping facility offers the ideal setting for larger parties to connect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the North Cascades, and create lasting memories in a truly spectacular setting. It's designed to provide ample space and essential amenities, making group camping both convenient and incredibly enjoyable.

Excelsior Group Campground is specifically designed with larger groups in mind, providing two spacious sites that can accommodate significant numbers of campers. Located near the rushing waters of the Nooksack River, the campground offers a serene and picturesque backdrop of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock trees. It’s praised for its quiet atmosphere, allowing groups to enjoy their time together without feeling cramped or encroaching on other campers. The emphasis here is on providing a comfortable base from which to explore the myriad recreational activities available in the surrounding Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, from exhilarating hikes to peaceful fishing spots. This commitment to group-friendly facilities in such a prime natural location makes Excelsior Group Campground a premier choice for organized gatherings seeking an immersive Washington outdoor experience.

Excelsior Group Campground is conveniently situated in Washington 98244, USA, within the expansive Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This location places it in the heart of the stunning North Cascades, a region renowned for its rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and ancient forests. The campground is specifically located near the banks of the North Fork Nooksack River, offering scenic views and the soothing sounds of flowing water.

Accessing Excelsior Group Campground is relatively straightforward. From Seattle, visitors can head north on I-5 to Bellingham, then take exit 255 onto Sunset Drive/Mt. Baker Highway SR 542. Continue east on SR 542 past the town of Glacier (around mile 33) for approximately 7 more miles. The sign for the campground is on the left (north) side of the highway, while the access road is on the right (south) side, just before milepost 40. A right turn onto the access road and then the first right through the gated entrance leads directly into the campground. Site B is the first site on the left, and Site A is a loop at the end of the driveway. Its location along the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway (SR 542) ensures good road access, making it a manageable drive for groups coming from various parts of Western Washington.

Excelsior Group Campground is equipped with fundamental services to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable group camping experience, focusing on essentials rather than extensive luxuries.

• Group Sites: The campground features two large group sites. Site A is designed to accommodate up to 50 people, and Site B also accommodates up to 50 people. Some sources indicate Site B can accommodate up to 75 people, so it's best to verify exact capacity at booking.

• Picnic Tables: Both group sites are equipped with multiple picnic tables, providing ample space for communal meals and gatherings.

• Fire Rings/Fire Pits: Each group site includes a large group fire ring, along with individual fire pits at tent sites within Group Site A. These are perfect for campfires (when conditions permit) and outdoor cooking.

• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are provided within the campground for restroom facilities.

• Potable Water: Potable drinking water is available at the campground.

• No Electric Hookups: It's important to note that electric hookups are not available for RVs or trailers.

• Food Storage: Proper food storage is essential to avoid attracting wildlife, especially black bears. Campers are advised to store food securely.

• Gate Key: Access to the campground typically requires a gate key, which is often available from the Douglas Fir Campground host located nearby.

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is generally open from May to September, so reservations should be made in advance, especially for high-demand weekends.

Excelsior Group Campground's primary appeal lies in its group-friendly design and its prime location within one of Washington's most stunning natural areas, offering a wealth of recreational opportunities.

• Dedicated Group Camping: Its design specifically for large groups makes it an ideal venue for family reunions, educational outings, or organized club trips, ensuring ample space and privacy for the entire party.

• Proximity to Nooksack River: Located near the rushing North Fork Nooksack River, the campground offers the soothing sounds of the river and potential access for water activities. A launch site for rafts and kayaks is available under the highway bridge near the campground.

• Access to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: The campground serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the vast national forest, which boasts rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and ancient old-growth forests.

• Diverse Hiking Opportunities: Campers have access to a variety of trails nearby, including the easy Horseshoe Bend Trail along the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway, which showcases old-growth forests and whitewater rapids. For more challenging adventures, the Skyline Divide Trail offers stunning views of glacier-draped Mt. Baker and flower-filled meadows.

• Scenic Mountain Views: The area is surrounded by the majestic North Cascades, including views of Mt. Baker (an active, perpetually snow-capped volcano) and Mt. Shuksan, providing spectacular backdrops for outdoor activities and photography.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem in the area provides habitat for various wildlife, including five native salmon species, elk, bald eagles, and black-tailed deer, offering opportunities for observation.

• Seasonal Beauty: The best seasons for visiting are summer and early fall when the weather is favorable for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, and the landscape is vibrant with wildflowers or fall colors.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Excelsior Group Campground, you can typically contact the relevant ranger district within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Address: Washington 98244, USA

Phone: For campground inquiries, please call the Mt. Baker Ranger District office or the number associated with Excelsior Group Camp. Based on public data, a relevant contact number for facility-specific information is often 360-386-8214 or 360-804-1103 (though numbers can change, checking Recreation.gov or the USDA Forest Service website is recommended for the most current contact).

For Washingtonians, Excelsior Group Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to host large gatherings in one of our state's most iconic natural settings. Its suitability for locals stems from its specialized design for groups, providing the space and amenities needed for memorable reunions, events, and extended trips with friends and family, something not all campgrounds can accommodate as effectively.

The campground's location within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest means direct access to world-class hiking, fishing, and scenic drives along the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway. This makes it incredibly convenient for Washington residents to access some of the most breathtaking landscapes our state has to offer, without requiring extensive travel time to more distant regions. The provision of picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water ensures a comfortable stay for large numbers, while the emphasis on proper food storage reinforces responsible outdoor practices, which are important to our local communities. Furthermore, the knowledge that this campground is a gateway to diverse trails, from easy riverside walks to challenging mountain climbs with views of glaciers and volcanoes, caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. For Washington families and groups seeking a dedicated space to connect with each other and the stunning natural environment, Excelsior Group Campground provides the perfect blend of accessibility, amenities, and unparalleled scenic beauty, making it an ideal choice for your next large outdoor adventure.

Excelsior Group Campground

Washington 98244, USA