Tent campsites near Dryden, Washington sit within the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains, where elevation ranges from 1,200 to over 8,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. Many dispersed camping areas remain accessible from late April through October, though higher elevation sites often retain snow until mid-June. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F nights to 85°F days.
What to do
Kayaking access points: FS Road 7601 offers direct water entry for small watercraft with calm water sections suitable for beginners. A camper noted, "We camped right along the river, and there was even a little access point for kayaks and canoes and calm water for the kids."
Hidden Lake hike: From Glacier View Campground, access a short but rewarding trail. "There is a hike to another lake right out of the campground. It's short and strenuous but will worth it for the views," explains one reviewer. The trailhead sits just 0.5 miles from camp.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Wenatchee offers productive shoreline fishing right from many campsites at Glacier View Campground, though expect small catches. One reviewer mentions, "Fish in the river are very small, but plentiful. Good river for fly fishing, but spinners ok too, just harder. COLD water."
What campers like
Solitude in less-traveled areas: Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping offers exceptional quietness compared to more popular sites. One camper reported, "Within the almost 4 million acres of the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest, lie countless locations for dispersed camping. This area of the southeast corner of the NF has very little traffic compared to others, we saw only one ATV for the whole time we were there."
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers at Swakane Canyon/Creek Campsite can observe deer and small mammals at dawn. A camper described, "Lovely open area grounds...with a nice forest patch at the end. One fireplace - check if fire ban is active!"
Natural swimming spots: Many tent campsites feature swimming areas perfect for cooling off. "I take my kayak and I can launch it directly from my spot. Later in the summer though the mosquitoes are killer," notes a camper about the lakeside tent sites at Glacier View Campground.
What you should know
Mountain goat precautions: At Colchuck Lake camping area, goats present a unique challenge. "Be mindful of mountain Goats. They're mostly harmless but keep food sealed away and don't get between them and their babys or they might get pissed. Speaking of piss, they LOVE it, something about the salt, I don't know, but they will, no joke, fight each other over your pee spot."
Fire restrictions: Most backcountry tent areas prohibit fires year-round, while forest service roads often allow fires when no ban exists. Always carry a shovel and bucket for water as required by regulations.
Seasonal conditions: Mid-June brings heavy mosquito pressure at many sites. As one camper at Glacier View described, "The mosquito swarms in mid-June are ABSOLUTELY unbearable. No amount of bug spray seemed to matter, they were flying into ears/eyes/mouths and into the flame from the cookstove by the hundreds."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming locations: Lake Chelan State Park Campground offers gentle shorelines for young children. One parent shared, "This was our first time at Lake Chelan since we our new to the PNW...our son (who is two) first official camping trip we wanted to make sure there would be stuff to keep him occupied. With that being said he had a blast! The water was still a little chilly but he was able to dip his toes in the water and get a little wet. There was also a nice playground for him to play on as well."
Critter-proof storage: Particularly important with kids who might leave food unattended. A Lake Chelan State Park camper warned, "Watch for the critters they are ruthless so cover ALL your dry goods!"
Open play spaces: Several campgrounds feature open fields suitable for ball games and group activities. Icicle Group Campground provides "flat, sandy soil, good for tents, lots of room," making it suitable for family setup.
Tips from RVers
Alternative sites during peak season: When established campgrounds fill up, Goose Creek Campground often has availability. "Campground caters to atv riders with trails and large sites with extra parking," notes one camper, meaning more room for larger vehicles.
Dust considerations: At many dry eastern Cascade sites, vehicle traffic creates significant dust. One RVer at Icicle Group Campground warned, "Sandy soil blows around pretty bad if it's windy. Gets in EVERYTHING."
Water access challenges: Most dispersed tent campsites near Dryden require bringing all water or filtering from streams. Established campgrounds like Goose Creek provide water pumps, though seasonal availability varies.
