
25
Total Campsites
Campground
25
Reservable Sites
Check by phone
5
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Troublesome Creek Campground
Overview This campground is located approximately 20 miles east of Index, Washington in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. It offers guests a wonderful spot to take in the scenery and enjoy a multitude of recreational activities in the Northern Cascade Range. Sites are nestled in a mixed conifer forest on the banks of the scenic North Fork Skykomish River and its tributary, Troublesome Creek. Water is abundant in this area, offering visitors easy access to fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Guests will be lulled to sleep by its subtle, but ever-present gurgle. This campground is ideal for escaping the hustle of everyday life to enjoy time with friends and family. Recreation At the campground, Troublesome Creek is a delight for exploring. A footbridge crosses the bubbling creek beneath towering pine and fir trees. For guests wanting to relax at the water's edge, or children searching for newness in nature, this is an ideal spot without even leaving the campground. The adjacent North Fork Skykomish River offers fishing for steelhead and salmon. For those wanting to venture further, the Beckler Peak Trail may be included on the agenda. Located 10 miles from the town of Skykomish, this trail is challenging, but worth the effort, offering hikers the opportunity to view the diverse landscapes of the area from a variety of perspectives. At the Jennifer Dunn Trailhead, the trail starts out on a decommissioned logging road, and climbs through young alder and vine maple to an expansive vista of the Skykomish Valley. The trail continues to switchback through huge trees and by the remains of a trapper's cabin. Climbing higher, and upon reaching the final ridge top through steep alpine forest, hikers will be in awe of the panoramic view of near and distant peaks. Facilities At the campground, Troublesome Creek is a delight for exploring. A footbridge crosses the bubbling creek beneath towering pine and fir trees. For guests wanting to relax at the water's edge, or children searching for newness in nature, this is an ideal spot without even leaving the campground. The adjacent North Fork Skykomish River offers fishing for steelhead and salmon. For those wanting to venture further, the Beckler Peak Trail may be included on the agenda. Located 10 miles from the town of Skykomish, this trail is challenging, but worth the effort, offering hikers the opportunity to view the diverse landscapes of the area from a variety of perspectives. At the Jennifer Dunn Trailhead, the trail starts out on a decommissioned logging road, and climbs through young alder and vine maple to an expansive vista of the Skykomish Valley. The trail continues to switchback through huge trees and by the remains of a trapper's cabin. Climbing higher, and upon reaching the final ridge top through steep alpine forest, hikers will be in awe of the panoramic view of near and distant peaks. 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 Area, dominates the landscape on a clear day. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, the active volcano from which the forest takes its name is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a mound of ice 1,300 feet deep, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Wildlife in the area includes mountain goats traversing the higher elevations, to coyotes and pine marten in the forests. Migratory birds and native fish find ample habitat in the varied ecosystems as well. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (530) 932-0242. Charges & Cancellations Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
- 25 total campsites listed.
- 5 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (18).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.

Our Take
What makes Troublesome Creek Campground special
Deep in the rugged Cascade foothills of Washington's Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Troublesome Creek Campground lives up to its wild name in the best possible way. Situated roughly 20 miles east of the small mountain town of Index along the North Fork Skykomish River corridor, this campground rewards visitors with dense old-growth forest, mossy boulders, and the constant soundtrack of rushing water. The setting is quintessential Pacific Northwest: towering Douglas firs and western red cedars form a thick canopy overhead, keeping sites cool and shaded even on the warmest summer days. Troublesome Creek itself tumbles through the campground, and the nearby river provides opportunities for fishing and wading. Several trailheads in the area lead to alpine lakes, waterfalls, and ridgeline viewpoints that showcase the dramatic peaks of the central Cascades. The campground is modest in size, with around 20 sites suitable for tents and small camper vans. Facilities include vault toilets and picnic tables, though potable water may not always be available, so packing your own supply is wise. Sites are first-come, first-served, and the campground is typically open from late May through September. Weekdays offer the best chance of snagging a spot without competition. Summer is the prime season, but early fall brings quieter forests and the first golden hints of changing leaves along the river.
Campsite Inventory
25 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
18
Reservable
4
Accessible
TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC
7
Reservable
1
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Double, Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway surface
Gravel
Fire Pit
Yes
Max guests
12, 6
Max vehicle length (ft)
20, 25, 30
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Proximity to Water
Riverfront
Shade
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
360-804-1103
Getting There
From Everett travel east on US-2. Pass through Monroe and continue another 21 miles then turn north (left) on Index – Galena Road. Continue for 11 Miles, arriving at Troublesome Creek Campground on the right.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Troublesome Creek Campground.
How do reservations work for Troublesome Creek Campground?
Reservation availability for Troublesome Creek Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Troublesome Creek Campground?
Troublesome Creek Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (18), TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC (7).
Where is Troublesome Creek Campground located?
Troublesome Creek Campground is in Washington. Coordinates: 47.8982, -121.4027.
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