Maple Point

For Washington State locals yearning for a genuinely peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful escape into nature, Maple Point campground on Baker Lake offers an idyllic retreat. This isn't a bustling RV park; rather, it's a secluded, primitive camping experience designed for those who appreciate tranquility, stunning natural vistas, and the quiet satisfaction of reaching a serene destination. Situated with unparalleled views of both Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, Maple Point provides a sublime backdrop for unplugging and reconnecting with the pristine wilderness that defines Washington. If your ideal camping trip involves waking up to majestic mountain views, exploring ancient forests, and enjoying the quiet lapping of lake waters, then Maple Point is a destination that promises to exceed your expectations, offering a truly unforgettable natural encounter.

This overview will guide you through the distinctive characteristics that make Maple Point a highly sought-after camping spot for nature lovers across Washington. We'll delve into its unique lakeside location and its accessibility primarily by hiking or boating, which contributes to its untouched, serene atmosphere. We’ll detail the essential, primitive services it provides, underscoring the importance of self-sufficiency for a comfortable and respectful stay. Furthermore, we’ll highlight the many features that consistently draw visitors to this tranquil haven, particularly its incredible mountain and lake views, and its immersion within old-growth forests. Prepare to discover a campground that offers not just a place to pitch your tent, but a profound and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Washington's most iconic landscapes, where peace and natural beauty abound.

Maple Point campground is exquisitely located on the eastern shoreline of Baker Lake, within the scenic region of Washington State (Washington 98266, USA). This prime location offers campers direct lakefront access and breathtaking, unobstructed views of the majestic Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, especially during sunset. The campground is nestled amidst beautiful old-growth forests, providing a lush, shaded environment that enhances the sense of seclusion and natural immersion.

Accessibility to Maple Point is primarily by hike-in or boat-in, contributing significantly to its serene and uncrowded atmosphere. It is approximately a 4-mile hike in from the Baker Lake Trailhead. The Baker Lake Trail is noted as a "wonderful family hike for all seasons with its low elevation and level grade," making the journey to Maple Point a pleasant experience for most. This trail meanders along the eastern shoreline of Baker Lake, offering continuous glimpses of the surrounding natural beauty. For those preferring water access, the campground can also be reached by boat. Some sites even feature an old dock, making boat-in camping particularly convenient. This unique accessibility ensures that Maple Point remains a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle often associated with drive-up campgrounds. While there's no running water directly at the sites, the nearby lake provides a source (though water should be filtered or treated for drinking). The combination of a relatively accessible hike/boat journey and its deep immersion in a pristine natural setting makes Maple Point a highly desirable and tranquil destination for Washington locals seeking a genuine outdoor escape.

Services Offered:

• Tent Sites: Designed primarily for tent camping, offering a classic outdoor experience.
• Picnic Tables: Available at each campsite for comfortable outdoor dining.
• Fire Pits with Grills: Provided for campfires and cooking, allowing for cozy evenings (check for burn bans).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained basic restroom facilities.
• Bear Boxes: Secure storage for food and scented items, essential for wildlife safety.
• No Running Water: Campers must bring their own water or filter/treat water from Baker Lake.
• No Hookups: Primitive sites without electrical, water, or sewer connections.
• Dispersed Campsites: Sites are generally semi-private and spread out for enhanced solitude.

Features / Highlights:

• Peaceful and Serene: Consistently reviewed as one of the most tranquil places to camp.
• Stunning Views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan: Offers breathtaking mountain vistas, particularly at sunset.
• Lakeside Locations: Many sites are right by the lake, providing direct access and beautiful water views.
• Located on Baker Lake Trail: Provides easy access to a popular and scenic hiking trail.
• Old-Growth Forests: Surrounded by majestic trees draped in lichen and moss, creating an immersive natural environment.
• Flat and Soft Tent Sites: Described as comfortable for pitching tents.
• Abundant Wild Berries, Flowers, and Ferns: Adds to the natural beauty, especially in season.
• Small Floating Dock: Available for enjoying the lake or launching small non-motorized boats.
• No Cell Service: Offers a perfect opportunity for a digital detox and true disconnection.
• Clean Vault Toilets: Appreciated by campers for their cleanliness.
• Hike-in or Boat-in Access: Ensures a less crowded, more authentic wilderness experience.
• Ideal for Relaxation: The quiet atmosphere is perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature's sounds.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe local wildlife, including deer and potentially bears (hence bear boxes).

Contact Information:

Address: Washington 98266, USA (specifically, on the eastern shore of Baker Lake)

Please note: As Maple Point is a primitive, hike-in/boat-in campground, it does not typically have a direct phone number. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for its approximately six official sites. For general information regarding Baker Lake area camping, trail conditions, and regulations, it is best to contact the U.S. Forest Service, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest (Darrington Ranger District or Baker Lake Area information):

• General Information Phone: (360) 856-5700 (for Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest)
• Check with specific Ranger Districts for more localized information, such as the Darrington Ranger District for the Baker Lake area.

Always verify current conditions, fire restrictions, and any changes in access or regulations with the Forest Service before planning your trip to Maple Point.

For Washington locals, Maple Point campground offers an ideal and accessible escape into the state's renowned natural beauty. Its location on Baker Lake, with stunning, unobstructed views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, provides a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience without needing to venture deep into the most remote backcountry. For residents accustomed to the visual splendor of their home state, Maple Point truly delivers on the promise of breathtaking scenery right from their campsite. The relatively easy 4-mile hike in via the Baker Lake Trail makes it approachable for families and those new to backpacking, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment without extreme physical demands. This accessibility, combined with the option for boat-in access, widens its appeal to various types of outdoor enthusiasts.

What makes Maple Point particularly suitable for locals is its commitment to providing a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. Despite being accessible, its hike-in/boat-in nature ensures a quieter experience than many drive-up campgrounds, allowing for a genuine sense of tranquility. The "no cell service" feature, rather than a hindrance, is a welcome invitation for Washingtonians to truly unplug, recharge, and reconnect with nature and their companions. The presence of essential amenities like bear boxes, picnic tables, and clean vault toilets provides a comfortable rustic experience without sacrificing the wild feel. For those seeking an unforgettable, serene, and visually spectacular camping trip right in their own extraordinary backyard, Maple Point offers a perfect blend of accessibility, beauty, and peaceful immersion in Washington’s majestic landscape.

Maple Point

Washington 98266, USA