The best camping near Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ross Lake National Recreation Area adventure.

Camp lakeside to enjoy total privacy and the best views the North Cascades has to offer.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Ross Lake National Recreation Area

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Skagit River RV and Camping

35 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marblemount, WA

Skagit River RV and Camping is near the small, charming town of Marblemount and close to the entrance of the world-famous North Cascade National Park in the foothills of the Cascades and located on Skagit River. 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.

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Camp Keyser Forest Camp

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Swede Heaven, WA

Camp Keyser is a wooded 5 acre parcel in the mountains, near mountain loop highway - in the center of everything wonderful in the northern cascade mountains. We have one private cabin and 6 campsites. Tent campers will enjoy the lush landscape of a mature forest with sites along the (seasonal) Thirsty Creek. Nearby (3 minute walk), users can contemplate views of Whitehorse Mountain, Jumbo Mountain, Glacier Peak, and Whitechuck Mountain. This part of the Stillaguamish valley and the adjacent Mountain Loop Highway is known for a great selection of hiking trails, at all skill levels. It is perfect hub for all of your outdoor interests. The trailhead for the summit of Whitehorse Mountain is just a mile away, as is Old Mine Road trail (45 minute hike ending in 2 waterfalls). A 15-20 minute walk takes campers to a swimming hole in the cool Stillaguamish river for a dip or a paddle. Even closer is Whitehorse Regional Trail (great for biking, walking and horseback riding) built on the bed of the former BNSF railroad through the North Stillaguamish River Valley, spanning over 27 miles. The nearly level trail meanders through the valley, rewarding visitors with picturesque, landscape views of forests, farmland, streams and rivers, and mountain vistas. Sites have a generous fire pit and access to a Porta-Potty. For bathing I recommend cool dip in the Stillaguamish River. In season there is also fishing, snowshoeing, concerts at the blue grass festival grounds, a rodeo, and so much more.

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The Pathfinders Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging18 acres · Concrete, WA

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.

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Skagit river camping

17 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sedro Woolley, WA

End of the road. Start of an epic camping weekend. River to the side, Cascade foothill mountains surround. One flush toilet, porta potty and shower. Each site has river access. Sand and grass. Close to the north cascades. Minutes from live music, bars and quality mexican restaurant. Rails to trail for bikes and walking. Tward the end of july the river starts to recede opening up more possibilities of having interaction with the river. That being said its crucial you keep an eye out on your kids. We had a guy out here who almost killed his kids multiple times underestimating the current. Watch out!!Kinda going for the peaceful, listen to the river and birds, vibe. Would rather there be no music and if there is then super low and off by 7

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Camp Hideaway

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Darrington, WA

Welcome to Camp Hideaway in Darrington, Washington—a nature lover's paradise. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and scenic trails by day, and cozy evenings around the fire pit playing horseshoes. The playground and tetherball court offer fun for all ages. Cross the charming bridge to the peaceful peninsula for stunning views and fishing. Discover Darrington's wonders—pack your bags and come explore!

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Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · WA

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, 6 Adirondack chairs, a bench overlooking the creek, and a picnic table.

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Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

39 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Rockport, WA

We are a small boutique resort nestled in the North Cascades. Cabins, RV spots, or Tents on the river. We have you covered. Perfect spot for your entire group or family. Perfect for large groups, reunions, or retreats. Enjoy the scenery, take a walk on one of our many trails, go fishing (must have a license of course), wine tasting, wildlife watching, or just relax in the tranquil scenery. Get back to nature and unplug! Our Property lies on the Skagit River. Just steps away from catching a King, Coho, chinook, Chum, Sockeye, or Humpy (Pink), and when in the season of course. Steelhead fishing both summer and winter on the Skagit. The hiking is out of the world with trails for the family, the experienced, or weekend warriors who just want to explore the raw beauty of the great outdoors. We are a great hub, close to everything but with the cozy comfort of home

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Feral Farm

2 sites · Tents46 acres · Rockport, WA

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!

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Harrison Family Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Concrete, WA

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.

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Camp We Nap

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Concrete, WA

Welcome to your wooded riverfront paradise! Over 500 feet of river front land with 2 acres of woods no amenities, you bring it in you take it out campfires are allowed but you must make sure there are no burn bans. You may drive onto property but don't drive onto the beach You can park right next to your tent or camper if you wish no overnight beach camping but you may hang out ther during the day. There may be 2 other groups on this property. You can also book all sites for a discount if you want the property to yourself $110 a night, message me for availability Off leash pets welcome Property manager will check in to make sure everything onsite is in order for the comfort of all of our guests Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from local amenities, including bars, gas stations, and grocery stores, our property offers easy access to everything you need for a comfortable stay Whether you're casting a line for fish, taking a refreshing dip in the river, or embarking on a thrilling river rafting or kayaking expedition, there's no shortageof water-based activities to enjoy. Off-roading enthusiasts will delight in exploring nearby trails, while hunters can seek out game in the surrounding forest. In the winter months, snowmobiling and snowboarding are popular pastimes, offering adrenaline-pumping fun against a backdrop of snowy landscapes. And for those who prefer a more leisurely pursuit, birdwatching along the riverbank promises sightings of a variety of wild avian species. To enhance your outdoor experience, we offer a variety of extras for purchase. From recreational equipment like bikes, kayaks, and hammocks to camping essentials like tents and sleeping bags, we have everything you need to make the most of your time in nature. Need something specific that's not on the list? Just send us a message, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request. So pack your bags, gather your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at our wooded riverfront retreat. Your outdoor paradise awaits!

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River Rejuvenation Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Concrete, WA

Private property as well as private beach Access nestled in the trees with the beautiful woods and an amazing view of the skagit River. Activities include fishing, swimming, river rafting, kayaking, and wild bird watching. Also, we have 3 fire pits available: 1 in ground near the gazebo overlooking on the river 2 portable. Alcohol and marijuana are okay as long as they are used responsibly.

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Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Marblemount, WA

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

The best camping near Ross Lake National Recreation Area 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.