Camping sites near Methow, Washington include developed and primitive options along the Columbia and Methow rivers. The region sits at the confluence of these waterways, creating a landscape of dry pine forests at lower elevations with mountain terrain rising to nearly 9,000 feet in surrounding peaks. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter brings frequent sub-freezing conditions between November and March.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several areas provide designated river entry for anglers near Methow River Fishing Access. "The negative is that you're right on highway. It's just a dirt parking lot and the ground is too solid to put tent spikes into," notes camper cadams287, though the riverside location compensates for the basic amenities.
Lakeside swimming: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas with varying facilities. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, "The swimming area is nice, with grassy and shoreside areas to lay out. There are also large playfields with courts which people were always welcoming in others to play," according to Kate I.
Hiking trails: Forest Service lands contain numerous paths leading to waterfalls and viewpoints. At Foggy Dew Campground, camper Joey H. notes, "Hiking trails close by that lead to a big waterfall. Highly recommended this spot." These trails range from short walks to multi-day backpacking routes.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Many campsites border flowing water, providing natural white noise. Carrie J. describes Foggy Dew Campground: "It's so peaceful to sit next to your campfire and hear both the crackling of the fire and the bubbling flow of the creek. Definitely some nice sounds to fall asleep to!"
Waterfront camping: Direct water access ranks highly among visitor preferences. At Alta Lake State Park, camper Casey R. appreciated that "Our site was sweet, it had a trail down to a small open sandy stretch of beach that was basically our own private beach. Took the cooler and a pop up tent and enjoyed the beach all day."
Off-grid solitude: Some dispersed camping areas offer complete separation from crowds. Cooper Mountain Road dispersed camping provides "Great cell service (AT&T) and an amazing view for both sunrise and sunset!" according to joseph, making it ideal for remote workers wanting connectivity with isolation.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many areas implement seasonal burn bans during summer months. Check with ranger stations before arrival as conditions change rapidly. Christine R. noted at Antilon Lake Campground: "Aside from a very windy/rainy day and night with 40 mph gusts, the weather was perfect and I loved falling asleep to the sound of the frogs and crickets."
Wildlife considerations: Bears and smaller wildlife frequent camping areas. Proper food storage prevents problems with animals. Some campgrounds provide metal food lockers or poles for hanging supplies.
Site selection timing: Most established campgrounds fill completely on summer weekends. Weekday arrivals fare better for securing spots. According to Sonia B. at Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park: "My first visit was Memorial day weekend in 2017. Very busy campground and day use area."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Families often center activities around water recreation. At Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground, Courtney J. shared: "This was our first time at Lake Chelan since we are new to the PNW. With that being said he [her two-year-old] had a blast! The water was still a little chilly but he was able to dip his toes in the water and get a little wet. There was also a nice playground for him to play on as well."
Equipment rental options: Some parks offer boat and recreational equipment rentals. Check availability seasonally as offerings change. Marie L. described Lake Chelan State Park: "Amazing dock system and access to the lake, great day use area where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds maintain designated play areas for children. These provide activity options during non-water times or inclement weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites exist in the region. At Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park, Leonard H. noted: "Paved streets & individual sites, Most sites close to level, Restrooms and showers clean and work well, Nice walking paths, Good family park with fishing/swimming/boating possibilities, Dump station at exit for those w/o sewer hookup sites."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require significant leveling for larger rigs. Pack leveling blocks and wheel chocks. Shay F. warned about Alta Lake: "Our Basecamp is only 16 feet long and we can run off the grid, so we actually can take it along the lake in a tent spot. If you are going to attempt it, it is truly a tight fit. Be careful! Sites are small, pull off is more accurate than pull through, and we used a lot of blocks to level up."
Seasonal water access: Lake levels fluctuate significantly through seasons. Boat launch facilities may become unusable during drought periods. Jennifer H. reported at Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park: "Unfortunately the water was little low than we expected."
