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Facilities

Established Camping

Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Colonial Creek South Campground, near Sedro-Woolley, Washington, is a fantastic destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the North Cascades National Park. With its stunning views of Diablo Lake and surrounding mountains, this campground offers a picturesque setting for camping enthusiasts.

The campground features spacious sites, many of which are shaded by towering trees, providing a cool retreat during warmer months. Visitors often mention the clean bathrooms and the convenience of having bear boxes at each site, ensuring safety while enjoying the great outdoors. As one camper noted, “Beautiful campground with many large shaded sites along Lake Diablo. Absolutely gorgeous.”

For adventure seekers, there are plenty of nearby activities. You can swim in the lake, launch a boat, or hit the hiking trails right across the street. The Thunder Knob trail is a popular choice for those wanting to explore the area further. Just keep in mind that weekends can get busy, so planning ahead is key.

While some campers have noted that sites can feel a bit close together, the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it worth it. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or a longer stay, Colonial Creek South Campground is a great base for exploring the natural wonders of the North Cascades.

Description

National Park Service

North Cascades National Park

Overview

Colonial Creek South Campground in North Cascades National Park is a remote, yet bustling campground nestled in old -growth forest. Located on the south side of State Route 20 near milepost 130, there are 94 campsites that are surrounded by forest and located on Diablo Lake. Colonial Creek South Campground can accommodate a variety of camping, whether its drive-in camping, or walk-in tent camping. The campsites vary in size from small to medium. Most of the campsites do not accommodate large trailers or RVs.

Recreation

Campers can access the Thunder Creek Trailhead from the South Loop. The Thunder Knob Trailhead is on the north loop across State Route 20. Fishing is allowed in Diablo Lake with a Washington State Fishing license, the nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating. Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report.

Natural Features

Colonial Creek South Campground is surrounded by a forest of western redcedar, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, red huckleberries, and other native vegetation. The campground has easy access to Diablo Lake for recreating.

Nearby Attractions

Traveling west on State Route 20: The North Cascades Visitor Center is 11 miles (18 km) west on State Route 20 from Colonial Creek South Campground, operating seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find the passport stamps, exhibits, park film, park store, and much more. Traveling east on State Route 20: Diablo Lake Overlook is 1.5 miles (2 km) east on State Route 20. the turquoise lake can be viewed safely from this area and there is ample day use parking and vault toilets. Ross Lake Overlook is 5 miles (8 km) east on State Route 20, this is a less developed vista point. There are two pull off areas with interpretive way sides and with views of the Ross Dam and Ross Lake.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200.

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Location

Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area is located in Washington

Detail location of campground

Directions

Colonial Creek South Campground is located near milepost 130 on State Route 20. From Burlington, WA, drive 70 miles (113 km) east on State Route 20. From Twisp, WA, drive 71 miles (114 km) west on State Route 20.

Address

810 State Route 20
Sedro-woolley, WA 98284

Coordinates

48.6895806 N
121.0960611 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

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42 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 16, 2024

Great off season campground

Our camp spots were close to the lake. The cedar trees gave great cover from the rain. The trails around camp were well maintained.

Site69
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Ross S., October 16, 2024
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Ross S., October 16, 2024
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2024

Beautiful wooded sites

Beautiful campground with many large shaded sites along Lake Diablo. Absolutely gorgeous. Each site has its.own bear boxes and the bathrooms were pretty clean.

Site144
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Sep. 17, 2023

Convenient spot

Lovely but busy spot in North Cascades NP. We were fortunate with really good weather. You can swim in the lake, there is a boat launch and there is a hiking trail across the street. Super convenient. Thunder knob trail.

Bathrooms were clean. Sites a little close. Lots of people come into the park on the weekends from Seattle though it is the least visited of the three Washington Parks. Lovely scenery, turquoise lake.

You need to be prepared when you arrive. Closest camp store is about 25 minutes with limited supplies, but can get you by.. there are restaurants and gas stations in Marblemount, but that is all from what we could tell.

Site64
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Kristi D., September 17, 2023
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Kristi D., September 17, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2023

Beautiful Location

I generally enjoyed this location in North Cascades National Park. It is a beautiful area with hikes nearby and chilly swimming. Mosquitos weren’t bad which was a relief. However, sites at this campground are close together and not very private. It feels a bit like a carnival at times instead of camping in the woods.

We found ourselves in the middle of the Pace family reunion while visiting. Apparently all the adults coordinated and rented sites by each other for this event instead of renting a group site. The adults yelled across our site to each other, their children ran through our site to adjacent ones, and they were up and noisy by 6 AM. We also were treated to dirty looks, I’m guessing because it was their “usual spot”? They said they camped there for over 30 years so they clearly feel like it’s their private park at this point. This certainly impacted our enjoyment, and ability to relax.

In the future, we will consider a site away from the water for more privacy.

Despite the presence of bears, there was also a pretty cavalier attitude to bear safety and adherence to those rules. There were a lot of kids and adults day drinking so they just weren’t as alert as they should be. This can put those around them at greater risk for a bear encounter. A fed bear is a dead bear, so this was frustrating to witness.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by K. K., July 29, 2023
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by K. K., July 29, 2023
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by K. K., July 29, 2023
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2022

Favorite campground

Went two years in a row on Memorial Day weekend. Crazy busy but 100% worth it if you plan accordingly. Swimming in the lake is an absolute must if after a long day outdoors if you can brave the cold!

Site142
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2021

Stunningly Busy

We were super excited to camp at Colonial Creek. I've read so many reviews saying this is the best place to camp in the N Cascades. I imagine your experience will be different on any given night based on the community camping at the time. But, boy would I ever think twice about camping here on a summer weekend again. It seemed like every site was over capacity with many cars and tents and huge groups of people jammed in everywhere. The result is complete chaos of barking dogs and screaming children and parties going late into the night. On the weekend we were here it seemed like a group of 50 or so folks had rented several sites and would gather to sing & talk lake into the night each night. Because there were SO many people at each site there were often lines at the bathrooms. That said, bathrooms were clean.

We were in site 163 which is huge with a huge tent pad. That said, it is almost a twin site with 162 and tons of traffic. Like, you could almost stand between cars parked in both driveways and touch them.  The sites on the lake side of the inner loop (like 157, 159, etc) seemed more private and away from the ruckus. 

If you are a rooftop tenter it's probably worth noting that the parking spots for even the drive-up lake-side camp spots are basically in a parking lot/on the road and most of the campsite itself is a bit of a walk to the lake.

Site163
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 21, 2021

Pretty but noisy

Colonial creek south #80 is our favorite site. It's a double site so there's room for a couple of tents, close to water and toilets. The sites close to the water are packed tight, often one on top of another. No privacy. We had screaming kids at all sites around us, so it was hard to relax. Still a great campground. We saw bald eagles, hawks and deer. There were bears sited within the campground, so the rangers were being very vigilant.

Site#80
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by G , June 21, 2021
Reviewed Jun. 2, 2021

Fun N. Cascades Spot

Beautiful site! Try to get a reservation if you can, this campground can get really busy! Nice tent pads, and food storage lockers which is great. Like others mentioned, lots of winding trails nearby and the lake is amazing!

Site164
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Mar. 28, 2021

Awesome car camping spot with waterfront camping

What can I say that others haven't!? Some of the best car camping in the Cascades. The lake is shockingly blue and COLD, but after a sweaty day of hiking is the ultimate in refreshment! Camp sites are close but feel secluded enough. If you walk into the tent sites on the north side of the campground you have some better options if you want to lug all of your gear with you.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Meghan , March 28, 2021
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Meghan , March 28, 2021
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Meghan , March 28, 2021
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Mar. 15, 2021

North Cascades National Park camping at its finest!

This is by far the nicest campground in North Cascades National Park that one can drive to.  If you are lucky to be able to reserve beach side spots on Diablo Lake you will also have lots of privacy and incredible views of this amazing turquoise blue lake and maybe even your own water access/beach.  If not, the dock and beach are only a few steps away. Bathrooms are pretty basic, no showers. Cell reception is non-existent.  Amazing access to the lake and incredible hikes from your campsite!

  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Emma A., March 15, 2021
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Emma A., March 15, 2021
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Emma A., March 15, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Nov. 15, 2020

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!

  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shelly S., November 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shelly S., November 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shelly S., November 15, 2020
  • (16) View All
Reviewed Aug. 15, 2020

Great Lake Access

I’m not by any means a pro fisherman but this camp gives great access to any fish that stray away from the lake in to the inlet. The sites are pretty spread out compared to other camp sites in western Washington for sure. Everything is pretty open and there is a nice trail at the end you could take to go backpacking or just a day hike

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2020

Social Distancing - Great Place

Campgrounds are full. Camping is one of the safest ways to get out and about yet still practice social distancing. Luckily we planned our trip before COVID-19 appeared and we were able to go on our trip in spite of COVID. And luckily we had reservations. Colonial Creek South Campground on Diablo Lake was a wonderful place to camp. Our site was big enough for our A Frame Pop Up camper and it had a nice private picnic table and tent area we could have used if we’d had extra people camping with us. We were right across from the camp sites that backed up to Diablo Lake and have already scoped a camp site on that side we’d love to check out next summer. There’s lots of lovely hikes in the area. The campground was kept very clean. Kayaking, boating, swimming (although the water is cold) - the lake is a beautiful turquoise jewel in the heart of the North Cascades. We can’t wait to go back.

So many people have dusted off their camping gear or bought new gear and are out and about. Colonial Creek North Campground, which is not reservable, was full mid week. Usually we’ve been able to get non-reserved camp sites mid week easily. So just a word to the wise if you are going camping, arrive early or get reservations where possible.

Reviewed Jul. 7, 2020

This Lake!

Diablo lake is one of the most stunning sites my eyes have feasted on! We love this campsite. We’ve done first come first serve here, but I think that there are reservable sites too. The hiking, the swimming, the drive in! This place is truly magnificent and magical.

Reviewed Aug. 3, 2019

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.

  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Chad K., August 3, 2019
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Chad K., August 3, 2019
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Chad K., August 3, 2019
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2019

Absolutely amazing

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from this campground. The maps made it look tight and the park didn’t make much sense to me but I was in for the biggest surprise of our trip. This campground is astounding. The spacing was great especially for a national park campground, the walk ins weren’t to far away but not to close either, the bathrooms were placed appropriately and the attractions are right at your site. There had to have been a dozen old growth giant trees in our site and the views to really help you relax. The bathrooms didn’t have a shower and you could tell the plumbing was old but it didn’t matter. The sites all have a normal fire ring and table. Our site was for tents only and it is recommended to check each site before you book a reservation. Reservations are a must here as well.

  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Tom K., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Tom K., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Tom K., July 25, 2019
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jun. 4, 2019

Good location

Our family really liked the camp ground itself. The only complaint really is other campers. Our "neighbor" obviously wasn't in the know about campground etiquette. Spot lights on until 11 PM and were very loud. But the campground was in a beautiful area close to the beautiful Diablo lake view point. The lake was right at the campground and it was just amazing.

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2018

Favorite campground in the area

We loved this campground! In the off-season only a few walk-in sites are available for free. The main restrooms and water are locked up, only a vault toilet is available at this time. Site #64 is the best site, much farther away from the nearest campsite and larger. This campground was very quite during the weekends but got busy on the weekends. Next to a few popular overnight hikes, right on the lake, boat dock access. Beautiful spot!

  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Natalie B., October 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Natalie B., October 1, 2018
  • (11) View All
Reviewed Sep. 20, 2018

camp at diablo lake

This was our first stop of a 7 day road trip! We arrived in the dark and only stayed for the night. Surprisingly there were plenty of open spots! Our site was small, equipped with a bear locker, fire ring and picnic table. The camp ground had flush toilets, the bathrooms were very clean. They also had a garbage and recycling service, and even potable water available. We explored the camp ground during the day. This camp is right at Diablo lake! There were even camp sites right on the water! Fully accessible fishing pier and boat launch. Kayaking was rough as the winds were strong while we were here. Hiking and more available to those that stay. Fishers had a place to clean their catch! We paid 16 dollars for 1 night. Typically camp at dispersed sites but I would certainly stay here again.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Jess G., September 20, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Jess G., September 20, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Jess G., September 20, 2018
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Aug. 16, 2018

Relaxed and Refreshing

Colonial Creek is right on Diablo Lake. My boyfriend and I were at a spot with the water just in the other side of the trees and it was phenomenal. We had a deer walk through the campsite the next morning, but other than that our spot felt secluded and was one of my favorite campsites I have had.

Reviewed Aug. 2, 2018

Beautiful lake and a network of amazing trails

Colonial Creek is situated in the heart of the North Cascades. It has easy boat access to Ross Lake and trails along Thunder Creek. Has clean restrooms and spacious campsites. Sites are first come, first served. Sites are wooded and bugs were minimal.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 25, 2018

North Loop

Tuesday June 19th Colonial creek campground north loop. (pay cash/check at box) Temps in the 80’s in Seattle, hot at campground wIth cool breezes. Spot #21 $16 a night first come Bear lockers provIded Parking in site. Great for a small travel trailer. No hook ups. Neighbors barely visible through thick foliage. Direct access to creek. Rocky banks, lots of fell trees. Trees for a hammock. Bathrooms and water spigots are equal distances away in opposite directions. Nearby Diablo lake is a beautiful light teal green and is colder than hell freezing over. It would be nice for kayaking, but not even the quickest dip. Leashed dogs allowed. no showers

  • video of walk through site from car to creek
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Alicia V., June 25, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Alicia V., June 25, 2018
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jun. 18, 2018

One of my favorite Car camps

Love this place! The lakeside space is awesome and makes for a relaxing getaway with some beautiful alpine views. And diablo lake is a gem always changing coloring depending on the lighting...truly magical! Make sure you bring bug spray if headed out in July. My only negative is all the summer weekends reserve out way early in the season :(

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Emily C., June 18, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Emily C., June 18, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Emily C., June 18, 2018
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jun. 8, 2018

Fantastic

pet friendly (on 6’ leash), quiet, shaded. Clean bathrooms, but no showers. Fire ring, table, and bear proof cabinets at each site. surrounded by forest and on Diablo Lake! water is cold, but stunningly beautiful. some really nice hikes

  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shane D., June 8, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shane D., June 8, 2018
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Shane D., June 8, 2018
  • (5) View All
Reviewed May. 3, 2018

Lakeside paradise

One of my favorites! Campsites right on the water of a pristine blue lake. Watch out for bears though

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Mar. 31, 2018

Beautiful trip

Stopped hear on a road trip around the north cascades. Very busy campground but nice. Even had a ranger talk at the amphitheater about wildlife and bringing back grizzly bears to the park.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area by Terri G., March 31, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area?

    Camping at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area can cost between $16.00 and $24.00 depending on the site.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area?

    Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area allows vehicles up to 43 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is available.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area?

    There are 95 campsites at Colonial Creek South Campground — Ross Lake National Recreation Area and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts