Panorama Point Campground

For residents of Washington State, the desire to escape into nature is a fundamental part of our lifestyle. With an abundance of stunning landscapes, from the Puget Sound to the towering Cascade Mountains, finding the perfect campground is always a high priority. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Baker Lake, within the expansive Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Panorama Point Campground offers an idyllic setting for your next outdoor adventure. This article is designed to provide local Washington users with a clear, engaging, and factual insight into what makes Panorama Point Campground an exceptional choice for camping, recreation, and creating lasting memories right here in our beautiful state.

Panorama Point Campground lives up to its name, offering breathtaking views of Baker Lake and, on clear days, glimpses of the majestic Mt. Baker itself. It’s a destination that caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're looking to launch your boat, cast a line, embark on a scenic hike, or simply relax amidst serene natural beauty. Unlike some more rustic sites, Panorama Point strives to provide essential amenities that enhance comfort without detracting from the immersive wilderness experience. We understand that a successful camping trip hinges on both the natural environment and convenient facilities, and Panorama Point Campground aims to deliver on both fronts, making it a beloved spot for many Washingtonians.

Panorama Point Campground is located on Baker Lake Rd, Concrete, WA 98237, USA. This places it along the western shore of Baker Lake, deep within the scenic Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Baker Lake is a significant reservoir in Skagit County, fed by the Baker River, and is a popular destination for water-based recreation.

Accessibility to Panorama Point Campground is generally straightforward for those traveling from across Washington State. From major urban centers like Seattle, the route typically involves taking I-5 North to Burlington, then transitioning to State Route 20 East. From SR 20, you'll turn north onto Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11), following it for approximately 19-20 miles until you reach the campground entrance. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the surrounding forests and, as you get closer, the impressive views that give the campground its name. While the roads are generally well-maintained, it's always advisable to check local conditions, especially during shoulder seasons. The location provides a sense of being truly "away from it all" while remaining reasonably accessible for a weekend or extended trip from most populated areas of Western Washington. Its proximity to Concrete, a small town that can serve as a stop for supplies, adds to its convenience.

Panorama Point Campground offers a range of services and facilities designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience while immersing you in the natural environment:

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: The campground features a total of 15 campsites, including 9 reservable sites and 6 that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. These sites accommodate both tent camping and RVs (with length restrictions, typically around 33 feet), providing flexibility for different camping styles.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for campfires and cooking. (Always check for current fire restrictions.)

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available via faucets in the campground. (Note: It is not for hose hookups for RVs, so plan accordingly to fill your tanks elsewhere if needed.)

• Boat Launch and Day Use Area: A large, paved boat launch parking area is located at the entrance to the campground, facilitating easy access to Baker Lake for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There is also a day-use picnic area with panoramic views of the lake, popular for non-campers as well.

• Camp Hosts: As highlighted in numerous reviews, Panorama Point benefits from dedicated and helpful camp hosts. These hosts often go above and beyond, assisting campers with everything from flat tires to boat breakdowns, significantly enhancing the overall camping experience and ensuring the campground is well-maintained and quiet.

• Garbage Bins: Designated garbage and recycling bins are provided for convenient and responsible waste disposal.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes pets, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for your outdoor adventures.

Panorama Point Campground truly shines through its distinctive features and the wealth of recreational opportunities it offers, making it a standout destination for Washington locals:

• Stunning Panoramic Views: As its name suggests, the campground offers incredible panoramic views of Baker Lake and the surrounding glaciated peaks, including Mount Shuksan and, from some vantage points or on the lake, the iconic Mt. Baker itself. The day-use area, in particular, provides breathtaking scenery.

• Exceptional Water Access: With several sites located directly at the lake's edge and a convenient boat launch, it's a premier location for water-based activities. Boating, fishing (for rainbow and brown trout), swimming (though the water is cold!), kayaking, and paddleboarding are all immensely popular.

• Helpful and Proactive Camp Hosts: Consistently lauded in reviews, the camp hosts (such as Josh and previous hosts like Gene) are a major highlight. Their willingness to assist with everything from tire plugs to boat issues creates a welcoming and secure environment, a rarity that significantly enhances the camping experience.

• Proximity to Extensive Trail Systems: The campground is an excellent base for hikers and backpackers. The family-friendly Baker Lake Trail (13 miles along the eastern shore) and Baker River Trail (leading into North Cascades National Park) are easily accessible, offering diverse options for exploring old-growth forests and scenic overlooks.

• Gateway to Wilderness Areas: It provides convenient access to the Mt. Baker National Recreation Area, Mt. Baker Wilderness, and North Cascades National Park, opening up a world of more rugged adventures and exploration of Washington's pristine wilderness.

• Clean and Maintained Facilities: Despite being a National Forest campground, reviews frequently praise the cleanliness of the sites and vault toilets, reflecting good maintenance and contributing to a pleasant stay.

• Secluded Forested Setting: While popular, the campsites are often nestled within a forested setting, providing a sense of natural immersion and shade. Some sites, particularly those on the small peninsula, offer enhanced privacy and direct lake access.

For those ready to plan their visit or seeking more information about Panorama Point Campground, here is the essential contact information. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, through the official booking platform.

Address: Baker Lake Rd, Concrete, WA 98237, USA

Phone: (541) 338-7869 (This number might connect to the overall reservation system or a regional office; specific campground host phones are not typically public for direct contact.)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-338-7869 (Same as above, likely for general inquiries or reservation system.)

For campground-specific inquiries or to speak with the managing district, you can contact the Mt. Baker Ranger District - Sedro Woolley Office, as they oversee this area of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Their general contact number is typically (360) 856-5700, though this may vary.

Reservations are primarily handled through Recreation.gov. Search for "Panorama Point Campground" to check availability and book your site.

Panorama Point Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Washington State, offering a quintessential Pacific Northwest outdoor experience. Its prime location on Baker Lake, within the breathtaking Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, means that residents don't have to travel far to immerse themselves in world-class natural beauty and recreation. This accessibility makes it ideal for weekend getaways and longer vacations alike, allowing for more time enjoying the outdoors and less time on the road.

The campground's unique blend of amenities, including a convenient boat launch and well-maintained facilities, caters to a wide array of interests. Whether you're a seasoned angler, an avid boater, a passionate hiker, or simply someone seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat, Panorama Point provides the perfect setting. The highly praised and proactive camp hosts further elevate the experience, offering invaluable assistance and contributing to a friendly, secure, and well-managed environment—a significant factor that sets this campground apart. For Washingtonians looking for a scenic, activity-rich, and reliably well-maintained camping destination that truly captures the spirit of our state's outdoor heritage, Panorama Point Campground is a top-tier choice. It promises memorable experiences against a backdrop of some of the most stunning vistas in the region.

Panorama Point Campground

Baker Lake Rd, Concrete, WA 98237, USA