Dispersed camping opportunities near Monitor, Washington primarily center around the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which encompasses over 4 million acres of public land. This region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 7,000+ feet, creating diverse camping conditions throughout the season. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during daytime, with considerably cooler conditions at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at riverside sites: The dispersed camping areas along FS Road 7601 provide excellent fishing access. "There was even a little access point for kayaks and canoes and calm water for the kids," notes Anna Marie B., who camped along the river.
Hiking to alpine lakes: For experienced backpackers seeking spectacular scenery, Colchuck Lake offers challenging terrain with outstanding rewards. "Beautiful 4 mile hike up (8 round trip) to the lake... It's definitely still worth it for that view of dragon tails pass," explains Ethan H., highlighting the distinctive geological features visible from the lake.
Wildlife observation: Higher elevation camps like Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. According to Meghan, "This area of the southeast corner of the NF has very little traffic compared to others, we saw only one ATV for the whole time we were there."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Primitive campsites along rivers are particularly valued. As Renee G. notes about FS Road 7601, "Each of the 3 spots had easy access to the river. It's only 2 miles away from the Stuart and Colchuck Lake TH too!"
Privacy despite road proximity: Campers appreciate finding secluded spots even when close to Forest Service roads. Phoebe H. discovered at FS Road 7601 that "Beautiful scenery, not hard to find, and lots of spaces open along the road. The road did get quite bumpy and rocky at points, but I assume this is normal for dispersed camping."
Early trailhead access: Snow Lake Zone camping provides strategic positioning for ambitious hikers. Stephanie Z. explains, "It's about 8 miles backpacking in from the Snow Lake Trailhead. It's at elevation, but not as cold as the Core Zone."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas near Monitor require suitable transportation. Alyson M. advises about Chumstick Mountain, "This would get 5 stars if it weren't for the terribly bumpy and long road up to the main site. My Toyota Highlander made it up, but I was a little nervous."
Wind exposure: Higher elevation sites often experience significant wind. "It is very windy!" warns Alyson M. about Chumstick Mountain, while Meghan adds, "it gets pretty windy at night but there are treelines you can position against."
Camping permits: Overnight camping at Lake Chelan State Park and backcountry areas follows different systems. For state parks, reservations can be made months in advance, while Stephanie Z. notes about Snow Lake Zone, "Permits here are very hard to get via the lottery (but easier to get than a permit for the Core Zone)."
Tips for camping with families
Riverside swimming spots: Several riverside camping areas offer safe water access for children. Anna Marie B. found that along FS Road 7601, there was "even a little access point for kayaks and canoes and calm water for the kids."
Day trips from basecamp: Families can use dispersed camping as a base for day excursions. Alyson M. notes that FS Road 7601 sites are convenient because "The trailhead to the Enchantments trails is right up the road so it is very convenient compared to sleeping in the parking lot at the trailhead."
Group camping facilities: Icicle Group Campground provides dedicated space for larger family gatherings. Tim B. describes, "Lots of trees for shade, but open enough to get lots of sun, too. Flat, sandy soil, good for tents, lots of room. Three picnic tables, steel fire pit, bear proof trash cans."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most dispersed tent camping near Monitor doesn't accommodate large RVs. Marie L. advises about Lake Chelan State Park, "If you can get a site on the beach here it's well worth the alarms you have to set on your phone to get them! The sites are smallish and a little weird shaped but you get direct access to the water."
Wildlife precautions: RVers and tent campers alike should prepare for wildlife encounters. Tim B. warns, "This is bear/cougar country - bring protection" and adds, "Bring a few wasp traps in mid-late summer - BIG black & white hornets, but not too bad early summer."
Seasonal weather considerations: Weather patterns affect camping comfort significantly throughout the season. Meghan describes how at Glacier View Campground, "The wind dies down and OUT COME THE MOSQUITOS. I camp a lot, I have done backpacking/car camping/overlanding in all seasons and encountered bugs-a-plenty. The mosquito swarms in mid-June are ABSOLUTELY unbearable."
