- Ross Lake National Recreation Area
National Park
The best camping in Ross Lake National Recreation Area, WA
100% (19)
The best camping in Ross Lake National Recreation Area, WA
Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek
1. Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek
97%
(99)
33km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
This property is located within a gated cabin community called Cascade River Park Club. Your camping lot is located in a beautiful wooded lot surrounded by trees and vegetation, and a creek that wraps around the property. It includes a large fire pit, 8 Adirondack chairs, a bench overlooking the creek, and a picnic table. During a burn ban, we provide a propane fire bowl as well as a propane tank that is available for use but not kept full by us. You can have it filled at Chom's gas station that is 10 minutes from camp. PLEASE DO NOT MOVE NATURAL SURROUNDINGS SUCH AS BOULDERS AND LOGS. DO NOT DISRUPT THE CREEK'S NATURAL HABITAT BY REARRANGING ROCKS/LOGS. THIS IS HOME TO OUR SALMON. PICK UP ALL GARBAGE NO MATTER HOW SMALL.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$68
/ night
Skagit River RV and Camping
2. Skagit River RV and Camping
96%
(206)
36km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Set out on your North Cascades adventure and book your stay at Skagit River RV and Camping. We are 20 minutes from the entrance of North Cascades National Park and located across the banks of the Skagit River in Marblemount WA.
Bring your RV to our pull-through and bank in sites (20) or stay in your tent in our park tent sites all with firepits and picnic tables or try out our new "Backwoods" tent sites for a rustic experience.
Coming soon for those who want to try out an RV experience is our refurnished RV set for 4.
Many of our guests use Skagit River RV and Camping as a base while they explore and climb the surrounding hills and mountains.
Bikers also use the park and set up their tents as a base to bike the surrounding area or bike over the North Cascade Pass to eastern Washington.
We are a small family and pet-friendly RV campground offering, RV sites and tent sites.
We have a wooded park-like area is located behind the campsites for dog walking and nature walks.
The surrounding area offers hiking, bird watching, fishing, spectacular photography opportunities, bike riding and climbing trails.
The Skagit River has a wild and scenic designation and is a popular river for rafting, kayaking and canoeing.
Winter activities include bald eagle watching, fishing and hunting.
The mountain air is fresh and clean with seasonal views of snowcapped mountains. If you are traveling with a group or club, there are facilities to accommodate you as well. Ideal for family reunions, rallies, get-togethers and clubs.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
A place by the creek
3. A place by the creek
100%
(18)
36km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Nice camp or RV site on Nugget Creek This camp site is set up for camping or your RV to pull in and start enjoying the clean air with the peaceful sound of the creek flowing through the property. The lot has water and a bathroom on site for your convenience as well as a fire pit and gazebo ready for you to enjoy. There is access to the creek and an area to sit and enjoy nature and woods around it. It is located in the gated Cascade River Park Community with lots of Hiking, fishing, rafting, and exploring just around the corner.
Pets
Toilets
Water hookup
from
$75
/ night
North Cascades Basecamp
4. North Cascades Basecamp
98%
(84)
36km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents
Situated under 5 miles from the North Cascades National Park West Entrance, this lush property provides ample rest, relaxation and preparation for all of your adventures in the North Cascades.
Set at the confluence of the Skagit and Cascade Rivers in the quiet outpost of Marblemount, you're perfectly positioned between ancient valleys and dramatic mountain peaks—an ideal place to rest, reset, and reconnect with nature before and after your days on the trail.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$59
/ night
Hideaway cedars campground
5. Hideaway cedars campground
97%
(75)
36km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents
Our property is 1 mile east of the town of marblemount sitting on a beautiful 4 acres surrounded by thick cedars and 4 private camp sits .
We are located 200ft from the Skagit River and 10 miles west of the Ross and Diablo lake . Nestled deep in the cascade foot hills that leads to dozens of hiking trails, kayaking and outdoor activities.
In our campground we offer a outdoor but inclosed restroom and shower along with potable water .
Fire wood bundle are available for purchase when you arrive.
Across the road from our campground there is a trail leading to a beautiful and peaceful spot on the river .
In the town of Marblemount there are two gas stations that have a wide verity of supplies for you every day adventures , two restaurants both serving amazing food or you can head east to the beautiful Hwy 20 North Cascade pass leading you to the historic town of Winthrop.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Cascade River Retreat
6. Cascade River Retreat
96%
(757)
36km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
50% off all sites from October 10th thru April 1st use code NVWH71P5
PSA: Please use google maps, any other locater app will lead you astray.
On a better note,
This property is a Native American homestead.
We are located in Marblemount, WA along the Cascade river. Every site we have you can hear the river and walk to in less that 5 minutes. There is an amazing rocky beach along the river with the view of mountains all around.
We are located 4 minutes from the town of Marblemount were there is 2 gas stations with some food and drink items, propane and a small hardware section year round. Marblemount has 3 restaurants open in the summer. The town also a post office.
We are 15 minutes from the North Cascades National Park and an entrance to the Pacific Crest Trail.
We offer fire wood ($5.00 a bundle), propane fire pits ($10.00 a night, please request ahead via messaging to Heather ) and in season vegetables (price varies depending). You can pay cash or Venmo on site.
Please be aware that we have a Firework show for the 4th of July.
We really appreciate your interest in our small homestead.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Twin Cedars Cascadia
7. Twin Cedars Cascadia
95%
(10)
37km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
This property is surrounded by Pacific Northwest forest and Mountain views. Right now there are a few pretty level gravel parking spots ideal for self contained Class B R.V.'s. When the ground is dry there is a loop in the yard for Sprinter vans, 25 ft. trailers and tent campers. Very private and secure oasis. Potable water is available at wellhouse along gravel driveway. A composting toilet is on edge of forest for campers. Howard Miller Steelhead Park in rockport takes R.V. waste. Walk around the pond and pasture while enjoying the fruit and nut trees on the property . Mountains views. Marblemount Fish Hatchery walking distance. Marblemount Boat Landing 1/2 mile at Skagit River. North Cascade National Park Hiking Trails in Area, 22 Miles to Cascade Pass, 70 miles to Washington Pass. Located On Bike Route 10
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping
8. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping
91%
(158)
37km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping! Here you will find beautiful and unique places to camp right on the Cascade River, approximately 3 minutes outside of Marblemount, WA. We are right next to the Marblemount Boat Launch and within an easy walk into town if you want to visit the local restaurants or need camping gear. Our property has five tent campsites on the river as well as a 26' glamping dome (previously used for artic research) completely painted with a galaxy of the night sky. A converted antique hay trailer turned tiny house with an 8' ceiling loft with 3-way views of the forest and river, deck, and private "magic spot" on the Cascade River.
The Lil Bit O Heaven Campground is the perfect base camp for your summer adventure! Firewood is available onsite most of the summer. Fresh, clean drinking water, permanent bathrooms and a private shower are available for all campers. An outdoor (completely private) shower is available for those who book the tiny house.
Please note that you must follow any local fire bans. Please check the fire conditions PRIOR to making a campfire.
Please note that there are areas where you can get directly to the side of the Cascade River, and the river is swift and dangerous! It is not safe for swimming and no safe for unattended children and/or pets.
You are free to purchase additional firewood through cashapp $Vende41 or venmo @zkotlerman
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$51
/ night
Chom's RV Campground
9. Chom's RV Campground
92%
(26)
43km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents
Chom's RV Campground staff have been working on an extensive remodel, so bare with us as we are new here too! Camping is unaffected as there are plenty of woods to explore here. Only the initial appearance of the old laundry(to be restored in near future), might send confusion. The bathrooms are completely ready to use and we have hot showers!
Also, we just finished making an amazing nature walk along the river, where you can find blackberries, huckleberries, salmon berries, and even apples, (depending on the time of year). There are birds to watch, among many other types of wildlife. I will be adding more pictures of more campsites soon!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$20
/ night
Lautensleger Family Camp Property
10. Lautensleger Family Camp Property
96%
(40)
44km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Choose your perfect spot from 8 different sites (power and water) in the campground. Each site used is $75. No need to choose site beforehand, just book and you can choose your site once you arrive as your party will be the only ones there to enjoy the great outdoors! After Memorial Day, there is a porta potty on site. There is a large firepit (when there isn’t a fire ban. Please do not use the already cut fire wood, that is our personal stash)There are trails all over for walking or there are trailheads just a short drive away if you want to hike. The river is a 30 second-1 minute walk from the campsite. Perfect area to pitch a hammock and enjoy the sounds of nature. The campground is 5 miles away from the Mazama Store which sells amazing food (sandwiches, pastries, cookies, and the famous Sea Salt Baguettes). There is also a portable basketball hoop and a tether ball pole. Group rates available. OCTOBER and MAY campers: There is no water, however you are still welcomed to camp.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$75
/ night
N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub
11. N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub
98%
(32)
47km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging
Escape to nature without sacrificing comfort in our stunning glamping dome! Nestled in the heart of the North Cascades, this dome offers a private hot tub, outdoor kitchen with grill and fridge, a fire pit for stargazing, and WiFi for staying connected. Enjoy an outdoor bathroom and shower for a true glamping experience. With the Barr Creek trailhead just 1/4 mile away with a view of a waterfall, it’s the perfect spot for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. Reconnect with nature in style!
We are a short 11 minute drive to the North Cascades National Park! During the winter (typically end of November/early December through April/May) part of Highway 20 and driving access to the park is closed. You are still able to get to our dome using Highway 20 as that part is open all year round, but you are unable to access the park. You are able to drive to the entrance, park and snow shoe in if you'd like.
The part of Highway 20 that is closed is on the west side at milepost 134 at the Ross Dam Trailhead and on the east side, at milepost 171 at the Silver Star Gate, near Mazama.
An alternative hiking destination for the winter months is the Rockport State Park which is only a 4 minute drive from the dome. You are able to purchase a day pass on your phone once you arrive.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$250
/ night
Cascadia Elk Farm
12. Cascadia Elk Farm
95%
(52)
50km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging
The property is a 20 acre farm/homestead producing hay, chickens, berries, and much else. We are located near Rockport, underneath Sauk Mountain, near the confluence of the Sauk and Skagit rivers. We use permaculture/organic/regenerative methods, and share our space with wildlife. There’s a historic barn on the Property.
We are located about a mile from Howard Miller Steelhead Park and the Town of Rockport, not far from North Cascades National Park. when you get here please feel free to drive on the grass to the tent.
Toilets
Potable water
from
$100
/ night
Feral Farm
13. Feral Farm
100%
(107)
51km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents
A 46 acre off grid communitiy nestled
within an established food forest. A mile of trails, a creek/pond, established agroforestry plantings and multiple examples of tiny homes and natural buildings dot the landscape. All within the context of a mature and established forest. The camping sites are private and removed from the bustle of the farm.
History: the farm was started in 1997. Matt Van Boven (your host and the owner) started on raw land and built all of the infrastructure with the help of many interns over the years. Every edible plant that could be grown here has been trialed. No irrigation, fertilizer, or cultivation is used on the farm. Only the most resilient and adapted plants remain to this day. These include hundreds of nut and fruit trees as well as many perennial edibles. Much of the forest, itself has been managed with thousands of cedar trees planted among the existing vegetation.
Besides the plantings, all manner of natural buildings are represented. Cordwood and cob being a few of the methods explored. The farm has a collection of tiny homes that surround a core of utilitarian structures and provide housing to an eclectic bunch of forest folk.
The land is uniquely situated on the confluence of two major rivers (the Sauk and the Skagit). The creek is an old river channel that is now abandoned. A couple sit-on-top kayaks are available to use to explore. For the adventurous, a trail carries on from the creek to the river itself.
The trail system is a labor of love crafted over the last 20 years. Almost a mile of manicured trails weave their way around the plantings and forest. The trees are almost 100 years old with some very large specimens of both maple and cedar.
The farm is completely off grid and has been so since its inception. Working with limited means has been a theme in the design and development. Living in a more ecological way has been a major inspiration for us and we hope that you, as a guest, not only have an enjoyable stay but also leave inspired to change your life in a similar direction!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$36
/ night
Sauk View Woods
14. Sauk View Woods
98%
(29)
53km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent
A peaceful and hidden piece of land in big timber along the skagit river. Camp under big Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedars, right next to a boat launch into the Skagit River. Come with family and pets to enjoy privacy and connect with nature. Close to many good hiking trails while still getting 5G internet at the campground.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$60
/ night
Harrison Family Farm
15. Harrison Family Farm
98%
(123)
55km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We live on a beautiful farm tucked in the foothills of the North Cascades. We are a multi-generational farm with chickens, a giant organic garden, a couple of horses [pasture pets], three dogs, a couple of barn cats [and one prissy house cat]. We also raise 100% grass-fed and finished cattle utilizing regenerative farming practices.We have a beautiful private mountain view pasture that we can not use to graze the cattle, so we decided to make it available for folks to have a gorgeous private campsite. All the money we make from this campsite goes back into our family farm and our endeavors to provide excellent beef for those who value small family farms and regenerative farming practices.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$38
/ night
The Pathfinders Sanctuary
16. The Pathfinders Sanctuary
100%
(52)
55km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging
Welcome to The Pathfinders Sanctuary, where stunning river views, serene beaches, and the natural beauty of the Northern Cascades await you. Nestled within 18 acres of lush forest and bordered by the picturesque Jackman Creek and the Skagit River, our two-story treehouse offers the perfect escape.
Our modern treehouse, designed like a tiny home on stilts, is your cozy, private getaway. Fully furnished and wired for electricity, it features a small kitchen, an electric fireplace, a heated electric composting outhouse, and an outdoor heated shower.
Conveniently located just outside the historic town of Concrete, The Pathfinders Sanctuary serves as an ideal base camp for exploring the hiking trails, state and national parks, and stunning lakes of the Northern Cascades.
Take a break from the daily grind and immerse yourself in nature at The Pathfinders Sanctuary. Reconnect with yourself and your loved ones in this peaceful haven. Book your stay today and experience the magic of the Northern Cascades.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$150
/ night
Spearhead Lake Campground
17. Spearhead Lake Campground
97%
(49)
55km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 19 sites · Tents
Multi Acre wooded rustic area(formally known as Lake "Caskey", search lake "Caskey" when using GPS) with dedicated(leveled and graveled) camping spots, personal fire pits, paddle boarding, fishing, swimming, hiking, covered area and bathroom. Your stay with the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe owned camping site includes firewood, water, paddle boat access, fishing, trash/recycling, bathroom access and covered picnic area access. There are a total of 20 rustic camp sites for use, all camping areas are hike-in only. Please respect local wildlife.
Please contact our camp hosts for further questions!
Camphost Russell: 360 503 9402
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$100
/ night
The River's Edge Camp Ground
18. The River's Edge Camp Ground
98%
(153)
56km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · RV
****Due to the recent Skagit River flooding, we have decided to wait to open bookings for the year. Please check back at the beginning of March. We hope to have had time to get things all cleaned up and ready. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out.
Thank You,
Adam and Kira
This is a hidden gem! This is waterfront on the river where you can relax, play in the river with your own beach for your stay. It's a Very beautiful private open RV and Trailer Site on the Skagit River.
I have currently owned the property for 10 or so years. This is one of my happy places to bring friends and family and relax. This is where we get our river therapy. Nothing better than sitting by the camp fire watching the river flow and listening to the nature.
There is a nice big fire pit as well as a log picnic table. Lots of room to lounge around and enjoy the peace and quiet. Watch the eagle and fish on the river as you sit by the campfire. Kayak down the river from RockPort bridge and pull out right at camp. It's about a two and half hour float down with a Kayak right to camp.
Close drive to Baker Lake for the day to hike or sight see. An hour or so away from North Cascade Hwy passes. Or if you feel like a drive, head to Winthrop for the day and walk the town. Fishing can be done right at the site or a short walk to the point. Check the fishing regulations for the time of year you want to fish.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$125
/ night
Concrete Wa Bakerview Getaway
19. Concrete Wa Bakerview Getaway
100%
(71)
56km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · RV
Spectacular mountain views of Baker and Sauk. Lots of room and
privacy. Large +1 acre campsite (4 hook up areas to yourselves), picnic table, hand pump well on site, portable wood fire pit (have grill insert)
We have just installed 4 new 30 amp RV outlets on the campsite!
Can fit more than 5 large trailers for you and your guests! Great area for outdoor games, (Plenty of room for a couple games on the grass at the same time!)
About 10 min. drive to town for food, ice-cream etc.
Short walk to Skagit river beach access, excellent star gazing on clear nights.
About 10 minute drive to local hiking trails, local lakes for fishing and boating nearby. Feel free to ask any other questions.
** NOTE**
This is only a Trailer/RV/camper van site.
Tents are allowed if you are camping with trailer accommodations. We have no toiletries on site, so if you have guests with tents, its a pack in pack out (:
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$65
/ night
Eden East Skagit River
20. Eden East Skagit River
91%
(62)
62km from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 2 sites · RVs
PLEASE NOTE, only 1 RV/trailer is included in the nightly rate. If you are bringing another RV/trailer please update the number of vehicles accordingly at time of booking. It is $50 per night per each extra RV/trailer. The additional vehicle includes up to 6 extra guests. This site does not have bathroom facilities.
Eden on the Cape is a 1 acre lot nestled along the banks of the Skagit River roughly 3 miles west of Concrete, WA. Whether you seek adventure or a quiet basecamp, this is the place for you. Camping and fishing onsite and adventure everywhere you look. Hiking, biking, kayaking, local shopping, it's all here.
We have a well graded camping area complete with power and potable water. Bring your outdoor spirit and we will provide the scenery. The area is noted for the large population of bald eagles so bring binoculars because there is almost always something to see on the river. This site does have security cameras.
The Skagit River along with Baker Lake and Shannon Lake (just to the north) are great places for fishing so check the WDFW guide to see what is open. Feel free to reach out with any questions. Thank you.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$83
/ night
100% (19)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jack
November 2025
21 ft Class B
What a great spot, just across the road from the Skagit River. Very relaxing and beautiful! They were super nice to us and both the camp host and maintenance guy helped us get to a spot. We had some issues early on with getting to the campground, but after a three day delay we made it. We will certainly stay here again!
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E
Emily
October 2025
2 nights at N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub
The glamping dome was everything I hoped it would be, and more. Sheila was quick to reply to any questions and genuinely cared about my comfort. The dome was stocked with everything I needed. Thank you for making my birthday weekend so special!
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S
SuperViper
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
I love this camp site!! Happy to be back. It rained a lot one nights and the hostess was super nice and gave us a towel to dry out the inside of our tent and gave us coins to dry our cloths. Would recommend to anyone looking to hike in the North Cascades!
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B
Bailey
October 2025
Tent
Amazing campground. Felt very safe and the hosts were extremely inviting. Great proximity to the park and nearby restaurants in Marblemount. Would recommend!
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J
Jayne
October 2025
15 ft campervan
We had an awesome stay at Zach’s! Epic location. No problems plugging in my Tesla for some car camping before hiking to see the larches on Heather Maple Pass! We walked to the tavern down the road for dinner and met a cool local girl and made friends with the bartender Lori! The shower was such a nice treat after a long hike. Bathrooms were clean and the area was quiet. Trash cans available on site. Would highly recommend this spot!
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E
Emma
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping
What a cool experience! The Dome was comfortable and unlike anywhere I have ever stayed before. Definitely did not get cold with the thoughtful amenities: space heaters and blankets. There is firewood available for purchase and the bathrooms are a luxury! The only thing I’d be aware of is that you may not have service upon arrival, so you may not be able to contact Zachary thru the app. There is a code to get into the dome that I didn’t have directly, but luckily we were able to figure it out. Overall, I definitely recommend staying in the galaxy dome!
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L
Lucy
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Would definitely recommend! The instructions were very clear and detailed, making it easier to find the site! The site was exactly as advertised and it was in a beautiful forest. Very nicely built firepit too!
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A
Amadeusz
October 2025
2 nights at Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping
Great glamping experience. All was as advertised. The area is well equipped to withstand all weather, and sits in a great location.
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J
Jer
October 2025
20 ft campervan
Great spot and super friendly, tons of room and privacy.
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N
Nicol
October 2025
With pets
This arctic dome was such a cool find while hiking in the North Cascades! It had snowed on us on a few hikes so we were glad for some warmth. Both the dome and the restrooms were clean and nice. The bed was comfortable. I did have to bring all of my blankets in because I couldn’t figure out the second heater (skill issue)! There are nice campsites down the trail overlooking the river and they’re really cute for groups! I love how close this was to town for snacks, too.
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A
Aaryn
October 2025
1 night at Cascadia Elk Farm
Super awesome tent! Perfect location for exploring the north cascades. Would definitely stay here again :)
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A
AJ
October 2025
16 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Great space for big groups! Loved the location and the hosts were wonderful and responsive.
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David
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Very roomy campsite with plenty of trees and privacy between sites. Clean outhouses. Friendly host. Close drive to town for groceries and gas.
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K
Kelsey
October 2025
Tent
This was a large site with a fire pit and nice picnic table. Perfect for a quick night before heading farther down 20 for hiking.
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Poonam
October 2025
Tent
I always love staying here when I come up to the cascades! Everything you need, nothing you don't. Simple and quiet - perfect little camping spot.
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C
Cassidy
October 2025
Tent
We pulled up later in the evening and hosts were very responsive. We chose a spot close to the bathroom and it was perfect for us. Spots were a little close together but people were respectful. Showers were warm and bathrooms were clean. Picnic tables and fire pits for tent camping were great
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Sarah
October 2025
2 nights at N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub
This is a beautiful spot and a great base for visiting the national park! The indoor and outdoor amenities were great - we appreciated the snacks, ample resources for cooking, and many options for getting warm (2 electric heaters, hot tub, wood fire stove, and outdoor fire pit). You can see the small road from the dome and hear a bit of highway noise, so it's not fully isolated, but that also makes it quick to get back onto the road to head to the trailhead (it took us about 1 hour to get to the Maple Pass Loop). We also checked out the Barr Creek conservation area about 0.25 miles up the road, which has a very pretty little loop trail.
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J
John
October 2025
Tent
Good camping spots, well maintained. Walk in sites were slightly further than expected but well secluded from rest of the camping areas. Overall an excellent location.
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Ashis
October 2025
Tent
Great spot next to the river. The walk to the campsite is very short. Would recommend
See moreA
Anna
October 2025
Tent
So charming and beautiful! Would definitely come back here!!
See moreThe best camping in Ross Lake National Recreation Area, WA guide
Overview
About
Between the snow-capped peaks of the North Cascades is a 22-mile-long, 500-foot-deep lake that hosts some of the most secluded campsites Washington has to offer. Forget about car camping—the only way to access these sites is by foot (along the East Bank Ross Lake Trail) or by water taxi service. The lake is the product of Ross Dam (responsible for supplying power to nearby Seattle), and a popular site for rainbow trout fishing. The Ross Lake Resort, which offers a water taxi for campers, floats on log booms repurposed from the loggers’ camp once used when the dam was being built. Ross Lake features 19 campgrounds, each with one to three sites each, for a total of 58 campsites.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- The boat-in campsites along Ross Lake have tent pads, food storage lockers, picnic tables, fire rings, and an outhouse. Docks are unusable when the lake’s water levels are too low.
- Backcountry permits are required and must be picked up in person (except during winter); reservations are recommended, but some walk-up permits are available.
- North Cascades National Park’s nearby Colonial Creek Campground has 19 sites (three of which are reserved for ADA usage) a short drive west on Highway 20 from Ross Lake. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance from late May to early September. Sites closest to the lake are walk-in only.
When to go
Visit in summer to enjoy the long days (as much as 16 hours during the solstice) and (comparatively) dry season in the Pacific Northwest. This is also when the lake’s water levels are reliably high. Some snags and other obstacles can become an issue for boats when the lake is lower.
Know before you go
- Lake conditions are best before 11am.
- Fishing is permitted from July 1 to October 31 (no bait allowed).
- Motorboat, canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals are available at the Ross Lake Resort.
- Birdwatchers can expect to see loons, osprey, bald eagles, blue herons, and kingfishers, among others.
- The 30-mile East Bank Trail extends all the way to the Canadian border. Ross Lake can also be accessed from British Columbia via the town of Hope.
100%
19 ratings · 8 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
N
Charles D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Absolutely stunning!
H
Hanah C.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Great experience!
Lise V.
5 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Gorgeous lake to visit in the summer!
A
Agni B.
7 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Don't miss the Washington Pass Overlook just west of Winthrop on Hwy 20!
Frank G.
22 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Ross Lake and Diablo Lake are beautiful areas for camping, lake activities, and hiking!
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Emily F.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Nice views
Sarah P.
4 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
It was a very nice and pleasant trip. Loved walking around the lake and park. Would definitely recommend this.
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Roger S.
2 reviews