Methow Valley camping areas sit in the eastern foothills of the North Cascades, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 feet across various campgrounds. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in July and August, with nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40s in spring and fall. Most camping areas close by late October due to snowfall and don't reopen until April or May.
What to do
Hiking near campgrounds: Several trails branch out from Foggy Dew Campground, including paths that lead to a waterfall. "Hiking trails close by that lead to a big waterfall. Highly recommended this spot," notes Joey H. The campground sits between two creeks, creating a peaceful soundscape for campers.
Fishing opportunities: Antilon Lake Campground offers productive fishing for various species. "I camped here in mid-May 2023. I camped in dispersed campground 'A' and really enjoyed it. There is good shore access for bank fishing (I caught sun fish, crappie, and brown trout)," reports Don. Lake moss can make shore fishing challenging, so bringing a kayak improves success rates.
Swimming options: The beach at Lake Chelan State Park provides designated swimming areas with both sandy and grassy shorelines. "Big camping area with Great Lake access. It was a bit crowded but it's to be expected during the final week of summer. Lake was nice and cool," writes Jorge H. Water temperatures peak in late July through August, when lake temperatures can reach the mid-70s.
What campers like
Mountain views: Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping offers panoramic vistas from higher elevations. "Near the peak of Fox Mountain, this area is at one of the highest points in the area. Great cell service(AT&T) and a amazing view for both sunrise and sunset!" reports Joseph. The road requires high-clearance vehicles in sections due to washouts.
Tent sites with privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options away from RV areas. At Alta Lake State Park Campground, "We had a site in Loop 2 on the right (on the lake side). It was away from the main area, parking lots, boat launch or store, so pretty quiet. Our site was sweet, it had a trail down to a small open sandy stretch of beach that was basically our own private beach," shares Casey R.
Waterfront camping: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "This is more of a state campground than a state park, but it is great little area outside of the tourist crowded city. There are quite a few spots where you have plenty of privacy from your neighbors, which helps with noise since there can be loud teenagers around," notes Kate I. about Lake Chelan State Park Campground.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many areas implement seasonal fire bans, especially during late summer. One camper at Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping notes: "A couple spots washed out and need high clearance but otherwise just a long slow switchbacky road to the top." Check current fire restrictions before planning trips between July and September.
Insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near lakes and in early summer. "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 mosquitoes and bees," writes David H. about Antilon Lake.
Legend
