Best Tent Camping near Chelan, WA

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Chelan? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Chelan, WA (84)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chelan State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chelan State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chelan State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chelan State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chelan State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chelan State Park Campground

    1. Lake Chelan State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    67 Photos
    367 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    Reserve your campsite early, wait for summer with growing anticipation, then join the ranks of visitors who make Lake Chelan a family tradition.

    This social camping park pulses with life in the summer. Generations of families return to the blue lake every year; they even try to book the same campsite they've used since the 1960s and '70s. But, while they'll jockey online for their favorite spot, veteran Chelan-goers happily share this gem with first-timers, and many lifelong friendships begin there.

    Lake Chelan State Park has a long, sandy beach, shaded picnic tables and a calm lagoon. The 50.5-mile lake, with a depth of 1,486 feet, draws boaters, sailors, anglers, water skiers, windsurfers and seasonal residents. The area features some of the finest hiking trails in Washington, and adventurous hikers make the park their base from which to explore the North Cascades. For visitors hoping to chill out in their camp chairs, float the lagoon in a raft and soak up the homey atmosphere with family and friends, this place cannot be beat.

    Lake Chelan State Park is a 139 acre public recreation area and nature reserve located on the southwest shore of Lake Chelan, and on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. In 1942, Washington State made a large land purchase and allocated part of the land for Lake Chelan State Park. Today, the park attracts visitors from all over thanks to its range of camping, picnicking, hiking, boating, and water activities.

    Unusual for Washington, this park is known for its expansive 6,000 ft sandy beach, shaded picnic tables and a large, crystal lagoon spanning 55.5 miles in area, with water as deep as 1,486 feet. Subsequently, the lagoon draws boaters, sailors, anglers, water skiers, windsurfers, and fishers as well. Without a doubt, Lake Chelan is the most famous part of this park. However, don’t let its splendor captivate you too long- because there area is full of amazing hiking as well.

    In fact, the park features some of the finest hiking trails in Washington, from which adventurous hikers make the park their base to adventure in the North Cascades. If hiking isn’t your thing however, chill out in a camp chairs under a nice shaded tree, paddleboard out to the center of the lagoon, and then finish your day taking in the cozy atmosphere with at your campsite with family and friends. When it comes to fun for everyone, Lake Chelan State Park is sure to please.

    While the park is open year round, it really comes alive during the summer. Visiting Lake Chelan is a long standing tradition for many local families and friends. Consequently, as soon as school retires for the summer, swaths of families return to the blue lagoon every year for their annual lake trips and family outings. And you better believe they have a preference for the “family campsite” that they’ve probably used since the 70s. You’ll want to reserve your campsite well in advance if you’re planning to join the ranks of Lake Chelan regulars.

    Even then, veteran Chelan-goers happily share their beloved campground with newcomers, and a number of lifelong friendships are formed here. Get your family and friends together, and come make Lake Chelan a new tradition this Summer (or avoid the crowds and visit sooner!)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Antilon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Antilon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Antilon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Antilon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Antilon Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Antilon Lake Campground

    2. Antilon Lake Campground

    9 Reviews
    45 Photos
    163 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    Antilon Lake camping area is a dispersed camping area great for large groups and accessible to small RV's. Antilon Lake is open to fishing, and non-motorized or electric-motor boats. Not recommended for swimming. During the summer this camping area can be hot, dry and one of the first areas to close to campfires. Spring and Fall are much more pleasant.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Campground

    3. Mitchell Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    46 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    This boat-in campground offers a picnic shelter and a dock with a 17 boat capacity. There are seven campsites (7 tables, and fire rings) available and two toilets.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Snowberry Bowl Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Snowberry Bowl Campground

    4. Snowberry Bowl Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    17 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    This forested drive to campground is nicely tucked in the 25 Mile Creek Drainage away from the busy town of Chelan but close to the Lake and recreational activities. There are seven single tent sites and two small group / RV sites, all of which have fire rings and tables. A group shelter containing four picnic tables may be accessed via barrier-free trails from both double campsites, but the group shelter is available to all campers on a first come basis.

    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Windy Camp Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Windy Camp Campground

    5. Windy Camp Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    20 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    This remote campground offers two tent-only sites, picnic tables, fire rings and one toilet. Trailers not advised.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier View Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier View Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier View Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier View Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier View Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier View Campground

    6. Glacier View Campground

    10 Reviews
    37 Photos
    468 Saves
    Leavenworth, Washington

    Located on the south shore of Lake Wenatchee. This campground also offers 16 walk-in sites located on the lakeshore.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Safety Harbor Campground

    7. Safety Harbor Campground

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    12 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    Due to Uno Peak Fire this campground is closed. Potential for catastrophic flash floods are high. This boat-in campground offers a floating dock with a six boat capacity. There are four tent sites, two fire rings, two tables, and one vault toilet. This site has year round access and is a good shelter from both up and down lake winds.

    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Point Campground

    8. Deer Point Campground

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    55 Saves
    Manson, Washington

    This boat-in campground offers a floating dock with an eight boat capacity. There are five tent sites available, five picnic tables, five fire rings, and two toilets. Deer Point campground provides protection from down-lake winds but no protection from up-lake winds. Accessible year-round.

    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground

    9. Goose Creek Campground

    4 Reviews
    8 Photos
    41 Saves
    Ardenvoir, Washington

    Located along Goose Creek, near the Chiwawa River, this site offers access to motorcycle trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $18 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
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Showing results 1-10 of 84 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Chelan

605 Reviews of 84 Chelan Campgrounds


  • Brandon K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 4th of July Trail Levenworth
    Sep. 29, 2024

    4th of July Trail Levenworth

    Happy Tail on the River

    Nice little spot along the river off Icicle Road…approximately 2 miles west of eight mile campground. Though the water level was low due to the time of the season, this spot still offered the tranquil sound of river flowing over boulders. Doors open on a brisk morning with clear skies made it that much more beautiful.

  • michael D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground

    Great park in amazing country

    We stayed here for 3 nights in mid September. Warm enough to swim, some sun, and a few showers. Park is mostly full, but most of the the time is quiet. Bathrooms and facilities extremely clean and well maintained. A little boat noise at times, but not too bad. We had a site right on the lake with a small beach. No hookups in our site, but many have partial or full hookups.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chelan Lookout - NF 8410 Dispersed
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Chelan Lookout - NF 8410 Dispersed

    Awesome View from the Top of the Ridge

    Great campsite with an awesome view. Sandy dirt camping site near the USGS sensor station. No fires today due to high fire danger, but there was a pit in the camp. Tent right on the ridge. Dirt road was 12 miles up the mountain. Lots of switchbacks, but passible in a sedan. Takes 45 mins to get up. Take shady pass road to the top.

  • Zarek A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Flats Group Campground
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Pine Flats Group Campground

    Wonderful memories made here

    I went here a few years back during that intense heat wave. Despite being 107 in the spare shade here, the creek saved us. Definitely worth a visit and a trip back. Huge flat areas for a large number of campers, maybe up to 40 tents?

  • DL M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from American Legion Park
    Sep. 4, 2024

    American Legion Park

    $10/ night limited dogs warm showers

    Nice park beside very slow river adjacent to busy road. No dogs on grass. Garbage. Picnic tables. Shaded. Stay 72 hours. Warm shower. Flush toilet. $10/night/vehicle or tent

  • Jerrell W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park

    Secret beach

    We got a reservation for the Labor Day weekend. Not a weekend we normally get out a camp, but cabin fever motivated a trip. Our site was moved from the original reservation which didn't work in our favor, given the proximity to the RV dump and bathrooms. Overall, the park is ok, but clearly a campground for boaters. Bright-side, we kayaked to a nearby beach which was wonderful and easily accessible.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lake State Park Campground
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Alta Lake State Park Campground

    Had a great time! Going again!

    This place was so fun we plan to go back again in September! Even though the sites were close together, we still felt like we had a lot of privacy. There were lots of paths to take our kids for walks or bike rides. And the swimming area at the lake was really nice. They even had a snack shack! The only thing that was missing was a better playground. There was a slide, and that was about it.

  • Phoebe H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 7601 Dispersed
    Jul. 29, 2024

    FS Road 7601 Dispersed

    Great place to camp!

    Beautiful scenery, not hard to find, and lots of spaces open along the road. The road did get quite bumpy and rocky at points, but I assume this is normal for dispersed camping (this was my first dispersed camping experience). The only concern my friend and I had was an old RV near the entrance. That being said, the spot we chose was much higher and farther up the road from where the RV was, and we were not bothered. We actually didn’t see anyone else up there when we went in late July.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island Campground
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Rock Island Campground

    Go Elsewhere- Not Good

    Small cramped campsite with seemingly endless yellow jackets, mosquitoes and continuous traffic at all hours of the night. Would advise checking out other sites closer to Leavenworth. 

    No cell service, unsurprisingly.

  • Clément S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Smokiam RV Resort
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Smokiam RV Resort

    Good camping

    The place is pretty good! Except the wifi that is overused and make it difficult to even connect. In terms of outdoor activities and amenities it's a good stop

  • Rory J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA

    Crowded but fun family spot

    If you were looking for a quiet experience, this place is not for you. It’s a KOA, so they cram in as many people as possible. However it’s a great family friendly experience with a store, ice cream/coffee shop, daily activities, and green space to play games.

    We spent most of our time at the river. There was a great shallow area for the kids and Dog to swim around.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Goose Creek Campground

    Quiet but dusty

    I really liked the campground. Camp host was nice. It was a bit too dusty for my liking and the river was too cold to hangout in. If you don’t have certain campgrounds to access the water you’re having to go between bushes and can really do water play. Overall it was a good experience.

  • James J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Creek Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Johnny Creek Campground

    6/21 We had mostly solitude and beauty.

    We drove over mid week, we planned to find a 1st come 1st served. This fit the bill perfectly. This area is so scenic, we were really impressed. We took a site with river view. The sites are all spacious. Our nearest neighbors were 50 yards away, we never heard them. There were barely any campers. There are a ton of trails in the area. The scenery is amazing with lots of river and mountain views. We will return in mid July with another visit.

  • Freddie Faith M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park

    Incredible views, but beware of heavy wind.

    I love this state park, the landscape of glacial-carved coulees and sagebrush covered shrubsteppe is gorgeous and unique. The park is truly a geological wonder. As campgrounds go, this one is very windy! Keep that in mind if you are tent camping, as you could easily lose your tent!

    If camping here I cannot suggest campsite 88 in campground D unless you are in an RV. It's just a very basic, gravel site with little shade, right by the road entering the campground, and not private at all. It is right across from a nice beach though so could be a good spot for an RV. Campsite 118 looked much better and I plan on choosing that site instead next time.

    I do not suggest the Sun Lakes Resort campsite that is not managed by Washington State Parks unless you like being packed in like sardines. Camping at the state park managed campsite is far better.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Loup Loup Campground
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Loup Loup Campground

    Large Campground

    Gorgeous spot under the pines, the site has everything we would need including water, toilets and large campsites. Campground is almost empty, only 3 of ~50 spots are filled

  • Jason G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Near RV Park
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Pine Near RV Park

    It's a place to stay

    Don't have much of a review, we found a spot here last second after signing up to run the Sun Mountain 25k last minute. Barely spent any time at the campground. I know the location was good for being able to just walk into town. The camp spots were just shared space in a grassy area. Nothing spectacular.

  • Jason G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park

    Amazing area, lots to do

    The score is more for the abundance of things to do in the area than for the campground itself.

    I was there for a trail run race that went deep in the Sun Lakes back country and the floor of the Dry Falls area. Just stunning scenery. While I didn't get to partake on my trip, the lakes offer fishing, boating, and swimming.

    The camping itself is the standard state park experience, sites close together, not much for privacy. But they are nice spots, and well maintained.

  • Jason G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Burke Lake South
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Burke Lake South

    Lots of places along the entire road through here

    There are multiple pull outs and established dispersed camping opportunities all along the entire road through the Ancient Lakes area. The specific spot marked on the dyrt map is just one spot. But consider this a review for the whole area.

    The whole area is very unique, and the highlight is definitely hiking down into the canyon and Dusty Lake area. Spider web of trails down there open for hikers, mountain bikers, and horses. Overnight backpacking is allowed down there as well.

    The upper lakes offer fishing and boating, paddle boarding as well if you are confident in your skill to stay on the board. I would not recommend swimming, or getting in the water at all, as it's all agricultural runoff.

    The spot I stayed is south of the marker on the map, right on the north west bank of the Evergreen Reservoir. This was early April, on a Saturday, very late afternoon after hiking all day. Most spots were already taken, and I snagged one of the last established spots I could find. More of a pull off, pretty close to the road, and on the smaller side. But there are other, larger, spots if you can grab one.

    Essentially no shade, very exposed, spring and fall would be the best time here.

  • Jason G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lake State Park Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Alta Lake State Park Campground

    One of the nicer state parks

    Personally I really enjoyed this park and camping. The park itself is really well maintained, and in a beautiful location. The lake and surrounding hills were beautiful. Even with the few private homes nearby, it didn't really take away from the scenery in my opinion.

    I camped in the upper loop in a site that backed to the hill side. The layout of the sites are very unique, no two sites (in the upper loop at least) are alike. My spot had a lower parking area with room for two cars. The you step up to the "living room" where the picnic table and fire pit were, then off of that area was a isolated tent pad area.

    The next spot over on one side was up hill from me, so didn't really see them (but could hear them). The spot on the other side was closer and lacked a little bit of privacy, but as far as state parks go, it was still fairly spread out. I was also there for a Saturday and Sunday night, so Sunday the park completely emptied out and I think there were only 2 or 3 others in the entire upper loop, and not near me at all, which was nice.

    I'm sure there are times when the lake gets overrun with motor boats and jet skis, but the weekend I was there (6/8 & 6/9) wasn't to bad at all. Paddle boards and kayaks outnumbers the boats with motors, and even those weren't racing around the lake, they were all fishing.

    I mostly camp in dispersed camping areas, but this is a state park I would put on my short willing to return to list.

  • Jason G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bridgeport State Park Campground
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Bridgeport State Park Campground

    Camping in a field close to everyone

    The negative review is strictly for the camping, the park itself overall is nice. But the majority of the camping is surrounding a large open grass area, with all the spots very close to each other. Sitting next to the fire pit in my spot, the neighbors vehicle next to me was less than 25 feet away. Just no privacy whatsoever.

    To be fair, I expected that, I didn't come here for a see no people experience. Was just part of a personal mission to visit every state park in WA. But I want to share the experience for others who may be considering camping here, so they are prepared.

    The park itself is nice, right on a large lake (a dammed portion of the Columbia River) with opportunities to swim, fish, boat, paddle board, etc. And I recommend taking a hike or bike ride along the nicely paved path down to see the dam (just be on the look out for rattlesnakes).

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground

    Lake Camping at its best

    Outside the picturesque town of Leavenworth, lies the most stunning body of water in the Pacific Northwest. This was our first camping trip and we could not have picked a better time or place. We visited in September when summer was slowly becoming fall. The weather was cool but not unmanageable and the camp ground was near empty. The only sounds that could be heard were the wrestling of leaves, the gentle lapping of waves, and the nightly screaming of elk in the distance.

    At the time of our visit, there was a burn ban but we were allowed to use a propane fire pit.

    We plan on going back when it’s a bet warmer so we can take our kayaks.

    Our dog loved it!

  • Aloha M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday
    May. 31, 2024

    Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday

    North Cascades Camp

    We took the opportunity to secure one of the “private” lots. Site S9 comes with a private fenced area, with fire pit, hot tub, seating and fully ready propane Weber. Staff is immediate and attentive. Free WiFi and only 1 hour from the National Park.

  • Dan R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
    May. 22, 2024

    Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest

    Quiet, Remote, Clean

    This is for the Rock Creek Campground along the Chiwawa River beyond Lake Wenatchee. The previous reviews and pictures are for the Rock Creek Campground along the Icicle River closer to Leavenworth.

    I visited this campground in the fall (2023) on a scouting trip for next years camping (Spring 2024). The campground was already closed for the season. Upon visiting I found the campground as the title describes and was desirable enough to add to my list of options.


Drive Time


Guide to Chelan

Tent camping near Chelan, Washington, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying stunning lake views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Explore Beautiful Lake Chelan State Park

  • The Lake Chelan State Park Campground features clean restrooms, picnic tables, and ample space for both tents and RVs, making it a great spot for families.
  • With access to a beach area and a playground, this campground is perfect for kids to run and play while adults relax by the water.
  • Enjoy kayaking on the calm waters, where you can experience breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

  • At the Mitchell Creek Campground, boat-in camping allows for unique access to the lake, ideal for fishing and swimming.
  • The Antilon Lake Campground offers excellent shore access for bank fishing, with opportunities to catch various fish species.
  • For those seeking a more rustic experience, Snowberry Bowl Campground provides shaded sites and access to hiking trails, perfect for exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Campground Features and Amenities

  • The Safety Harbor Campground offers a peaceful setting with firepits and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a relaxing getaway.
  • At the Deer Point Campground, enjoy lakefront spots with easy access to swimming and kayaking, along with well-maintained pit toilets.
  • The Junior Point Campground features a beautiful natural setting with fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for enjoying meals outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Chelan, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Chelan, WA is Lake Chelan State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Chelan, WA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 84 tent camping locations near Chelan, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.