North Cascades National Park camping offers backcountry options from 500 to 7,000 feet elevation. The park's terrain changes dramatically as you move from western rainforest environments to drier eastern sections. Temperatures can vary by 20-30 degrees between locations within the park boundaries, affecting campground selection and gear requirements.
What to do
Hiking to Hidden Lake: From Marble Creek Campground, access the trailhead for a challenging but rewarding hike. "The hike is incredible and you can actually see the whole mountainside you hike from the public access beach in the campground, which was pretty cool," notes Danielle S. in her review of Marble Creek Campground.
River activities: Cool off in Early Winters Creek near Klipchuck Campground. "In the spring the wildflowers are scattered about. Do be aware of black bears and rattlesnakes as posted by the kiosk. Since it is set back from Highway 20, there is not as much noise as at Early Winters or Lone Fir. Instead, you can hear Early Winters Creek," according to Judy T.'s review of Klipchuck Campground.
Glacier viewing: For those prepared for serious backcountry travel, Junction Camp offers spectacular glacier views. "Beautiful views of the glaciers... Junction is tucked away about 10 miles in. While the hike is relatively easy-moderate while passing through the other camps, once you get pass camp Tricouni you have 2.2 miles until camp Junction and it's a strenuous hike up the mountain for about a mile," reports Jen M. about her experience at Junction Camp.
What campers like
Lakeside access: Some sites at Colonial Creek North Campground sit right on the water. "Spent 5 nights here, I can't believe how beautiful it is. I would recommend the walk in sites over the drive up. Much more privacy and better access to the river at 3 out of 4 of the spots," writes Sara P. in her review of Colonial Creek North Campground.
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at Marble Creek. "The site was flat with a tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, and parking space to accommodate an F-150 King Ranch edition. Located further down the road from our site was a vault toilet (very clean, and not close enough to smell) and dumpsters for trash. I typically avoid campgrounds because I don't enjoy a lot of noise. It was pretty quiet here and there seemed to be a decent amount of space between each site," explains Ethan A.
Cell service availability: Unlike many wilderness areas, Newhalem Campground provides connectivity. "As someone working remotely while on the road, this was a fantastic place to be at because of cellular/internet reception! I'm an architecture geek, and thought the bathroom buildings' architectural style fits so in well into the environment, with natural wood, soft lighting on the outside," comments Ursula about Newhalem Campground.
What you should know
Weather changes: Winter camping brings different challenges. "I've been to Colonial Creek Campground twice, both in winter. The first time was wonderful. It's deserted in winter, and it's located right before where the highway closes off in winter. It's in the mountains, and on a cold winter night, the stars are spectacular. You can hear the ice cracking all night," relates Danielle S.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds use different systems. "The Scan & Go is also a rip off. You HAVE to use the system, and it's $20 PLUS fees. There's a 14-day stay limit, but I could only book 4 of my 5 nights at one time ($20/night plus $10 fee) and the final night I had to book the morning of ($20 plus $2 fee)," reports Meghan B. about Klipchuck Campground.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide water year-round. "No potable water on site (bring your own). We saw plenty of fire wood for sale on the side of the road on the way in," advises Ethan A. about Marble Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety education: Wildlife encounters require preparation. "Bear canisters are required, as the predominant fir trees in the area are not conducive to hanging food. Black bears are definitely in the area during the summer months during berry season, as they leave their calling cards on the trail," explains Shari G. about Fisher Camp.
Early arrival strategy: Secure prime spots by planning ahead. "This is a first-come first-served campground so if it is a holiday weekend, you want to get there on Friday to get a site. There is usually a camp host and the vault toilets are not too shabby. A quick hike from the camp will take you to a river," recommends Jill T. about Lone Fir Campground.
Interpretive opportunities: Take advantage of educational resources. "Daily programs at Visitor Center 12:30 and 4:00 pm. It is about a half-mile walk via the River Loop to get to the Visitor Center (farther from Loop C) where you can get information on hikes and there is a small store and interpretive center," notes Lee D. about Newhalem Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose loops carefully for vehicle fit. "We like to camp in the right hand loop which is more shaded and suitable for our 24' pop up truck camper setup. The sites are spacious enough but some aren't level but the tenting area is, though," advises Judy T.
RV-friendly options: Some campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "Beautiful Campground for our class c. Great location if you plan on hiking around Diablo Lake," reports Travis H. about Colonial Creek South Campground.
Water and dump facilities: Plan for limited services. "$12 per site, very nice campground with running water and pit toilets. No hook-ups or dump station, so plan accordingly," notes a reviewer about backcountry campgrounds in the North Cascades National Park region.
