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Campground: Big Creek
This 7 mile trail starts in the Kalama Horse Camp before swinging northward and crossing Forest Road 81. After climbing steadily along an old roadbed, the trail enters a magnificent stand of old-growth. The trail passes through a 0.25-mile stretch of young trees before reentering the older forest.
Traversing the western face of Goat Mountain, you enter an ancient stand of old-growth noble fir, ending at a saddle on the north shoulder of the peak. The trail drops downslope and connects with an abandoned road leading to Forest Road 8123.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | 03/19/2024: The #242 Fossil Trail is open. |
|---|---|
| Fees: | No fee or pass required. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment areas. |
| Restrictions: | Horses are prohibited on:
|
| Closest Towns: | Cougar, WA |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: |
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General Information
Directions:The trail starts at Kalama Horse Camp (Forest Road 81).
From Woodland, WA take state Route 503 east for approximately 28 miles to Forest Road 81. Take a left on Forest Road 81 towards Kalama Horse Camp Recreation Area. Follow Forest Road 81 north for approximately 8 miles.
Activities
Campground Camping
Each site has a pedestal grill. The campground requires vehicles to have a relatively tight turning radius. Some parking spurs are paved; others are native moss and dirt.
| No. of Sites | 26 single site(s), 3 double site(s) |
| Reservation Info | This site can be reserved by calling Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639 or TDD 877-833-6777) or on-line at http://www.recreation.gov |
| No. of Accessible sites | None |
RV Camping
The campground requires vehicles to have a relatively tight turning radius.
| No. of Sites | 27 |
| Reservation Info | This site can be reserved by calling Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639 or TDD 877-833-6777) or on-line at http://www.recreation.gov |
| Pavement Type for Parking | Native Material or Asphalt |
| Hookup - Water | No |
| Size Restrictions | 22' |
| Hookup - Sewer | No |
| Dump Stations | No |
| Hookups - Electric | No |
| Corrals | 22' |
River and Stream Fishing
Fishing in nearby Skate Creek. See Washington State fishing regulations.
| Fish Species | Brook trout |
Picnicking
Picnicking in camp sites is available for a fee.