The best camping near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest adventure.

88% (97 reviews)
88% (97 reviews)

The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.  

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Community favorites near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

97%
(48)

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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from 
$35
 / night
99%
(41)

The Plain Valley

17 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Leavenworth, WA
Welcome to The Plain Valley, an idyllic 8-acre property nestled between the charming town of Plain, WA, and the tranquil Wenatchee River. Our serene setting, with its open field and small stand of pine trees, provides a peaceful camping experience. Please note that our campsite is dry, meaning you'll need to bring your own restroom facilities and water supply. However, a water hose is available on-site for refilling purposes and the brewery has a half bathroom you can access with a door code. Additionally, for those moments when you're feeling parched, we have a microbrewery conveniently located on the premises. Escape to The Plain Valley for a quiet retreat surrounded by nature's beauty. Enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, floating the river, or our local zip lines. Leavenworth is a bavarian themed town located about 20 minutes away and is a favorite vacation destination.
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$40
 / night
99%
(2380)

The Landing at Index WA

8 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Index, WA
Welcome to The Landing at Index - located on the South Fork Skykomish River, in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. With 16 acres of beautiful, private woods and breathtaking views of Mt. Index, this is a wonderful getaway to kick back and relax after your day of adventures, or just to escape the city rush. The campsites are at the bottom of a long logging road so an SUV or AWD vehicle are preferable , especially during the wetter seasons. When the property was logged approximately 100 years ago they scooped out gravel from the river to make their roads in the area thus creating the back eddy pool along the beach. A rather peaceful setting, including the rushing sound of the river and the occasional whistle of a train. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after you stay at The Landing. Pets are welcome, there are outhouses at each campsite. Campfires are allowed (when burn bans are not in place).
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$121.50
 / night
96%
(596)

Cascade River Retreat

18 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Marblemount, WA
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.
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$30
 / night
95%
(270)

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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$42.75
 / night
100%
(19)

Mt. Index Sanctuary

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Gold Bar, WA
Nestled in a gated community at the base of Mt. Index and alongside the Skykomish River, our site offers a serene escape surrounded by acres of lush woods, stunning views, and direct river access. It’s the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to a variety of activities including hiking, biking, climbing, and rafting. The Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls trailhead is just a short walk away, and other local highlights include Wallace Falls hiking trail, Heybrook Lookout Tower, and the Index Climbing Wall. For winter sports lovers, Stevens Pass Ski Resort is conveniently located 30 miles east on Highway 2. Local amenities are close by with the Index General Store just 2 miles away and Gold Bar Grocer 11 miles west. Enjoy scheduled access to our Skykomish River Pavilion; a fenced-in area featuring a gazebo, Solo Stove fire pit, and a large propane BBQ—ideal for relaxing and socializing by the river. We look forward to welcoming you to a peaceful retreat where comfort and adventure meet.
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$100
 / night

The best camping near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest guide

Overview

About

Stretching 180 miles south from the Canadian border, this massive, 3.8-million-acre national forest offers something for everyone, from dry steppes and verdant valleys to towering glacial peaks and lush forests. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, climbing, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and, in winter, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Not surprisingly, the camping options are vast as well, with more than 140 developed and dispersed campsites and plenty of space for backcountry camping.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for hikers and birdwatchers: The Klipchuk Campground offers easy access to hiking trails along the North Cascade Scenic Highway and great birdwatching from camp.
  • Best for lake views and water access: All sites at the tent-only Glacier View Campground have lake and mountain views, plus easy access to Lake Wenatchee.
  • Best for climbers: The Early Winters Campground is close to the Goat Wall and Fun Rock climbing areas.

 

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Most campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early in the day or during the week to grab a spot. More than 20 campgrounds offer campsites available for advance reservations. Book a spot for peak season as soon as possible.
  1. Be sure to check on seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campground.

When to go

Summer is the peak season for the forest, and despite the vast size, popular areas can see crowds. Spring is a great time for wildflowers and waterfalls, while late summer and fall bring berries and mushrooms. Late September and early October are good times to look for fall colors. The national forest is home to several ski resorts, which are snow dependent.

Know before you go

  • Permits are required for fishing, hunting, and harvesting of berries and mushrooms. 
  • Overnight permits are required for the Enchantments Area from May 15 to October 31, with a pre-season lottery held between February 15 and March 1. 
  • Motorized and mechanized equipment, including bicycles and drones, are not permitted in designated wilderness areas.
  • Pack some rain gear. Some areas of the forest can see up to 70 inches of precipitation a year.
  • Pets are prohibited in the Enchantment Area and Ingalls Lake area of Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
  • Cell phone coverage can be very spotty, especially in valleys and along rivers, streams, and lakes.

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