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Bayview Campground sits along the shore of Baker Lake in the stunning Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This campground was reconstructed in 2017. The unique setting offers many recreational activities and scenic views. Several hiking trails and climbing routes are within a short driving distance. Recreation The surrounding area is a prime location for hiking, climbing, boating, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, and snowmobiling in the winter months. Baker Lake is a popular destination for boating, water skiing, canoeing, fishing and swimming. Anglers cast for a number of fish species. The lake is within walking distance of the campground and a great family trail winds for approximately 1 mile around the campground and connects to Horseshoe Cove. Boat ramps are available at Horseshoe Cove, Swift Creek, and Shannon Creek Campgrounds. The nearby Baker Lake Trail is an easy family hike that begins in a majestic stand of Douglas fir. In 1843, a small eruption of Mt. Baker caused a forest fire, and visitors can still see the burned snags of virgin cedar trees that once dominated the area. The trail contours above the eastern shoreline of Baker Lake. The Shadow of the Sentinels Trail begins just south of the campground. This accessible interpretive trail winds through a 500-year old ancient forest. Displays along the path explain the dynamics of the forest. The trail is constructed of asphalt and boardwalks with grades no greater than 8%. Facilities Bayview Campground can accommodate RV, trailer or tent-campers, however, electric hookups are not available. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with grill and the campground has vault toilets available. Natural Features The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests, providing visitors with unique and surprising landscapes. Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness, dominates the landscape on a clear day. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, the active volcano is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Wildlife in the area includes mountain goats traversing the higher elevations to squirrels and black bears in the forests. Migratory birds and native fish find ample habitat in the varied ecosystems as well. Nearby Attractions Hike in the mountains above the lake in the Mt. Baker National Recreation Area or Mt. Baker Wilderness, or take some time to visit North Cascades National Park. This unique park is like no other place on earth. It features a deep blue lake surrounded by sheer, 2,000' cliffs, two picturesque islands and a violent volcanic past. Hiking trails, a visitor center and educational programs are available. ADA Access: N
From Seattle, go north on I-5 to Burlington. Take Exit 230 on State Highway 20. Go past the Mt. Baker Ranger District Office in Sedro-Woolley and follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue for 18 miles to the sign for Horseshoe Cove Campground Road (Forest Service road 1118). Turn right and go approximately 1.75 miles to the Bayview Campground signs on the left. The group campground is the first drive to the left, stay to the right for the single family sites.
This particular campground (there several in the Mount Baker National Forest Park) is a bit newer, but this was our SECOND trip in just two weeks to camp & kayak .The first time was so fun that we packed up and did it again. The host was extremely helpful & the park is clean, no problems with rodent infestation, just cute little critters brought to you by Mother Nature. Take note though, you need to put all food away at night to keep the critters away.
This is a great campground. Facilities are basic - vault toilets and no running water (at least for the 2023 season - the water taps are taped off). Campsites have nice tent pads with soft sand. Great lake access for boats and SUPs but not much of a beach or area for kids to play. Seemed to be much less busy than the Horseshoe Cove campground, which has a great beach, roped off swim area and potable water, but you can drive there easily for day use if you want a better beach during the day and quieter place to sleep at night.
Absolutely stunning day trip to Baker Lake. One of my new favorite spots is Bayview Campground.
It's a bit of a long road to the site and about half an hour from the nearest store. If bringing a cooler be well stocked on ice or willing to make a somewhat long trip for more. The campsites themselves are very nice! And the day use area though somewhat small is very cute and we made good use of it on our trip. Doesn't have running water this year which is a bit of a challenge but might be amended later. The bathrooms don't have sinks either but the toilets are cleaned regularly and hand sanitizer worked well for us.
Absolutely bomber campground! Sites are decently large, pads can fit 3 2-man tents, and have large metal fire rings. Pit toilets are well maintained, too.
I'm burying the lead, though, because Baker Lake itself is just absolutely dropdead gorgeous. There's a great beachy area at the campground which provides a great launch point for kayaks, SUPs, etc.
