Tent camping in Chelan, Washington centers around the 50-mile-long Lake Chelan in the North Cascades, with elevations ranging from 1,100 feet at the lakeshore to 3,000+ feet in surrounding mountain campgrounds. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during peak season (June-August), while spring and fall offer milder conditions with highs in the 60-70°F range. The eastern side of the Cascades receives less rainfall than western Washington, creating ideal camping conditions through much of the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Antilon Lake Campground offers year-round fishing for multiple species, with one camper reporting: "I caught sun fish, crappie, and brown trout... The brown trout I grilled was good, too!" at Antilon Lake Campground.
Water activities: Several campgrounds provide direct lake access. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, "Amazing dock system and access to the lake, great day use area where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards" according to a visitor who appreciated the rental options.
Mountain biking: Forest service roads near camping areas offer mountain biking opportunities. One camper at Windy Camp Campground noted it's a "Great place in forest to enjoy riding bikes" with "moderate climb" access roads.
What campers like
Lakefront access: Many campers prize waterfront sites. At Mitchell Creek Campground, visitors enjoy "Gorgeous lake front spots, with firepits, picnic tables, and pit toilets" with "easy access beach for kayaking" making it a favorite for water enthusiasts.
Shade in hot months: When temperatures soar in Chelan, shaded sites become essential. One camper highlighted Snowberry Bowl Campground's "Lots of shade and great trees for hammocks. Nice private sites, some double sites, pit toilets, potable water (though slow running), and a large picnic pavilion."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. At South Navarre Campground, campers enjoy "Miles of trail to enjoy from the site" with opportunities to spot local wildlife while hiking.
What you should know
Site availability patterns: Competition for sites varies by season and day of week. At Antilon Lake, a camper advised: "If you're looking to avoid the crowds I would advise going in the middle of the week to atleast claim your site!"
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent. At Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping, "It is very windy!" which can help reduce insect issues, though another Antilon Lake visitor warned to "BRING BUG SPRAY!!!" after finding "probably 100 mosquitoes INSIDE of the tent."
Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. One South Navarre camper noted: "Travel is best in a high clearance vehicle with good tires. It's a long drive on a dirt mountain road. NOT for trailers, I've drug with just a basket on my hitch in a couple of spots."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: When tent camping with children near Chelan, look for sites with recreational features. Lake Chelan State Park offers "a nice playground" that kept a two-year-old occupied during his "first official camping trip," according to one parent.
Water temperature awareness: Lake water may be cooler than expected, especially in early season. A family noted their child "was able to dip his toes in the water and get a little wet" even when "the water was still a little chilly" during a Mother's Day weekend trip.
Wildlife precautions: Teach children about food storage. A Lake Chelan State Park camper warned: "Watch for the critters they are ruthless so cover ALL your dry goods!" suggesting proper food storage is essential for successful tent camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many dispersed and primitive tent camping spots near Chelan cannot accommodate larger vehicles. A Windy Camp visitor specifically noted: "No room for trailers" despite the "easy road but moderate climb."
Hookup availability: For tent campers who also use RVs occasionally, only Lake Chelan State Park offers comprehensive hookups with "electricity and water" among the reviewed campsites, making it the primary option for those requiring powered sites.
Parking considerations: At waterfront tent sites, vehicles often park separately from camping spots. As one Lake Chelan State Park camper explained: "The water sites you park at the top and carry your things down to the site so be prepared for that" – important information for those with mobility concerns or heavy equipment.
