Where the Panther Creek drainage meets the Fourth of July Pass trail system, this backcountry campsite requires a strenuous hike with multiple switchbacks to reach. The National Park Service manages this hike-in site within Ross Lake National Recreation Area, where campers encounter bear activity and should carry noise makers. Views from the camping area provide glimpses of surrounding peaks rather than expansive vistas, according to visitors who made the climb. No campfires are permitted at this elevation, though reliable water sources flow nearby and along the approach trail. Thunder Campground offers car camping for those preferring road access.
Description
There are two ways to attain Fourth of July Pass - from Thunder Creek or from Panther Creek. Both offer wonderful opportunities to travel along burbling, blue-green creeks, but access via Thunder Creek is truly stunning.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundFourth of July Pass — Ross Lake National Recreation Area is located in Washington
Directions
From Marblemount, follow the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) east for 24 miles. Just past milepost 130, turn right into the Colonial Creek Campground and proceed 0.5 mile to the trailhead, near the amphitheater at the day-use area. Water and restrooms available.
Coordinates
48.661492084809936 N
121.04517505909882 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Features
Drive Time
- 1 hr 29 min from Mount Vernon, WA
- 1 hr 42 min from Bellingham, WA
- 2 hrs 16 min from Seattle, WA
- 4 hrs 32 min from Wenatchee, WA
