Overview

Shannon Creek Campground is nestled along the western shore of Baker Lake in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest on the west side of the Cascades. The area is one of the most spectacular in the country, showcasing glacier-covered peaks, broad mountain meadows and old-growth forests. An abundance of recreational activities awaits.

Natural Features:

Rugged peaks, scenic rivers and abundant wildlife define the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and surrounding designated wilderness areas. On a clear day visitors can see Mt. Baker, which rises to an elevation of 10,781 feet. The active volcano is perpetually snow-capped. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater.

Wildlife in the area ranges from mountain goats in the higher elevations to pine marten and porcupine on the forest floor. Migratory birds and native fish find ample habitat in the varied ecosystems as well.

Recreation:

Baker Lake covers 4,800 acres and is a popular boating, water skiing, swimming and fishing location. A variety of fish can be found in the lake, including Kokanee and Chinook salmon, and Dolly Varden, steelhead and rainbow trout. A boat ramp is located within the campground.

Hikers and backpackers are especially fortunate to have access to a variety of spectacular trails near the campground and in the surrounding area, including the family-friendly Baker Lake Trail. It begins in a stand of Douglas fir, which grew in place of an old-growth cedar forest destroyed by a fire in 1843, caused by a small eruption of Mt. Baker. Many burned snags still remain. The trail meanders above the eastern shoreline of Baker Lake, offering glimpses of Mt. Baker along the way.

Facilities:

Shannon Creek Campground offers single and double-family sites for both tent and RV camping. Picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets and drinking water are provided. No electrical hookups are available.

Nearby Attractions:

Visit or stay in one of the historic lookouts in the area. Lookouts are tangible symbols of Forest Service heritage, perched on high peaks with unobstructed views where they have been used to detect and control fires.

Take some time to visit nearby North Cascades National Park or Mount Rainer National Park. Considered scenic wonderlands, the parks offer a fantasic glimpse of glaciers, subalpine ecology and volcanic landscapes.

Hike a portion of the spectacular Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of the world's premier National Scenic Trails. This trail showcases some of North America's most fantastic scenery as it winds its way from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington.