Tent camping options around Wenatchee, Washington range from alpine lake backcountry sites to riverside locations with mountain views. The region sits at the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains where forest landscapes transition to drier terrain. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F in lower elevations, while higher elevation sites remain snow-covered until June or July.
What to do
Trail access for hikers: Colchuck Lake serves as a base camp for exploring the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. This challenging 4-mile hike (8 miles round trip) leads to spectacular mountain views. "Beautiful 4 mile hike up to the lake. There was a weird smell coming from the river, so maybe don't drink from it haha. Bring plenty of your own water, also BUG SPRAY. Lots of bugs at the lakeside," reports camper Ethan H.
Paddling opportunities: Lake Chelan State Park Campground offers direct water access with equipment rentals available onsite. "Amazing dock system and access to the lake, great day use area where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards," notes Marie L. The state park maintains designated swimming areas with both grassy shoreline and beach access points.
Mountain biking routes: Forest service roads around the Wenatchee area connect to numerous mountain biking trails of varying difficulty. Many dispersed camping areas along these roads allow for convenient morning trail access without needing to drive. Watch for seasonal trail closures due to fire danger or weather conditions that typically occur from mid-July through September.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: FS Road 7601 Dispersed provides multiple pull-off sites with river access. "We camped right along the river, and there was even a little access point for kayaks and canoes and calm water for the kids," shares Anna Marie C.B. The road continues to popular trailheads, so expect morning traffic during summer months.
Mountain views: Dispersed camping areas offer scenic vistas without developed campground facilities. "Each of the 3 spots had easy access to the river. It's only 2 miles away from the Stuart and Colchuck Lake TH too!" writes Renee G. about FS Road 7601. These locations typically operate on a first-come basis with no reservation system.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many tent sites around Wenatchee provide habitat for native wildlife. Campers report seeing mountain goats at higher elevations, particularly around Colchuck Lake, where Curran S. advises: "Be mindful of mountain Goats. They're mostly harmless but keep food sealed away and don't get between them and their babys or they might get pissed."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to prime camping areas often requires traveling on unmaintained forest roads. Swakane Canyon/Creek Campsite requires navigating "over 4 miles of poorly maintained gravel road, but with a nice forest patch at the end," according to Maja K. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most dispersed camping areas.
Water availability: Most tent sites around Wenatchee require campers to bring their own water or filter from natural sources. Alpine lakes provide water but require proper filtration. At Colchuck Lake, hikers are advised to "bring plenty of your own water" as stream sources may be unreliable.
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping permits are mandatory for many sites in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Danielle S. notes about Colchuck Lake: "Be aware, trying to camp here without a permit is not advised: our permits were checked by a ranger up at the lake." Permits can be obtained through advance lottery or day-of availability at ranger stations.
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities: For families needing more facilities, established campgrounds offer important conveniences. "Large state park with everything you could possible need for a family camping weekend. Nice sites with lots of shade, showers, clean restrooms, swimming area, docks, beach front sites," shares Shari G. about Lake Chelan State Park.
Child-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas. "He had a blast! The water was still a little chilly but he was able to dip his toes in the water and get a little wet. There was also a nice playground for him to play on as well," reports Courtney J. after camping at Lake Chelan with her two-year-old.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about appropriate wildlife interaction. Many camping areas have active wildlife populations that require proper food storage and waste disposal. Secure all food items in approved containers, especially at higher elevation sites where animals may be more aggressive in seeking food.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV camping options are more limited than tent sites but still available. At Lake Chelan State Park, Marie L. advises: "If you can get a site on the beach here it's well worth the alarms you have to set on your phone to get them! The sites are smallish and a little weird shaped but you get direct access to the water." Most beach sites require carrying gear down from parking areas.
Weather preparation: Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping can experience significant wind. "It gets pretty windy at night but there are treelines you can position against," notes Meghan. Another camper, Alyson M., confirms: "It is very windy!" Position RVs with wind direction in mind and secure all exterior items.
Road access limitations: Many forest service roads have tight turns or steep sections unsuitable for larger RVs. "This would get 5 stars if it weren't for the terribly bumpy and long road up to the main site. My Toyota Highlander made it up, but I was a little nervous," reports Alyson M. about Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping. Check road conditions before attempting access with larger vehicles.
