Looking for an adventure where you can explore Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and then fall asleep in your tent? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, Washington's most popular destinations.
Colonial Creek South Campground in North Cascades National Park is a remote, yet bustling campground nestled in old -growth forest. Located on the south side of State Route 20 near milepost 130, there are 94 campsites that are surrounded by forest and located on Diablo Lake.__ Colonial Creek South Campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether it___s drive-in camping, or walk-in tent camping. The campsites vary in size from small to medium. Most of the campsites do not accommodate large trailers or RVs.____
Campers can access the Thunder Creek Trailhead from the South Loop. The Thunder Knob Trailhead is on the north loop across State Route 20.____ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.__ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__
Campers can access the Thunder Creek Trailhead from the South Loop. The Thunder Knob Trailhead is on the north loop across State Route 20.____ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.__ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__
Colonial Creek South Campground is surrounded by a forest of western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. The campground has easy access to Diablo Lake for recreating.____
For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.
Traveling west on State Route 20:____ The North Cascades Visitor Center is 11 miles (18 km) west on State Route 20 from Colonial Creek South Campground, operating seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find the passport stamps, exhibits, park film, park store, and much more.______ Traveling east on State Route 20:____ Diablo Lake Overlook is 1.5 miles (2 km) east on State Route 20. the turquoise lake can be viewed safely from this area and there is ample day use parking and vault toilets.__ Ross Lake Overlook is 5 miles (8 km) east on State Route 20, this is a less developed vista point. There are two pull off areas with interpretive way sides and with views of the Ross Dam and Ross Lake.
$16 - $24 / night
This forested campground is located near Early Winters Creek, has majestic trees with a stream and good hiking opportunites nearby. Units combinable to accommodate groups.
Lake Wenatchee State Park is a 489-acre camping park with 12,623-feet of waterfront on glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River and is a great place for camping near Seattle. The park is bisected by the Wenatchee River, creating two distinct areas – south park, which features areas for camping, swimming and horseback riding, and north park, which is in a less developed, forested section of the park and a quarter-mile walk from the lake.
The park has 155 tent spaces, 42 water and electric sites, one dump station, seven restrooms, and 16 showers. In addition, the park provides two ADA campsites. Call 509-763-3101 for more information.
The south campground (sites 1 - 100) has parking pads 30 to 40-feet in length, with only two pull-through sites. Larger RVs and fifth-wheelers should use the north campground (sites 101 - 197) which includes 42 large pull-through utility sites. Maximum tents allowed are one family tent or up to two 2-3 man tents. Maximum vehicles allowed are two per site, additional vehicles may park in overflow areas.
Newhalem Creek Campground consists of 103 individual camp sites in loops A, B, and C, an additional loop with 2 group camp sites, and drive-in picnic sites. The campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether it is drive-to or walk-in tent camping or tent sites that accommodate RV camping, Newhalem Creek Campground provides a comfortable place for your visit.____ The North Cascades Visitor Center is a half mile by trail or road and operates seasonally, typically from May to September. The campground is surrounded by forested short, informative hikes that connect to the town of Newhalem, Washington.____
Campers can enjoy easy access to several of the Newhalem area hiking trails and connect to the town of Newhalem, Washington.__ Fishing is allowed in the Skagit River with a Washington State Fishing license. The nearest location to purchase a license is outside of the park in the town of Marblemount. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__
Campers can enjoy easy access to several of the Newhalem area hiking trails and connect to the town of Newhalem, Washington.__ Fishing is allowed in the Skagit River with a Washington State Fishing license. The nearest location to purchase a license is outside of the park in the town of Marblemount. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__
Newhalem Creek Campground is a forested campground surrounded by western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. Nearby is Newhalem Creek and the Skagit River. The river is the largest river that flows into the Puget Sound area and provides critical habitat for all species of Pacific salmon which return to the river seasonally. There are salmon-viewing areas along the River Loop Trail and in the town of Newhalem.__
The North Cascades Visitor Center is one-half mile (1 km) away and operates seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find passport stamps, exhibits, park film, park store, and much more.______ The campground is surrounded by forested short, informative hikes that connect to the North Cascades Visitor Center and the town of Newhalem, Washington, one mile (2 km) east.__
For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.
$16 - $75 / night
Welcome to Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground, nestled near the charming town of Winthrop, WA. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors from March to October. The campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, with some right on the lake, giving you that perfect waterfront experience.
One of the standout features here is the variety of water activities. You can dive into jet skiing, water skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. There's even a boat wash to keep your gear in top shape. If you prefer staying on land, there are numerous trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking. Volleyball and horseshoes are also available for some friendly competition.
The campground is divided into different sections, catering to various needs and preferences. Whether you want a basic tent site or a spot with full hookups, you'll find something that suits you. Some sites even come with paved camper pads. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, though fire bans can be in effect, so check ahead.
The bath and shower facilities are clean and well-maintained, with free showers. Just a heads-up, the hot water can be a bit unpredictable, so plan accordingly.
Visitors have praised the spacious sites and the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The sandy beach is a hit with families, providing a safe and fun spot for kids to play. The park staff are friendly and keep the grounds in great condition.
Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground offers a fantastic base for exploring the North Cascades and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Don't forget to check out the nearby old western town of Winthrop for a bit of local charm.
Lone Fir Campground is open from July - October. Maximum stay is 14 days.
Colonial Creek North Campground is a remote, yet bustling campground nestled in old-growth forest. Located on the north side of State Route 20 near milepost 130, there are 41 campsites that are surrounded by forest and located on Diablo Lake.__ Colonial Creek North Campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether it___s drive-in camping, or walk-in tent camping. The campsites vary in size from small to medium. Most of the campsites do not accommodate large trailers or RVs.__
Campers can access several trails from within the facility, such as Thunder Knob Trail located in the North Loop and Thunder Creek Trail from the South Loop.________ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the closest location to purchase a license in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__
Campers can access several trails from within the facility, such as Thunder Knob Trail located in the North Loop and Thunder Creek Trail from the South Loop.________ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the closest location to purchase a license in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__
Colonial Creek North Campground is forested with western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. The campground has easy access to Diablo Lake for recreating.
For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.
Traveling west on State Route 20:____ The North Cascades Visitor Center is 11 miles (18 km) west on State Route 20 from Colonial Creek North Campground, operating seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find the passport stamps, exhibit, park film, park store, and much more.____ Traveling east on State Route 20:____ Diablo Lake Overlook is 1.5 miles (2 km) east on State Route 20, the turquoise lake can be viewed safely from this area and there is ample day use parking and vault toilets.____ Ross Lake Overlook is 5 miles (8 km) east on State Route 20, this is a less developed vista point. There are two pull off areas with interpretive displays and with views of the Ross Dam and Ross Lake.__
$24 / night
Situated on the banks of the scenic Cascade River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Marble Creek campground offers some of the most stunning scenery in the northern Cascade Range. Campsites are scattered beneath a towering canopy of diverse forest. They are widely spaced and within walking distance to the waterfront, making it an ideal setting for visitors wanting to camp in a private, rustic setting.
In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, Marble Creek offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. The area surrounding the campground can accommodate anyone from the novice hiker to the most experienced outdoor enthusiast. Several trailheads for the overnight backpacker are located in the vicinity of the nearby town of Marblemount, including Hidden Lake Trail. Beginning in a forested setting, the trail climbs quickly to open meadows and grand views of the Cascade River. As it reaches higher elevations, it winds through angular slabs of granite and groupings of alpine fir. Hidden Lake and the Hidden Lake Lookout can be seen below from the pass.
In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, Marble Creek offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. The area surrounding the campground can accommodate anyone from the novice hiker to the most experienced outdoor enthusiast. Several trailheads for the overnight backpacker are located in the vicinity of the nearby town of Marblemount, including Hidden Lake Trail. Beginning in a forested setting, the trail climbs quickly to open meadows and grand views of the Cascade River. As it reaches higher elevations, it winds through angular slabs of granite and groupings of alpine fir. Hidden Lake and the Hidden Lake Lookout can be seen below from the pass.
Hemmed in by several designated wilderness areas, the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests. Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the area, dominates the landscape on a clear day. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, the active volcano from which the forest takes its name is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Flowing adjacent to this campground is the Cascade River, a tributary of the Skagit River, designated as a National Scenic River. Wildlife in the area include mountain goats, coyotes, pine marten and a variety of migratory birds and native fish.
Visitors enjoy the North Cascades and Mt. Rainer National Parks, where interpretive programs and exhibits offer education about the diverse landscape and history of the area. The Verlot Public Service Center, near the South Fork Stillaguamish River, is a popular attraction. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps from 1933 to 1942, Verlot`s handsome buildings reflect the architectural style and fine craftsmanship of that era and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
For facility specific information, please call (530) 932-0242.
Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
$30 - $32 / night
Campgrounds in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area are walk-in sites located in the Stehekin Valley at the head of Lake Chelan. Purple Point Campground is an approximatly eight minute walk from the boat dock at Stehekin Landing along a paved road. Most sites are located very near the road. Stehekin is a remote community with limited facilities and is only accessible by foot, boat, or plane.__
Visitors can access several trails from near the campground, such the Imus Trail, the Purple Creek Trail, and the Lakeshore Trail. Other trails trails further up the valley can be reached by via foot, bike, or shuttle bus. Many of the trails from Stehekin provide the opportunity for longer wilderness backpacks. A backcountry permit is required for overnight stays in the backcountry.____ Visitors can boat, fish, and swim (although the water is a chilly 45 degrees) in Lake Chelan. Bears do inhabit the area, so care should be taken when hiking, picnicking, or camping.
Visitors can access several trails from near the campground, such the Imus Trail, the Purple Creek Trail, and the Lakeshore Trail. Other trails trails further up the valley can be reached by via foot, bike, or shuttle bus. Many of the trails from Stehekin provide the opportunity for longer wilderness backpacks. A backcountry permit is required for overnight stays in the backcountry.____ Visitors can boat, fish, and swim (although the water is a chilly 45 degrees) in Lake Chelan. Bears do inhabit the area, so care should be taken when hiking, picnicking, or camping.
Stehekin is a gateway into the east side of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Many short to multi-day backpacking trips begin in the Stehekin area. Other attractions in the area are the historic Buckner Orchard, where visitors can pick apples in the fall, and Rainbow Falls, a 312-foot waterfall near the Stehekin Valley Road.
$20 / night
Welcome to Newhalem Creek Campground, nestled in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area near Marblemount, WA. This place is a gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the North Cascades. The campground is divided into three loops, plus walk-in tent sites and a group site, offering a variety of camping experiences.
The sites here are nicely wooded, providing a good amount of privacy and a serene atmosphere. Some sites are back-in, while others are pull-through, and all of them are level with paved camper pads. Each site comes equipped with a fire pit, a large picnic table, and a bear box. Just a heads-up, there are no electric, sewer, or water hookups, but drinking water is available at the bathrooms, which are clean and well-maintained.
One of the standout features of Newhalem Creek Campground is its proximity to the Visitor Center, which is about a half-mile walk via the River Loop. The Visitor Center offers daily programs, a small store, and an interpretive center. It's a great resource for information on local hikes and activities. Speaking of hikes, the River Loop Trail and the path to Ladder Creek Falls are must-dos. The falls are particularly stunning, even if the gardens have seen better days.
For those who need to stay connected, you'll be pleased to know that cell coverage is surprisingly good, likely due to the nearby town of Newhalem. This makes it a fantastic spot for remote work if you need to mix business with pleasure.
Pets are welcome, and there's a market nearby for any last-minute supplies. Fires are allowed, but always check for any burn bans in effect. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Newhalem Creek Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of natural beauty to explore.
$24 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 40 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?
TheDyrt.com has all 226 tent camping locations near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, with real photos and reviews from campers.
