Triangle Recreation Camp

For Washington locals seeking a truly welcoming, inclusive, and scenic outdoor retreat, Triangle Recreation Camp (TRC) stands out as a unique and beloved destination. Nestled amidst the stunning foothills of the Cascade Mountains along the renowned Mountain Loop Highway near Granite Falls, TRC offers more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it provides a vibrant community atmosphere in a beautiful natural setting. As the Northwest's premier recreational campground uniquely owned and operated by the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) community, TRC fosters an environment where visitors can relax, connect, and enjoy the outdoors without fear of prejudice or harassment.

This article is crafted to be a clear, engaging, and informative guide to Triangle Recreation Camp, tailored specifically for Washington residents planning their next outdoor adventure. We will delve into its precise location and accessibility, detailing what to expect when navigating the scenic drive to this special place. Furthermore, we will highlight the comprehensive services and the distinctive features that define a stay at TRC, drawing directly from official information and the overwhelmingly positive experiences shared by past visitors. Our aim is to provide a factual overview, ensuring you have all the necessary details to prepare for a successful and memorable trip to this highly regarded private campground.

TRC is praised for its meticulously maintained grounds, comfortable trails, and a truly amazing private beach on the Stillaguamish River, offering an invigorating swim in snow-melt waters. Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend escape, a fun-filled gathering with friends, or simply a safe space to be yourself in nature, TRC offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and community spirit. While you'll want to bring your competent insect repellent during summer months, the overall experience of clean facilities, affordable firewood, and incredibly welcoming long-term members makes it a highly desirable destination.

We'll explore what makes this camp "absolutely amazing" and why many visitors, like the partners who "will definitely be returning," fall in love with TRC. Prepare to discover why Triangle Recreation Camp is not just a campground, but a cherished community hub and an unparalleled outdoor sanctuary for Washington locals seeking an inclusive and beautiful experience in the Evergreen State.

Triangle Recreation Camp (TRC) is conveniently located at 47715 Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252, USA. This address places it approximately 21 miles east of Granite Falls, directly on the scenic Mountain Loop Highway, nestled within the picturesque foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The Mountain Loop Highway is a well-known route for outdoor enthusiasts in Washington, offering stunning vistas and access to numerous recreational areas within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Accessibility to TRC is generally straightforward for most vehicles. From the greater Seattle area, the drive typically involves heading north on I-5, then connecting to State Route 92 towards Granite Falls. Once in Granite Falls, you simply continue east on the Mountain Loop Highway (State Route 530 turns into the Mountain Loop Highway, or Forest Road 20, at various points). The camp's location directly on this highway makes it relatively easy to find. However, as it is a mountain highway, drivers should be aware of winding roads and potential seasonal variations in road conditions, especially during late fall or early spring, though the primary route to TRC is usually well-maintained.

The drive itself is part of the experience, offering stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountain peaks, gradually transporting visitors from urban environments to a serene natural setting. While TRC provides a secluded feel, it remains within a reasonable driving distance from major population centers like Seattle and Vancouver (Canada), making it an ideal weekend getaway for many Washington residents. For those needing supplies, Everett is a short drive away for larger supermarkets, and the nearby Verlot Public Service Center often has a small store for forgotten essentials, adding to the camp's practical accessibility.

The camp's precise address ensures GPS navigation is effective, guiding visitors directly to this welcoming retreat. Its position on the Mountain Loop Highway also facilitates easy access to other popular attractions in the area, such as hiking trails, rivers, and the natural wonders of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, enhancing the overall recreational value for Washington locals.

• Tent Sites: TRC offers well-maintained tent sites, many of which surround shared fire pits and picnic tables. These areas are often covered by tarps overhead, providing protection from the elements, a thoughtful amenity for Washington's variable weather. Campers are advised to book sites that accommodate large tents if needed, as some sites may be on the smaller side.

• RV and Trailer Camping: In addition to tent sites, TRC also accommodates RV and trailer camping. Specific details on hookups (if any) are best confirmed directly with the camp, but the provision for RVs expands its appeal to a wider range of campers.

• Portable Restrooms with Handwashing Stations: The camp provides on-site portable restrooms that are consistently described by visitors as "pleasantly clean and tidy," a notable positive for outdoor facilities.

• Potable Water: As of 2024, TRC explicitly states they have potable water available on-site, located across from the Seasonal Site Woodpeckers and an additional station on Trail 6. This is a crucial amenity, especially for tent campers, eliminating the need to bring all water supplies.

• Firewood Available On-Site: Firewood can be purchased directly at the camp, offered at a "generous price for the volume of fuel you're getting," providing convenience for campers.

• Shared Fire Pits and Picnic Tables: Many tent sites are arranged around shared amenities, fostering a communal atmosphere.

• Beautiful Private Beach Access: The camp boasts an "amazing beach on the river" (the Stillaguamish River), providing a private spot for swimming in the invigorating snow-melt water, a highly praised feature.

• Well-Maintained Trails: TRC offers "comfortable trails" within its grounds, ideal for leisurely strolls and exploring the camp's natural beauty.

• No Running Water at Tent Sites: While potable water is available on-site, there is no running water directly at individual tent sites, which is typical for many rustic or semi-primitive campgrounds.

• Inclusive & Welcoming Environment: TRC is explicitly owned and operated by the LGBTQ+ community, creating an "absolutely amazing" place to stay where visitors report "not having a single worry about weird prejudice or harassment." This atmosphere of acceptance and safety is a paramount highlight.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: Nestled in the Cascade foothills along the Mountain Loop Highway, the camp boasts a "beautiful setting" with lush forests and access to the Stillaguamish River, offering a true immersion in the Pacific Northwest wilderness.

• Private River Beach: A significant draw is the "amazing beach on the river," providing an exclusive and invigorating spot for swimming in the refreshing snow-melt water, a unique feature for a campground.

• Community and Friendly Atmosphere: Visitors consistently praise the "friendly people" and the "incredibly welcoming and informative" long-term members, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

• Clean & Tidy Facilities: Despite being rustic, the portable restrooms and handwashing stations are noted for being "pleasantly clean and tidy," enhancing the overall camping experience.

• Well-Maintained Grounds & Trails: The camp is "super well maintained," including its internal trails, which are described as "comfortable," allowing for enjoyable exploration within the property.

• Fun Activities: Reviews mention "fun activities," indicating that the camp offers more than just basic camping, fostering engagement and entertainment for guests.

• Accessible Location with Nearby Amenities: Its position on the Mountain Loop Highway provides easy access, and while feeling secluded, it's a short drive to Everett for major supplies or Verlot for smaller necessities, offering a good balance of wilderness and convenience.

• Affordable Firewood: The availability of firewood on-site at a "generous price" adds a practical convenience, allowing campers to enjoy campfires without hassle.

Address: 47715 Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252, USA

Phone: (360) 804-1170 (This number is listed as a primary contact for TRC through the Granite Falls Chamber of Commerce and their official website.)

Email: president@camptrc.org (For general inquiries, as listed by the Granite Falls Chamber of Commerce) or membership@camptrc.org (For privacy policy questions)

Website: trianglerecreationcamp.wildapricat.org (This is their official website, providing comprehensive information on camping, membership, events, and what to bring. Reservations for RVs and tents are handled through their website, sometimes via RoverPass.)

It is highly recommended to visit their official website or contact them directly via phone or email for the most up-to-date information regarding reservations (which are required for camping), current operating dates (mid-April to early October), specific site accommodations, and any events or policies.

Triangle Recreation Camp (TRC) offers an incredibly suitable and enriching outdoor experience for Washington locals, particularly those who value inclusivity, community, and a well-maintained natural environment. Its designation as the Northwest's premier LGBTQ+-owned and operated campground immediately sets it apart, providing a safe, welcoming, and harassment-free space that is invaluable for many seeking genuine relaxation and connection in the outdoors. For Washingtonians, this aspect alone makes TRC a unique and highly desirable destination.

Beyond its inclusive spirit, TRC provides a high-quality camping experience rooted in the stunning beauty of the Cascade foothills. The "beautiful setting" along the Mountain Loop Highway, coupled with its "amazing beach on the river," offers a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor activity. The opportunity to take an "invigorating swim" in the snow-melt waters of the Stillaguamish River is a refreshing and memorable highlight that truly connects visitors with the raw power of Washington's natural landscapes.

The practical amenities, such as "pleasantly clean and tidy" portable restrooms, readily available and generously priced firewood, and the recent addition of potable water on-site, demonstrate TRC's commitment to visitor comfort even within a rustic setting. While individual tent sites may vary in size, the overall layout fosters a communal atmosphere, enhanced by the "friendly people" and "incredibly welcoming" long-term members who are eager to share information and make newcomers feel at home. This sense of belonging and camaraderie is a powerful draw for locals seeking more than just a campsite, but a vibrant community experience.

Furthermore, TRC's accessibility along the Mountain Loop Highway means it's a manageable drive for many across Washington, allowing for both weekend escapes and longer stays. Its proximity to charming local towns for supplies, combined with direct access to internal and nearby external trails (like the Big Four Ice Caves), provides a balanced blend of wilderness immersion and convenient access to modern necessities. For Washington locals seeking an "absolutely amazing" place to stay where they can truly be themselves, relax, and create lasting memories in a beautiful and supportive environment, Triangle Recreation Camp is an unparalleled and highly recommended outdoor sanctuary.

Triangle Recreation Camp

47715 Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252, USA