Best 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, WA (287)

    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    1. Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    41 Reviews
    147 Photos
    557 Saves
    Marblemount, Washington

    Overview

    Colonial Creek South Campground in North Cascades National Park is a remote, yet bustling campground nestled in old -growth forest. Located on the south side of State Route 20 near milepost 130, there are 94 campsites that are surrounded by forest and located on Diablo Lake.__ Colonial Creek South Campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether it___s drive-in camping, or walk-in tent camping. The campsites vary in size from small to medium. Most of the campsites do not accommodate large trailers or RVs.____

    Recreation

    Campers can access the Thunder Creek Trailhead from the South Loop. The Thunder Knob Trailhead is on the north loop across State Route 20.____ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.__ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__

    Facilities

    Campers can access the Thunder Creek Trailhead from the South Loop. The Thunder Knob Trailhead is on the north loop across State Route 20.____ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.__ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__

    Natural Features

    Colonial Creek South Campground is surrounded by a forest of western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. The campground has easy access to Diablo Lake for recreating.____

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.

    Nearby Attractions

    Traveling west on State Route 20:____ The North Cascades Visitor Center is 11 miles (18 km) west on State Route 20 from Colonial Creek South Campground, operating seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find the passport stamps, exhibits, park film, park store, and much more.______ Traveling east on State Route 20:____ Diablo Lake Overlook is 1.5 miles (2 km) east on State Route 20. the turquoise lake can be viewed safely from this area and there is ample day use parking and vault toilets.__ Ross Lake Overlook is 5 miles (8 km) east on State Route 20, this is a less developed vista point. There are two pull off areas with interpretive way sides and with views of the Ross Dam and Ross Lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $16 - $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Klipchuck Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Klipchuck Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Klipchuck Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Klipchuck Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Klipchuck Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Klipchuck Campground

    2. Klipchuck Campground

    20 Reviews
    74 Photos
    207 Saves
    Mazama, Washington

    This forested campground is located near Early Winters Creek, has majestic trees with a stream and good hiking opportunites nearby. Units combinable to accommodate groups.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

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

    3. Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    138 Photos
    463 Saves
    Leavenworth, Washington

    Lake Wenatchee State Park is a 489-acre camping park with 12,623-feet of waterfront on glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River and is a great place for camping near Seattle. The park is bisected by the Wenatchee River, creating two distinct areas – south park, which features areas for camping, swimming and horseback riding, and north park, which is in a less developed, forested section of the park and a quarter-mile walk from the lake.

    The park has 155 tent spaces, 42 water and electric sites, one dump station, seven restrooms, and 16 showers. In addition, the park provides two ADA campsites. Call 509-763-3101 for more information.

    The south campground (sites 1 - 100) has parking pads 30 to 40-feet in length, with only two pull-through sites. Larger RVs and fifth-wheelers should use the north campground (sites 101 - 197) which includes 42 large pull-through utility sites. Maximum tents allowed are one family tent or up to two 2-3 man tents. Maximum vehicles allowed are two per site, additional vehicles may park in overflow areas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    4. Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    122 Photos
    258 Saves
    Marblemount, Washington

    Overview

    Newhalem Creek Campground consists of 103 individual camp sites in loops A, B, and C, an additional loop with 2 group camp sites, and drive-in picnic sites. The campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether it is drive-to or walk-in tent camping or tent sites that accommodate RV camping, Newhalem Creek Campground provides a comfortable place for your visit.____ The North Cascades Visitor Center is a half mile by trail or road and operates seasonally, typically from May to September. The campground is surrounded by forested short, informative hikes that connect to the town of Newhalem, Washington.____

    Recreation

    Campers can enjoy easy access to several of the Newhalem area hiking trails and connect to the town of Newhalem, Washington.__ Fishing is allowed in the Skagit River with a Washington State Fishing license. The nearest location to purchase a license is outside of the park in the town of Marblemount. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__

    Facilities

    Campers can enjoy easy access to several of the Newhalem area hiking trails and connect to the town of Newhalem, Washington.__ Fishing is allowed in the Skagit River with a Washington State Fishing license. The nearest location to purchase a license is outside of the park in the town of Marblemount. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__

    Natural Features

    Newhalem Creek Campground is a forested campground surrounded by western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. Nearby is Newhalem Creek and the Skagit River. The river is the largest river that flows into the Puget Sound area and provides critical habitat for all species of Pacific salmon which return to the river seasonally. There are salmon-viewing areas along the River Loop Trail and in the town of Newhalem.__

    Nearby Attractions

    The North Cascades Visitor Center is one-half mile (1 km) away and operates seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find passport stamps, exhibits, park film, park store, and much more.______ The campground is surrounded by forested short, informative hikes that connect to the North Cascades Visitor Center and the town of Newhalem, Washington, one mile (2 km) east.__

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $16 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Fir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Fir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Fir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Fir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Fir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Fir Campground

    6. Lone Fir Campground

    8 Reviews
    43 Photos
    180 Saves
    Mazama, Washington

    Lone Fir Campground is open from July - October. Maximum stay is 14 days.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    7. Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    63 Photos
    376 Saves
    Marblemount, Washington

    Overview

    Colonial Creek North Campground is a remote, yet bustling campground nestled in old-growth forest. Located on the north side of State Route 20 near milepost 130, there are 41 campsites that are surrounded by forest and located on Diablo Lake.__ Colonial Creek North Campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether it___s drive-in camping, or walk-in tent camping. The campsites vary in size from small to medium. Most of the campsites do not accommodate large trailers or RVs.__

    Recreation

    Campers can access several trails from within the facility, such as Thunder Knob Trail located in the North Loop and Thunder Creek Trail from the South Loop.________ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the closest location to purchase a license in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__

    Facilities

    Campers can access several trails from within the facility, such as Thunder Knob Trail located in the North Loop and Thunder Creek Trail from the South Loop.________ Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the closest location to purchase a license in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating.____ Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.__

    Natural Features

    Colonial Creek North Campground is forested with western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. The campground has easy access to Diablo Lake for recreating.

    Nearby Attractions

    Traveling west on State Route 20:____ The North Cascades Visitor Center is 11 miles (18 km) west on State Route 20 from Colonial Creek North Campground, operating seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find the passport stamps, exhibit, park film, park store, and much more.____ Traveling east on State Route 20:____ Diablo Lake Overlook is 1.5 miles (2 km) east on State Route 20, the turquoise lake can be viewed safely from this area and there is ample day use parking and vault toilets.____ Ross Lake Overlook is 5 miles (8 km) east on State Route 20, this is a less developed vista point. There are two pull off areas with interpretive displays and with views of the Ross Dam and Ross Lake.__

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Marble Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Marble Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Marble Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Marble Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Marble Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Marble Creek Campground

    8. Marble Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    55 Photos
    190 Saves
    Marblemount, Washington

    Overview

    Situated on the banks of the scenic Cascade River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Marble Creek campground offers some of the most stunning scenery in the northern Cascade Range. Campsites are scattered beneath a towering canopy of diverse forest. They are widely spaced and within walking distance to the waterfront, making it an ideal setting for visitors wanting to camp in a private, rustic setting.

    Recreation

    In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, Marble Creek offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. The area surrounding the campground can accommodate anyone from the novice hiker to the most experienced outdoor enthusiast. Several trailheads for the overnight backpacker are located in the vicinity of the nearby town of Marblemount, including Hidden Lake Trail. Beginning in a forested setting, the trail climbs quickly to open meadows and grand views of the Cascade River. As it reaches higher elevations, it winds through angular slabs of granite and groupings of alpine fir. Hidden Lake and the Hidden Lake Lookout can be seen below from the pass.

    Facilities

    In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and early fall, Marble Creek offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. The area surrounding the campground can accommodate anyone from the novice hiker to the most experienced outdoor enthusiast. Several trailheads for the overnight backpacker are located in the vicinity of the nearby town of Marblemount, including Hidden Lake Trail. Beginning in a forested setting, the trail climbs quickly to open meadows and grand views of the Cascade River. As it reaches higher elevations, it winds through angular slabs of granite and groupings of alpine fir. Hidden Lake and the Hidden Lake Lookout can be seen below from the pass.

    Natural Features

    Hemmed in by several designated wilderness areas, the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests. Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the area, dominates the landscape on a clear day. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, the active volcano from which the forest takes its name is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Flowing adjacent to this campground is the Cascade River, a tributary of the Skagit River, designated as a National Scenic River. Wildlife in the area include mountain goats, coyotes, pine marten and a variety of migratory birds and native fish.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visitors enjoy the North Cascades and Mt. Rainer National Parks, where interpretive programs and exhibits offer education about the diverse landscape and history of the area. The Verlot Public Service Center, near the South Fork Stillaguamish River, is a popular attraction. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps from 1933 to 1942, Verlot`s handsome buildings reflect the architectural style and fine craftsmanship of that era and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 932-0242.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $30 - $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest

    9. Rock Creek Campground — Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest

    10 Reviews
    35 Photos
    Stehekin, Washington

    Overview

    This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

    10. Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    14 Photos
    39 Saves
    Stehekin, Washington

    Overview

    Campgrounds in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area are walk-in sites located in the Stehekin Valley at the head of Lake Chelan. Purple Point Campground is an approximatly eight minute walk from the boat dock at Stehekin Landing along a paved road. Most sites are located very near the road. Stehekin is a remote community with limited facilities and is only accessible by foot, boat, or plane.__

    Recreation

    Visitors can access several trails from near the campground, such the Imus Trail, the Purple Creek Trail, and the Lakeshore Trail. Other trails trails further up the valley can be reached by via foot, bike, or shuttle bus. Many of the trails from Stehekin provide the opportunity for longer wilderness backpacks. A backcountry permit is required for overnight stays in the backcountry.____ Visitors can boat, fish, and swim (although the water is a chilly 45 degrees) in Lake Chelan. Bears do inhabit the area, so care should be taken when hiking, picnicking, or camping.

    Facilities

    Visitors can access several trails from near the campground, such the Imus Trail, the Purple Creek Trail, and the Lakeshore Trail. Other trails trails further up the valley can be reached by via foot, bike, or shuttle bus. Many of the trails from Stehekin provide the opportunity for longer wilderness backpacks. A backcountry permit is required for overnight stays in the backcountry.____ Visitors can boat, fish, and swim (although the water is a chilly 45 degrees) in Lake Chelan. Bears do inhabit the area, so care should be taken when hiking, picnicking, or camping.

    Nearby Attractions

    Stehekin is a gateway into the east side of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Many short to multi-day backpacking trips begin in the Stehekin area. Other attractions in the area are the historic Buckner Orchard, where visitors can pick apples in the fall, and Rainbow Falls, a 312-foot waterfall near the Stehekin Valley Road.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets

    $20 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 287 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Recent Reviews In Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

750 Reviews of 287 Lake Chelan National Recreation Area Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Swift Creek Campground
    September 25, 2024

    Swift Creek Campground

    Gorgeous lake, great campground

    Lots of flat, wooded sites are a short level walk to the beach on a really beautiful lake. Across the main road from the campground is a 3+ mile trail to popular hot springs.

    The best sites for view are 34, 37, 38, 39. We stayed in 46, and loved it because it is very close to the beach. 47 and 44 are also very nice and close to the beach.

    The campground reservation site did not have a good map of the campground. I finally found one on the forest service site https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5308652.pdf

    The reservation site said site 46 could only accommodate a vehicle up to 15 feet in length, but there was plenty of room.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground
    September 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Chelan Lookout - NF 8410 Dispersed
    September 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bedal Campground
    September 5, 2024

    Bedal Campground

    Very well kept but 30 min of gravel

    Super well maintained. Every site has a huge bear bin for storage, and they’re at a wonderful height to put a stove on top and stand cooking.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pine Flats Group Campground
    September 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?

  • Camper-submitted photo from Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
    September 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Squire Creek Park & Campground
    August 31, 2024

    Squire Creek Park & Campground

    A unicorn

    Reservable campsites, mature forest, 2 hours from Seattle, not full on Labor Day weekend! I didn’t know that existed. It’s a nice small campground on the Mountain Loop Highway. It has very dense trees and a small beach on a creek for wading. Hiking trails and a larger river are a short drive away.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp
    August 19, 2024

    Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp

    Great spot on the lake

    We found an amazing site right on the lake, with great views and it was fairly quiet. There were a couple people who decided to have campfires despite the statewide burn ban in effect, which was a bit of a bummer. Despite that, great campground with toilets, picnic table, fire ring (when allowed), and lots of trees for hammocking. Loved our weekend here!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lake State Park Campground
    August 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite
    July 28, 2024

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    Plenty of spots

    If you think all the spots are taken, keep driving. So many spots along Baker Lake Road.

    Late July, there’s a lot of partying on the lake. It’s not so bad but you’ll definitely hear people having fun.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gold Basin Campground
    July 27, 2024

    Gold Basin Campground

    Decent Campground

    Plenty of sites, good amount of privacy. Put toilets were clean. Potable water not available, there was a sign directing you to Verlot for water.

  • Camper-submitted photo from NF Dispersed Camping
    July 22, 2024

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Bacon Point

    Beautiful spot near the water also has some more secluded spots if wanted. Didn’t see too many people. And had no issues picking a spot to car camp. Definitely recommend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
    July 21, 2024

    Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp

    Coordinates off

    The directions had me believing that the dispersed camping was just various pull offs on the highway loop and that’s where I stayed. It was loud and it felt like the traffic was coming through my tent at times. After driving to North Cascades I discovered that there was real dispersed camping on that road but probably 45 minutes to an hour past where the coordinates took you. Once the highway turned into a gravel road is when I started seeing nice dispersed campsites

  • Camper-submitted photo from Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping
    July 13, 2024

    Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping

    Great spot

    Great spot with plenty of sites. Lots of room at your site and between neighbors. Super close to the river. There were a lot of people, mainly families, but everyone was super respectful and it honestly made me feel safer and a solo traveler. Would definitely go back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sauk Mountain Woodland Waters
    July 10, 2024

    Sauk Mountain Woodland Waters

    Same Day ASAP reservation!

    Nobody else had vacancy.  Sauk Mountain Woodland Waters was able to accommodate us, and last-minute, too!  Owners live on the property - not too close but not too far, either.  They gave us some carrots to feed their goats, too!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Park Campground
    July 8, 2024

    Mineral Park Campground

    Peaceful hideaway

    The site is pretty great! Good spacing between neighborhoods, facilities on site, clean grounds, and the host was very kind and helpful! Will be returning in the near future!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    June 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sauk Park Campground
    June 28, 2024

    Sauk Park Campground

    Close to home for a quick weekend away

    This is one of our go to for a quick weekend getaway several sites are big enough to put 3 rigs in

  • Camper-submitted photo from Old Cascades Highway Dispersed
    June 22, 2024

    Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

    Beautiful Area with Small Campsites

    It's a lovely area right by a beautiful river. However, it was hard to find a large enough spot that was also level to park our van. There was some traffic on the road, and a great bonus is that the road is paved, so no worries about destroying a tire. We did have phone service, and it's close to a small deli and other conveniences.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wenatchee Airstrip SnoPark
    June 21, 2024

    Lake Wenatchee Airstrip SnoPark

    Lake Wenatchee Airstrip

    We turned at (47.8178974, -120.7258512) which you travel a short distance down a well maintained FS road to a very large gravel and dirt parking area. You can park in this parking lot if you choose, lots of space, great internet speeds. To the right of the information sign you will see a small sign with a snowmobile on it. That is the road that you can take back to the airstrip portion of the site. You will only travel about 100 yards on that road before it opens up to a very large grass field (and airstrip) you will need to turn left to head toward the camping locations. To the right will be the landing strip so you need to avoid that area. There is a dirt/sandy road leading back to 2-3 sites with fire rings but also a very large open field where you can camp as well. MOSQUITOES WERE AWFUL AT NIGHT FYI. A forest service rig pulled up on us in the AM and just waved :)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Red Bridge Campground
    June 19, 2024

    Red Bridge Campground

    Close to many Trails

    Small , but Private. Great access to many Tails along this Rd. 4 Big Mountains is a Must to see , only 1 mile Hike to the Glacier.Next to the Road but very little Traffic. $ 25 a Night with Pass 50 % Off

  • Camper-submitted photo from Loup Loup Campground
    June 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



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