Camping near North Cascades National Park, WA

Camping in the North Cascades is an unforgettable experience. Near Seattle, WA, the national park is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s also home to some of the best camping in Washington state. Take an early hike from the campground for bird watching — there are more than 200 species in the park. Grey wolves, deer, and squirrels also call the park home, along with elusive wolverines. Hike into the campground and pitch a tent, or stay comfortably in a cabin or yurt. RV drivers can pull up to their campsites. They are only a stroll away from mountain waterfalls, alpine meadows, and stunning glaciers.

Best Camping Sites Near North Cascades National Park (241)

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Recent Reviews near North Cascades National Park

593 Reviews of 241 North Cascades National Park Campgrounds



Guide to North Cascades National Park

Camping near North Cascades National Park, Washington, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is packed with trails for all skill levels. At Colonial Creek South Campground, one visitor noted, "Each site has its own bear boxes and the bathrooms were pretty clean," making it a great base for exploring nearby hikes.
  • Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off, head to the lake. A reviewer at Goodell Creek Campground mentioned, "You can swim in the lake, there is a boat launch and there is a hiking trail across the street."
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes are perfect for fishing. A camper at Marble Creek Campground shared, "There is access to the Cascade River from the campground, and we had a great time hanging out at the beach."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground said, "It's got mountain views while camping lakeside."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at Howard Miller Steelhead County Park remarked, "This is the cleanest, prettiest, best maintained campground I’ve stayed at."
  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground noted, "Most sites are relatively private, 2 tiered with tables/fire pits above or below the parking area."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain conveniences. A camper at Newhalem Creek Campground mentioned, "No hookups of any kind," so be prepared to rough it a bit.
  • Bear Safety: Wildlife is a real concern. One visitor at Colonial Creek North Campground expressed frustration about the "cavalier attitude to bear safety" they observed during their stay.
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Colonial Creek South Campground said, "Lots of people come into the park on the weekends from Seattle."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA noted, "A very kid-friendly place to stay as well."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. One camper at Alpine RV Park & Campground mentioned, "Spots were exactly level so had to spend time leveling the camper."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on the kids, especially near water. A visitor at Marble Creek Campground highlighted the importance of being cautious, saying, "There is access to the Cascade River from the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Newhalem Creek Campground mentioned, "I think it may have just been the campground I stayed at, but mine was very very small."
  • Plan for No Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t offer electric or water hookups. A camper at Goodell Creek Campground noted, "This is a primitive campground with no hook-ups."
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground advised, "Get there early or it will be hard to find a spot for an RV."

Camping near North Cascades National Park, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared will make your experience even better!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near North Cascades National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, North Cascades National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 241 campgrounds and RV parks near North Cascades National Park and 17 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near North Cascades National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near North Cascades National Park is Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 42 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near North Cascades National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near North Cascades National Park.

  • What parks are near North Cascades National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near North Cascades National Park that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.