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Base Camp is a rare and exciting opportunity for folks to camp on the north side of Mount St. Helens. Bring your camping gear, set up for the weekend, and participate in all the mountain has to offer. Gaze into the blast zone and enjoy grand views in all directions, go on a self-guided adventure, or join us for a guided hike. You can launch all your adventures from Base Camp Mount St. Helens, located at the Science and Learning Center above Coldwater Lake. In the evenings, enjoy dinner with us, learn from our guest speaker, and wind down with a s'more at the community campfire.
Everyone! All ages are welcome. Youth must be accompanied by an adult
| "Awesome experience camping in the National Monument that allow easy access to so many different activities without having to leave the park everyday." - Kenneth |
"Free flowing-loved that we could feel free to join in on activities or do our own thing." - Lori |
"Summer Camp for Grown-Ups. A fully supported experience (food and guided activities), but also opportunity to choose your own adventure." - Becca |
Yes, they are an additional attendee. Also, check out Family Adventure Camp.
Unfortunately, no. We love our furry friends but dogs are not permitted at this event.
Typically, yes. After registration, you will receive a confirmation email with a link for a Participant Information Form. Please complete this for all attendees. There is a question to help us accommodate your dietary needs. While we can prepare meals to accommodate most needs, note that we cannot guarantee an allergen-free kitchen. If you have questions email events@mshinstitute.org.
That depends. Tent sites are 10' x 10'. RV sites are either 18'x50' or 18'x30'. Sites are first come, first served.
No, tent sites are a short walk from the unload area on a ridge overlooking Coldwater Lake with views of Mount St. Helens.
Maybe. RV sites are in a parking lot with great views of Mount St. Helens.
Yes, if there are neighboring tent/RV sites still available. Sites are first come, first served.
You will need to supply your own outdoor gear if you plan to bike, boat, or fish.
There will be a guided hike Saturday morning.
We will have a guest speaker and a s'mores bar Saturday evening. There will also be activities, books and crafts available in and around the Science and Learning Center.
You can go mountain biking on South Coldwater Ridge, fishing in Coldwater Lake (WDFW license required), kayaking in Coldwater Lake, hiking on numerous trails, reading a book or playing games at your tent/RV site while enjoying the views.
There are two well-maintained portable toilets near the campground. The Science and Learning Center has flush toilets and running, but we do not have showers.
Email events@mshinstitute.org or call (360) 449-7883.
Mount St. Helens Institute operates under a special use permit from the US Forest Service and is honored to work on the Traditional Cultural Property, ancestral and present day lands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. Mount St. Helens Institute is an equal opportunity provider.
