Backcountry Rise Campsite Friday 8/28

The campground is rustic with spectacular views of Coldwater Lake and Mount St. Helens.

• How large are tent pads? The tent spaces vary in size with average 10’x10’ earthen pads with connecting pathways. 

• We suggest 3 people max per site

• No pets please! We are within the Mount St. Helens National Monument- your furry friends should stay home.

• Is there running water in the campground? No, there is not running water in the campground. The building has running water and flushing toilets and is a 5 minute walk.  Guests will be able to access the flushing restrooms in the Science and Learning Center day and night.

• How far is the campground from the building? The campground entrance is about a 5-10-minute walk from the Science and Learning Center, where we will have meals. 

• Are there bathrooms in the campground? There are porta-potties. 

• Are there showers? There are no showers. 

• Where do I park? There is a loading and unloading zone near the tent sites and parking is at the RV sites in our large parking lot a 5 minute walk from the campground.

• Where can I store food? Food and scented products are NOT allowed in our campground. You are required to leave your food and other scented items in your car, so we can keep the bears and ground squirrels far away from camp. 

• Are campfires allowed? Fires are not permitted within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Mount St. Helens Institute has permission to do propane fire pits in a designated area for guests in the evenings during camp programs.

• Are there picnic areas? There is a central area at our campground with several picnic benches with blue jugs containing potable water that you can use.

• Are hammocks allowed? Yes- there are some suitable trees. Please be kind to them when hanging your straps.

• How flat are the campsites? Our sites are the flattest we can make them... and that is not very flat. Our campground is within the 1980 eruption blast zone, which means (though we try our best) the ground is very uneven. There are a diversity of campsites, some nestled under trees and some in more open wildflower meadows. Please enjoy sleeping on the new fresh ground created by the 1980 eruption and come with the expectation that the ground is uneven… and maybe bring an extra sleeping pad.

• How are campsites selected? Campsites are selected on a first come, first served basis. You will select your campsite upon arrival.