Camping options near Carlton include areas at higher elevations with significant seasonal access restrictions. The Methow Valley receives over 200 inches of annual snowfall at upper elevations, making many backcountry camping areas inaccessible from November through April. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, creating favorable swimming conditions at lake-based campgrounds but increasing wildfire risk.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Antilon Lake Campground offers access to multiple fish species. "I camped in dispersed campground 'A' and really enjoyed it. There is good shore access for bank fishing (I caught sun fish, crappie, and brown trout)," reports Don. The water conditions impact fishing success with reviewers noting "lots of lake moss, so fishing from the shore can be problematic."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct access to trail systems. At Foggy Dew Campground, Joey H. notes "Hiking trails close by that lead to a big waterfall." The campground serves as a gateway to deeper wilderness experiences, with another camper mentioning "great hiking is right outside your tent!"
Water activities: Many Methow Valley campgrounds center around water recreation. "The lake was nice and cool" reports Jorge H. about swimming at Lake Chelan State Park during late summer. For paddlers, Riverbend RV Park provides river access points. Jennifer H. notes the amenities include "easy river access" making it suitable for kayaks and paddleboards.
What campers like
Secluded creek settings: Campers consistently rate creek-adjacent sites highly. "Located in a side trib of the Methow Valley, this campsite is located amongst two creeks on either side," writes Ryan L. about Foggy Dew. The sensory experience enhances the camping atmosphere with Carrie J. noting "It's so peaceful to sit next to your campfire and hear both the crackling of the fire and the bubbling flow of the creek."
Proximity to towns: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to nearby communities. Pine Near RV Park stands out for its location. "Only a short block walk into the heart of Winthrop which has all amenities, restaurants, micro brews, shopping etc." notes Scott-Christy B., making it practical for supplies or dining options when campers need a break from outdoor cooking.
Stargazing conditions: The higher elevation sites provide exceptional night sky viewing. Joseph from Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping explains the area is "at one of the highest points in the area" with "amazing view for both sunrise and sunset!" The minimal light pollution and elevation combine to create optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping requires appropriate vehicles. Brett B. describes Cooper Mtn Rd as having "a couple spots washed out and need high clearance but otherwise just a long slow switchbacky road to the top." Similar caution applies at Antilon Lake where Ursula advises "The road was rough, but pretty much any car can handle it."
Bug activity: Insect populations vary by season and location. "BRING BUG SPRAY!!! After setting up our tent and bunking down for the night we found probably 100 mosquitoes INSIDE of the tent," warns Serena G. about Antilon Lake. Even at managed campgrounds, Christine R. notes falling asleep to "the sound of the frogs and crickets" indicates significant insect activity.
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Alta Lake State Park Campground, Erika D. cautions about the layout: "camping is literally site on top of site. Unless you like camping looking down on your neighbors camp an arms reach away." This contrasts with Black Pine Lake where Paul T. found "the campsite was pretty huge."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: Lake conditions determine appropriate water activities for children. At Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground, Sarah H. recommends caution: "The kids loved kayaking near the ducks. I would not let them kayak too far though. The lake was full of boats and jet skis going pretty fast and the lake is not very wide."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Riverbend RV Park, Jennifer H. reports the "playground was older but did the trick for the kids" and describes "nice paved roads to scooter and skate, yard games set up for anyone's use" creating kid-friendly environments beyond traditional camping activities.
Group camping options: Larger family gatherings require appropriately sized sites. Cara F. recommends Pearrygin Lake: "The sites were good for multiple tents and group activities. The bathrooms and showers were clean and well kept. It was a very nice site for group camping."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. Shay F. advises about Alta Lake State Park: "Sites are small, pull off is more accurate than pull through, and we used a lot of blocks to level up."
Hookup availability: Utility connections vary by campground. At Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday, Joshua D. reports the camp is "Skoolie friendly, nice and quiet" but notes "wifi is sketchy and 4g is sub par." For those requiring reliable connectivity, Joseph mentions Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping offers "Great cell service(AT&T)" despite its remote location.
Campsite selection tips: The arrangement of sites impacts privacy and experience. Brooks S. notes about Winthrop KOA: "They even have some sites that are fenced for privacy and these sites have a hot tub and grill." Roberta P. cautions about Alta Lake: "RV sites on the lake are basically a parking lot with campers sitting side by side, no privacy, any conversation is easily overheard."
