Stehekin camping sites require substantial planning due to their remote location at 1,200 feet elevation in the North Cascades. Most campgrounds are accessible only via ferry on Lake Chelan, foot travel, or seaplane, with limited services available once there. The area receives moderate precipitation year-round with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often below freezing.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Purple Point Campground provides an excellent base for exploring local paths. "There's a nice trail right at camp for exploring. The lake is really close so if you feel the need to take a dip in the frigid water, no need to walk far," notes Rick P., who camped at Purple Point Campground.
Visit Domke Falls: The trail from Refrigerator Harbor offers rewarding hiking opportunities. "Awesome hike up to domke falls from this camp ground! Good all around views, lots of sun," shares Jess G. from Refrigerator Harbor Campground.
Swimming: While chilly even in summer, the lake offers refreshing swimming opportunities. "Great swimming lake," mentions a visitor to Rainbow Lake Campground, adding that "The views of valley on the downhill side of the lake are amazing but you will pay for it with the mosquitos in August!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Klipchuck Campground features well-spaced sites. "The sites are spread out and give you a lot of privacy. We always stay at the loop to the right when you pull into the site," explains Jill T. at Klipchuck Campground.
Reliable facilities: Despite the remote location, many campsites maintain decent amenities. "The camp hosts make sure there is tp and clean toilets. The water is tasty and is tested. There are garbage dumpsters available," reports Judy T. about Klipchuck Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Expect encounters with local wildlife. "We did have a deer visit us every night but never actually came up to the site," mentions a Klipchuck camper, while others note the importance of following bear safety protocols at all locations near Stehekin.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for communications challenges. At Lone Fir Campground, visitors report "No cell service" throughout their stay, making advance planning essential.
Weather variability: Temperature differences between nearby campgrounds can be substantial. "My only beef with this campground is that it is at a higher elevation so it gets pretty chilly. It is literally about 10 degrees warmer if you keep heading east about 10 miles to Klipchuck," notes a Lone Fir visitor.
Dock conditions: For boat-in camping options, dock infrastructure varies. At Moore Point Campground, "Both docks felt safe to be on, and the Lady of the Lake will stop there. More sheltered from the wind than other sites along this trail," according to Duane and Janey D.
Limited site availability: Flick Creek Campground offers minimal capacity. "Flick Creek has only one site, however if you are a small group or alone it's great. There is a bear box, a nice vaulted toilet, a shelter, and a nice point," notes a reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site terrain: Some campsites have challenging access points. At Cascade Creek, "To get to the toilet you have to cross a blowdown over the river, so not the best for small kids. Also the hike in is very steep in the morning, so get adjusted at the site before you leave," warns Duane and Janey D. from Cascade Creek Campground.
Bug protection: Mosquitoes can be abundant in summer. "There were quite a bit of bugs, which is to be expected in The summer month of Washington. Bug spray is a must!!!" shares Sasha W. about Weaver Point Campground.
Campsite selection timing: Arrive early to secure preferred locations. "There are some sites that are on the river but those go quick and we never get there quick enough to snag one," advises a Klipchuck camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. "The sites do backup to the woods so you have privacy. The sites are spacious enough but some aren't level but the tenting area is, though," explains Judy T. about Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground.
Campground ambiance varies: Pearrygin Lake offers more developed facilities but different atmosphere. "This campground has nice facilities and is well maintained but it's definitely more toward the 'campground culture' crowd versus people looking for a quiet, peaceful escape. Lots of large groups playing music, rowdy kids having fun, generators running, etc," reports Meghan.
Size limitations: Many campsites near Stehekin accommodate only smaller RVs. "Sites here are beautiful with tall trees and lush greenery... Each site is equipped with a parking space large enough for a mid to large size vehicle, with some large enough for larger RV units as well," notes Crystal C. about Klipchuck Campground.
