Goose Lake Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Washington residents seeking a genuine immersion into the Pacific Northwest wilderness, Goose Lake Campground offers a rustic and authentic camping experience within the vast beauty of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,130 to 3,200 feet, this campground is a popular destination, particularly for those interested in fishing, boating, and enjoying the tranquility of a pristine mountain lake. Unlike some more developed campgrounds, Goose Lake provides a more primitive setting, emphasizing connection with nature. It’s ideal for tent campers looking for a secluded getaway, providing level sites on a hillside with attractive views of the lake. While it boasts stunning natural surroundings and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the possibility of spotting bears and cougars, campers should arrive prepared for a true wilderness adventure, understanding the trade-offs that come with a less-developed site. This is a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the raw beauty of Washington's forests.

Location and Accessibility

Goose Lake Campground is located on Forest Road 60, near Carson, WA 98610, USA, deep within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Its exact location is at the southeast end of Goose Lake. This placement means that while the natural setting is incredibly rewarding, accessibility requires navigating a substantial amount of gravel road. Specifically, the campground is about eight miles along a gravel road, which can be challenging, featuring washboards and potholes. Visitors have reported that the road conditions can be quite severe, potentially impacting vehicles, so a high-clearance vehicle, and perhaps four-wheel drive, is highly recommended. For those coming from Carson, the journey involves taking the Wind River Highway (Forest Road 30) north, turning onto Panther Creek Road (which becomes Forest Road 65), and then turning right onto Forest Road 60. From Trout Lake, access is via Highway 141 (which becomes Forest Road 24) and then Forest Road 60. The campground is generally open from July to October, with opening dates dependent on snow levels, as snowfall can render it unreachable in late autumn. This remote location, while presenting a journey, is precisely what contributes to the campground’s wild and immersive feel, allowing for a genuine escape into the Washington wilderness.

Services Offered

• 18 primitive campsites designed primarily for tent camping.
• Walk-in campsites with roadside parking.
• Each campsite includes a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires (fire restrictions may apply seasonally).
• Access to vault toilets for restroom facilities.
• Concrete boat ramp for launching small boats, kayaks, and canoes (non-motorized or small electric motors recommended).
• Day use area with additional parking and picnic tables.
• Lake stocked with fish several times per season, supporting popular fishing activities.
• Opportunities for swimming in Goose Lake.
• Trail access to the lake from campsites.
• No potable water available; campers must bring their own water supply.
• No showers or sewage hookups.
• First-come, first-served basis for campsites; reservations are not available.

Features / Highlights

• Rustic Wilderness Experience: Goose Lake Campground offers a truly primitive camping experience, ideal for those who prefer to rough it and fully immerse themselves in the natural environment of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. It's a departure from modern amenities, encouraging a genuine connection with the outdoors.
• Scenic Lake Views: Campsites are situated on a hillside, providing attractive views of Goose Lake. The lake itself is noted for its beauty, characterized by old trees rising from its clear waters, a unique sight formed by ancient lava flows.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Goose Lake is a popular spot for anglers, frequently stocked with brook, brown, and coastal cutthroat trout. Many visitors report excellent fishing, making it a prime destination for casting a line.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest is home to various wildlife, and campers have reported sightings of large animals such as black bears and cougars. Being aware of your surroundings adds to the authentic wilderness experience.
• Non-Motorized Boating Access: The concrete boat ramp allows for easy launching of small boats, kayaks, and canoes, providing a fantastic way to explore the lake’s calm waters. This makes it perfect for serene paddles and quiet exploration.
• Secluded Atmosphere: Due to the challenging access road and primitive nature, the campground often feels less crowded than more accessible sites, offering a sense of solitude and peace for those seeking quiet reflection.
• Opportunity for Disconnection: With no cell service in the area, Goose Lake Campground offers a complete digital detox, allowing campers to fully unwind and focus on their surroundings without modern distractions.
• Natural Surroundings: The campground is nestled among mature cedars and Douglas firs, providing ample shade and a true forest ambiance. Nearby attractions like the Big Lava Bed and Indian Heaven Wilderness offer additional exploration opportunities.

Contact Information

For general inquiries about Goose Lake Campground, you can reach the Gifford Pinchot National Forest Service, which manages the area:

Address: Forest Road 60, Carson, WA 98610, USA

Phone: (360) 891-5000

Mobile Phone: +1 360-891-5000

It is advisable to contact the Gifford Pinchot National Forest ranger district directly for the most current information regarding road conditions, fire restrictions, and campground status before planning your trip, especially given the remote nature of the location.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Goose Lake Campground is a compelling choice for Washington locals who possess a keen sense of adventure and a genuine love for the untamed outdoors. While not a destination for those seeking luxurious amenities or easy access, its challenges are precisely what define its unique appeal. For seasoned campers, avid anglers, and nature enthusiasts across Washington, Goose Lake offers an authentic wilderness experience that is increasingly rare to find. Its location within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest means it’s relatively close for many in the state, making it a feasible weekend getaway for those willing to brave the rugged Forest Road 60. This campground is particularly suited for individuals or families who value tranquility, enjoy primitive camping, and are self-sufficient in the outdoors, bringing their own water and being prepared for potential wildlife encounters. The excellent fishing opportunities, combined with the serene lake and beautiful forest backdrop, provide a perfect setting for creating enduring outdoor memories. If you're a Washington resident looking to truly disconnect, test your preparedness, and immerse yourself in the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Goose Lake Campground stands as an authentic and rewarding destination, far from the crowds of more developed sites. It’s a place where the wild calls, and true adventurers will find their solace.

Goose Lake Campground

Forest Road 60, Carson, WA 98610, USA