North Cascades camping offers direct river access to the Skagit River and mountain views at elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet. Many campgrounds near Marblemount, Washington remain accessible in spring and fall when mountain roads may have restrictions. Late summer brings ideal temperatures in the 70s with reduced rainfall compared to spring months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple RV parks near Marblemount provide direct river access for fishing. At Cascade Kamloops RV Park, guests can enjoy on-site fishing at their trout pond. As one camper notes, "Cute little place. Laundry, fishing pond and restrooms."
Hiking near Ross Dam: North Cascades National Park trails become accessible when staying at campgrounds along Highway 20. A visitor at Thousand Trails Grandy Creek explains, "The access to North Cascades Hwy is great. Can follow Skagit River, but Pass closed summer of 2021. Spectacular scenery E. of camp."
North Cascades day trips: Campgrounds serve as convenient basebases for park exploration. One camper at Skagit River RV & Campground shares, "Unable to get in FCFS campground inside NP, found this campground close to the east entrance on Hwy 20. Quiet, clean, not too much privacy, but worked great for us to visit Cascades."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and showers. At Chom's RV Campground, a guest reported, "Bathrooms are near, very clean, and hot water showers are clean too."
Proximity to wilderness permits: Some campgrounds position visitors strategically for backcountry access. A Chom's camper noted, "If you're needing a place to stay prior to a backpacking trip, this site is 8 minutes away from the wilderness information center/Ranger station where you pick up your permit."
Affordable options: Budget-conscious travelers find reasonable rates at several area campgrounds. Riverfront RV Park earned this feedback: "Affordable stay $25 @7/2020... Well kept large quiet park. Great dg waking areas; including a dog park."
What you should know
Cell service variations: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. A camper at Chom's mentioned, "Good enough wifi," while at Riverfront RV Park, visitors must often rely on in-town connections.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds more than others. One Chom's RV Campground visitor observed, "The only downside is that it's close to the road, so you hear some traffic, but it's a rather chill place at night."
Limited grocery options: Stock up before arriving in Marblemount. A Skagit River RV & Campground reviewer advised, "Bring all your groceries, not much in way of stores in area."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer significant children's activities. A Thousand Trails Mount Vernon visitor reported, "Convenient location, lots for kids to do, cheap gas across the street."
Family security: Gated campgrounds provide peace of mind for parents. At Thousand Trails Grandy Creek, one parent shared, "Because it's off the road and has a security gate, I have no problem letting my kid be a kid."
Swimming options: During summer months, pool access becomes important. A camper at Thousand Trails Grandy Creek stated, "This is one of the top campgrounds in our rotation. The sites are pretty spacious, lots of stuff for kids to do. This weekend there is a lollipop toss, ice cream social, candy bar bingo, and an outdoor movie."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RV campers near Marblemount should confirm electrical compatibility. At Town and Country Motorcoach and RV Resort, full hookups include both 30-amp and 50-amp service options across its 235 sites.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dump facilities. A Riverfront RV Park visitor noted, "Dump station was not on site," but added there's a "Free city dump station within a mile; easy to access."
Site leveling requirements: Uneven sites can present challenges at some area campgrounds. At Mount Vernon RV Park, a camper observed, "Staff was very friendly. We stayed in the overflow site directly next to the office with 20 amp electric only. Campground is well-maintained and very clean."
