Camping near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, WA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area (298)

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Recent Reviews near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

814 Reviews of 298 Lake Chelan National Recreation Area Campgrounds


  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Chewuch River Camping

    River Camping

    This is a great location that is pretty much set up for hunting if you’re into that. It’s right on the water and there are plenty of spots and each spot has access areas to the river. The one in the very back left has its own personal beach area, which is the one that we stayed at. Plenty of spots to choose from and it looks like a paid campground, but it’s free dispersed camping. Fire rings are set up all throughout. We came in September so it was pretty empty when we got here BUT the couple that was here when we got here says that it’s about to get filled up for hunting.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground

    State park camping

    Decent little spot for overnight camping. We stayed mostly to fill up in water and it was great for that. 4 unisex bathrooms each with a combined toilet and shower space.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Baker Pull-Off

    Pull-off site

    Cute little off the road site. About 6 cars drove by throughout the night and into the morning, it was Friday so that was expected. There’s 2 little walkways down to your own little private section of the lake. Beautiful.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    Peaceful Camping

    Stopped here in the month of September and there were very few people around the lake. Quiet and beautiful views! We parked our vehicle off the road at the top of the flat and walked down to the lake for sunrises and sets. Definitely set up for a good time during the summer break with rope swings hanging from the branches. Star link works OK here.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Baker Lake Tent camping

    Beautiful tent site

    Didn’t stay here but hiked in it and it’s very spacious. There are 2 fire rings set up with an uppper and lower camping option. The lower is right by a river that spills into the lake on the other side of the road.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Old Quarry by Sulphur Creek

    Unofficial Forest Gun range

    This is exactly as described in the title of this review. It’s set up as an unofficial forest gun range. We came on a Wednesday evening where it wasnt occupied or being used, but we’ll probably just stay here one night and find something better. The roads have lots of potholes getting here… probably won’t stay here again, but starling does work well considering it is a big open spot.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground

    Lake Wanatchee State Park - NORTH Campground

    Unlike the South Campground, the North side has a lot less going on--not a bad thing at all, though! Dinged this side a star because there's no view of the lake from the camping area--you have to walk a (short) path to the beach area. There's one central restroom area with 4 individual shower rooms. Great cell service.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Nason Creek Campground

    Nason Creek Campground

    This campground has 3-4 sections on both sides of the road (one being across the bridge). Most sites are reservable on rec.gov, but the best sites are First Come First Serve (no R on the iron site posts) and along the creek/river (at least in the loop we were in)... which I LOVE that concept; we stayed at Site 4 and then moved to Site 3--the best site imo--once that was available. $27/night, camp hosts, well-maintained, flush toilets, dumpsters, great cell service, but there is a little bit of road noise.


Guide to Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Camping near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, Washington, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, swim, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the nearby hikes, with one reviewer mentioning, "This is a good basecamp for exploring the North Cascades. We visit Maple Pass, Blue Lake, Cutthroat Lake and other hikes nearby."
  • Swimming: The lakes are perfect for a refreshing dip. One camper said, "Swimming in the lake is an absolute must if you can brave the cold!"
  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Colonial Creek South Campground, provide access to fishing and boating opportunities. A visitor noted, "You can swim in the lake, there is a boat launch and there is a hiking trail across the street."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One review states, "Beautiful campground with many large shaded sites along Lake Diablo. Absolutely gorgeous."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds have well-maintained restrooms. A camper mentioned, "Bathrooms were clean. Sites a little close, but overall a lovely experience."
  • Wildlife: Campers appreciate the chance to see wildlife. One reviewer shared, "Despite the presence of bears, there was also a pretty cavalier attitude to bear safety... but it was still a great experience."

What you should know:

  • Privacy Concerns: Some campgrounds can feel crowded. A visitor at Colonial Creek North Campground noted, "Sites are close together and not very private. It feels a bit like a carnival at times instead of camping in the woods."
  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds lack certain amenities. One camper at Goodell Creek Campground pointed out, "This is a primitive campground with no hook-ups, but there is potable water located in the loops."
  • Access to Supplies: Be prepared for limited access to stores. A reviewer mentioned, "You need to be prepared when you arrive. Closest camp store is about 25 minutes with limited supplies."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. One camper at Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground said, "Most of the sites are large with lots of privacy."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. A visitor noted, "Great views. Sandy beach for kids."
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds can be busy, having games or activities can help keep kids entertained. One camper suggested, "We try to stay here at least once each year. What's not to like? It's got mountain views while camping lakeside."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Klipchuck Campground mentioned, "Few sites are long enough for larger rigs and turns are tight in the loops."
  • Arrive Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. One camper advised, "Get there early or it will be hard to find a spot for an RV."
  • Be Prepared for No Hookups: Many campgrounds in the area do not offer electric hookups. A visitor at Newhalem Creek Campground noted, "No hookups of any kind, but the sites are nicely wooded with decent separation."

Camping near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, Washington, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. Just be sure to plan ahead and know what to expect!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area offers a wide range of camping options, with 298 campgrounds and RV parks near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and 37 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is Klipchuck Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 23 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

What parks are near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area that allow camping, notably North Cascades National Park and Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.