Tent campsites near Carlton, Washington sit at elevations between 1,100 and 3,500 feet in the eastern foothills of the North Cascades. The region receives significantly less rainfall than western Washington, with summer temperatures regularly reaching 85-95°F. Dispersed camping options range from lakeside settings to forest clearings with minimal facilities.
What to do
Fishing the small lakes: At Antilon Lake Campground, anglers can catch several species from shore or boat. "I caught 3 gorgeous brown trout from my kayak, which made 2 delicious meals. I literally had the entire lake to myself," reports Christine R. The lake also contains perch, sunfish and crappie according to campers.
Boating on Lake Chelan: For water recreation, Lake Chelan State Park Campground provides direct lake access. "Amazing dock system and access to the lake, great day use area where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards," notes Marie L. The park's swimming area includes both grassy areas and shoreline sections for relaxing between water activities.
Hiking the backcountry: Access miles of wilderness trails from remote camp locations like South Navarre Campground. "Miles of trail to enjoy from the site," mentions Andrea F., making it a good basecamp for day hikes. The area connects to the broader Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest trail system, though many routes require preparation for steep terrain.
What campers like
Lakeside tent sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront camping options at Mitchell Creek Campground, which requires boat access. "Camped here last weekend. Loved it! Lots of boat parking with breakwater. Pit toilet was very clean," writes Paije A. The sites include fire rings and picnic tables with direct lake access.
Wildlife viewing: Evening and early morning offer opportunities to spot deer, various birds, and small mammals. "The view in the morning is beyond description," says David H. about Antilon Lake. During spring and early summer, wildflowers bloom throughout the higher elevation campsites.
Budget-friendly options: Many tent campsites near Carlton provide low-cost or free camping. Antilon Lake camper Jess G. notes, "Did I mention Antilon is free?!" while other areas require only the Washington Discover Pass. At Sullivan Pond Camp, John T. confirms, "Washington Discover Pass required" for dispersed camping.
What you should know
Access considerations: Many roads leading to remote sites require appropriate vehicles. "Travel is best in a high clearance vehicle with good tires. It's a long drive on a dirt mountain road. NOT for trailers," warns Andrea F. about South Navarre Campground. Wet weather can worsen road conditions substantially.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic at certain sites, particularly in early summer. "BRING BUG SPRAY!!! After setting up our tent and bunking down for the night we found probably 100 mosquitoes INSIDE of the tent," cautions Serena G. about her Antilon Lake experience. Bees can also be active during warmer months.
Seasonal crowding: Weekend competition for sites intensifies during summer months. "It was a bit crowded but it's to be expected during the final week of summer," observes Jorge H. at Lake Chelan State Park. Weekday visits offer significantly more solitude according to multiple campers.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access locations: Sullivan Pond Camp provides family-friendly dispersed camping with gentler terrain. "Really peaceful and lovely campsite. Lots of flowers, just a few camping spaces available," notes Emma T. The pond setting offers calm water appropriate for younger children.
Playground amenities: Lake Chelan State Park provides built-in activities for children. "There was also a nice playground for him to play on as well," mentions Courtney J. about camping with her two-year-old. The park also features large playfields where "people were always welcoming in others to play."
Food storage precautions: Small animals actively seek food at most campgrounds. "Watch for the critters they are ruthless so cover ALL your dry goods!" advises Marie L. at Lake Chelan State Park. Proper food storage becomes even more important with children who may leave snacks accessible.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most undeveloped campsites near Carlton cannot accommodate larger RVs. "Spots vary in size and the ones with lake access go first. Too windy for a fire, but fire rings made from rocks are present. 2WD vehicles should have no problem, but doesn't seem equipped to handle trailers or RV's," reports Chris about Antilon Lake camping.
Resource management: No hookup sites require careful water and power planning. Lake Chelan State Park offers "RV sites with electricity and water hookups" according to Shari G., but most other camping areas have no utilities. Small travel trailers and truck campers have more site options than larger motorhomes.
Parking logistics: Many tent-focused sites separate parking from camping areas. At Lake Chelan State Park, "The water sites you park at the top and carry your things down to the site so be prepared for that," explains Marie L., making equipment organization important for RV campers who also want to tent camp.
