Rasar State Park

Rasar State Park: Family Friendly Retreat Along the Wild and Scenic Skagit River

Rasar State Park offers families and outdoor enthusiasts a pristine retreat along the north shore of the Wild and Scenic Skagit River in Concrete. This 180-acre camping park combines modern amenities with natural beauty, featuring 4,000 feet of freshwater shoreline, accessible trails, and comfortable cabins. From November through February, the park serves as an excellent base camp for viewing the annual migration of bald eagles along the upper Skagit River, while summer months bring interpretive programs and riverside recreation.

Rasar State Park Fast Facts

Park Overview

Rasar State Park showcases the natural beauty of the Skagit River Valley through its carefully planned combination of forested campgrounds, grassy meadows, and scenic river access. The park preserves second-growth forests alongside open fields that provide habitat for deer, while the rocky and sandy rivershore creates prime birdwatching opportunities. Named for Peter Rasar, the first known member of the Rasar family to emigrate to the area, the park was developed using locally sourced materials and designed with accessibility as a priority.

The park’s location along the Skagit River makes it particularly valuable for wildlife enthusiasts, especially during the winter months when hundreds of bald eagles congregate along the upper river to feed on salmon. This seasonal spectacle, combined with year-round opportunities for fishing, hiking, and family recreation, establishes Rasar State Park as both a destination for nature lovers and a comfortable base for exploring the North Cascades region.

Activities & Recreation

The park’s trail system connects three main routes for optimal exploration. The Skagit Woods Trail leads from the campground through second-growth forest to the rivershore, while the Skagit River Trail follows the water’s edge for prime wildlife viewing. The Field Trail traverses grassy meadows where deer frequently graze and offers views of Sauk Mountain on clear days. These trails can be linked for a comprehensive three-mile nature walk suitable for all ages.

Facilities & Amenities

Rasar State Park provides comprehensive modern facilities designed with accessibility in mind. The park features accessible restrooms, campsites, parking, and a full mile of ADA-compliant hiking trail. Family amenities include a large playground, volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and an amphitheater for programs. A kitchen shelter with electricity, water, fireplace, and braziers accommodates group gatherings and can be reserved in advance. Additional facilities include restrooms with showers, a trailer dump station, and a park store offering souvenirs, maps, firewood, and local area information.

Camping & Accommodations

The park offers diverse overnight accommodations with 18 standard tent sites, 20 utility sites with water and electricity, and 13 walk-in campsites. Three walk-in sites are designated exclusively for hikers and bikers, while two feature Adirondack shelters for added comfort. Three group camps named Elk, Eagle, and Salmon provide space and privacy for families, scouting groups, and other gatherings. Three cabins nestled in a cozy forest setting near the group camp areas offer a more comfortable option, each accommodating up to five guests with log furnishings, bunk beds, queen futon, kitchenette, and bathroom. All cabins include propane heat, on-demand hot water, and outdoor amenities like fire pits and covered porches.

Planning Your Visit to Rasar State park

Rasar State Park operates year-round from 8:00 AM to dusk, with seasonal programming available from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The park requires a Discover Pass for day visits. Reservations for campsites, cabins, and the kitchen shelter can be made online or by calling 1-888-CAMPOUT. The park’s location on Cape Horn Road, eight miles west of Concrete along Highway 20, makes it easily accessible for travelers exploring the North Cascades Highway. Winter visitors should plan ahead for the prime bald eagle viewing season from November through February when the birds congregate along the river.

What to Bring & Know

• Binoculars are essential for wildlife viewing, especially during winter bald eagle migration season • River conditions can change rapidly, so check with park staff about current fishing and water access conditions • The park’s accessible trail system makes it suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices • Interpretive programs and Junior Ranger activities enhance the family experience during summer months • The park store provides basic supplies, but visitors should bring camping essentials and food

Final Word

Rasar State Park combines the pristine beauty of the Wild and Scenic Skagit River with thoughtfully designed facilities and programs, creating an ideal family retreat that celebrates both natural wonders and accessible outdoor recreation.

Explore More of North Cascades National Park

This article is part of our complete guide to North Cascades National Park. Discover trails, campgrounds, seasonal tips, and everything you need to plan your visit.