1 campground with availability this weekend
Tent campsites near Winthrop, Washington range from established sites to dispersed options in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Sullivan Pond Camp offers primitive tent camping opportunities with limited amenities but scenic surroundings, while established options like Cougar Lake provide tent-only experiences with toilet facilities nearby. War Creek Campground accommodates tent campers with picnic tables and basic facilities, making it suitable for those seeking more structured camping arrangements.
Most tent sites in the Winthrop area feature dirt or gravel surfaces with minimal site preparation. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing dispersed camping areas like Sullivan Pond, where a Washington Discover Pass is required. According to one visitor, "Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance." Established campgrounds typically offer vault toilets, but drinking water is generally unavailable across most sites. Summer brings warm, dry conditions while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature variations. Fire restrictions commonly apply during the dry season, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips.
Areas farther from town provide deeper seclusion with fewer amenities but greater solitude. Tent campsites at higher elevations may remain inaccessible until late spring due to snowmelt, with sites like Harts Pass requiring good weather and appropriate vehicles. Many primitive tent areas feature access to hiking trails and waterways, offering opportunities for day excursions from base camp. Sites near water bodies like Sullivan Pond provide pleasant ambient sounds and wildlife viewing. A camper noted about Rock Lakes Campground that it was "recently refreshed with new fire rings and gravel, and most sites have new picnic tables. Trail to the lakes is steep, so wear more than sandals. Insects are minimal and no mosquitoes were noted."
"Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required."
"There is about a dozen pull off spots on the side of the road and then a few more at the top by the lake. The lake was almost non-existent/dried out when we visited."
"Campsites have picnic table and fire ring. Sites are small but perfect for tents. Many of the sites are closed due to falling tree danger."
"It’s on a high flat above a river, which would be easy to walk down to if you wanted to fish plenty of space for cars that are blocked off by larger rock so you could set up a tent if you wanted to or"
"If you are willing to drive a few extra miles up Twisp River Road, this campground is worth it. Spent 2 nights and never saw anyone else except the camp hosts."
"Recently refreshed with new fire rings and gravel, and most sites have new picnic tables. Trail to the lakes is steep, so wear more than sandals. Insects are minimal and no mosquitoes were noted."
TravelerWe’ve stayed here before, and each time the stay has been wonderful! Our first time was when an unexpected snowfall happened (over 2 feet) while camping. One of the hosts let us stay in the laundry area to stay warm, and even offered one of the cabins to cook in to stay out of the elements. The RV park is wonderfully kept and the facilities is all regularly cleaned. It’s a short walk onto the main strip of Winthrop.
LegendEnjoyed a couple nights relaxing at this great spot. A couple of visitors drove through to check out the river but we were the only ones camping. We stayed at the back at the site with beach access.
GuideWe originally drove up NF-51 to check out Falls Creek Campground (which is also beautiful) and discovered this gem! While there is no fee per night to camp, a Discover Pass is required (unless you already have a Vehicle Access Pass issued with the purchase of an eligible hunting or fishing license).
No potable water or hookups available. Very stinky pit toilet. Fire rings at sites but there was a ban in place when we were there.
There was plenty of room when we were here, but I would imagine it is very busy during the summer and hunting season.
ScoutReally pretty campsite. When I visited on 9/4/26, the potable water station closest to site 73 was broken; I’m sure it’ll be fixed, just something to know
ScoutState provided camping area. Approx 12 sites. Level, on dirt. ADA site is paved, next to vault toilet. Dry camp, no trash or bear boxes. Close to Lake Perry gin and Winthrop. Great location for hunting and fishing. Free of charge.
GuideThe park has a long history dating back to construction of nearby Chief Joesph Dam. The area used to be scrubland, and a similar story as Ohme Gardens in Wenatchee, but that is what I am reviewing here.
Many, most of the assortment of tree species ‘grew up’ in this nice grassy park, and the many birds offer pleasant songs and chirps. I wouldn’t call the sites very private, but many have nice spacing. A few sites on the most northern drive thru’s can be an issue in leveling a trailer, just takes a bit more time and effort.
The park has had a large marmot presence, depends on the year and culling by the tribes. Also liked by the Canadian Goose causing ‘poop land’ on the swimming beach lawn.
The last few years has seen a nationally respected golf course on top of a hill, great views with a place for lunch, dinner, or sipping wine in an Adirondack chair enjoying the view. This is close the the main N/S highway connection with the Dam road. Also, just north of Brewster is a new winery with restaurant and wine/beer outside with a gorgeous setting…and they also have a new RV park too.
TravelerEarly Winters is a great campsite that straddles the North Cascade Highway just outside of Winthrop. The north side of the highway connects directly to a few hiking/biking trails. The south side has the Early Winters Creek running right behind it. There is a decent pool behind campsites 5 and 6. There is a bit of highway noise, but it is fine for a few nights. Mazama is only a few miles down the road with a great store, gas, and restaurant. Winthrop is a fun town 16 miles further east with tons of shops, eateries, outdoor rentals, and more.
GuideCute little spot just off the hwy. Trees with a creek that runs through. Some hwy noise but not much. Very little WiFi. Little bathroom was clean.
ScoutThis is a quiet, clean campsite just off highway 20 with a camp host on site. It is forested and has a stream that runs along the perimeter. There is no electricity, clean outhouses, a bit of internet, and a nearby gas/diesel station and small grocery. Great bicycle trails/hiking in the area.
Tent camping near Winthrop, Washington offers options across the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during daytime hours, dropping to 40-50°F overnight. Most campgrounds remain snow-covered until late April, with higher elevation sites inaccessible until June.
Hiking access: Mystery Campground provides direct trail connections to numerous backcountry routes. "Easy access to trails, river, and mountain biking. Gorgeous views all around. No drinking water is provided, but the river is easily accessible," notes camper Shari G.
Wildlife viewing: Campbell Lake features habitat for various bird species and deer. The surrounding forest area contains multiple overlooks for photography opportunities, particularly during morning and evening hours when animals are most active.
Water activities: J R Campground sits in proximity to fishing areas. "Several car sized pull outs along a dirt road, very close to the main road. Has a bathroom. In a very wooded area, not many views," reports Vivian R., highlighting the campground's forested setting.
Affordability: Mystery Campground offers significant value for budget-conscious campers. One visitor remarks, "Awesome for the price of $8 per night! Not fancy, but had plenty of privacy and ADA accessible pit toilets."
Solitude: Rock Lakes Campground provides a peaceful setting away from crowds. "This campground is on DNR land and is free. There are 7 camp sites and would not recommend anything more than a teardrop trailer," explains Jeff C.
Spring wildflowers: Sullivan Pond Camp features abundant wildflower displays during May-June. "Really peaceful and lovely campsite. Lots of flowers, just a few camping spaces available. Washington Discovery Pass is required for camping here," shares Emma T.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal regulations often prohibit open flames during peak summer months. "The campsite is right by the forest road. Fire restrictions are in place for the summer months, so no campfires," warns Jeremy M. about Sullivan Pond Camp.
Permit requirements: Washington Discover Pass is mandatory for camping at several dispersed sites. This pass costs $30 annually or $10 for a day pass and can be purchased online or at local outdoor retailers.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are prevalent at lower elevation sites, particularly near water sources. "Quite a few mosquitos do bring spray or other repellant types," advises a camper about conditions at Sullivan Pond Camp.
Site selection: Choose established campgrounds with toilets for easier family camping. War Creek Campground offers basic amenities suitable for families, though a camper notes "no Wi-Fi or cell service and a lot of restrictions, i.e., no fires, no fishing."
Water planning: Bring adequate water supplies as drinking water isn't available at most sites. Pack 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 85°F.
Activity preparation: Pack games and activities that don't require electronic devices. Cell service is nonexistent at most campgrounds near Winthrop, making traditional camping activities essential for family entertainment.
Size limitations: Cougar Lake accommodates only smaller camping vehicles. A visitor explains, "Campsites have picnic table and fire ring. Sites are small but perfect for tents. Many of the sites are closed due to falling tree danger."
Road conditions: Access roads to most dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. For Sullivan Pond Camp, a camper recommends "4wd with good clearance" for safely navigating the forest roads leading to camping areas.
Limited hookups: No RV hookups exist at any campgrounds in the immediate Winthrop area. RVers must be self-contained with adequate battery power or generators where permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Winthrop, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Winthrop, WA is Sullivan Pond Camp with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 111 tent camping locations near Winthrop, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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