Best Camping in and near Klondike Gold Rush - Seattle Unit National Historical Park

99%

(68)

Earth Biscuit Skykomish Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents56 acres · Skykomish, WA

The Good news is Earth Biscuits Skykomish Camp Ground, at least most of it, survived the Bolt Creek wildfire ( largest wildfire in western Washington in over 30 years) over 13,000 acres burned. Firefighters and first responders are our our heroes! Earth Biscuits is a private camp ground for the “Inner Earth Biscuit “in all of us. Earth Biscuits is a sanctuary and a place to enjoy nature Located in Skykomish Washington, a small town 15 minutes from the Stevens Pass Ski Resort and the Pacific Crest Trail. We have 53 acres of a southern facing hill side that runs along the Henry M. Jackson, Wild Sky Wilderness within the Mt. Baker National Forest. We have eight sites for camping. All sites have a fire ring, a table of some sort and a barrel of water for dousing your campfire. All but 2 sites have a deck for setting up on. We give each party a clean camping toilet and privacy tent. There are two outhouses one up top and one below. Two of the sites (1 and 2) overlook the town and valley below. Here is where you can watch the birds from above and see the sun shimmering of the back of their wings as they sore. Eagles, Hawks, etc. Saw an Owl three days ago and lots of Grouse. Site 1 has one deck but the view is worth the trek. AWD needed to get there. You may have campers hiking up to the cliffs 250' further up the trail. Site 2 has a nice view of the town below. Three decks. AWD needed to get there. Site 3 is very private and down a fairly steep grade. You'll be camping in a forest on an old logging road. It's private. AWD definitely needed! Site 4 is in the far corner of the lower property. It's private and is where most vans go. It has one 12x8 deck. Site 5 is at the cross roads. it is large enough to accommodated several autos or a van or trailer. One 12x8 deck. Some highway noise. Site 6 can accommodate larger parties and has one deck. Some highway noise but it can handle larger parties. Last weekend it accommodated a party of 14. Site 7 is new and therefore primitive compared to the others; but it is private. This site is one where the Bolt Creek Wildfire came through. There is one more new site not listed yet that is up top right next to site one. it is eight next to the national forest in an area I'm told is very good mushroom hunting. You cannot park next to the camping spot unless you have a vehicle that can traverse it. A short bed jeep and/or vehicle with high clearance. Site 1 and the new site together can accommodate a party of 6+. With all this information you can reserve the site you want but be advised that to get to the upper sites ( 1-3) will definitely require a AWD vehicle. All campers are welcome to hike up to the cliffs for viewing. The road going into the property is flat and level; however, we reclaimed an old logging road and it takes a jeep or 4-wheel drive truck type vehicle (Subaru makes it all day long for some reason) to get past the switchback as it heads up to the cliffs and camping spots 1-3. Bring binoculars. Be advised that it takes an able-bodied person to get to the top as the trail going to the cliffs is rough. We are laying some ropes but count on your own ability, not the ropes. We have not put in electric hook ups, water, sewage disposal, therefore your rig needs to be self-contained. We offer a clean and sanitary camping toilet for each party. Works well and easy to use. If panning for minerals is your thing there are a couple of seasonal creeks. The property is walking distance to 4 local eateries, a laundromat , a tavern, coffee shop, outfitter, fishing guides, convenience store/gas station. Skykomish is a train community and sports a train park which offers free miniature train rides May thru October. Fun for the kids of all ages. Keep in mind that as a train community there will be trains that rumble through the valley at night. If that bothers you bring ear plugs. There are numerous hiking trails in the area as well as several rivers in the area. The Foss, Beckler, Skykomish and several pristine alpine lakes. Biscuits come to the area for a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities including skiing, snow shoeing, rafting, mushroom hunting, rock climbing, quad tours, gold panning, bird watching, fishing, mountain biking, mountain rescue instruction or just unplugging from the world below and simply chilling. Pets are welcome however the property is located within the town limits of Skykomish and there is a leash law and you don’t want rover to chase wildlife into the mountains or across the highway and be lost forever. It happens. This area is rich with history from “The Olden Days”. The longest train tunnel in the western hemisphere was constructed through/under these mountains in the early 1900s after the nation’s worst train disaster, an avalanche, took 96 souls. Wellington (site of the disaster) is a short drive, is worth seeing and is wheel chair accessible. Two books written about this, both excellent reads. The White Cascade and Vis Major. During the time of tunnel construction between the logging and rail/tunnel workers there were some 20,000 living and prospering in the Skykomish Valley. They were a hearty rough-and-tumble crowd. Thursday through Sunday there is a museum and art gallery in town. Also, there is abundant wildlife in the area including bear, deer, cougar, bobcat, porcupine, etc. In the event you’re fool hearty, NOT diligent, (lazy) and you leave food items out, that will serve as a chow call for the bears. FULL DISCLOSURE: There hasn’t been a bear attack in a very long time up here, and don’t think you're the bear whisperer because you’re not. That title belongs to Father Earth Biscuit. His ghost wanders the woods at night. I observed him playing poker recently late at night with the Sasquatch and bear that lives in these woods. The bear lost and was angry and was departing the area hoping to find a tasty human but found a nice nest of grubs instead and so he forgot about his people hunt. Unfortunately, just as my camera was ready to take video of the whole affair my battery went dead. I needed to get out of there anyway as to that point I had not been detected by them. But they are there! We biscuits find that bears are people too and they are just trying to fill their calorie needs and they like cheese burgers and chips of any kind with their beer. Don’t leave out the food items. IT WOULD BE A PROVOCATION ON YOUR PART! Enuf said. Hunting/ shooting is strictly forbidden. All state fire restrictions are adhered to. No Rock climbing the cliffs unless you’re an instructor level climber and can show credentials We have planned this as a FAMILY CAMP GROUND therefore, illegal substance users should look for another place. Your rig must be in good condition. No old 1900s models that clutter city streets down below. I hope you understand our intent here. Be advised that Length of stay is limited.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

99%

(515)

It's a King thing

5 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Quilcene, WA

Welcome to Tranquil Acres. We have transformed our five acres in the “Pearl of the Peninsula” for the world to be your oyster during your stay with us. The Big Quilcene river is a water wonderland with private riverside access available to all campers just a short easy walk from each campsite. Here is where you can enjoy the cooling relief from the Summer heat, bask in the sun on cool Spring days, listen to the soothing sounds of the water and wildlife, interact with fellow campers, as well as fishing for Coho salmon in the Fall for a full meal deal experience. (Fishing license required). The river access “Common Area” is for all campers to enjoy with plenty of space to also have some alone time. If you are a more adventurous camper, Tranquil Acres is perfectly located to be your “home base” for extended stays, allowing you to explore the many wonders that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer as easy day trips. We are happy to answer any questions and share some of our favorite hikes, lakes, restaurants, and historical areas we have loved over these many years. My family has lived in this area since the early 80's and after almost a decade of renting this property and becoming a part of the amazing community of Quilcene, I had the opportunity to buy this land and “pay it forward” by creating Tranquil Acres for all to enjoy. My children that grew up here, continue to help and support this endeavor as adults. “It’s a King Thing”. Camping Etiquette: **Please read before booking** First and foremost, the road leading down to the camping area is a steep gravel drive. Going down isn’t usually a problem…it’s getting back up again. When you get to the bottom, the rest of the roadway leading to all campsites is a natural dirt road with tree root humps that isn’t designed for low clearance cars. AWD or 4WD is recommended, but please check with us before booking to see if your vehicle can have access all the way to your campsite and make it back up the hill. If not, we do have parking available at the top of the hill safely located next to our house, and transport options available to help you pack it in and pack it out without risking damage to your vehicle or the land and still enjoy a wonderful camping experience. Please inquire before booking if you have a low clearance vehicle so we can discuss your options. Please be respectful of the land. We are a “pack it in, pack it out” campground and wish to provide this space for folks to enjoy for many years to come. The Quilcene transfer station is located nearby and is open on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday. (hours may differ on holidays). We do offer waste disposal as an add-on at checkout. Recycling must be separated from solid waste and contained in the bags provided and will have clear instructions of what is recyclable. Potable water is not available in the camping area. It is okay to use water from the river if you have a certified filter system (at your own risk). If you are the bold and brave that likes to bathe in cold waters, please be mindful of the eco-system and the damage that soap can do to our natural habitat. Dishwashing is not allowed in the river at any time. Like most campgrounds, our quiet time is 10pm-8am. Please be respectful to your camp neighbors at all times. Sounds carry easily in the woods. Play, explore, have fun, and stay awake to enjoy your space for as long as you want, just be mindful to use “camping voice” after 10pm. Communication is encouraged and appreciated! If you need anything, are having any issues with fellow campers, or just have a question… please don’t hesitate to get in touch… day or night. We love being able to share this wonderful land for folks to have a joyful camping experience in our neck of the woods with their fellow campers. Dogs are allowed at all campsites. Cats too if you have a camping cat! Please be mindful of your neighbors and that not everyone feels comfortable around dogs or may be allergic. Off leash is allowed if your dog is not aggressive with humans or other dogs. You know your dog best, and we will trust that you will use your best judgement in any circumstance while you are staying with us. If there is an issue in this regard, we will ask you to keep your dog leashed at all times, or under extreme circumstances may be forced to ask you to leave. We would rather not do either of those things, so please be aware of where your pet is at all times. Everyone loves a campfire! No one loves a wildfire. The lushness of the Olympic National Forest can be deceiving. Wildfires do still happen here and we expect you to extinguish your fire if no one is at the campsite, before going to sleep, and prior to departure. Firewood is provided as an add-on at checkout and will be at your site when you arrive, or you are also welcomed to bring your own. You will need to provide your own paper and flame to get your campfire going. There are many small sticks and twigs around every site to use as kindling, but please don’t use any wood you find on the land that won’t entirely fit inside of the rock ring. This is dangerous because wood holds heat and can continue to burn and ignite leaves, sticks and twigs outside of the firepit. If it is windy at any point during your stay, we respectfully request that you don’t have a fire while the winds are blowing. You can see if there is a recreational fire burn ban prior to arrival by visiting www.orcaa.org or send us a message. It is rare that recreational fires are banned in this area, but it does happen on occasion. Burning any kind of garbage in your campfire is not allowed at any time. Doing so means it is no longer a recreational fire and could permanently stop us from allowing campers to stay here. We offer a variety of add-on features that can turn your camping adventure into a glamping experience. Need a tent? No problem, we will even set it up for you and take it down. Don’t have a stove to cook with? We have that too. When we say: “It’s a King Thing”… it means we intend to provide you with an experience that leaves you feeling like Royalty. Thank you for taking the time to consider us for your camping adventures. We are thrilled and grateful to share our Tranquil Acres with you and look forward to seeing you soon! Add-on descriptions (Updated) Essentials: Toilet Available: 2 composting toilets are conveniently located for all campers and cleaned daily. Bring your own TP and please don’t leave the roll in the Shat Shack or Poop Hut when you’re not doin ur bizness. There are instructions posted if you have never used a composting toilet. Pets Allowed: Off Leash You know your dog best. Please be mindful and aware if they are aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Fire Ban in effect: (no) River rock ring firepits available at all sites. You are welcome to bring your own firewood, or add-on at checkout. Lots of sticks and twigs on the ground available for kindling. Bring your own paper and flame to start your fire. Please don’t use wood from the land that doesn’t fully fit inside of the firepit. Amenities: Kitchen Available: Grill over firepit available upon request. Forget to pack a much needed cooking utensil? Please ask and I may have one you can borrow. Picnic Table Available: All sites have a picnic table. No Potable Water: Bring your own bottled water for drinking/cooking, or you can access river water with your own certified filtration system. We do not recommend drinking or cooking with water from the river that has not been filtered, doing so is at your own risk. We are just minutes away from 2 different stores in Quilcene. No Showers: Bathing in the river is allowed if you are brave enough to handle the cold water. Please be mindful of the natural eco-system and use only biodegradable soap minimally. The Big Quilcene river plays an important role in this region supporting wildlife, aquatic life, plant life and human life. No Wifi: But all major phone providers do get service in our campground area. Pack it out: Garbage/recycling is available as an add-on feature, otherwise, please pack it in/pack it out and leave it better than you found it. Laundry Absent: There is a laundromat in Quilcene just a short drive from our campsite. Available offers: Firewood $6.00/bundle Locally sourced firewood with a range of sizes will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Bring your own paper and flame, and there are many small sticks and twigs on the ground just waiting to be useful as kindling! (Cash or Venmo is accepted if you need to order more during your stay. We are not allowed to charge your card for additional products/rentals after you book your site.) Tiki torch fluid- citronella based $10.00 A great ambiance for the great outdoors and helps keep pesky insects out of your camp. (Tiki torches are provided at all sites.) Garbage/Recycling $15.00 ** We are offering this option on a trial basis.** Containers will be provided for your garbage and recycling at your site during your stay. Clear instructions will be provided for what is recyclable and what is solid waste. PLEASE adhere to the instructions so we can continue offering this service to future campers. Large tent – sleeps up to 12 - $55.00 We will set it up before you arrive and break it down after you leave. Large two room tent with 2 doors. Broom will be provided, and we just ask that you sweep the floor prior to departure. (This rental is not available for Site 4) Small tent – sleeps 2-3 $25.00 We will set it up before you arrive and break it down after you leave. Broom will be provided, and we just ask that you sweep the floor prior to departure. Cot $10.00 Don’t have an air mattress? Enjoy our high quality cot that also comes with a sleeping pad. Instructions are included for you to set up and place where you want it inside of your tent, and break it down prior to departure. (if you are not able to do this yourself, please message me!) Propane Grill $15.00 Propane is included. Bring your own flame, follow the easy instructions and Bon Appetit! Propane fire pit $40.00 Still have the campfire feel when there is a recreational burn ban by renting one of our propane fire pits. Easy peasy…turn the knob and strike a match! Extra Car Fee $10.00 Only 1 car is allowed per site. This helps reduce the wear and tear on the land. There are exceptions to this…so please message me if you have more than one vehicle in your group, or you have a low clearance vehicle so we can discuss. Extra cars can park safely next to our house at the top of the hill. ACTIVITIES ON THE LAND OR NEARBY BIKING: multiple mountain biking trails for any level of rider. Check www.singletracks.com for information about trails located in Quilcene and nearby areas just a short drive away. FISHING: The salmon start running on the Big Quilcene in September. Fishing license required. There are other options for fishing around the area depending on what you want to fish for, go ahead and message me if you want some insider information. HIKING: There are many hikes close by with a variety of difficulty levels. I have hiked pretty much all of them and would love to share some of my favorites with you. PADDLING: Quilcene Bay, Lake Leland as well as other options just a short drive away. WILDLIFE WATCHING: We have deer that wander through the campground from time to time and in the mid-late summer it is a real treat to see their fawns. There is a fun assortment of birds, owls and even herons and hawks that can be spotted while hanging out at the river in our common area. If you are lucky, you can even spot a bald eagle passing by. Grey whales and Orca whales migrate north in the late Spring and Summer and there are whale watching tours available in Sequim and Port Angeles. There is also the Olympic Game Farm Park in Sequim that is a drive through wildlife preserve that is a lot of fun for the whole family just 45mins away. (Absolutely no hunting is allowed on Tranquil Acres and we respectfully request that you keep your distance from wildlife for the safety of all involved.) NATURAL FEATURES ON OR NEAR THE LAND: BEACH: There are several Bays and Lakes in the area that I would love to tell you about that are easy to access…please don’t hesitate to ask. FOREST: We are located on the eastern side of the Olympic National Forest, and there is a Ranger Station just a couple minutes away. The rainforest eco system of this area is truly an adventure worth exploring, and our Tranquil Acres has all the native trees and plants of this unique region that makes it feel like you are living in the heart of a rainforest…but with less rain, and slightly warmer temperatures than the central and western side of the Olympic rainforest in the summer. LAKES: Lake Leland Lake and Crocker Lake are the nearest most accessible lakes in the area. There are many others, please feel free to ask about any lakes you find in the area and I can let you know if it is suitable for what you are wanting from a lake experience. RIVER, STREAM OR CREEK: Tranquil Acres is located on the Big Quilcene River. It’s beautiful and most of the time secluded (except during salmon season in September when there are fisherfolks that have public access to the river itself). There are many other rivers in the general area, but none quite as awesome as our little stretch of the Big Quilcene. SWIMMING HOLE: Yes, various options at different times of the year…and It’s COLD! Bring a float device for a gentler experience in the hot summer sun or have a bold and brave Polar Plunge regardless of what month it is. (AT YOUR OWN RISK, please be mindful of how strong the river current is at different times of the year and do not let young children into the main current without a life jacket or without adult supervision. Highly recommended to wear water shoes at all times/all ages.) The Big Quilcene is a River that anyone could slip and fall on the rocks regardless of age and how low the water is. WATERFALL: The Falls View loop trail just a few miles south of Quilcene is an easy 1 mile hike that has a spectacular view of the large waterfall that flows into the Big Quilcene River. I am happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have about local adventures in the area. MOUNTAINOUS: Mt. Olympus reigns supreme over them all, but the Olympic Mountain Range has 9 other distinct Mountain peaks, and there are a variety of ways to experience this unique mountain range…just ask me how, I am happy to share the variety of ways to enjoy the Olympic Peninsula. FARMS: We have multiple organic farms in the area where you can purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables. There are also many community activities at various times of the year to get to know this little Pearl of the Peninsula.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night