About Esswine Group Camp
Overview Esswine Group Campground is located on the banks of the tranquil Stillaguamish River in The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The camp is close to several wilderness areas and offers visitors opportunities to experience both the serene and wild aspects of the Cascade region.Recreation In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, Esswine offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. Anglers will enjoy fishing from the gently-flowing Stillaguamish River, which is known for its salmon run. Chinook, coho, chum, pink and sockeye salmon, steelhead trout, sea-run cutthroat and bull trout use the river and its tributaries for spawning.Facilities Esswine offers one large group campsite, making it a perfect setting for families or groups wanting privacy. The site can accommodate about 25 campers, and is ideal for a mix of tent and RV camping. The site is equipped with tables, tent pads and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets are also available.Natural Features Old-growth forests of cedar, fir and hemlock line the wide, gently-flowing Stillaguamish River and tower over trails winding through moss-covered rocks. On a clear day visitors can spot Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness Area. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, this active volcano is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. 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, amphibians and reptiles, the area sustains more rare species such as lynx, moose, wolves and wolverine. Grizzly bear sightings have been confirmed in the Cascade region, though black bear sightings are more common. Nearby Attractions Visito
How to Get There
From Seattle, Washington, go north on I-5 to Everett. Take exit 194 onto Highway 2, then at Highway 204 go north toward Lake Stevens. Turn north on Highway 9, then east on Highway 92 to Granite Falls. The campground is approximately 16 miles east of Granite Falls on Highway 7 Scenic Byway.
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 Esswine Group Camp
Heading to Esswine Group Camp? 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 Esswine Group Camp?
No central reservation system listed for Esswine Group Camp. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232373) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Esswine Group Camp?
From Seattle, Washington, go north on I-5 to Everett. Take exit 194 onto Highway 2, then at Highway 204 go north toward Lake Stevens. Turn north on Highway 9, then east on Highway 92 to Granite Falls. The campground is approximately 16 miles east of Granite Falls on Highway 7 Scenic Byway.
How do I contact Esswine Group Camp?
You can reach the park at phone: 360-804-1103.
References & Official Resources
