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Best Tent Camping near Winthrop, WA

430 Reviews

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."

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Best Tent Sites Near Winthrop, Washington (110)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Winthrop, WA

29 Photos of 110 Winthrop Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Winthrop, WA

430 Reviews of 110 Winthrop Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • 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.
  • Cass C.
    Aug. 29, 2020

    Alta Lake State Park Campground

    Beautiful views, zero privacy

    The campground is beautiful. Because of the fire that destroyed the campground, there is next to no privacy on each campsite.

    Pros: -Stars were incredible- we saw the milky-way and a few shooting starts -clean flushable bathrooms -views, access to hikes -cool lake to swim in -cellphone service (although we opted to put our phones in airplane mode to unplug) -family friendly

    Cons: -noise: during quiet hours there was zero enforcement of quiet time. We had a camp next to us partying until 1am and another group up at 6am putting up a canopy and being incredibly loud -no privacy at campsites -there is a fire ban, so if you are hoping for s’mores make sure to bring a propane stove (not a con for us, but may be for others) -bees: there were so many bees. If you are allergic I recommend staying away. We had a screened in canopy and still managed to get several inside -not a ton of shade, mostly because of precious fires

  • Chad K.
    Aug. 3, 2019

    Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    Fantastic

    We were surprisingly pleased with this campground. Our site was was a tent site only. The sites are spread out and do offer a little privacy. The sites have a picnic table, fire pit and a bear box. The restrooms a bit dated and you could defiantly tell they need to be updated. Diablo lake is beautiful and plenty of hiking trails to keep you busy. We will be back.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 15, 2020

    Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

    So Awesome

    Colonial Creek South was SO busy when we visited but still so awesome!!

    Finding parking can be the first challenge. Due to the boat ramp and hiking trailheads there are A LOT of people/ vehicles. Getting a reservation can be a challenge, good luck. There are walk up sites also, however the system they use can be a little frustrating. Time of year and day of the week I’m sure factors in.

    Once you are in though it is deep cedar/pine forest camping. Several walk in sites are right by Diablo Lake which is beautiful. There’s bear boxes at each site , picnic tables and areas to set up. Water activities galore and hiking trailheads in the area. So much to do. I want to go back!

  • Carrie J.
    Aug. 30, 2016

    Foggy Dew Campground

    Cheap site, great hiking

    This is a small campground so you don't have to worry about too many people disturbing you. There are 12 sites available at this campground and each has a fire ring. Several of the sites are located along the creek. It's so peaceful to sit next to your campfire and hear both the crackling of the fire and the bubbling flow of the creek. Definitely some nice sounds to fall asleep to! There are also picnic tables at the site, so don't worry about bringing camp chairs unless that's your style.

    I believe there is some RV access but I much prefer to tent camp so that's generally all that I pay attention to.

    There are vault/pit toilets here which is a plus considering you're so far in the middle of nowhere. Great hiking is right outside your tent!

Guide to Winthrop

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.

What to do

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.

What campers like

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.

What you should know

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.

Tips for camping with families

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.

Tips from RVers

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 3 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 110 tent camping locations near Winthrop, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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