Fourth of July Pass in Ross Lake National Recreation Area is surrounded by rugged terrain typical of the North Cascades. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit in spring and fall to highs in the 70s during summer. Nearby, visitors can explore the scenic Ross Lake and the diverse trails of North Cascades National Park.

There are two ways to attain Fourth of July Pass - from Thunder Creek or from Panther Creek. Both offer wonderful opportunities to travel along burbling, blue-green creeks, but access via Thunder Creek is truly stunning.

Fourth of July Pass — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Camping in the North Cascades is an unforgettable experience. Near Seattle, WA, the national park is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s also home to some of the best camping in Washington state. Take an early hike from the campground for bird watching — there are more than 200 species in the park. Grey wolves, deer, and squirrels also call the park home, along with elusive wolverines. Hike into the campground and pitch a tent, or stay comfortably in a cabin or yurt. RV drivers can pull up to their campsites. They are only a stroll away from mountain waterfalls, alpine meadows, and stunning glaciers.

North Cascades National Park

The Best Camping Near North Cascades National Park, Washington

This is a back country site.  The hike is strenuous (and watch out for bears, we saw one, and then promptly brought out the bear bell).  It's mostly switch-backs.  When we arrived at the campsite, we were a little let down by the views.  They were more peek-a-boo then we were led to believe.  But it was still beautiful.  

Fourth of July Pass

We came up from the Panther creek side which was much longer of a hike but not as steep as the 4th of July Pass trail.  Killer views of multiple peaks.  There are no campfires allowed at this site, and there are some reliable water sources around and on the way up from Panther. Definitely recommend whenever you have the legs for it.

Photos of Fourth of July Pass — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers