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Established Camping

Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Gorge Lake Campground remains closed until further notice due to debris flow and flooding hazards following the 2023 Sourdough Fire.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Gorge Lake Campground, near Sedro-Woolley, Washington, is a cozy spot that offers a fantastic lakeside experience. With sites that boast stunning water views, it’s a great place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.

The campground features clean vault toilets and ample space between sites, allowing for a bit of privacy while still being part of a friendly community. Campers have noted the easy access to nearby hiking trails and the chance to explore the surrounding wilderness, making it a hit for those who love the outdoors. One visitor mentioned, “Almost every site in this campground has an amazing water view,” which really captures the essence of this place.

For those who enjoy fishing or boating, there’s a boat ramp right at the campground, making it super convenient to get out on the water. While there are no showers or water hookups, many campers appreciate the simplicity and charm of the area. As one reviewer put it, “This campground is so beautiful by and on the lake,” highlighting the serene atmosphere.

Located within the North Cascades National Park, Gorge Lake Campground is a perfect base for exploring the park’s rugged beauty. Just a short drive from Sedro-Woolley, you can easily stock up on supplies if needed. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, this campground offers a welcoming spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

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Location

Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area is located in Washington

Detail location of campground

Directions

Located just outside the community of Diablo, north of SR 20 at mile post 126. 20 miles (32 km) east of Marblemount, 67 miles (108 km) west of Winthrop.

Address

GORGE LAKE CAMPGROUND C/O NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK SERVICE COMPLEX 810 STATE ROUTE 20
Sedro-woolley, WA 98284

Coordinates

48.71571285 N
121.151532366 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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17%

4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 2, 2021

Awesome Sites!

Almost every site in this campground has an amazing water view. Nice and small, private, ample parking, clean bathrooms (vault toilet) and easy to get to town if you forgot supplies. Lots of tiny spots to explore nearby the water. Plenty of space between sites, but you can definitely see other campers.

SiteSite 4, 5
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by K O., June 2, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 12, 2020

A great place

This campground is so beautiful by and on the lake. Excellent hike and privacy in each lot. Clean bathrooms and great host.

  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shannon K., August 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shannon K., August 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shannon K., August 12, 2020
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2018

Cozy campground

Smaller campground with 6 sites on a peninsula in the lake. Boat ramp at the campground, great if you are fishing. There are restrooms only, but these sites are free! Less privacy here since it is right off the road, but a little more sun than other campgrounds that have tree cover which is wonderful if it's raining or snowing!

  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Natalie B., October 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Natalie B., October 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Natalie B., October 1, 2018
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Sep. 20, 2018

Blink and you'll miss this spot

Small turn around kind of spot, 6 sites with tent pads and picnic tables. 1 vault toilet. Boat launch accessible to access gorge lake. Which I will say was more like a river due to the dam near by. Even though this site is right off the highway the noise isn’t too bad since you’re right on the water. The sites are pretty close together so I wouldn’t say theres much privacy at this camp ground but its free and I will be back. Right by diablo lake!

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Jess G., September 20, 2018
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Jess G., September 20, 2018
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Jess G., September 20, 2018
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2016

Free and Beautiful!

Great little quiet spot on Gorge Lake, just on the edge of the Seattle City Light company town, Diablo. It’s one of the only free NPS-run camping area with clean pit toilets, trash/recycling, and a boat launch that I have ever seen. No water spigots, but if you come prepared with a filtration system, you have all the water you need from Gorge Lake. Not much privacy between sites, but tends to attract some cool people. Just seconds off Hwy 20, but you do not hear the road as the small rapids just near the campground naturally drowned out most noise. This the perfect spot for a few days or just an overnight on your way over Washington Pass. Great hiking in the area, including one of the most steep roadside hikes in the park. Sourdough Mountain is no joke, with 3000 feet of elevation gain in the first 3 miles. Cost=free! No permit required, no reservation possible, just good ol’ fashioned first come, first served. Like all car-camping spots within North Cascade NP this place fills up on the weekends during the summer.

  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shari  G., August 31, 2016
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shari  G., August 31, 2016
  • Review photo of Gorge Lake Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shari  G., August 31, 2016
  • (9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Gorge Lake Campground located in Washington?

Gorge Lake Campground is located on the edge of Diablo, a Seattle City Light company town in Washington's North Cascades. The campground sits on a peninsula in Gorge Lake within the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. It's conveniently positioned right off the highway, making it easily accessible for visitors while still providing beautiful lakeside views. The location offers a good balance of seclusion while maintaining proximity to town for supplies if needed.

What's the difference between camping at Gorge Lake vs Ross Lake in the National Recreation Area?

Gorge Lake Campground offers a more intimate experience with just 6 sites situated on a peninsula with excellent water views. It's a quieter, smaller alternative to the more extensive camping options at Ross Lake. Gorge Lake feels more like a river due to the nearby dam, while Ross Lake provides a true lake experience. Gorge Lake Campground is accessible directly from the highway with a small fee, making it ideal for spontaneous trips. The campground's proximity to Diablo (the Seattle City Light company town) provides convenient access to supplies while still enjoying the natural setting of the National Recreation Area.

What amenities and facilities are available at Gorge Lake Campground?

Gorge Lake Campground features 6 sites with tent pads and picnic tables, each offering ample privacy despite the campground's small size. Facilities include clean vault toilets, trash and recycling services. There's no potable water available on-site, so campers should bring their own water or filtration systems. The campground provides adequate parking space for vehicles. Each site has good spacing between neighbors, though you can still see other campers. While the campground is near the highway, noise isn't significant due to the water proximity. There's a small fee per night to camp here.

Is there boat access or fishing available at Gorge Lake?

Yes, Gorge Lake Campground has a boat launch directly at the campground, making it an excellent base for fishing activities. The lake, which feels more like a river due to the nearby dam, is accessible right from the campground. The peninsula setting gives campers great water access with tiny spots to explore along the shoreline. This setup is particularly convenient for anglers who want to maximize their time on the water while having a comfortable campsite to return to.