Camping cabins near Wauconda, Washington provide respite in the Okanogan Highlands region at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with regular snowfall. Cabins in this region typically operate seasonally with most facilities closing after the first snowfall in late October.
What to do
Hiking Strawberry Mountain: Access this trail near Bonaparte Lake Campground for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. "Hike Strawberry Mountain if you have the time its beautiful views - but turn your phone off to avoid pinging Canadian service towers," advises Marie L.
Fishing from the dock: Cast your line at North Lake RV Park & Campground where trout fishing is accessible directly from shore. "Weather was great for hanging out in the lake all day swimming and kayaking. We had no problem getting around in our 50 ft rig," reports Mike K., noting the dual water activities available.
Water recreation: Rent equipment at Sun Cove Resort for full lake enjoyment. "They have boats for rent in this incredible saltwater lake and it's a wonderful place to bring kids. There is a water trampoline and a place to swim and paddle boat rentals and more," shares Paige P.
Historical exploration: Use cabins as a base for day trips to nearby ghost towns. "We took a loop to find old ghost towns and remnants in the area plus other loops," mentions Patti C. from Bonaparte Lake Campground, highlighting regional historical attractions beyond typical outdoor activities.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at Bonaparte Lake Campground. "The sites are quite large and can definitely hold a large party. You can access the lake from most of the sites but there is also a dock there for fishing," notes Marie L.
Wildlife viewing: The lakes attract diverse wildlife for observation. "It is stocked with fish and there are loons present. Some sites have lake frontage and are deep sites. One couple across from us had a hammock between 2 trees with a great lake view," shares Judy T.
Repeat visitors: Many resorts foster community through returning guests. "We've been coming here for 13 years. Just about everyone is a repeat customer. Very friendly family oriented," explains Chad M. about Shady Pines Resort.
WiFi access: Some parks offer connectivity despite remote locations. "Super rustic, tons of things for kids to get into, water was clean, power was solid. Heads up, your cell coverage will be spotty here. (Bring a book)," advises Craig S. about North Lake RV Park, noting the balance of rustic setting with modern amenities.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Demand for cabins varies dramatically by season and location. "I stayed here 2 years ago and got a reservation less than a month before we left. This year, 2021, I cant even book a site for the summer right now!" reports Marie L. about Bonaparte Lake.
Facility maintenance: Cabin conditions vary significantly between properties. "This year, 2021, I cant even book a site for the summer right now! I love that people have discovered this hidden gem but I am bummed I cant go back this year," notes Marie L., highlighting how popular sites can book up months in advance.
Smoke concerns: Forest fires may affect summer visits. "We tried to schedule our trip up this way in July to beat the smoke from forest fires but unfortunately due to early heat conditions and dryness forest fires started early this year," warns Patti C.
Cleanliness standards: Facilities receive different levels of maintenance. "There was an amazing camp host while we stayed who made sure the vault and flush toilets were clean," praises Judy T. about American Legion Park, where "bathrooms are old but clean" according to Peter.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Look for resorts with child-specific water features. "This trout fishing is world class," notes Paige P. about Sun Cove Resort, adding they have "a water trampoline and a place to swim."
Budget-friendly options: City parks offer affordable alternatives. "Currently, there is a 72-hour camping limit and is a city park, which means they don't accept any type of pass or discount such as the Discover Pass. The fee is $10/night," explains Jonathan T. about American Legion Park.
Space for group activities: Some campgrounds have ample room for family gatherings. "We got 2 sites side by side for our camping partners. Nice grassy area for group activities," shares Mike K. about North Lake RV Park.
On-site provisions: Resorts with stores reduce travel for supplies. "The owners are great people and the Resort is very well kept. The have cabins and RV sites as well as tent sites. There is fishing right from the dock or you can rent a boat or a pontoon boat," mentions Phil N. about Liar's Cove Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site access for larger rigs: Check accessibility before booking. "We have a 24' pop up truck camper and my sister's small SUV fit in our site 17," shares Judy T. about Bonaparte Lake Campground.
Seasonal considerations: RV sites have different availability windows. "An absolutely fantastic little campground for all sizes, from tents to big RVs!! Jacob the manager was a great help the entire stay," reports David & Sue C. about Shady Pines Resort.
Power reliability: Generator restrictions make reliable hookups important. "Super rustic, tons of things for kids to get into, water was clean, power was solid," notes Craig S. about North Lake RV Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with cabins offer RV services. "I like this area very much. Nothing spectacular, but free showers, free WiFi, bathrooms, water faucet, and water spigot is hard to beat," explains Jonathan T. about American Legion Park.
