Video: Some campgrounds unlikely to open for holiday weekend

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SEATTLE - Heading to a campground for Memorial Day weekend is a right of passage for many, but thanks in part to the extended snowfall we had this year, space will be even more limited.

Forest Service leaders say a majority of federal campgrounds in Washington state are still snowed over, and won't be available for the Memorial Day weekend.

"I've never experienced so much snow depth remained this long, this late, and at this depth, this low," said Rod Mace, of the U.S. Forest Service.

That means competition could be fierce for any open spaces on state park ground. But most spots are already full - especially with people looking to save on gas and vacation closer to home.

"They're going to start more locally, so I think you're gonna see state parks and local parks fuller," said camper Marlene Goan.

But Tiffany Johnson says she and her family will still take a chance next weekend.

"You just get away from the house, the TV, and the phone and you know, what's better than sitting around the campfire in the evening, roasting marshmallows, and smelling that good old wood smoke," she said.

By Richard Harrelson

Morning fog in Naches.

On Thursday, there were five different campgrounds open in the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest.

In the Naches Ranger District, rangers say many trails and campsites will also be inaccessible on the holiday weekend.

"From all appearances it looks as if many of the motorcycle and 4-by-4 trails will be inaccessible because of snow, in fact many of them may not see ground until as late as mid June," said spokesperson Sam Bissell, in a press release.

He said campgrounds at mid to high elevation may be closed, including Lodgepole, Pleasant Valley, Dog Lake, Leech Lake and possibly Bumping Lake campgrounds. Snow has prevented workers from necessary duties, including falling hazard trees and cleaning up.

"If you plan on using anything above 3000 feet, especially trails in north facing canyons or heavy timber, campgrounds or trailheads, then you need to reconsider your plans," said spokesperson Doug Jenkins.

Those who have reservations can log onto www.Recreation.gov to find a refund form.

Closed Campgrounds in Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest with possible opening dates:

Denny Creek (6/13)

Tinkham (6/13)

Silver Springs (5/30)

Miller River Group (6/13)

Beaver Creek Group (6/13)

Boardman Creek (6/13)

Coal Creek Group (6/13)

Esswine Group (6/13)

Gold Basin (5/22)

Marten Creek (closed)

Red Bridge (6/13)

Tulalip Mill Group (6/13)

Wiley Creek Group (6/13)

North & South Bayview (6/13)

Mineral Park (6/13)

Silver Fir (6/13)

Campgrounds anticipated to be closed in the Naches Ranger District

Chinook Pass: Bumping Lake Upper and Lower, Bumping Crossing, Pleasant Valley, Lodgepole

White Pass: Dog Lake, Leech Lake (White Pass Lake)

Campgrounds scheduled to be open by Memorial Day in the Naches District

Chinook Pass: Cottonwood, Sawmill Flat, Little Naches, Halfway Flat, American Forks, Crow Creek, Kaner Flat, Cedar Springs, Soda Springs, Cougar Flat, Hells Crossing

White Pass: Willows, Windy Point, Hause Creek, Peninsula, South Fork Bay, Clear Lake North and South, Indian Creek