Camping near Blue Creek?

[jamesfromseattle]

Drifting the Cowlitz for the first time this weekend--most likely barrier dam to blue creek.

Does anyone know of a place to camp near there? The Barrier Dam campground was recommended to me, but their website says it is temporarily closed.

Also heard that you used to be able to camp right at the blue creek launch, but the WDFW website says camping is not allowed.

[WSU]

Tons of people camp at the launch.  I'd do that until someone told me to leave.

[ppodpearson]

There is an area, across the parking lot next to the hatchery, where free camping is allowed. No hookups.

[jamesfromseattle]

Awesome, thanks guys. That makes life a lot easier.

[HntnFsh]

I work for Tacoma Power. They own the facilities at Blue creek. We don't care if you camp there. You can either camp next to or on top of the berm on the left before you get to the launch area. Or against the berm on the right where the hatchery ponds are just past the vault toilets. If you happen to be there on a Friday or Monday, probably in the morning. And see a white Cowlitz river project Ford F450 dump bed. Flag us down and throw your garbage in the back. We will be glad to haul it off for you. Good luck! Hope you kill some fish! They have been getting some dandies!

[WoolyRunner]

Now thats awesome! ^^^^^^ 

[Muleyslyr]

Was just there this last weekend, although I didn't camp there, I have in past trips. There's a sign by the launch that clearly says overnight camping is allowed but for no more than 3 days at a time. I will say though..IF you do, do not leave ANY valuables outside, especially any of your gear. Whether you're gonna be in a tent or camper, take it all inside. Good luck.

[BigGoonTuna]

sure do miss camping in the trees just upstream of the boat ramp.  my dad would tie the boat up next to the camp site and we'd be ready to get out on the water at 3am in the summer!  all posted "no camping" now...

[WoolyRunner]

I went down there (Blue Crk) today to scope it out. Saw a good sized motorhome and a Truck/Camper camped in the grassy area on the right before the launch.