About Bedal Campground
Overview Bedal Campground is located just off the Mountain Loop Highway in the stunning Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Nestled in canopy of forest along the rushing water of the Sauk River, this campground offers visitors a primitive camping experience and access to a wide range of recreational activities. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest sits on the west side of the Cascades in Washington, showcasing glacier-covered peaks, wide mountain meadows and old-growth forests, rich in history and outdoor opportunities.Recreation The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest boasts 1,500 miles of trails. From smooth paths meandering through deep quiet forests to challenging ascents up a boulder-studded mountain, opportunities abound for every skill level. Access to biking, rafting and fishing is also readily available. Within five miles of Bedal Campground are the spectacular North Fork Sauk Falls. A short hike descending 200 feet rewards visitors with views of cascading 45-foot waterfalls that flow into a deep pool surrounded by low-lying ferns and towering forest. For those interested in higher elevations, the popular Sauk Mountain Trail begins and ends in high mountain meadows, offering wildflowers and spectacular vistas the entire length. On a clear day, Mt. Rainier can be seen to the south, Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands to the west and the rugged Cascade peaks stretching to the east.Facilities Bedal Campground offers 22 standard sites. Picnic tables, tent pads, campfire rings and vault toilets are provided.Visitors can access the Sauk River from the campground and a boat ramp is provided for whitewater paddlers. Natural Features Along the banks of the Sauk River an outstanding show of wildflowers in July and August includes paintbrush, phlox, tiger lilies, aster, columbine and lupine. The surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams and diverse forests support an abundance of wildlife. In addition to being home for a multitude of mammals, birds, amphib
How to Get There
From Darrington, Washington, travel 16 miles southeast on of the Mt. Loop Scenic Byway. The campground is located on the west side of the road at mile post 37, just beyond the junction of Mt. Loop and Forest Road 49. Note that the final 7.5 miles are along a graveled single lane section of road and that road conditions can be variable due to heavy use, weather, and periodic maintenance. We recommend accessing the campground via Darrington as the Barlow Pass section may be gated.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Bedal Campground
Heading to Bedal Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Bedal Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Bedal Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233864) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Bedal Campground?
From Darrington, Washington, travel 16 miles southeast on of the Mt. Loop Scenic Byway. The campground is located on the west side of the road at mile post 37, just beyond the junction of Mt. Loop and Forest Road 49. Note that the final 7.5 miles are along a graveled single lane section of road and that road conditions can be variable due to heavy use, weather, and periodic maintenance. We recomme…
How do I contact Bedal Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 360-804-1103.
References & Official Resources
