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Camping near North Cascades National Park

639 Reviews

Camping near North Cascades National Park puts you in one of Washington's most rugged mountain areas with options for different comfort levels. Colonial Creek South Campground has sites scattered among big cedar trees that give good shade and keep campers from feeling too crowded. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, and there are pit toilets nearby, though you'll need to bring your own water if you visit outside the main season. The park has lots of trails where you might see black bears, deer, and many types of birds while hiking. You'll need to store your food properly in bear-proof containers to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite. Some campgrounds in the area feel more private than others, with certain sites tucked back in thicker forest sections. Goodell Creek Campground works well if you want something less rustic - it's close to the visitor center and you can get to many trailheads easily from there. The weather can change quickly in the North Cascades, so check the forecast right before you go. Both tent and trailer campers find good spots throughout the North Cascades region.

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Best Camping Sites Near North Cascades National Park (249)

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Recent Camping Photos near North Cascades National Park

238 Photos of 249 North Cascades National Park Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near North Cascades National Park

639 Reviews of 249 North Cascades National Park Campgrounds

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful spot for truck camping. Do not recommend for rvs.

    Lovely spot right by the National park. We camped in our truck.

    The road was rough. We have a 27 foot rv I would not bring any trailers down here. Vans were there.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Chewuch River Camping

    River Camping

    This is a great location that is pretty much set up for hunting if you’re into that. It’s right on the water and there are plenty of spots and each spot has access areas to the river. The one in the very back left has its own personal beach area, which is the one that we stayed at. Plenty of spots to choose from and it looks like a paid campground, but it’s free dispersed camping. Fire rings are set up all throughout. We came in September so it was pretty empty when we got here BUT the couple that was here when we got here says that it’s about to get filled up for hunting.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground

    State park camping

    Decent little spot for overnight camping. We stayed mostly to fill up in water and it was great for that. 4 unisex bathrooms each with a combined toilet and shower space.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Baker Pull-Off

    Pull-off site

    Cute little off the road site. About 6 cars drove by throughout the night and into the morning, it was Friday so that was expected. There’s 2 little walkways down to your own little private section of the lake. Beautiful.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    Peaceful Camping

    Stopped here in the month of September and there were very few people around the lake. Quiet and beautiful views! We parked our vehicle off the road at the top of the flat and walked down to the lake for sunrises and sets. Definitely set up for a good time during the summer break with rope swings hanging from the branches. Star link works OK here.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Baker Lake Tent camping

    Beautiful tent site

    Didn’t stay here but hiked in it and it’s very spacious. There are 2 fire rings set up with an uppper and lower camping option. The lower is right by a river that spills into the lake on the other side of the road.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Old Quarry by Sulphur Creek

    Unofficial Forest Gun range

    This is exactly as described in the title of this review. It’s set up as an unofficial forest gun range. We came on a Wednesday evening where it wasnt occupied or being used, but we’ll probably just stay here one night and find something better. The roads have lots of potholes getting here… probably won’t stay here again, but starling does work well considering it is a big open spot.

  • Adi Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Chom's RV Campground

    Great place to stay at close to the north cascades

    Great place! Clean toilets, hot water, good enough wifi, leveled ground and the host is really helpful and nice! The only downside is that it's close to the road, so you hear some traffic, but it's a rather chill place at night.

Guide to North Cascades National Park

Camping near North Cascades National Park, Washington, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is packed with trails for all skill levels. At Colonial Creek South Campground, one visitor noted, "Each site has its own bear boxes and the bathrooms were pretty clean," making it a great base for exploring nearby hikes.
  • Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off, head to the lake. A reviewer at Goodell Creek Campground mentioned, "You can swim in the lake, there is a boat launch and there is a hiking trail across the street."
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes are perfect for fishing. A camper at Marble Creek Campground shared, "There is access to the Cascade River from the campground, and we had a great time hanging out at the beach."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground said, "It's got mountain views while camping lakeside."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at Howard Miller Steelhead County Park remarked, "This is the cleanest, prettiest, best maintained campground I’ve stayed at."
  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground noted, "Most sites are relatively private, 2 tiered with tables/fire pits above or below the parking area."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain conveniences. A camper at Newhalem Creek Campground mentioned, "No hookups of any kind," so be prepared to rough it a bit.
  • Bear Safety: Wildlife is a real concern. One visitor at Colonial Creek North Campground expressed frustration about the "cavalier attitude to bear safety" they observed during their stay.
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Colonial Creek South Campground said, "Lots of people come into the park on the weekends from Seattle."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA noted, "A very kid-friendly place to stay as well."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. One camper at Alpine RV Park & Campground mentioned, "Spots were exactly level so had to spend time leveling the camper."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on the kids, especially near water. A visitor at Marble Creek Campground highlighted the importance of being cautious, saying, "There is access to the Cascade River from the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Newhalem Creek Campground mentioned, "I think it may have just been the campground I stayed at, but mine was very very small."
  • Plan for No Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t offer electric or water hookups. A camper at Goodell Creek Campground noted, "This is a primitive campground with no hook-ups."
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Klipchuck Campground advised, "Get there early or it will be hard to find a spot for an RV."

Camping near North Cascades National Park, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared will make your experience even better!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in North Cascades National Park?

Colonial Creek South Campground is widely considered the best drive-in campground in North Cascades National Park. Located on the shores of the stunning turquoise Diablo Lake, it offers incredible views and water access. The lakeside sites provide privacy and some feature their own beach access. For those seeking a backcountry experience, Junction Camp is an excellent option. This gorgeous backcountry campground includes fire pits and a privy, with easy access to water from Thunder Creek. It's located about 10 miles south of Colonial Creek Campground, making it accessible as a day hike or overnight adventure for more experienced campers looking to escape the crowds.

Where can I find camping near North Cascades National Park if the park campgrounds are full?

When North Cascades National Park campgrounds are full, several excellent alternatives are available nearby. Rasar State Park Campground offers clean bathrooms with showers and is just a short drive from the park with easy access to the Skagit River. Another great option is Howard Miller Steelhead County Park, located about 20 miles from the park entrance with spacious sites, mountain views, and convenient amenities. This riverside campground also features a playground and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for park adventures. Additional options include Klipchuck Campground and Swift Creek Campground, which provide alternatives when the main park facilities reach capacity.

Are there RV-friendly campgrounds in and around North Cascades National Park?

Yes, several RV-friendly options exist in and around North Cascades National Park. Lone Fir Campground accommodates RVs with paved roads and dedicated sites, offering a perfect home base for exploring the park. Surrounded by mountains and located along Early Winters Creek, it provides shade and scenic beauty. Newhalem Creek Campground is another RV-accessible option with reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. For those wanting hookups, Howard Miller Steelhead County Park provides water and electric connections with clean gravel sites, fire rings, and picnic tables, located just 20 miles from the park entrance. Most RV sites in the area are better suited for smaller to mid-sized rigs.

Which specific campgrounds in North Cascades National Park are most popular?

Colonial Creek South Campground consistently ranks as the most popular campground in North Cascades National Park due to its exceptional lakeside location and amenities. Its popularity stems from its accessibility via the main road and spectacular views of Diablo Lake. Goodell Creek Campground is another sought-after destination, particularly for its wooded, private sites along the Skagit River. It offers water spigots, picnic areas, a boat launch for kayaks and rafts, and basic facilities. During peak season, these campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. In the off-season (October onwards), Goodell Creek operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees, though it remains popular even in autumn.

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