About Shannon Creek Campground
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. Recreation The surrounding area is a prime location for hiking, climbing, boating, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, and snowmobiling in the winter months. Baker Lake is a popular destination for boating, water skiing, canoeing, fishing and swimming. Anglers cast for a number of fish species. The nearby Baker Lake and Baker River Trails are family friendly hikes that wind through majestic old growth Douglas Fir and western red cedar trees. The Baker Lake trail contours above the eastern shoreline of Baker Lake. The Baker River Trail leads to North Cascades National Park.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.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. Nearby Attractions Hike in the mountains above the lake in the Mt. Baker National Recreation Area or Mt. Baker Wilderness, or take some time to visit North Cascades National Park. This unique park is like no other place on earth. It features a deep blue lak
How to Get There
From Seattle, go north on I-5 to Burlington. Take Exit 230 on State Highway 20. Go past the Mt. Baker Ranger District Office in Sedro-Woolley and follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue for 23.3 miles to the sign for Shannon Creek Campground on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 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 Shannon Creek Campground
Heading to Shannon Creek 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 Shannon Creek Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Shannon Creek Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232096) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Shannon Creek Campground?
From Seattle, go north on I-5 to Burlington. Take Exit 230 on State Highway 20. Go past the Mt. Baker Ranger District Office in Sedro-Woolley and follow State Route 20 east for 16 miles to milepost 82. Turn left (north) on the Baker Lake Highway (Forest Service Road 11). Continue for 23.3 miles to the sign for Shannon Creek Campground on the right.
How do I contact Shannon Creek Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 360-804-1103.
References & Official Resources