Complete Guide to Camping in North Cascades National Park

North Cascades Campgrounds: Complete Guide

Inside the national park and the adjacent Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas, five drive-in campgrounds (all along or near Highway 20 on the west side) and numerous boat-in and backcountry camps provide the most immersive access to trails and lakes. Facilities are rustic with no RV hookups or showers in park campgrounds, and limited cell service.

Outside the park, you'll find national forest campgrounds, dispersed camping on public lands, Washington State Parks, and a handful of private campgrounds. These can offer amenities like hot showers, hookups, and easier access to nearby towns like Marblemount, Winthrop, and Mazama. In-park camping trades amenities for proximity to scenery and trailheads, while outside-park options trade proximity for comfort, services, and sometimes better weather on the drier east side.

Park Campgrounds

Nearby Private Campgrounds

Rasar State Park (Concrete, west side) provides standard and partial-hookup sites, showers, and riverside trails. This family-friendly base sits near Highway 20.

Winthrop / North Cascades KOA (east side) offers full-service private camping with hookups, showers, pool, and Wi-Fi. Good for RVs and families near Methow Valley towns.

Marblemount/Rockport area has county and private options like Howard Miller Steelhead Park and Glacier Peak Resort with hookups and showers. Convenient for west-side exploration.

Pearrygin Lake State Park (Winthrop) is a large lakefront campground with hookups, swim beach, and showers in the sunny eastern climate.

Free Camping Options

Dispersed National Forest Areas near North Cascades offer free camping options within 15-30 minutes of North Cascades. Multiple forest roads on both sides of the range offer free dispersed camping with 14-day limits and no facilities. Examples include spurs near Mazama and Winthrop (east) and select pullouts off Cascade River Road or Baker Lake Road (west). Arrive early on weekends, obey fire restrictions, and pack out all waste.

Specialty Lodging

Stehekin Valley Ranch (Lake Chelan NRA) provides tent cabins and cabins in a remote valley with meals and showers included. Access is by ferry, boat, or hike.

Rolling Huts (Mazama) features architect-designed cabin huts with shared facilities. This modern take on glamping sits near Methow trails.

Ross Lake Resort offers floating cabin accommodations on Ross Lake. Book far in advance, as day rentals for boats and kayaks are also available.

Campground Comparison Table

Campground	Location & Sites	Cost & Reservations
Newhalem Creek	Inside park (west) Largest NPS campground	$20–$24 Recreation.gov (summer)
Colonial Creek (South & North)	Inside park On Diablo Lake	$20–$24 Recreation.gov (summer)
Goodell Creek	Inside park Forested/primitive	$20 (summer) Reservations peak; FCFS shoulder
Gorge Lake	Inside park Small lakeside campground	Low fee or free off-season FCFS
Winthrop / N. Cascades KOA	Private, east side near town	Varies Direct booking
Rasar / Pearrygin (State Parks)	Outside park Showers/hookups	Varies WA State Parks reservations
Dispersed NF camping	Public lands No facilities	Free FCFS (14-day limits)

Campground Amenities and Best Uses

Park Campgrounds: Colonial Creek (South) stands out for lakeside scenery on Diablo Lake with direct access to Thunder Knob and Thunder Creek trails, making it family-friendly. Newhalem Creek offers the most convenience with flush restrooms, spacious loops, short nature trails, and proximity to the Visitor Center.

Outside Park Options: Families appreciate Rasar State Park and Pearrygin Lake for showers and kid-friendly amenities. The Winthrop/North Cascades KOA provides full hookups, showers, Wi-Fi, and pool access on the drier east side.

Budget and Unique Options: Dispersed national forest camping provides free options for self-sufficient campers with maximum flexibility. Ross Lake Resort and Rolling Huts offer unique stays with floating cabins or design-forward huts for a special experience.

Photo by Emily

Planning Your North Cascades Camping Trip

When to Visit

Season	Temperatures	Camping Conditions
Spring (March–May)	Days: 50–65°F Nights: 30–40°F	Waterfalls & wildflowers; rising access as snow melts; easier bookings early
Summer (June–August)	Days: 70–80°F Nights: 50–55°F	Best trail/lake access; long daylight; full services open
Fall (September–November)	Days: 60–70°F early / 40–55°F late Nights: 25–45°F	Quieter after Labor Day; larch color near Washington Pass; crisp air
Winter (December–February)	Days: 30–45°F Nights: 20–30°F	Solitude; eagle viewing on Skagit; east-side ski trails in Methow

Spring (April–May):

Lower trailheads melt out first while rivers run high and waterfalls peak. Expect mixed sun and rain on the west side and lingering snow on higher trails. Memorial Day typically marks the start of full campground operations. Crowds remain light until summer arrives, but weather can be unpredictable.

Summer (June–August):

Prime season with reliable access to alpine hikes and lakes. Plan ahead as campgrounds and parking fill quickly on weekends. Watch forecasts for thunderstorms and regional wildfire smoke. Bring sun and bug protection. High demand means trailhead and campground parking fills early, and potential wildfire smoke or fire bans can affect plans.

Fall (September–October):

Crowds thin, days are cool and clear, and golden larches near Washington Pass peak in late September and early October. Many campgrounds close by mid or late September, though shoulder-season first-come options remain briefly, weather permitting. Expect campground closures to ramp up, early storms or snow possible, and short daylight by November.

Winter (November–March):

Deep snow at elevation and seasonal road closures limit access. Consider lower-elevation walks near Newhalem (west) or base in the Methow Valley (east) for groomed ski trails. Only the hardiest campers overnight in winter. Highway 20 closes, and very limited camping and services are available in cold, wet, or snowy conditions.

North Cascades Reservation Systems Explained

Securing a North Cascades campsite requires understanding the reservation process:

National Park Service Campgrounds (Newhalem, Colonial Creek North and South, Goodell, Gorge Lake) use Recreation.gov for reservations during peak season. All five drive-in campgrounds along Highway 20 typically require summer reservations. Shoulder seasons may shift to first-come with limited services.

For the best chance of securing a reservation:

• Create your Recreation.gov account before the booking date
• Log in before the reservation window opens
• Be flexible with dates if possible
• Look for cancellations, which often occur close to arrival dates

Backcountry and Boat-in Permits for popular zones often use advance reservation windows with a portion held for day-before walk-ups. Confirm specifics before your trip as these systems can change.

Outside Park Options:

• State Parks use Washington State Parks reservation system
• Private campgrounds like KOA use direct booking
• National forest dispersed camping operates first-come, first-served with no reservations

Campground Costs and Budgeting

Campground Type	Nightly Cost	Key Features
National Park Service	$20-24	Picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, no hookups
State Parks	$25-45	Hookups available, showers, developed facilities
Private Campgrounds	$35-70	Full hookups, showers, Wi-Fi, sometimes pool
National Forest Dispersed	Free	None (bring everything)
Specialty Lodging	$150-400+	Furnished accommodations, meals sometimes included

Additional Fees and Budget Tips

No Park Entrance Fee: North Cascades National Park charges no entrance fee, making it more budget-friendly than many national parks.

Hidden Costs: Firewood costs $7-10/bundle, ice costs $3-5 per bag, and some areas require federal lands passes for trailhead parking.

Budget-Friendly Tips: Use free dispersed camping on national forest lands, visit during shoulder seasons for better availability, pack your own firewood from outside the area, and bring drinking water in refillable containers.

Essential Gear for North Cascades Camping

The mountain environment of North Cascades requires specific gear considerations:

Shelter and Sleeping:

• Waterproof tent with solid rain fly (frequent rain on west side)
• Sleeping bag rated for temperatures 10-15°F colder than forecast
• Sleeping pad with good insulation from cold ground
• Extra blankets for unexpected temperature drops
• Tarp or canopy for rainy weather protection

Kitchen Equipment:

• Reliable camp stove and extra fuel (fire restrictions common)
• Water containers and filtration system
• Cooler suitable for cool, wet conditions
• Food storage to protect from wildlife
• Waterproof storage for dry goods

Clothing:

• Waterproof rain gear (essential for west side)
• Warm layers including fleece or down jacket
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Extra socks and undergarments
• Warm hat and gloves

Photo by Shari G

Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations

Wildlife Safety in North Cascades

North Cascades hosts diverse wildlife including black bears, mountain goats, deer, and marmots. Follow these guidelines:

General Wildlife Safety:

• Maintain at least 100 feet distance from all wildlife
• Never feed any animals, including marmots and birds
• Store all food, trash, and scented items in vehicles or provided storage boxes
• Keep campsites clean and dispose of wastewater properly
• Observe wildlife from a distance using binoculars
• Keep pets leashed where allowed (pets prohibited on most park trails)

Black Bear Awareness:

• Store all food, toiletries, and scented items in hard-sided vehicles or bear boxes when provided
• Never leave food unattended, even momentarily
• Clean cooking areas thoroughly after meals
• If you encounter a bear, make yourself look large, make noise, and back away slowly
• Hang food properly if bear boxes are not available

Park Regulations and Etiquette

Regulation Category	Specific Rules	Penalties
Campfires	Allowed only in designated fire rings Must be attended at all times Check for fire restrictions Use local firewood only	Fines starting at $150 Possible eviction from campground
Waste Management	Pack out all trash Use designated restroom facilities Dispose of wastewater away from water sources	Fines starting at $100 Possible citation for resource damage
Quiet Hours	10:00 PM to 6:00 AM Generator restrictions apply	Warning, then possible eviction

Additional Park Regulations

Backcountry Permits: Required for all overnight backcountry camping. Advance reservations recommended for popular areas.

Pets: Allowed in campgrounds and on leashes but prohibited on all park trails. Service animals are permitted.

Drones: Prohibited throughout the park without special permits.

Leave No Trace: Stay on established trails, camp only in designated areas, and leave natural objects undisturbed.

Photo by Emma A

Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration

Day Trips from North Cascades Campgrounds

From Park Campgrounds:

• Washington Pass Overlook -- A paved, short viewpoint with dramatic granite spires. Don't miss it for sunset views, and larches provide spectacular fall color.
• Winthrop & Methow Valley -- Old-West-styled town with eateries, river floats, and extensive bike and ski trail networks about an hour from park campgrounds.
• Diablo Lake Boat Tours / Paddling -- Seasonal boat tours and rentals offer a unique perspective on the turquoise water and dam history. Launch directly from Colonial Creek area.

From East Side Locations:

• Stehekin (Lake Chelan NRA) -- Ferry-accessed, roadless community with waterfalls, bakery, and lakeside camping and lodging. This makes a memorable side trip requiring advance planning.
• Mount Baker – Artist Point -- (Not in park) Grandstand views of Baker and Shuksan when the summer road is open, with excellent short alpine walks.

Top Hiking Trails Near Campgrounds

Trail Name	Difficulty & Distance	Key Features
Cascade Pass	Moderate 7.4 miles RT 1,800 ft gain	Signature switchbacks to panoramic pass; frequent marmot/pika sightings; extend up Sahale Arm for bigger views
Maple Pass Loop	Strenuous 7.2 miles loop 2,000 ft gain	Ridgeline circuit above Lake Ann; prime larch color in late Sept/early Oct; expansive vistas
Thunder Knob	Easy-Moderate 3.6 miles RT 630 ft gain	Family-friendly climb from Colonial Creek to Diablo Lake overlook; great value hike
Blue Lake	Moderate 4.4 miles RT 1,050 ft gain	Classic alpine lake beneath Liberty Bell; wildflowers in summer, larches in fall; near Washington Pass
Thunder Creek → Fourth of July Pass	Moderate 10 miles RT 2,300 ft gain	Forest valley to scenic pass; options for backcountry camping deeper up-valley
Ladder Creek Falls	Easy 0.5 miles RT	Short stroll near Newhalem to gardens and small waterfall; nice evening walk from camp

Trail Access and Starting Points

From Campgrounds: Thunder Knob and Thunder Creek start from Colonial Creek Campground, while Ladder Creek Falls begins near Newhalem. These provide easy hiking access directly from camp.

Trailhead Notes: Cascade River Road is gravel and can wash out, so check conditions. Rainy Pass and Washington Pass trailheads require a federal lands pass.

Best Planning: Start early for popular trailheads, as parking fills by mid-morning on weekends during summer.

Water Activities in North Cascades

The park's lakes and rivers provide several water recreation opportunities:

Lake Activities:

• Diablo Lake Paddling -- Rent kayaks or bring your own to paddle the turquoise waters. Launch from Colonial Creek area with stunning mountain reflections.
• Ross Lake Boating -- Larger lake offers motorboat and canoe access. Ross Lake Resort provides rentals, or launch from Hozomeen (accessed from Canada).
• Gorge Lake -- Small lake near Diablo Dam suitable for short paddles and photography.

Safety Considerations:

• Cold Water: Snowmelt lakes remain frigid year-round. Limit immersion and secure watercraft against sudden winds.
• Weather Changes: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Always check forecasts and have backup plans.
• No Swimming Facilities: No lifeguards or designated swimming areas exist. All water activities are at your own risk.

The Dyrt Community Insights

Ranger Recommendations

The Dyrt Rangers—experienced campers who document and review camping areas nationwide—offer these insider tips for North Cascades:

Best Tent Sites:

"The walk-in tent sites at Newhalem Loop B and lakeside tent pads at Colonial Creek South are clutch—quieter and closer to water or trails," notes one Dyrt Ranger.

Dispersed Camping Strategy:

"Drive past the first obvious pullouts. A few extra miles down a forest spur usually finds a more secluded clearing. Check road conditions first," advises another Ranger.

East vs. West Base:

"We chase sun and stars on the east side near Mazama and Winthrop; for lush forest and riverside ambiance, the west side campgrounds can't be beat," mentions a longtime Ranger.

Top-Rated Sites from The Dyrt Community

Category	Top Pick & Rating	Key Highlights
Highest-Rated In-Park	Colonial Creek (South) 4.4/5 stars	Lakeside scenery on Diablo Lake; direct access to Thunder Knob/Thunder Creek trails; family-friendly
Best for Families	Newhalem Creek 4.2/5 stars	Flush restrooms, spacious loops, short nature trails, near Visitor Center
Quiet/Primitive Vibe	Goodell Creek 4.1/5 stars	Shaded forested sites along river; smaller and more peaceful
RV Amenities	Winthrop/N. Cascades KOA 4.3/5 stars	Full hookups, showers, Wi-Fi, pool; easy town access on drier east side
Budget/Last-Minute	Dispersed NF camping 4.0/5 stars	Free options off forest roads; maximum flexibility if self-sufficient

Community Insights and Recommendations

Colonial Creek Praise: Campers consistently praise the waterfront setting and easy access to Diablo Lake. Many note that summer weekends book up fast and that lake-adjacent sites can be breezy, so bring layers and bug repellent in early summer.

Newhalem Creek Benefits: Reviewers highlight the convenience (Visitor Center, short trails, nearby store) and the variety of loops, with tent-only areas staying quieter in the evenings.

Dispersed Camping Value: Experienced campers value the solitude and flexibility of dispersed forest sites, with the reminder to be fully self-contained and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Photo by Shari G

Responsible Camping Practices

Camping in North Cascades' pristine mountain environment requires mindful practices:

Leave No Trace:

• Pack out all trash, including food scraps
• Use existing sites and avoid trampling vegetation
• Camp only in designated sites or previously disturbed areas
• Dispose of wastewater away from streams and lakes
• Leave rocks, plants, and artifacts where you find them

Fire Safety:

• Follow posted restrictions and keep fires small in provided rings
• Never leave fires unattended and fully drown, stir until cool
• Use local firewood only to prevent invasive species spread
• Consider using a camp stove instead of fires when conditions are dry

Wildlife Protection:

• Secure food and scented items in vehicles or bear lockers
• Never feed wildlife, including seemingly harmless marmots and birds
• Give all animals safe space and observe from a distance
• Keep pets leashed where allowed

Water Conservation:

• Minimize water usage and report leaks at campground facilities
• Use biodegradable soaps and dispose of wastewater properly
• Avoid contaminating water sources with food particles or soap

Frequently Asked Questions

When do North Cascades campgrounds open and close? Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through early September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions and weather. Newhalem Creek typically opens first and closes latest. Shoulder seasons may offer first-come camping with limited services. Winter access is very limited due to Highway 20 closure.

Are reservations necessary for North Cascades camping? During peak season (June through August), reservations are highly recommended for all park campgrounds. Summer weekends fill quickly, especially at Colonial Creek South. Shoulder seasons and some campgrounds may operate first-come, first-served. Always check current policies before your trip.

What's the best campground for RVs in North Cascades? For RV camping inside North Cascades, Newhalem Creek accommodates the largest RVs, though no hookups are available at any park campgrounds. For full hookups, the Winthrop/North Cascades KOA on the east side provides the most complete RV services with hookups, showers, and amenities.

Is there cell service at North Cascades campgrounds? Cell coverage is minimal to nonexistent at most park campgrounds. Some areas near the visitor center may have limited service. Plan to be disconnected and bring offline maps, paper guides, and inform others of your plans before entering the park.

Can I have campfires in North Cascades? Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings at established campgrounds when not restricted. Fire restrictions are common in late summer during dry periods and can expand to full bans. Always check current restrictions before your trip and never leave fires unattended.

What should I know about Highway 20? The North Cascades Highway (SR-20) closes seasonally from about November to May depending on snow conditions. Even when open, weather or rockfall can cause temporary closures. Always check road conditions before travel, especially during shoulder seasons.

Planning Resources

Recommended North Cascades Links

• The Dyrt Campground Finder - Reviews and availability for campgrounds in and around North Cascades
• North Cascades National Park Official Website - Current conditions, alerts, and regulations
• Recreation.gov - Booking platform for all North Cascades National Park campgrounds
• North Cascades Highway Information - Road conditions and closures
• North Cascades Weather Conditions - Current updates
• Washington State Parks - Information on nearby state park campgrounds
• USFS Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest - Dispersed camping information

Reservation Timeline

Time Period	Reservation Task	Platform/Details
5-6 Months Before Trip	Book park campgrounds	Recreation.gov Set calendar reminder for booking window opening
3-4 Months Before	Book private campgrounds and specialty lodging	Direct booking with facilities Call for best availability
2-3 Months Before	Research backcountry permits and activities	NPS website for permit information Local outfitters for guided experiences
1 Month Before	Check for cancellations and plan activities	Recreation.gov Verify road and weather conditions
1 Week Before	Check weather and fire restrictions	National Weather Service Park service alerts
Day Before Arrival	Check for last-minute cancellations and road conditions	Recreation.gov WSDOT highway conditions

North Cascades Camping Checklist

Reservations and Permits:

• Campground reservation confirmation
• Backcountry permits (if applicable)
• Federal lands pass (for some trailheads)
• Washington fishing license (if fishing)

Camping Gear:

• Waterproof tent with solid rain fly
• Cold-weather sleeping bag (rated 10-15°F below forecast)
• Insulated sleeping pad with high R-value
• Extra blankets for temperature drops
• Tarp or canopy for rain protection
• Headlamps and flashlights with extra batteries
• Camp chairs
• Lantern

Kitchen Items:

• Reliable camp stove and extra fuel
• Lighter/matches in waterproof container
• Cooler suitable for cool conditions
• Water containers and filtration system
• Dish washing supplies (biodegradable soap)
• Coffee maker or kettle
• Cooking utensils
• Food storage containers (bear-proof)

Clothing:

• Waterproof rain gear (essential)
• Warm layers including fleece or down
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Extra socks and undergarments
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sunglasses and sun hat

Safety and First Aid:

• First aid kit including blister treatment
• Prescription medications
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Lip balm with sun protection
• Basic tools and repair kit
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer
• Bear spray (for backcountry)

Navigation and Communication:

• Printed reservations and maps
• Offline maps downloaded to phone
• Guidebook or trail information
• Compass and GPS device
• Portable phone charger
• Emergency contact information
• Whistle for emergencies

By planning thoroughly and respecting both the natural environment and other visitors, your North Cascades camping experience will create lasting memories. Whether you're waking up to turquoise lake views at Colonial Creek, enjoying the forest setting at Newhalem, or finding solitude at a dispersed site in the national forest, camping provides an immersive way to experience the rugged beauty of North Cascades National Park.