This is the HEADLINE

Western

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

What's the most underrated Washington camping? Hiking in! These remote campgrounds can be reached by hiking in and offer the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a way you've never experienced before. Find the best information on hike-in camping in Washington, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

Washington

The Best Hike-In Camping in Washington

If you enjoy the outdoors, it's time to embrace the wild and go with a hike-in camping experience near North Cascades National Park. These campsites are way off the beaten path and have gorgeous views. Search nearby hike-in campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

North Cascades National Park

The Best Hike-In Camping Near North Cascades National Park, Washington

## Overview

Colonial Creek South Campground in North Cascades National Park is a remote, yet bustling campground nestled in old growth forest. Located on the south side of State Route 20 near mile marker 130, there are 94 campsites that are surrounded by forest and located on Diablo Lake.

## Recreation

Visitors can access several trails from within the facility, such as Thunder Knob Trail and Thunder Creek Trail. Colonial Creek South Campground is also close to several trails along State Route 20. Visitors can also go boating, fishing, and swimming (although the water is a chilly 43 degrees) on Diablo Lake. Bears do inhabit the area, so care should be taken when hiking, picnicking, or camping.

## Facilities

The campground is located on the southern side of State Route 20, with some campsites along the lakefront of Diablo Lake. The entire facility offers drinking water, flush toilets, garbage removal and some paved parking spaces, but most sites have uneven gravel parking. Each campsite offers a picnic table and campfire ring. 

## Nearby Attractions

Diablo Lake and Ross Lake overlooks are within a short driving distance from the facility. Campers who wish to learn more about the area can attend interpretive programs at the North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem during peak season, or participate in a variety of tours.

Colonial Creek South Campground

Along Thunder Creek Trail, the first open view is from a 1970 burn at about 4.5 miles (7.2 km). Here an emerging forest of young Douglas-fir and a profusion of seed bearing herbs and shrubs attract birds, rodents and their predators. Across the valley, note a newer burn from lightning strikes in 1990. Rock cliffs and McAllister Glacier provide natural fire breaks and a splendid backdrop for this evolving forest scene.

The next backcountry camps, McAllister hiker and stock, are located at mile 6.7 (10.8 km) and are a popular overnight destination. Pass the stock camp first, with a view from a high cliff down Thunder Creek. This view was created in the massive floods of 2003, when the river below shifted course significantly and carved into the cliff, suddenly bringing trail and hiker into much closer proximity to the creek! Hikers continue a short distance and cross the roaring creek on a log bridge to access the spacious and green creek-side hiker camp. The far site is a group site. Smaller Tricouni Camp lies 1.3 miles (2.1 km) beyond McAllister, in a more open salal forest, just after crossing Fisher Creek on a bridge.

From Tricouni, the trail begins its first real climb: a relentless 2.2 miles (3.5 km) gains over 1000 feet (305 m) to reach Junction Camps (hiker and stock) and a major trail junction. From the high ridge of the hiker camp, enjoy an expansive view of Boston Glacier and Tricouni Peak. From here, one may either take the Fisher Creek Trail 14.8 miles (23.8 km) over Easy Pass to SR 20, or continue on the Thunder Creek Trail to Park Creek Pass. Both ways lead to grand trail experiences.

Junction Camp

Sahale Glacier Camp is a collection of flat spots ringed with rocks piled up against the wind. Camping in the Sahale Glacier Camp requires a backcountry permit, available on a first-come, first-served basis at the ranger station in Marblemount.

Sahale Glacier Camp

Backcountry Camping: A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays. Permits are limited. There is no camping allowed at Easy Pass or in the meadows. Fisher Camp is located in the basin below the pass. Midway along the Fisher Creek Trail, find Cosho Camp in the forest, and Junction Camp is located at the intersection with the Thunder Creek Trail.

Cosho Camp

Permit Details: https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/permits.htm

There are countless backcountry routes and possibilities in this wild land. The diversity of climate and geography creates very different habitats on the west and east side of the crest, as well as fostering a great array of plants and animals.

Cascading water is fed by over 300 glaciers and countless snowfields. Lakes are abundant. Almost 400 miles (644 km) of trails, mostly in major drainages and over high passes, traverse this tremendous landscape.

Your path may follow a route used for many centuries by people who have long crossed these mountains or sought food and resources here, or you may venture to an area so wild it feels as if you are the first explorer.

Hidden Hand Backcountry

Along the way, the Bridge Creek Trail provides access to the McAlester Lake, Dagger Lake, Rainbow Lake, and North Fork trails. At Bridge Creek Camp, which makes an excellent base for exploration, trails radiate east and west and link up to many more options.

Bridge Creek Campground (North Cascades)

Backcountry Camping: A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays. Permits are limited. There are numerous campsites along this trail, at most five miles apart. Some of the camps, such as Two Mile or Thunder Basin are small and do not hold larger groups. Designated stock camps are located at McAllister, Junction, and Thunder Basin, as well as at Five Mile along the Park Creek Trail.

The main trail winds through some exceptionally large old cedar and fir trees, with periodic views of the creek. Woodland flowers abound in season. This is the home of many birds, including owls, woodpeckers, and osprey near the creek. Look for deer and other animal tracks in the sandy soil and mud. At around 1.5 miles (2.4 km) the trail crosses Thunder Creek on a large wooden bridge. Thunder Camp lies just on the other side, and is a wonderful destination for families or for a first backpack. Many day hikers also enjoy bird watching from the bridge or exploring the nearby gravel bars. A quarter mile past the bridge and camp, the Fourth of July Trail junction is on the left. Following this trail up 3.2 miles (5.1 km) of switchbacks to Fourth of July Pass provides beautiful mountain views, particularly from the backcountry camp. 

Neve Camp is a quarter mile beyond this junction, and is another lovely forested camp set well off the trail alongside the thunderous waters of the creek--which looks and sounds more like a small river at this point.

Neve Camp

## Overview

Goodell Creek Campground is a small, yet comfortable facility close to the town of Newhalem, Washington along the Skagit River. It is surrounded by forests that that can be explored through the area's many hiking trails. The campground has individual campsites as well as two group sites. It is private and secluded, yet the town, a visitor center and other amenities are close by.

## Recreation

Visitors can walk to several of Newhalem's hiking trails from the connecting trail to the Newhalem Campground, such as the River Loop Trail, Trail of the Cedars and Rock Shelter Trail. The creek and river are popular for fishing, boating access is available from the raft launch at the campground. Black bears inhabit the area, so caution must be taken while hiking, picnicking or camping.

## Facilities

The campground is set along the Skagit River. The entire facility offers drinking water, vault toilets, and paved roads.

## Natural Features

The campground is forested with western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, wild red huckleberries, and other native shrubs. Nearby is Newhalem Creek and the Skagit River. The river is the largest river that flows into the Puget Sound area and provides critical habitat for all species of Pacific salmon. The river drains cold, clean glacial melt-water from the mountains of British Columbia and northern Washington. Bald eagles return to its shores every winter.

## Nearby Attractions

The town of Newhalem is a short walk from the campsites.

Goodell Creek Campground

Just to the east of the pass, the Sahale Arm Trail veers steeply north towards Sahale Peak. The views from Sahale Arm are breathtaking as the trail ascends through sublpine meadows and over steep rock scree, before ending at the toe of the Sahale Glacier and a designated campsite.

From Cascade Pass, you can also head east and downward towards campsites at Pelton Basin and a popular side-trip to Horseshoe Basin-a spectacular steep walled cirque with waterfalls, wildflowers, and an historic mining site.



Pelton Basin

There are two ways to attain Fourth of July Pass - from Thunder Creek or from Panther Creek. Both offer wonderful opportunities to travel along burbling, blue-green creeks, but access via Thunder Creek is truly stunning. 

Fourth of July Pass

The Emerald City is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier cities and a popular place to stop. While the city doesn’t offer many camping or RV options, it’s rich in amenities and is a great visit on your way to any of Washington’s parks.

The best camping near Seattle is on Blake Island State Park, though it’s only accessible by boat. If that doesn’t bother you, the park is a beautiful place to be during summer evenings. Seattle tends to be a popular stop for travelers heading to campsites in Olympic National Park near Port Angeles, WA. The surrounding Olympic National Forest is also a great choice if you can’t get one of the campgrounds you were hoping for at Olympic.

Seattle

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Seattle. Seattle is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Seattle, WA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

The Best Camping Near Seattle, Washington

Join the fun near Spokane. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Spokane. Find the best campgrounds near Spokane, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Spokane

The Best Camping Near Spokane, Washington

Are you in need of a campground near Tacoma, WA? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Tacoma is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Tacoma, reviewed by campers like you.

Tacoma

The Best Camping Near Tacoma, Washington

Searching for the best camping near Vancouver, WA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Vancouver, reviewed by campers like you.

Vancouver

The Best Camping Near Vancouver, Washington

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Bellevue, WA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Bellevue. Discover great camping spots near Bellevue, reviewed by campers like you.

Bellevue

The Best Camping Near Bellevue, Washington

Join the fun near Everett. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Washington camping adventure.

Everett

The Best Camping Near Everett, Washington

Looking for the best campgrounds near Kent, WA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Washington camping adventure.

Kent

The Best Camping Near Kent, Washington

Looking for the best campgrounds near Yakima, WA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Yakima. Discover great camping spots near Yakima, reviewed by campers like you.

Yakima

The Best Camping Near Yakima, Washington

Renton is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Renton campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Renton, WA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Renton

The Best Camping Near Renton, Washington

Searching for the best camping near Spokane Valley, WA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Spokane Valley, reviewed by campers like you.

Spokane Valley

The Best Camping Near Spokane Valley, Washington

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington

Are you in need of a campground near Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, WA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Washington camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

The Best Camping Near Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington

Looking for the best campgrounds near Olympic National Forest, WA? Olympic National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Olympic National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Olympic National Forest

The Best Camping Near Olympic National Forest, Washington

Colville National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Colville National Forest campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Colville National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Colville National Forest

The Best Camping Near Colville National Forest, Washington

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, reviewed by campers like you.

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, Washington

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.

The Best Camping Near North Cascades National Park, Washington

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, WA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, Washington

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Mt. Rainier National Park. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Washington camping adventure.

Mt. Rainier National Park

The Best Camping Near Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

In Northwest Washington, you’ll find one of the most popular parks in the US, Olympic National Park. Located near Port Angeles, WA, this expansive park embodies the best of the PNW. If you want to enjoy camping in some of the best greenery in the country, this is the place you want to hike.

There are a number of developed campgrounds in the park, with just a few (Kalaloch, Sol Duc, Hoh, and Mora) offering summer reservations. With a variety of campsites throughout the park, you can find a spot that best fits your schedule and interests. Nine of these campgrounds are RV-capable, though Olympic has some rough roads that RV’s may struggle on. The best camping near Olympic is in the park itself though there are some dispersed options surrounding the park and a few small cities to stay in.

Olympic National Park

Join the fun near Olympic National Park. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Olympic National Park is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

The Best Camping Near Olympic National Park, Washington

Looking for the best campgrounds near Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA? Gifford Pinchot National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

THE BEST Hike-In CAMPING NEARNorth Cascades National Park, Washington

Top North Cascades National Park Hike-In Campgrounds

Colonial Creek South Campground

Junction Camp

Sahale Glacier Camp

Cosho Camp

Hidden Hand Backcountry

Bridge Creek Campground (North Cascades)

Neve Camp

Goodell Creek Campground

Pelton Basin

Fourth of July Pass

About North Cascades National Park Hike-In Camping

Hike-In Campgrounds in North Cascades National Park, Washington

Recent Hike-In Camping Reviews Near North Cascades National Park

0 Reviews of 46 North Cascades National Park Campgrounds

See What We’re Up To