Best Campgrounds near Stehekin, WA

Stehekin, Washington offers a unique camping experience accessible primarily by boat, foot, or seaplane in the heart of the North Cascades. The Lake Chelan National Recreation Area features several tent-only campgrounds including Purple Point, which sits just across from Lake Chelan with approximately 10 campsites. Most camping options in this remote area are boat-in or hike-in facilities with basic amenities. Flick Creek Campground provides just a single site with bear boxes and vault toilets, while Lakeview and Weaver Point campgrounds offer additional options for those seeking a wilderness experience. The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the region, making Stehekin a popular stop for thru-hikers seeking resupply and rest.

Permits are required for camping in the Stehekin area, obtainable from either the North Cascades National Park Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount or the NPS Visitor Center in Stehekin. Cell service is virtually nonexistent throughout the region, requiring advance planning and self-sufficiency. As one camper noted, "In the Stehekin Village, this campground sits just across the road from Lake Chelan with clean and well stocked bathrooms with running water, good tent pads, firepits, bear boxes, and potable water." The remote location means limited access to supplies, though the small Stehekin village offers some basic services. Summer weekends see the highest visitation, with shoulder seasons providing more solitude.

Campgrounds in the Stehekin area typically feature bear boxes, vault toilets, and picnic tables, with some offering potable water. Many sites provide direct lake access, though water temperatures remain cold year-round. PCT thru-hikers frequently pass through during summer months, creating a unique social atmosphere at Purple Point Campground. According to one visitor, "If you hit Flick Creek and it's in use, you have a 3.6 mile track to Lakeview campsite in Stehekin." Bridge Creek Campground, located about 3 miles from Stehekin, serves as a convenient overnight option for backpackers. The area's isolation is its primary appeal, offering a true wilderness experience with stunning mountain views, glacier-fed lakes, and extensive hiking opportunities within the North Cascades ecosystem.

Best Camping Sites Near Stehekin, Washington (291)

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Recent Reviews near Stehekin, WA

797 Reviews of 291 Stehekin Campgrounds



Guide to Stehekin

Camping near Stehekin, Washington, offers a unique blend of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. With beautiful lakes, hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere, it's a great spot for families and solo adventurers alike.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the nearby hikes, with one reviewer noting, "This is a good basecamp for exploring the North Cascades. We visit Maple Pass, Blue Lake, Cutthroat Lake and other hikes nearby" at Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground.
  • Water Activities: Kayaking and swimming are popular. One camper mentioned, "We did a lot of kayaking early and later in the day and had a wonderful time. The water was calm like glass and so clear" at Lake Chelan State Park Campground.
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A visitor shared, "We were treated to nightly screaming of elk in the distance" while camping at Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One review states, "Beautiful campground with many large shaded sites along Lake Diablo. Absolutely gorgeous" at Colonial Creek South Campground.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A camper noted, "The restrooms were the cleanest of any campground I have been to in years!" at Colonial Creek North Campground.
  • Privacy: Campers enjoy the spacious sites. One visitor mentioned, "Most sites are relatively private, 2 tiered with tables/fire pits above or below the parking area" at Klipchuck Campground.

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper warned, "The amount of mosquitoes were off the chart. Even with multiple means of combating them, it was a losing battle" at Colonial Creek South Campground.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Nason Creek Campground mentioned, "Some sites near the road, it's not a wilderness spot."
  • Access to Water: Not all campgrounds have drinking water. A camper at Marble Creek Campground noted, "No water, so pack yours in!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. One reviewer said, "There is a nice play structure for kids" at Colonial Creek South Campground.
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Most of the sites are large with lots of privacy."
  • Plan for Weather: Be ready for changing weather conditions. A visitor shared, "The weather was cool but not unmanageable" at Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One reviewer at Klipchuck Campground noted, "Few sites are long enough for larger rigs and turns are tight in the loops."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at Lake Chelan State Park Campground advised, "I booked in January for an early June trip, and it was almost full already."
  • Bring Cash: Some campgrounds only accept cash for fees. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground mentioned, "Make sure you have cash or check to pay in the Dropbox."

Camping near Stehekin, Washington, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Stehekin, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Stehekin, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 291 campgrounds and RV parks near Stehekin, WA and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Stehekin, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Stehekin, WA is Purple Point Campground — Lake Chelan National Recreation Area with a 3.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Stehekin, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Stehekin, WA.

What parks are near Stehekin, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Stehekin, WA that allow camping, notably Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and North Cascades National Park.