Upper Goodell Group Campground

For Washingtonians seeking an immersive outdoor experience that combines the tranquility of nature with the adventure of group camping, Upper Goodell Group Campground offers a truly unique destination. Tucked away in the breathtaking North Cascades National Park, this campground provides a serene and somewhat remote escape from the everyday hustle. We understand that local Washington users cherish opportunities to connect with the state's unparalleled natural beauty, and Upper Goodell Group Campground is designed to facilitate just such an experience for groups looking to explore the rugged wilderness and enjoy peaceful nights under the stars.

Imagine waking up to the sound of a rushing creek, surrounded by ancient forests, with towering peaks as your backdrop. Upper Goodell Group Campground promises this idyllic setting, offering a quiet and intimate space for groups to gather and create lasting memories. It’s important to note for new visitors that this is indeed a group campground, catering to a larger number of people than individual sites, making it perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or friends' getaways. While it’s a more remote option compared to its nearby counterpart, Lower Goodell, this adds to its appeal for those desiring a deeper connection with the wilderness. Our aim in this article is to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes Upper Goodell Group Campground a compelling choice for Washington locals, delving into its precise location, the essential services it offers, its distinctive features, and ultimately, why it stands out as an exceptional base for your next North Cascades adventure.

Upper Goodell Group Campground is located in the stunning North Cascades National Park, near the town of Marblemount, WA 98267, USA. Its address is generally given as Marblemount, WA 98267, as it sits within the expansive boundaries of the park. For Washington locals, reaching this wilderness gem involves a scenic drive that gradually transitions from settled areas into the dramatic, mountainous terrain of the North Cascades.

The campground is situated at mile marker 119 on State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway), a major east-west route that traverses the park. From Burlington, WA, the drive is approximately 60 miles east on State Route 20. For those coming from Eastern Washington, specifically Twisp, the drive is about 82 miles west on State Route 20. It's important to note that the road to Upper Goodell Group Campground is described as "up a slightly steeper road than nearby Lower Goodell Group Campground," and it is generally considered "more remote." This contributes to its quiet ambiance but also means that RVs or buses are typically not allowed due to the road conditions, emphasizing its nature as a tent-only facility. Despite its remote feel, the campground serves as a convenient hub for day trips to key attractions. The North Cascades Visitor Center and the charming town of Newhalem, with its general store and visitor information, are a short drive or a long walk away. This balance of secluded wilderness and nearby essential services makes Upper Goodell Group Campground accessible enough for a variety of group outings, while still offering that coveted feeling of being truly immersed in nature.

Upper Goodell Group Campground provides essential services specifically tailored for a group tent camping experience within a wilderness setting. While it offers a rustic and immersive outdoor adventure, certain fundamental amenities are in place for convenience.

• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with pit or vault toilets for visitors' convenience, providing a basic and necessary sanitation facility in a remote environment.

• Picnic Shelter: A designated picnic shelter is available, offering protection from the elements (rain or sun) for group meals and gatherings. This is particularly useful for group activities.

• Food Storage Lockers (Bear Boxes): Given the presence of black bears in the area, the campground provides food storage lockers (bear boxes). This crucial service ensures that campers can safely store food, cookware, and other odorous items, promoting both human safety and bear welfare.

• Garbage Service: Garbage disposal service is provided, allowing campers to properly dispose of their waste and maintain the cleanliness of the site and the park.

• No Potable Water On-Site: It's important to note that Upper Goodell Group Campground does not have potable water directly at the site. Water is available at the main Goodell Creek Campground, located on the south side of State Route 20. This requires campers to plan accordingly for water needs.

• Campfire Rings/Grates: Campsites are typically equipped with campfire rings or grates for cooking and campfires, subject to fire restrictions.

These services, while basic, are crucial for a comfortable and responsible group camping experience in a wilderness area, emphasizing self-sufficiency while providing essential facilities.

Upper Goodell Group Campground offers a distinct set of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for groups seeking a true wilderness experience in the North Cascades.

• Dedicated Group Site: The campground features one primary group site, specifically designed to comfortably accommodate 12 to 20 people, with a maximum capacity of 30. This makes it ideal for larger gatherings of friends, families, or organized groups, ensuring a dedicated space for their activities.

• Quiet and Remote Setting: Consistently highlighted in reviews, the campground is praised for being a "Great, quiet spot" and a "quiet, remote facility." Its location up a slightly steeper and more secluded road than Lower Goodell contributes to this tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking peace away from crowds.

• Tent Camping Only: A key feature is that this is a tent-only facility. Trailers or larger RVs are not allowed due to the steep dirt access road. This maintains the rustic, traditional camping feel and minimizes noise and impact.

• Lush Ancient Forest Environment: The campground is nestled among "lush ancient forests of western redcedar, western hemlock and Douglas-fir trees," providing ample shade and a deeply immersive natural setting. The rushing Goodell Creek cascades over its rocky course right by the campground, offering a soothing soundtrack.

• Abundant Recreational Opportunities:

  • Hiking: Many miles of hiking trails are within a short drive, making it an excellent base camp for exploring the rugged terrain of North Cascades National Park.
  • Fishing: Goodell Creek and the nearby Skagit River offer opportunities for fishing, including trout, salmon, and steelhead. Note that boating or swimming are not permitted at the site itself.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Nature abounds, with opportunities for viewing wildlife and birding. Black bears frequent the area, requiring campers to take precautions.
  • Proximity to Visitor Center: A short drive or long walk leads to the North Cascades Visitor Center, offering exhibits, park films, and information to enhance the wilderness experience.

• Hydro-Electric Project Awareness: The campground is located within a hydro-electric project, and a warning system is in place for high water. Campers are advised to see the host for specific information upon arrival, highlighting a unique aspect of its natural and managed environment.

These features collectively define Upper Goodell Group Campground as a truly authentic and peaceful wilderness camping experience for groups, set amidst the stunning landscapes of North Cascades National Park.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Upper Goodell Group Campground, you can reach the North Cascades National Park Service Complex, which manages the campground, through the following contact details:

Address: Marblemount, WA 98267, USA (The campground is located within North Cascades National Park near Marblemount.)

Phone: (360) 854-7200

Mobile Phone: +1 360-854-7200

Reservations for Upper Goodell Group Campground are typically made through recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as it has only one group site. Given its remote nature and specific rules (e.g., tent-only, no potable water on-site), contacting the park directly or checking the official recreation.gov listing for the most up-to-date information on booking windows, availability, and specific regulations is crucial for planning your group's visit.

Upper Goodell Group Campground is exceptionally suitable for locals in Washington, offering a quintessential Pacific Northwest group camping experience that resonates deeply with the state's outdoor enthusiasts. For many Washingtonians, the desire to escape into the pristine wilderness, particularly in a world-renowned park like the North Cascades, is a fundamental aspect of their lifestyle. This campground provides an ideal setting for fulfilling that desire.

Firstly, its dedicated group site is a significant advantage for local groups, whether they are families, friends, or organized clubs. Finding a large, secluded space that can comfortably accommodate 12 to 30 people is a rarity, and Upper Goodell provides just that. This allows Washingtonians to gather together, share the beauty of the outdoors, and create shared memories in a private setting, fostering a sense of community amidst the wilderness.

Secondly, the campground’s remote and "quiet spot" ambiance is a major draw. Washington locals often seek refuge from urban noise, and Upper Goodell delivers a truly peaceful escape, with the soothing sounds of Goodell Creek replacing the everyday din. This genuine tranquility, combined with the immersive experience of camping within an ancient forest of western redcedar and Douglas-fir, offers a profound connection to the natural environment that is so characteristic of Washington State. The emphasis on tent-only camping further enhances this authentic wilderness feel, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional and low-impact camping style.

Finally, the wealth of nearby recreational opportunities – from extensive hiking trails that challenge and reward with stunning views, to fishing in glacial-fed waters, and abundant wildlife viewing (including black bears, which necessitate responsible camping practices) – aligns perfectly with the adventurous spirit of Washingtonians. Its proximity to the North Cascades Visitor Center also makes it an excellent educational base for groups to learn more about this incredible national park. For Washington locals seeking a genuinely remote, quiet, and activity-rich group camping experience in one of the state's most magnificent natural areas, Upper Goodell Group Campground stands out as an unparalleled choice, inviting them to truly immerse themselves in the wild beauty of the North Cascades.

Upper Goodell Group Campground

Marblemount, WA 98267, USA