Map showing campground location near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington

Camper submitted image from Colchuck Lake

Colchuck Lake

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest's alpine zone is home to Colchuck Lake, a hike-in campground that requires real commitment before the first tent stake goes in. The trailhead sits at the end of a steep, pothole-ridden road, and the parking lot fills early. Campers without reserved parking permits have parked down the road and hoped for the best. The hike itself is roughly four miles in, gaining elevation consistently from start to finish, which makes it a demanding carry with an overnight pack.

Permits are tightly controlled and checked by rangers at the lake itself, so attempting to camp without one is not advisable. Day-of permits are occasionally available at the ranger station, but competition is real. Reviewers note moderate to heavy trail traffic, particularly in summer, and the lakeside campsites can feel crowded when the area is at capacity. Mountain goats are a genuine presence here. "Be mindful of mountain goats," notes Curran S., who adds that they are drawn to salt and will compete aggressively over urine spots, so campers should plan accordingly.

The campground has toilets, though they lack walls. Water from the nearby river has drawn complaints about odor, so bringing sufficient water from the start is the smarter move. Bug spray is worth packing, especially near the lake. Campers who want a drive-in alternative in the same forest can consider Eightmile Campground or browse campgrounds near Wenatchee National Forest for additional options. For Colchuck Lake specifically, entering the permit lottery in February gives the best shot at securing a spot.

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There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy for sensitive groups.

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Map & DirectionsColchuck Lake is located in Washington near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Public Campground

Coordinates

47.49157294 N
120.83797727 W

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Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Reservable
Toilets

Contact

General Info

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Reservations

+15095482550

Drive Time

1 hr 4 min from Wenatchee, WA
2 hrs 14 min from Yakima, WA
2 hrs 44 min from Seattle, WA
3 hrs 23 min from Bremerton, WA

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Reviews5 Camper Reviews - Colchuck Lake

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5 Stars

4 Stars

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5.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Visitors repeatedly highlighted the breathtaking alpine scenery and excellent camping spots around this pristine lake. Several guests noted permit acquisition challenges and full parking lots requiring early arrival or roadside parking.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Lexine H.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2023

Beautiful hike and lake

I hiked there many years ago just after Saint Helens erupted. Amazing place. First time I ever backpacked.

Month of VisitJuly

Travis R.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 24, 2021

Excellent hike.

I would suggest 6 to 8 hours to hike in, sight see around the lake and hike out. Moderate to heavy traffic. Get to the parking lot early or no parking. Reserved parking for those permitted to camp overnight.

Month of VisitJuly

Ethan H.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 31, 2020

Lake Colchuck

Beautiful 4 mile hike up (8 round trip) to the lake. There was a weird smell coming from the river, so maybe don’t drink from it haha. Bring plenty of your own water, also BUG SPRAY. Lots of bugs at the lakeside. It’s definitely still worth it for that view of dragon tails pass.

(10) View All

Curran S.

Traveler

Reviewed May. 16, 2019

Absolutely Stunning, mind the goats though...

One of the most beautiful places on this Earth. Be mindful of mountain Goats. They're mostly harmless but keep food sealed away and don't get between them and their babys or they might get pissed. Speaking of piss, they LOVE it, something about the salt, I don't know, but they will, no joke, fight each other over your pee spot.

Danielle S.

Legend

Reviewed Aug. 5, 2018

Colchuck Lake

This campsite is hike-in only. It is located near Leavenworth, WA. It is a popular location, so permits are hard to come by. You can try to reserve a spot in the lottery in February to reserve a permit, or you can do what I did: show up the morning of at the ranger station and hope for a day-of permit. We lucked out, we were one of a few groups vying for the one permit available, and we got it!

The trail access is up a steep pot-hole ridden road and the parking lot, while large, was full. We had to park down the road and pull off as best we could and hope that would work. You need a parking permit, which you can get at the ranger station, or an America the Beautiful pass.

The hike is a challenging one, especially if you are carrying an overnight pack. It's all uphill from the start to the end, but there are many scenic spots to stop and take a rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

When you get to the lake itself, you have to keep hiking around to find the open campsite. Be aware, trying to camp here without a permit is not advised: our permits were checked by a ranger up at the lake.

We found a great spot with incredible views, a place to set up the tent and hammock, near the toilet (there are no walls on toilets up in the back country,so be prepared). It was cold and I was glad I knew this.

(15) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp at Colchuck Lake?

Yes, you can camp at Colchuck Lake, but permits are required and can be difficult to obtain. Permits are available through a lottery system that opens in February, or you can try for day-of permits by arriving early at the ranger station. The lake is a popular destination, so planning ahead is essential. Overnight camping spots are limited to protect this pristine alpine environment, and there is reserved parking for those with overnight permits.

How far is the hike to Colchuck Lake camping from the trailhead?

The hike to Colchuck Lake is approximately 4 miles one-way (8 miles round trip) from the trailhead. Most hikers should plan for 6-8 hours total to hike in, explore the lake area, and hike back out. The trail is moderately challenging, so proper preparation is essential. The parking lot fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so arriving early is highly recommended.

Where are the best campsites near Colchuck Lake?

The best campsites at Colchuck Lake are scattered around the lake's perimeter, with many offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the famous Dragontail Pass. Campsites are primitive and dispersed rather than in designated areas. When selecting a site, look for established spots away from the water's edge (at least 100 feet from the lake) to minimize environmental impact. Be prepared for mountain goats in the area - they're mostly harmless but are attracted to human urine and food, so proper storage is essential.

What National Forest is Colchuck Lake in?

Colchuck Lake is located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest near Leavenworth, Washington. This alpine lake sits within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area, which is known for its pristine mountain environments and spectacular scenery. The lake's proximity to Leavenworth makes it a popular destination for both day hikers and overnight backpackers seeking to experience the natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains.

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