The Methow Valley sits at elevations between 1,500 to 4,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s while winter brings heavy snowfall, making spring through fall the primary camping season. Most campgrounds near Methow operate seasonally with limited or no winter access due to snow accumulation on mountain roads.
What to Do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Leader Lake Campground offers access to a variety of fish species. "The lake has trout, largemouth bass and crappies," notes Katie H., who appreciated the "lots of access to the water" at this location.
Hiking the surrounding trails: Antilon Lake Campground serves as a gateway to wilderness areas. "The best part about antilon is that it is the gateway to the grade creek road which starts the trails up into the sawtooths and up lake Chelan," shares Steven G.
Winter sports nearby: While most glamping options close for winter, the region transforms for snow activities. "If you're looking to enjoy chelan but avoid the town, antilon is just the place! Extremely peaceful. Tons of wildlife, wild flowers, hiking trails and all around good views," writes Jess G.
What Campers Like
Riverside locations: Riverbend RV Park offers premium water access sites. "Beautiful location on river. Traffic noise but did not bother us at all... Host did great job of spacing rvs throughout camp for optimal privacy," according to Mary F.
Clean facilities: Daroga State Park Campground maintains high standards. "This place is pristine and gorgeous. Nestled in a bay right on the water with views of the Columbia river and mountains... Facilities are excellent, bathrooms and pay showers," explains Kayko S.
Proximity to town: Many glamping locations near Methow provide convenient access to nearby communities. "We had a site next to the river. The grass was well maintained and the entire part was inviting looking. Our site had a small pebbled beach area. It was enjoyable to sit by the river and watch the sunset," shares Gail S. about her experience.
What You Should Know
Site spacing varies: Beebe Bridge Park offers well-spaced accommodations. "Such a lovely chilled site with lovely drive throughs that have unobstructed views of the Columbia River. So chilled that we booked another night more than we'd planned," reports Vik H.
Weather challenges: Wind can be a significant factor in the Methow region. "Only draw back is the wind. It can sure make for a tough set up of camp. Sites do have a small wind break," advises Zane G. about camping at Daroga State Park.
Bug preparation: Many campers note insect activity. "Our visit was a completely random one, one of us just selected a spot on the map, and we went. We arrived after dark, set up camp, told a few stories, and went to bed. The view in the morning is beyond description. The only detractor was the mosquitos and bees. Would definitely be best in spring or fall," shares David H. about Antilon Lake.
Tips for Camping with Families
Accessible playgrounds: Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday offers family-friendly amenities. "Swimming pool, bike rentals, mining for gems, arrowheads and fossils; purchase from store, playground. Cabins are quieter than tent/RV sites. Very nicely maintained," according to Shayna A.
Swimming areas: Many glamping locations feature water access. "We stayed at this campground over the summer and it was one of the most peaceful and beautiful campgrounds we've been in. It's impeccably maintained, right on the river, both tent and RV camping, and great swimming area!" says Shaina H.
Space for activities: Sites often include room for children to play. "Lots of space for kids to play, ride bikes or swim. Facilities are excellent, bathrooms and pay showers. This place gets full in the summer but the spots are nicely spaced from each other," notes Kayko S.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options exist but are limited. "I am surprised to find how often we camp in the snowy winter months, empty campgrounds are a plus this time of year! Come summer you won't be able to get a reservation in this park, but in January it was wide open!" shares Dawn G. about Lakeshore RV Park.
Site sizes: Pine Near RV Park offers varied site configurations. "We used a tent site which was in excellent shape. The views from our site were of the North Cascades. Only a short block walk into the heart of Winthrop which has all amenities, restaurants, micro brews, shopping etc. Very clean restrooms," explains Scott-Christy B.
Utility access: Different glamping locations offer varied hookups. "Nice park like setting. Pull throughs are right on top of each other. Recommend back in. They water every night, you have to pull everything in, every night. Water came out brown each morning without a filter," advises Craig S. about water quality considerations.
