Bridge Creek Campground

Hello, fellow Washington adventurers! Are you seeking a backcountry experience that combines stunning natural beauty with well-thought-out amenities for the serious hiker? Here in Washington, we're blessed with an incredible network of trails that lead to truly magnificent places. Today, we're spotlighting a gem for backpackers and long-distance hikers: Bridge Creek Campground. Nestled within the spectacular North Cascades, this campground is a strategic and serene stop for those traversing the wilderness or simply looking for a peaceful escape into the heart of our state's mountains.

Bridge Creek Campground isn't your typical drive-in camping spot. It's a backcountry haven, designed specifically to cater to those exploring the vast expanses of the North Cascades, including sections of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Known for its well-spaced sites, essential facilities, and a deep connection to the surrounding wilderness, it offers a refreshing respite for weary legs and a chance to truly immerse yourself in the serene mountain environment. If you're ready for an adventure that blends the challenge of the trail with the comforts of a thoughtfully designed backcountry camp, Bridge Creek Campground awaits.

Bridge Creek Campground is a backcountry site located within Washington, USA, specifically within the North Cascades National Park Complex. It is a highly strategic and popular stop for hikers, especially those on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), as it is situated directly on the trail itself. While its precise geographic coordinates would place it deep in the wilderness, for practical purposes, its accessibility is defined by its relationship to major trailheads and access points.

One primary access point for Bridge Creek Campground is via State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway), near milepost 159, just east of Rainy Pass. From this trailhead, hikers can connect to the Pacific Crest Trail, which leads to Bridge Creek Campground. It's important to note that this is a hike-in only campground, meaning no vehicle access directly to the campsites.

Another key aspect of its accessibility, particularly beneficial for hikers planning longer trips or resupplies, is its proximity to the Stehekin Valley. Bridge Creek Campground is not far from the High Bridge shuttle stop, which connects hikers to the community of Stehekin, accessible primarily by boat (Lady of the Lake ferry) from Chelan, or by foot/bike. This makes Bridge Creek a critical point for PCT thru-hikers or those doing section hikes who need to access services, pick up resupply packages, or simply enjoy a break in a charming, remote community. Reviews confirm its convenient location "near the PCT and not far from the High Bridge shuttle to Stehekin." While it requires effort to reach, the trail itself is generally well-maintained, offering a "smooth with hardly any rocks" experience in places, as noted by a reviewer. Always check current trail conditions and park advisories, especially regarding snowmelt or closures on State Route 20, as accessibility can vary seasonally.

As a backcountry campground, Bridge Creek Campground provides essential services tailored to the needs of hikers and backpackers while adhering to wilderness preservation principles. These services are designed to minimize environmental impact and provide necessary comforts in a remote setting.

• Shaded Hiker Campsites: The campground features 6 well-shaded individual hiker camps, each equipped with a picnic table. These sites are comfortably spread out, offering privacy and a tranquil environment.

• Outhouse Toilets: Shared outhouse (vault) toilets are available, providing a designated and sanitary means of human waste disposal, crucial for maintaining wilderness cleanliness.

• Bear Boxes / Food Storage: Bear boxes (or bear wires, though reviews specifically mention boxes) are provided for secure food storage. This is a critical safety feature to protect both campers and wildlife, ensuring food and scented items are kept away from bears and other animals.

• Water Source: A water source is close to all sites and easily accessible. While the specific source is Bridge Creek itself, campers should always be prepared to filter, purify, or boil all water before consumption, as it is untreated wilderness water.

• Fire Rings: Individual campsites are equipped with fire rings, allowing for campfires when regulations permit. It's vital to check current fire restrictions with North Cascades National Park, as fire bans are common during dry periods.

• Varying Tent Site Sizes and Level Ground: Reviews indicate that tent sites vary in size and level ground, offering different options for campers to set up their tents comfortably.

• Group Site: There is a dedicated group site available, situated across the path away from the single sites, allowing for larger parties to camp together while maintaining a degree of separation from individual campers.

• Backcountry Permits: An overnight backcountry permit is required for camping at Bridge Creek. These permits are crucial for park management, ensuring visitor safety and protecting the fragile ecosystem by regulating usage. Permits must be acquired in advance from North Cascades National Park.

Bridge Creek Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a cherished stop for those exploring the North Cascades wilderness:

• Direct PCT Access: Its location directly on the Pacific Crest Trail makes it an ideal and convenient stopping point for thru-hikers and section hikers on this iconic long-distance trail.

• Proximity to Stehekin Shuttle: Being "not far from the High Bridge shuttle to Stehekin" is a significant advantage. This allows hikers to easily resupply, enjoy amenities in the remote community of Stehekin, or access transportation to and from the area.

• Abundant Shade: Reviewers consistently highlight the "lots of shade" provided by "well shaded" campsites, a welcome feature, especially during warmer months.

• Spacious and Well-Maintained Sites: Campsites are "spread out comfortably" and described as "smooth with hardly any rocks," indicating thoughtful design and maintenance that enhances the camping experience.

• Creek-Divided Sites: A "small creek divides some of the sites," adding to the aesthetic appeal and providing the soothing sound of flowing water, enhancing the natural ambiance.

• Essential Wilderness Amenities: The provision of shared outhouses and bear boxes demonstrates a commitment to both camper comfort and wilderness preservation, making it easier for visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles.

• Scenic North Cascades Environment: The campground is enveloped by the majestic landscapes of the North Cascades, offering views of forested slopes and potentially glimpses of rugged mountain scenery, depending on the specific site and surrounding vegetation.

• Tranquil Atmosphere: The backcountry setting ensures a peaceful and quiet environment, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of more developed areas.

• Accessible Water Source: The easily accessible water source near all sites simplifies water collection, although purification is always necessary.

Address: Washington, USA (Bridge Creek Campground is a backcountry site within North Cascades National Park, accessible via trails from State Route 20 or the Stehekin Valley.)

As Bridge Creek Campground is a backcountry wilderness camp and not a staffed facility, there is no direct phone number for the campground itself. For all essential information regarding backcountry permits, current trail conditions, fire restrictions, and park regulations, it is imperative to contact North Cascades National Park directly.

North Cascades National Park Complex Wilderness Information Center:

Phone: Please refer to the official National Park Service website for North Cascades National Park (nps.gov/noca) for the most current contact details for their Wilderness Information Center. It is highly recommended to check this resource well in advance of your planned trip to ensure you have the necessary permits and up-to-date information for a safe and enjoyable experience.

For Washingtonians, Bridge Creek Campground represents an authentic and highly rewarding backcountry experience that is perfectly suited to our state's adventurous spirit. We are privileged to have such a vast and magnificent wilderness like the North Cascades right on our doorstep, and Bridge Creek allows for a truly immersive exploration of it. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a vital waypoint on epic journeys and a tranquil retreat for those seeking to reconnect with the raw beauty of our mountains.

The fact that it’s directly on the Pacific Crest Trail is a huge draw for our local hiking community, whether you’re undertaking a long-distance trek or simply doing a multi-day section hike. Its strategic location, coupled with the availability of the Stehekin shuttle, offers a logistical convenience that is rare in such remote settings, making it more accessible for resupplies or emergency exits than many other backcountry camps. For locals who appreciate efficiency in their wilderness adventures, this connectivity is invaluable.

Furthermore, the well-designed campsites, with their ample shade, level ground, picnic tables, and critical amenities like bear boxes and outhouses, demonstrate a commitment to both camper comfort and environmental preservation. This allows us, as responsible Washingtonian outdoor enthusiasts, to enjoy the wilderness while minimizing our impact. Bridge Creek offers that perfect balance of challenging adventure and comfortable, respectful wilderness living. It’s a testament to the wild heart of our state and an essential destination for anyone looking to truly experience the magic of the North Cascades.