North Bend Campground: A Family Camping Adventure (and a Few Hilarious Mishaps!)
Thinking of escaping the Seattle hustle with a family camping trip? Look no further than North Bend Campground nestled in the scenic Mount Si Natural Resources Conservation Area! Our family (two adults, a spunky 6-year-old, and an adventurous 8-year-old) recently spent three days exploring this gem, and we're here to give you the lowdown, from the good to the slightly-muddy. Prepare for honest insights, kid-friendly activity ideas, and a few laughs at our expense (because, let's be real, camping with kids is always an adventure!). This is a great option for Family Camping Seattle.
Finding Our Way: GPS vs. Reality
Finding North Bend Campground was relatively straightforward, thankfully. Our GPS led us right to the general area, but pay close attention once you get close. The last mile or so is on a gravel road that, while well-maintained, can be a bit washboarded. Slow and steady wins the race (and avoids waking up the kids too early!). We found that putting "North Bend Campground" directly into Google Maps worked better than relying on the general address of the conservation area. Keep an eye out for the well-marked campground entrance sign – it's easy to miss if you're not paying attention. You're getting close to Mount Si Camping when you see all the trees!
Setting Up Camp: Our Home Away From Home (For Three Days)
We snagged campsite #12, and it was a winner! The site was spacious enough for our tent (a roomy six-person), our SUV, and still left plenty of room for the kids to run around. The ground was relatively level, making pitching the tent a breeze (a welcome relief after the gravel road!). The site offered a good mix of sun and shade, which was perfect for keeping cool during the day and warming up by the campfire at night.
Our kids loved exploring the trails around the campground, finding sticks, and generally being wild and free!
Each campsite came equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. The water spigots were conveniently located nearby, and the bathrooms were a short, easy walk (crucial for those middle-of-the-night bathroom trips with little ones!). Pro tip: bring a wagon or stroller for hauling gear – it'll save your back!
Campground Rules & Atmosphere: Peace, Quiet, and Happy Campers
The campground rules were clearly posted and easy to follow. Quiet hours started at 10 PM, and they were strictly enforced, which we appreciated. We definitely noticed everyone was adhering to the rules which makes this the perfect Camping with Kids Washington destination. The campground felt very safe and family-friendly. We saw lots of other families with young children, and everyone was respectful and courteous. The atmosphere was relaxed and peaceful, a welcome escape from city life. We felt very comfortable letting our kids explore within the campground boundaries.
Bathroom & Shower Facilities: The Nitty-Gritty
Let's be honest, bathroom cleanliness is a major factor when camping with kids. The bathrooms at North Bend Campground were…adequate. They weren't sparkling, but they were generally clean and well-maintained. They were cleaned daily, and we appreciated that they were stocked with toilet paper and soap. There were accessible facilities available. Showers were available but we didn't end up using them. Overall, the bathroom situation was perfectly acceptable for a campground, though bringing your own hand sanitizer is always a good idea!
Kid-Friendly Activities: Adventure Awaits!
This is where North Bend Campground really shines! The kids absolutely loved exploring the area. The highlight was definitely playing in the Snoqualmie River.
Exploring the river was a highlight of our trip. Be sure to bring water shoes!
The river is shallow and slow-moving in many spots, making it perfect for wading and splashing. We spent hours building dams, skipping rocks, and searching for cool rocks. There are several hiking trails nearby that are suitable for young children. We hiked a portion of the Mount Si trail, but opted to turn back before the really steep sections. The views were still amazing, and the kids loved spotting birds and squirrels along the way.
There isn't a dedicated playground, but the open grassy areas were perfect for running, playing tag, and flying kites. We also brought some outdoor games, like frisbee and bubbles, which kept the kids entertained.
Rainy Day Alternatives: If you encounter rain (it is Washington, after all!), the town of North Bend is only a short drive away. There, you can visit the North Bend Premium Outlets or grab a bite to eat. Re-watching "Twin Peaks" is also a strong option, considering it was filmed there.
Nearby Attractions: Exploring Beyond the Campground
We ventured into the charming town of North Bend for dinner one evening. We ate at a local burger joint, Twede's Cafe (aka the Twin Peaks diner), which was a fun and memorable experience.
A visit to Twede's Cafe in North Bend is a must for any "Twin Peaks" fan – and the burgers are pretty good, too!
It's a great example of the nearby amenities. There are several short, scenic hikes within a short drive of the campground. We recommend checking out Franklin Falls, a beautiful waterfall that's easily accessible via a short, relatively flat trail.
Overall Experience & Recommendations: Would We Go Back?
Absolutely! North Bend Campground is a fantastic option for families with young children looking for a fun and affordable Camping Washington State experience. The campground is well-maintained, safe, and offers plenty of kid-friendly activities. Plus, its proximity to Seattle makes it a convenient getaway.
Our Top 3 Tips for Families Planning a Trip to North Bend Campground:
- Bring water shoes: The river is rocky, and water shoes will protect your little ones' feet.
- Pack layers: The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be prepared for anything.
- Don't forget the bug spray: Mosquitoes can be pesky, especially in the evenings.
What We Wish We Knew Ahead of Time:
We wish we had brought a small inflatable raft or tube for the kids to play with in the river. It would have added another level of fun to their water adventures.
Final Thoughts
North Bend Campground provided the perfect backdrop for a memorable family camping trip. Yes, there were a few minor mishaps (like the time our 6-year-old "accidentally" threw his shoe in the river!), but those are the moments that make camping with kids so special. If you're looking for a family-friendly camping destination near Seattle, look no further than North Bend Campground! We hope to see you there! This is a great option for those interested in Mount Si Camping.