Top Tent Camping near Chelan, WA
Looking for tent camping near Chelan? Find the best tent camping sites near Chelan. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Chelan, Washington's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Chelan, WA (85)
1. Lake Chelan State Park
24 Reviews•67 Photos•367 SavesReserve 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
2. Antilon Lake Campground
9 Reviews•45 Photos•163 SavesAntilon 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
3. Mitchell Creek Campground
3 Reviews•4 Photos•46 SavesThis 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
4. Snowberry Bowl Campground
2 Reviews•2 Photos•17 SavesThis 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
5. Windy Camp Campground
2 Reviews•2 Photos•20 SavesThis remote campground offers two tent-only sites, picnic tables, fire rings and one toilet. Trailers not advised.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Glacier View Campground
10 Reviews•37 Photos•468 SavesLocated 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
7. Safety Harbor Campground
2 Reviews•1 Photo•12 SavesDue 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
8. Deer Point Campground
1 Review•4 Photos•54 SavesThis 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
9. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Dispersed Camping on Derby Rd NF7400
5 Reviews•5 Photos•289 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
10. Goose Creek Campground
4 Reviews•8 Photos•41 SavesLocated 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
Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Chelan
601 Reviews of 85 Chelan Campgrounds
- C
Caro R.
Scout
Okanogan County Fairgrounds RV Park
Open or closed
One sign says open another says closed.
Brandon K.
Guide
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.
- LLuke B.
Traveler
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.Guide
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.
Legend
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.Guide
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.
- MMelanie A.Guide
Sun Lakes Park Resort
Loud and trashy
We chose a spot in the rv tent area which was not very clean and very loud. Stay in the outer ring if you have an RV.
- JJen M.Guide
Alta Lake State Park
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.Scout
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.
- CCharles K.Scout
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.GuideSmokiam 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.Traveler
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.
- JJose C.Scout
Beebe Bridge Park
Jose
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- JJose C.Scout
Beebe Bridge Park
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- KKyleigh B.Scout
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.Traveler
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.TravelerSun Lakes Park Resort
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.
- AAndrewTraveler
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.Guide
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.Guide
Sun Lakes Park Resort
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.Guide
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.Guide
Alta Lake State Park
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.Guide
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).
- AAlen C.Traveler
Lake Wenatchee State Park
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.Guide
KOA Campground Winthrop
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.Scout
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.
Sydney D.Guide4th of July Trail Levenworth
2 night “Lake Front Property” Asking price- FREE
This pull in is nestled behind a HUGE rock. The little loop has enough room for big rigs, it’s flat, it has one fire circle, little to no shade, large enough for 6 average sized vehicles, right on the river, and due to the big rock(depending where you park) the road noise is blocked out. Between the sound of the rivers tides whipping and the bugs cheeping, I would be surprised if anyone can hear the cars go by at night. This spot did have a few bees buzzing around but I couldn’t find the location. The site has a cool natural rock staircase down to the river. I highly recomend getting there early becsue we got there and parked at 11 AM and hiked to the trail head till 5:30 and every 15 min cars were driving by slow to see if anyone was there. WE GOT LUCKY
Guide to Chelan
Camping near Chelan, Washington, offers a fantastic mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something for everyone.
What to do
- Kayaking and Swimming: Lake Chelan is perfect for water activities. One visitor mentioned, “We did a lot of kayaking early and later in the day and had a wonderful time. The water was calm like glass and so clear” at Lake Chelan State Park Campground.
- Hiking: There are many trails around the area. A camper noted, “There are paths to take our kids for walks or bike rides” at Alta Lake State Park Campground.
- Fishing: The lakes and rivers are great for fishing. One review highlighted, “The lakes offer fishing, boating, and swimming” at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park.
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. A visitor at Lake Chelan State Park Campground said, “The bathrooms were clean and the staff super friendly and helpful.”
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. One camper at Wenatchee Confluence State Park Campground remarked, “The spaces were level, lots of grass and enough trees to provide shade at every spot too.”
- Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds often have activities for kids. A review from Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA mentioned, “There was a great shallow area for the kids and Dog to swim around.”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Wenatchee Confluence State Park Campground warned, “Nice campground, too many mosquitoes. Campground is close to a swamp infested with mosquitoes.”
- Tight RV Sites: Some campgrounds have close RV sites. A visitor at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA noted, “The sites were so tight that we could barely fit the provided picnic table next to our trailer.”
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or markets. A review from Nason Creek Campground mentioned, “No market, but the hosts are great.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots. One camper at Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground said, “Great playground for kids and the restrooms were the cleanest of any campground I have been to in years!”
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A visitor at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park shared, “We spent time on and on the water every day. Gorgeous location and super friendly staff.”
- Pack Snacks: Having snacks handy can keep kids happy. A camper at Alta Lake State Park Campground enjoyed the “snack shack” available at the park.
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Daroga State Park Campground mentioned, “The site pads are very narrow which makes them difficult to pull through or back into.”
- Be Ready for Wind: Some campgrounds can be windy. A visitor at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park noted, “It can sure make for a tough setup of camp.”
- Bring Extra Supplies: Since some sites lack amenities, it’s good to be prepared. A camper at Lincoln Rock State Park Campground advised, “If you are tent camping, pick a place with plenty of shade.”
Camping near Chelan, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!
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 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 85 tent camping locations near Chelan, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.