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 (299)

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Recent Reviews near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

818 Reviews of 299 Lake Chelan National Recreation Area Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Best Spot along PNW

    This was our favorite site during our PNW road trip from Alabama. We found this site tucked amongst the trees; a very large clearing creek side. The turn in was tight so ended up having to back our Ram 3500 (DRW) towing tear drop in due to narrow opening between two large trees. Once on site the setup was easy; level ground. No cell service but the sound of the creek was all the music we needed. There is a small path to the creek but requires a small climb up.

    The morning we were able to watch a fish swim upstream and large buck taking a stroll along the creek.

    We did not see any busted up cars like a previous reviewer but there was a grill that was used as target practice. Overall great site.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

    Bigfoot Lives Here

    If he doesn't, then he's missing out on the most Idyllic campsite ever! There are no fewer than 9 campsites within less than a mile either side of the bridge. The one directly on the south side of the bridge is 4wd access only because of the big rocks protruding into the road bed. But if you go about 3/4 mile up from the bridge, you'll find the most superb spot ever. There is nothing here for TT or large RV's, for small van-lifers and such, it's a pot of gold. There are two absolutely beautific sites at the 3/4mile area. Both sites can access the river for water (it's a small, steep hill). There are no toilets, cell service was spotty, Starlink worked fine.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    FR51

    FR51 Flat

    This is a really nice spot and accommodates larger rigs. It’s on a high flat above a river, which would be easy to walk down to if you wanted to fish plenty of space for cars that are blocked off by larger rock so you could set up a tent if you wanted to or just camp in your RV. Beautiful view of the river.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful spot for truck camping. Do not recommend for rvs.

    Lovely spot right by the National park. We camped in our truck.

    The road was rough. We have a 27 foot rv I would not bring any trailers down here. Vans were there.

  • 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.


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 299 campgrounds and RV parks near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and 38 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.