Big Creek

About

Situated in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District of Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Big Creek Campground provides a quieter alternative to the often-crowded campgrounds inside Mt. Rainier National Park. The campground features 26 single sites and 3 double sites arranged in a loop, with lush vegetation providing ample privacy. A handful of sites sit directly along Big Creek, where anglers can try for brook trout. The campground serves as the trailhead for Osborne Mountain Trail, a steep but scenic route open to hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers, and dirt bikes. Glacier View Wilderness and the Sawtooth Trail system, including popular High Rock Lookout Trail #266, are also nearby. The surrounding area lies between three volcanic peaks: Mt. Rainier to the north, Mt. Adams to the east, and Mt. St. Helens to the west. Facilities include vault toilets and potable water from a hand pump. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. The campground accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs up to 22 feet, though some parking spurs are unpaved and tight turning may be required. No hookups, showers, or dump station are available.

Directions

From Ashford, Washington, travel east on State Highway 706 for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 52 (Kernahan Road) and follow it for 1.9 miles. The campground entrance is on the right.