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Best Tent Camping near Stehekin, WA

782 Reviews

Tent camping options near Stehekin, Washington center primarily around Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, with several boat-in and hike-in tent campgrounds scattered along the shoreline. Purple Point Campground offers lakeside tent sites with amenities including running water, toilets, bear boxes, and dish washing stations, while more remote options like Flick Creek and Moore Point provide primitive tent camping accessible only by boat or on foot. These established campgrounds typically require permits through the National Park Service, with some sites being reservable while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Most tent campgrounds in the Stehekin area have picnic tables and fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons. Sites are generally set on compacted dirt or forest duff with minimal grading, and campers should be prepared for variable conditions. Several campgrounds like Purple Point feature bear boxes for food storage, essential in this wilderness setting. Access is primarily through boat transportation on Lake Chelan or by hiking in, as Stehekin lacks road connections to the outside world. A visitor commented that "if you hit Flick Creek and it's in use, you have a 3.6 mile track to Lakeview campsite in Stehekin."

Areas farther from the Stehekin landing offer deeper seclusion and wilderness experience for tent campers. Bridge Creek Campground, located about 3 miles from Stehekin, serves as a convenient overnight option for backpackers exploring the southern portion of North Cascades National Park. Primitive tent camping options vary in popularity throughout the season, with some sites becoming quite crowded during summer months. The wilderness setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, swimming in Lake Chelan, and hiking to nearby attractions like Domke Falls. According to one camper, "The camp spots had the normal picnic table and fire pit. I liked that the spots weren't super close to the next person. They were separated by trees which I liked."

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Best Tent Sites Near Stehekin, Washington (124)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Stehekin, WA

48 Photos of 124 Stehekin Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Stehekin, WA

782 Reviews of 124 Stehekin Campgrounds

  • B
    Jul. 9, 2017

    Marble Creek Campground

    Peaceful beauty!

    We stayed here on a Thursday through Sunday and enjoyed every day. Important to note there is no running water and no electricity and smaller RVs and smaller trailers will fit and that's it. It's really more of a tent camping place. There are 23 sites about three-quarters are reservable the rest first come first served $14 a night $7 for extra cars. Fire Rings picnic tables and nice pads for your tent in every site. The best ones of course are on the river side with number 9 and 12 being the prime reservable spots. There are two sets of bathrooms for the entire Loop so depending where you stay it can be quite a walk in the night! They are pit Vault toilets and original out houses complete with natural smell. The campground host keeps everything nice and clean. Firewood is sold in the camp ($6) but several places on the way in sell it for less from local people.

  • Andrea R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2019

    Colonial Creek North Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Ranger Review: IceMule Cooler at Colonial Creek Campground.

    Campground Review: Colonial Creek Campground

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

    https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255201

    Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake Washington, is the prettiest place I've been to in Washington! Half the campground is reservation only, the other half is walk in. There is something like 176 total campsites, if I remember correctly. Each campsite is equipped with a large bear box, fire pit, picnic table and tent pad. The restrooms are large with flush toilets and sinks. There are no showers. Large bear proof trashcans, and water spigots are spread through each side of the campground. Thunder knob Trail starts on the south Campground and Thunder Creek trail is on the North campground. There is a fishing dock and a boat launch on the North campground. We stayed in site #15 which was great during the week. I felt this site offered zero privacy, the fire ring was positioned so you had to watch the road, the rest of the large site had a creek, but the trail went past our campsite, so a ton of people, familes, dogs, would all walk past our site. There is parking for the walk in sites right next to you, but those also take the trail. There is also nobody on the other side of you. So it gave a sense of privacy on a Wednesday, but not Friday-Sunday. At $16 a night, I felt it was great compared to other campsites. The beauty of this Campground and surrounding area is unparalleled. Would defiantly be back, but I would probably try for a more secluded site.

    Ranger review: Icemule Cooler

    https://icemulecoolers.com/collections/pro-coolers/products/the-icemule-pro-large

    As a ranger for the Dyrt, I sometimes get products in exchange for an honest review. Icemule coolers are perfection! This is the Large and it is huge! I was very surprised at the quality and size for the price. I love this cooler because it is super easy and comfortable to carry. No more big, heavy, bulky coolers to cart around. On this trip I used it as my main cooler. I froze 14 bottles of water to use as ice. I kept bacon, sausage, chicken, ground beef, hotdogs, butter, syrup and coffee creamer plus all the water bottles and soda in this bag. It was heavy, but held up to the challenge! It kept those bottles of water for 3 days before I had to buy ice. There is a compartment on the front for picnic supplies. I have also used this just as a dry bag. It's got great versatility and it even floats. I am 100% an Icemule cooler fan and recommend to anyone, whether a car camper or hiker, you will enjoy this cooler.

  • Douglas S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2019

    Red Bridge Campground

    Awesome campground in the beautiful Mount Baker National Forest

    The Red Bridge campground is on the very scenic Mountain loop Rd in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. It's a very beautiful drive. Nestled in some great trees, there are 13 sites with shade, right along the river. The camp host was very nice and sold firewood on site. There are no hook ups, and no water spigots so be sure to plan accordingly. There are bear proof trash cans and vault toilets available. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. This campground provides ample hiking, fishing and I saw people kayaking plus its not far to a hike to some glacier caves! Also check out the old red trestle bridge just outside of the campground. At $15 a night you have to see this place. 
    I highly recommend Red Bridge campground.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 19, 2023

    Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground

    Lake and mountains!

    General: A variety of different campsites in two sections ranging from economy to basic to popular, with and without hookups, and priced according to peak or non-peak season. There are also three cabins and two group camp areas. 

    Site Quality: We are happy we were able to book a basic tent site with our campervan (there were more than a few others with RVs in these sites). Parking was on grass and not completely level, but we made it work. Each site had a picnic table and fire ring (although there was a fire ban in effect when we were there). The sites with utilities had paved camper pads. 

    Bath/Shower house: Clean with soap and air dryers. The showers are free but you are asked to not use more than three button pushes. My shower in the afternoon was completely COLD and I am not sure if it was the time of day, the particular shower, or user error. My husband’s shower got hot midway through. 

    Activities/Amenities: All things water-based including jet skis, water skiing, kayaking, SUP, and fishing. There is also a boat wash. There are also numerous trails used for hiking, running, and mountain biking. Other activities include volleyball and horseshoes.

    Despite my cold shower and the fact that state parks are becoming increasingly pricy (with reservation and out-of-state fees, we paid $ 77 for two nights for a tent site), we enjoyed our stay here.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 19, 2023

    Newhalem Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Great NPS campground

    General: Camping in three loops plus walk-in tent sites and a group site (closed when we were there). No hookups of any kind. I was surprised that we had such good cell coverage (Verizon) but am guessing the proximity to the town of Newhalem is why. 

    Site Quality: Nicely wooded with decent separation. Some were back in, and some were pull-through. All were level with a paved camper pad. The sites in Loops A and B have tent platforms (didn’t see them in Loop C); all have a fire pit (but there was a burn ban), a large picnic table, and a bear box. 

    Bathhouse: The one in the A loop was very clean. There are no showers. No paper towels or air dryer so make sure to bring your towel. 

    Activities: 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. The proximity of the Visitor Center was appreciated due to the recent fires and not knowing what was open and what was not. The River Loop is approximately 2 miles and is accessed between the A and B Loops. You can also hike to Ladder Creek Falls. The gardens have been neglected for some time, but the falls are worth it. (You can also drive to the town of Newhalem to get to the falls). 

    We have been in many National Park campgrounds that have been outsourced and have been disappointed, so we were very glad to find this one still maintained by the NPS and at a very reasonable rate ($12 with senior pass).

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2017

    Cougar Island — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Stunning!

    The recreation area has a number of backcountry camping options and at times, sites can get busy in the peak season but the permitting system will provide peace of mind that you'll have a spot for the night. Some sites are right on the lake while others are a bit tucked in. Most sites have fire rings, picnic tables and a few have grills. There's plenty of space to pitch a tent at each spot.

    As for all waste, pack it in and pack it out. There are a lot of mice roaming around these campsites so be sure to secure your food appropriately as well as any overly salty clothing (turns out mice really love salt soaked fabric). Some sites have heavy duty bear boxes for food storage.

    The great thing about these sites is that you can get to them by foot or by boat. We spent several days traveling along the lake, ending in Hozameen and taking a boat ride the length of Ross Lake back to our vehicle at the end.

    There are also several day hike options if you are canoeing/boating to your site or from site to site. Desolation Peak is one of my favorites and has some cool ties to Jack Kerouac. This spot is a gem and totally worth spending a few days here.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 5, 2020

    Klipchuck Campground

    Semi-Primitive Camping With Trio Of Trails

    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. This campground was so beautiful and as the fog lifted in the early morning following a rain it was something out of a movie with the cascading sites lining the flatter areas and also the gentle climbing slopes. 

    Despite the nature of this site being semi-primitive you do not feel as though you are without as there is running water located at centralized spigots throughout camp and vault toilets scattered throughout. No matter the site number you select you will be within close proximity to walk to these features. 

    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. I found on a quick drive through camp there were sites to accommodate all camping styles depending on your personal preference of size. 

    Standard site amenities include picnic tables and fire rings with clear area perfect for tent camping. Garbage collection areas are placed along each of the 2 loops, a great bonus feature not all forest camps offer. 

    Pricing was very friendly and could be deposited into a self pay station at the entrance. This is checked by a campground host daily. Additionally the campground host when I was there was extremely friendly offering great tips for adventures in the area within driving distance. 

    3 trails lead out of this campground making it the perfect setting for exploring, though the area does have bear awareness signs located throughout so it would be wise to come prepared for the possibilities of animal encounters. I suggest the scenic trail which has some amazing views of the forest and the many features of the landscaping around. 

    Perhaps my favorite feature of this camp is the constant sound of the water around you which makes it extremely peaceful. If you are interested in getting a bit closer to the water make sure to camp along the back side of the campground. 

    **TIP: **

    • Bring everything you will need to this site, there are no stores on property to purchase anything, including fire wood you will need to come prepared!! 
    • Consider one of the hikes from camp for a day trip instead of preparing to only hike at a trail away from camp.
  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2017

    Klipchuck Campground

    Another Methow Gem

    This is great camping option in the beautiful Methow Valley. Close to the small town of Winthrop and near two cold and refreshing snow fed bodies of water (Early Winters Creek and the Methow River) perfect for cooling off in the hot summer. This valley is breathtaking all times of year!

    This is a USFS run campground and is available for $12/night on a first come, first serve basis. This campground is highly popular in the summer months and can experience high volume especially on weekends and holidays. There are vault toilets available that are well maintained but that condition can begin to deteriorate as the summer goes on due to the number of visitors.

    Each site offers a nice large gravel area for pitching tents, picnic tables and decent shade. There is potable water available in the summer months and trash receptacles can also be found here.

    This area has been prone to large wildfires in recent years so be sure to check for current conditions regarding fire bans, as they are often in effect in the summer. Remember, only you can prevent forest fires!

  • A
    Sep. 19, 2019

    Goodell Creek Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Location is great!

    Located directly in front of the North Cascades Visitor Center. The campground is as described. We tent camped in loop A near the hike-in sites. Of course it was rainy but we were still very happy with this campground. The bathrooms were clean and had one electric outlet. The water spigot was in front of the restrooms. The bear box was excellent and there were plenty of trees for privacy. There is one general store nearby but no restaurants so I’d recommend coming prepared. The NP Rangers are lovely and pointed us in the right direction for hikes. We drove into Newhalem to hike the Ladder Creek Falls Trail behind the Gorge Powerhouse. It is beautiful! Then we drove up Lake Diablo - Gorgeous!

Guide to Stehekin

Tent camping near Stehekin, Washington requires boat or foot access since no roads connect the remote community to the outside world. The village sits at the northern end of Lake Chelan within North Cascades National Park at an elevation of 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average between 50-85°F while spring and fall conditions can bring freezing temperatures and precipitation, requiring campers to pack accordingly for variable weather conditions.

What to do

Hiking to waterfalls: Take the 3.6-mile trek from Flick Creek Boat-in Camp to experience cascading water features. "One site only, 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 Duane and Janey D.

Swimming in Lake Chelan: Access the frigid but refreshing waters directly from Purple Point Campground. "The view of the lake here is amazing, especially from the lower more northern camps. Close proximity to the store, restaurant, showers, laundry, etc., is very convenient," writes Rick P.

Cave exploration: Check out the small cave near the boat dock at Refrigerator Harbor Campground. "Good fishing! Small cave near boat dock! Awesome hike up to domke falls from this camp ground! Good all around views, lots of sun," shares Jess G.

What campers like

Convenient amenities: Purple Point offers practical facilities for longer stays. "Clean and well stocked bathrooms with running water. Good tent pads, nice sites with firepits/grates, trash, dish sink, bear boxes, and potable water. Shower, laundry, and food are just a short walk from the village," reports Shari G.

Site privacy: Bridge Creek Campground provides natural separation between campsites. "I liked that the spots weren't super close to the next person. They were separated by trees which I liked. Privacy is always nice!!" explains Sasha W.

Meeting through-hikers: Moore Point Campground offers social opportunities with Pacific Crest Trail hikers. "Many PCT thru-hikers stop through here, so be ready for some fun company and great stories. Also, be sure to visit the bakery and the garden for amazing food!" suggests a camper.

What you should know

Limited availability: Most campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis with limited sites. "Flick Creek has only one site... If you hit this and it's in use, you have a 3.6 mile track to Lakeview campsite in Stehekin," warns Duane and Janey D.

Transportation logistics: Access requires planning since Stehekin has no road connections. "The only way to access the camping site is by boat, plane or on foot," explains James, highlighting a common misunderstanding about Lakeview Campground.

Variable wind conditions: Lake Chelan can experience sudden weather changes. "Our trip had huge winds which made it difficult to set up and cook with no wind break," reports Duane and Janey about Cascade Creek. Another camper notes "waters get rougher later in the season (late August) or early Summer...winds get rough and the lake can get nasty quickly."

Tips for camping with families

Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. "To get to the toilet you have to cross a blowdown over the river, so not the best for small kids," warns a reviewer about Cascade Creek.

Optimal timing: For the best camping experience at North Cascades, "go earlier or later in the season, it's lovely. Designated fire areas, near boxes, and you can camp right next to the creek," recommends Emily L. about Bridge Creek Campground.

Wildlife awareness: Pack food properly in designated bear boxes. "Watch for rattlesnakes in the rocks," advises Jennifer H., highlighting important safety considerations when camping with children near Refrigerator Harbor.

Tips from RVers

Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Stehekin doesn't accommodate many RVs due to access limitations. "It's a boat in site that doesn't require permits, it's one of the most easily accessible sites in the area," notes Emily L. about Weaver Point, one of few areas potentially suitable for small RVs.

Alternate accommodations: Consider tent camping instead of RVs in this region. "Right off the hiway. Very quiet campground. Was a pleasant stay. Bear food containers on site," reports Robert M. about Cascade Creek Campground, which allows limited RV access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Stehekin, WA?

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

What is the best site to find tent camping near Stehekin, WA?

TheDyrt.com has all 124 tent camping locations near Stehekin, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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