Camping near North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park has several camping options throughout its wild, rugged terrain. Colonial Creek South Campground sits among tall cedar trees and gives you quick lake access. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, but you won't find water available in the off-season. The park has many hiking trails near camping areas where you can see the dramatic mountain landscapes up close. You'll likely spot wildlife in this area, so store your food properly to avoid problems with bears and other animals. Make sure to check current fire rules and follow all park guidelines to help protect the natural areas. Most campgrounds here don't take reservations and fill up on a first-come basis, so arrive early if you're camping during summer months. The remote setting of North Cascades means you should plan ahead and bring everything you might need. This park feels truly wild and far from civilization, making it worth the extra preparation required.

Best Camping Sites Near North Cascades National Park (240)

    1. Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    42 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 854-7200

    $24 - $75 / night

    "This is by far the nicest campground in North Cascades National Park that one can drive to. "

    "I generally enjoyed this location in North Cascades National Park. It is a beautiful area with hikes nearby and chilly swimming. Mosquitos weren’t bad which was a relief."

    2. Klipchuck Campground

    21 Reviews
    Mazama, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 996-4000

    $20 / night

    "We headed out to North Cascades National Park for a close to home camping getaway on Labor Day Weekend. "

    "Nestled just short distance off the main highway through this area, the Klipchuck campground is remote feeling and quiet. Sites here are beautiful with tall trees and lush greenery."

    3. Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 854-7200

    $24 / night

    "Campground Review: Colonial Creek Campground

    https://thedyrt.com/camping/washington/washington-colonial-creek

    [https://www.recreation.gov"

    "Not a short drive by any means to get there but worth the trouble. Family camped in spot number 1 which is a walk-in. Def recommend this one."

    4. Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    27 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 854-7200

    $24 - $75 / night

    "Close to the North Cascades National Park Visitor’s Center and some easy hiking trails. A few spots for larger trailers/campers. Cost=$16. First come, first served, iron ranger."

    "The sound of the river and richness of the forests, along with the proximity to the Visitor Center and some easier hikes, combine to make Newhalem a convenient stopping point for me as I crossed the North"

    5. Lone Fir Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mazama, WA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 996-4000

    "The campground is surrounded by mountains and is located along Early Winters Creek. It’s a great home base to hike the many trails throughout the North Cascades National Park."

    " This campground is located directly off Highway 20. As in, close enough that you will hear road noise anytime a car goes by. But aside from that one downside, this campground is pretty great."

    6. Junction Camp — North Cascades National Park

    3 Reviews
    North Cascades National Park, WA
    7 miles
    Website

    "This is the perfect site for a large group, but it also has quite a few smaller “tucked away” spots for individuals, couples, etc."

    "Along Thunder-creek trail Junction is tucked away about 10 miles in."

    7. Sahale Glacier Camp — North Cascades National Park

    3 Reviews
    North Cascades National Park, WA
    10 miles
    Website

    "This is the perfect site for a medium sized group, with a number of “tucked away” spots for individuals, couples, etc."

    "There’s a pit toilet, and the sites have rock walls built around them because this area is known to get heavy winds."

    8. Fisher Camp — North Cascades National Park

    1 Review
    North Cascades National Park, WA
    0 miles
    Website

    "This is the perfect site for a medium sized group, with a number of “tucked away” spots for individuals, couples, etc."

    9. Newhalem Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    19 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "Sites are somewhat close to one another, so definitely hear your neighbors, but it is what it is. Bearproof food locker at every single site. (We didn’t use them as we are mostly self-contained)."

    "General: Camping in three loops plus walk-in tent sites and a group site (closed when we were there). No hookups of any kind."

    10. Marble Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 804-1103

    $32 - $68 / night

    "It's nice and tucked away off the highway. Lots of space between sites which was awesome. Clean restrooms. No water, so make sure to plan ahead on that front."

    "Washington is the definition of amazing hiking. The mountains are gorgeous, and the hiking views are hard to beat. The "North Cascades" is a little piece of heaven."

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Showing results 1-10 of 240 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near North Cascades National Park

582 Reviews of 240 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 240 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.