311 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Marblemount, Washington cluster primarily along the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) corridor, offering access to numerous natural areas including Ross Lake National Recreation Area and North Cascades National Park. Camping near Marblemount spans from developed campgrounds with flush toilets and picnic tables, like Newhalem Creek Campground, to primitive tent camping at Marble Creek Campground along the river. Several campgrounds in the area feature accommodations for tents, RVs, and even cabins at locations like Howard Miller Steelhead County Park and Colonial Creek Campground. Free dispersed camping is available on National Forest land for those seeking more remote experiences without developed facilities.
The camping season in this region generally runs from May through September, with most higher-elevation sites closed during winter months due to snow. Many campgrounds require reservations through recreation.gov, particularly during peak summer weekends. "You need to be prepared when you arrive. Closest camp store is about 25 minutes with limited supplies, but can get you by. There are restaurants and gas stations in Marblemount, but that is all from what we could tell," noted one visitor to Colonial Creek. Water availability varies significantly between established and dispersed sites, with many backcountry locations requiring filtration from natural sources. Permits are required for wilderness camping and can be obtained at the North Cascades National Park Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount, serving as an important first stop for backcountry travelers.
Waterfront access represents a highly valued feature among campers visiting the Marblemount area, with several campgrounds situated along rivers or lakes. Reviews frequently mention the striking turquoise waters of Diablo Lake and the Skagit River as highlights. One camper at Marble Creek noted: "We stayed in site 3, which was great because it was along the river and the camp host told us it was the only spot with direct river access." The North Cascades region provides exceptional scenery with mountain views and glacial landscapes visible from many camping areas. Wildlife sightings, including mountain goats and bears, are common enough that proper food storage is essential at all camping locations. While many campgrounds provide basic amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, shower facilities are limited, with only a few locations like Howard Miller Steelhead County Park offering this convenience.
"These camp sites are located so close to the river that it drowns out any nosy neighbors and it also makes for a nice convenient place to go fishing and camping."
"There’s trash bins located throughout the campground as well as restrooms and shower houses (quarters needed). Dump station is $5. Several free options to pick from based on your setup."
"The sound of the river and richness of the forests, along with the proximity to the Visitor Center and some easier hikes, combine to make Newhalem a convenient stopping point for me as I crossed the North"
"This is the perfect location to start to explore the North Cascades. It is situated very close to the river, with fly fishing access. The sites are good sized and plentiful."
from $24 - $75 / night
Check Availability"You can swim in the lake, there is a boat launch and there is a hiking trail across the street. Super convenient. Thunder knob trail. Bathrooms were clean. Sites a little close."
"I’m not by any means a pro fisherman but this camp gives great access to any fish that stray away from the lake in to the inlet."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"The location is amazing!!!! Sadly though the campsites are not well cared for. I stayed at two different sites, one toward the end of the road and one closer to hwy 20."
"We found this site tucked amongst the trees; a very large clearing creek side."
"This campground is off Cascade River Road near-ish Marblemount. Marble Creek campground takes reservations."
"It's nice and tucked away off the highway. Lots of space between sites which was awesome. Clean restrooms. No water, so make sure to plan ahead on that front."
from $32 - $68 / night
Check Availability"Sites are somewhat close to one another, so definitely hear your neighbors, but it is what it is. Bearproof food locker at every single site. (We didn’t use them as we are mostly self-contained)."
"You roll out of your tent and you’re already on trail, with the Skagit River right there and Ladder Creek Falls a short walk through some overgrown gardens."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"I've lived near this camp for a while now. Excellent location, right on the river. This place is perfect for the last-minute traveler who wants an inexpensive fcfs site close to the town."
"There is a porta potty next to the entry of the campground. The campground owner is really nice and comes around a few times a day to check in."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Great trails in and near this park we enjoy walking the dogs and riding bikes and watching birds if you like any of these activities this is the place and fairly quiet as well."
"The water hookups were shut off during the time, but we were able to fill up our water tank near the entrance without any trouble."
from $12 - $327 / night
Check Availability"it’s great access to the northern cascades. first time staying there and I have been camping in Washington since I was born it has great access to some really good trails the scenery is beautiful."
"Most sites are reasonably private, water spigots and bathrooms (which for pit toilets were the cleanest I’ve ever experienced) are not too far of a walk from any site. "
from $37 - $194 / night
Check Availability"If you are not a hiker or just sight seer not sure what you do around here. The campground is well used and most are over nighters. A lot of tent campers, but they were all quiet."
from $45 - $60 / night
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GuideThis place is stunningly beautiful. The winding trails throughout the campgrounds are very nice. Restrooms and showers are very well maintained. One of the park rangers helped us book a reservation after showing up since the website wasn't working for us on our side. Overall an amazing time, def my favorite spot in the whole county so far.
GuideStayed two weeks here. Pretty standard all around. It's nice and quite. Restrooms and showers were well maintained. Camp host tried to pull a fast one on me and up charge for fire wood about 5 mins after I pulled into the campground but other than that it was a nice and pleasant stay.
ScoutWhitehorse Regional Park Campground is a Snohomish County public campground just north of Darrington, set in forest at the foot of Whitehorse Mountain in the North Cascades. It has 30 sites in three loops: an RV loop with full hookups and 50-amp power, an equestrian loop with corrals and a highline, and a tent-only loop. Amenities include a dump station, a restroom with showers (two ADA), a timber-framed picnic shelter, and water spigots. With 15 full-hookup sites, it's a rare full-service public campground — and a handy base for the Mountain Loop Scenic Byway, the Whitehorse Trail, the North Mountain mountain-bike trails, and Sauk River fishing and rafting, with downtown Darrington just minutes away. Open roughly mid-March through mid-October; reservations through Snohomish County Parks.
TravelerMe and my boyfriend had a lovely weekend camping here at site #9…this site in particular has a little trail leading to a quiet creek behind where the fire ring is at. The site also came with 2 tent pads, even though I paid regular price. Absolutely gorgeous! We highly recommend Big Four ice caves about 30 minutes from the campground. Only downside is that you are right off the highway at this campground. If you are on the outer edge of the loop (not on the river) you can see guard rails depending where you are at lol
TravelerPlenty of variety! Some are right on the road, others are tucked away. For the ones that are more tucked away you definitely need a high clearance 4WD vehicle but it’s case by case. Right along the river so you had white noise all night. 0 cell service so a great way to disconnect. As we left on Saturday morning there were still plenty of other spots as we continued down the road. Will definitely be coming back.
ScoutWell it looks really nice but your RV can only be 10 years old it doesn't mater if it is super clean . Ssd.
ScoutThis campground was wonderful! It is a smaller campground, which adds to the charm by keeping the area mostly quiet (as long as it is not salmon season). We visited in late spring, so the weather was a mix of cooler rainy days along with some sunnier warmer ones. Birdsong was abundant, along with the sounds of the water and wind, creating a charming atmosphere.
Bugs were just starting to emerge, and you will probably have to deal with more mosquitos as the weather warms, so be prepared! There are also no bear boxes at this location but there are bears in the area and you must store your food accordingly (in a locked vehicle with windows up, tied up high, or with a bear approved container).
Sites are spread out and many offer seclusion through trees and vegetation, which was a plus! Many of the sites have water access and you can swim, fish, kayak, or boat at this location. An actual boat ramp is attached to the campground. There are also many awesome hiking trails in the nearby area, although many are buried under snow even by the end of May, so bring appropriate gear and do some research!
No hookups, no food washing station, and pit toilets. Trash receptacles provided. No phone service for T-mobile.
Tent sites are $37 a night. For some, that seems outrageous but it pays for the camp host, campsite upkeep, and trash to help maintain our awesome public lands that have already received a ton of funding cuts, so it was completely reasonable to me. If you want free, go to one of the sites along the road, which vary in condition and water access.
The camp host for May 2026 was awesome and very kind!
ScoutStayed here for a couple days. It's really nice out here.
TravelerWhat a great camp ground, has a beautiful lake the people that work there are so nice they keep the showers clean and the grounds. The Lake is beautiful feels like your in the wilderness with all the pines and lake and mountains in the distant background but close to town, we love it here and will be back!!
Campsites near Marblemount, Washington sit at elevations ranging from 500-1200 feet, offering camping opportunities in dense cedar and pine forests along river valleys. The region typically receives 70-80 inches of annual rainfall, creating a lush understory of ferns and moss. Most camping areas have designated fire pits, though seasonal fire bans are common during dry summer months when temperatures can reach into the 90s.
Hiking at higher elevations: Goodell Creek Campground provides access to some of the North Cascades' most challenging trails. "The Northern Cascades are brutal in the mental and physical games they play with a hiker. But ultimately it was an awesome experience with my son," notes one visitor who hiked several trails from the campground.
River activities: Cascade Wagon Road Campground offers direct river access. "This place is perfect for the last-minute traveler who wants an inexpensive fcfs site close to the town. Room for RVs, car campers, or tents," writes a camper. Another visitor mentions, "There's also a swing set and beach on the site."
Lake exploration: At Swift Creek Campground, visitors can experience Baker Lake. "If you have the opportunity to get out on the water do it! While you can't really see it from the camp grounds, Mount Baker is right there behind you, 50 feet out into the lake and it makes beautiful scene," shares one camper who spent time at Swift Creek.
Stargazing opportunities: Open fields at camping areas provide excellent night sky viewing. One camper at Cascade Wagon Road noted that "the field across the street (which also allows for more camp sites) has beautiful night sky views."
River sounds for sleep: Tent sites along waterways allow campers to fall asleep to natural white noise. At Marble Creek Campground, "We stayed in site 3, which was great because it was along the river and the camp host told us it was the only spot with direct river access," reports one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound throughout the area. At Howard Miller Steelhead County Park, one camper mentioned, "Two bald eagles were eating dinner on the shore of the Skagit River across from us."
Spacious campsites: Many camping areas provide ample space between sites. At Rasar State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the layout: "The sites are all gorgeous with lots of vegetation between sites." Another camper noted, "They are a little challenging to level in some back in sights."
Trail connectivity: Several campgrounds feature direct trail access from campsites. At Rasar State Park, "There were trails going right off the campground loop that connected to the main trail network."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Colonial Creek South Campground, "Getting a reservation can be a challenge, good luck. There are walk up sites also, however the system they use can be a little frustrating. Time of year and day of the week I'm sure factors in."
Site selection considerations: For privacy and views, research specific site numbers before booking. At Colonial Creek, if you are "lucky to be able to reserve beach side spots on Diablo Lake you will also have lots of privacy and incredible views of this amazing turquoise blue lake."
Road conditions: Access roads to some camping areas require appropriate vehicles. For NF Dispersed Camping sites, one camper warned, "Probably a 4.5. Not the best site ever, but definitely good enough for a one nighter. Went all the way to the coordinates and found a spot good enough for a tent and a car. Not super level, but worked with limited options available."
Weather preparedness: Rain is common even in summer months. A camper at Newhalem Creek Campground noted, "We stayed here for 5 days and 4 nights and only had one day with actual sunshine! It was ok though because you prepare for rain if you go to the west side of WA state."
Accessible hikes: Several trails accommodate different ability levels. At Newhalem, "Lots of easy hikes from the campground. Clean bathrooms. Good jumping off point for your NCNP adventures."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. A visitor at Howard Miller Steelhead County Park mentioned, "There is some nice playground equipment and horseshoe pits."
Swimming areas: Water access points vary in safety for children. At Swift Creek Campground, "The swimming area is great for kids and adults, lots of places in the shade on the hill next to it with or without picnic tables, a few bathrooms nearby and water spigots."
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential during warmer months. "There are plenty of mosquitoes but they seems to be kept mostly at way with standard bug spray and candles," noted a camper at Swift Creek.
Limited hookup options: Only select campgrounds offer electrical connections. At Skagit River RV Campground, visitors appreciate the "Full hook ups, staff friendly and accommodating. It was available same day (midweek)."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. A visitor at Rasar State Park mentioned, "Only downfall is the rv spaces; they are a little challenging to level in some back in sights."
Water access points: Water spigots may be shared among multiple sites. At Swift Creek Campground, "water spigots and bathrooms (which for pit toilets were the cleanest I've ever experienced) are not too far of a walk from any site."
Site size limitations: Check maximum length restrictions before booking. At Swift Creek Campground, one RVer noted, "The reservation site said site 46 could only accommodate a vehicle up to 15 feet in length, but there was plenty of room."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seasons for camping in Marblemount, WA?
Summer (late June through early September) is the prime camping season in Marblemount, offering warm days, minimal rainfall, and full access to high-elevation areas. Colonial Creek South Campground is particularly popular during summer months when good weather allows for swimming in Diablo Lake and hiking nearby trails like Thunder Knob. Late spring (May-June) can be beautiful with wildflowers, though higher elevations may still have snow. Early fall (September-October) brings spectacular colors and fewer crowds at places like Rasar State Park Campground, but prepare for cooler nights. Winter camping is limited as many campgrounds close seasonally due to snow, and mountain passes may become impassable. Always check current conditions before planning your trip.
Where are the best campgrounds near Marblemount, WA?
The Marblemount area offers excellent access to North Cascades National Park with several standout campgrounds. Newhalem Creek Campground provides a convenient base with reservable sites, potable water, and toilet facilities that accommodate larger RVs. For those seeking a more immersive experience, Swift Creek Campground offers beautiful scenery and access to outstanding hiking trails in the northern Cascades. Howard Miller Steelhead County Park near Rockport is another good option with multiple access points and amenities. If you prefer lakeside camping, Colonial Creek campgrounds on Diablo Lake provide swimming access and boat launches. For backcountry enthusiasts, numerous options exist within North Cascades National Park, though these require permits.
What amenities are available at Goodell Creek Campground near Marblemount?
Goodell Creek Campground offers basic amenities in a natural setting near the Skagit River. The campground provides vault toilets, potable water (typically available during peak season), picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. There are no electrical hookups or shower facilities. For more developed options in the area, Colonial Creek North Campground offers similar amenities but with the addition of lake access. For those seeking backcountry experiences with minimal facilities, Cottonwood Camp in North Cascades National Park features privy toilets, fire pits, and access to creek water that should be filtered. Goodell Creek is relatively small and sites are first-come, first-served, making it a good option for spontaneous trips when larger campgrounds are full.
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