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Camping at Lake Wenatchee

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Just over a two-hour drive from Seattle, Lake Wenatchee State Park offers nearly 500 acres of beautiful forest scenery and direct access to a pristine alpine lake. There are tons of things to do in the park no matter the season. Summertime activities include kayaking, volleyball, fishing, and exploring miles of biking and hiking trails, while wintertime is popular for sledding and cross-country skiing. Camping here is split between the North Park and South Park, both of which have fire rings, flush toilets, picnic tables, and ADA amenities.

95% (4K) 4,016 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Lake Wenatchee

The Landing at Index WA

1. The Landing at Index WA

99%
(2603)
Gold Bar, WA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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. This is a gated property, protected with a code, which you will be sent 24 hours before your arrival. Please be sure to read arrival instructions! 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 private outhouses at each campsite. These outhouses are protected with a code, which is sent to you 24 hours before your arrival. Campfires are allowed (when burn bans are not in place).
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Sky River Glamp N Camp 🏕️🔥

2. Sky River Glamp N Camp 🏕️🔥

90%
(34)
Sultan, WA · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging
Private, wooded, flat areas just off SR 2... for Campervan or tents, plus two cabins and 2 RV's...🏕️all surrounded by gorgeous mountain views and located along the north side of the Southfork Skykomish River. Most sites offer views of the river, with some looking through the trees and others enjoying wide-open vistas. Porta potties and communal kitchen and firepits. No running water. All units are fairly close so unless not booked you will share communal amenities. .., and some sites also feature private fire pits. 🏕️🔥 Easy short trail down to river access. Water is nice temp, slow moving right now. Perfect for swimming 🏊‍♂️ paddling 🛶 or even washing off 💦 Located near a variety of outdoor activities, the property is just 1 mile from the town of Index and a 5-minute walk to the Mt. Index Sandbar Tavern 🍺, which is dog- and kid-friendly. It's also very close to the trailhead for Lake Serene.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Timber Canyon Ranch @ Money Creek

3. Timber Canyon Ranch @ Money Creek

93%
(23)
Skykomish, WA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
* Please note that there is a strict fire ban in effect Escape to the peaceful beauty of Washington’s Cascades at Timber Canyon Ranch @ Money Creek. Featuring several classic creekside campsites, these quiet retreats each sit on their own acreage (between 2 and 7 acres). Each offering provides a private pet friendly amount of space where you don’t have to listen to your neighbors dogs, music, etc.. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering trees, immersed in fresh mountain air, and the soothing sounds of Money Creek. Perfect for tent campers and nature lovers who prefer to car camp, these scenic creekside campsites all offer a relaxing getaway just steps from the water and close to hiking, fishing, a natural cold plunge and several other outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway or a week immersed in nature, these cozy creekside settings provides the perfect respite to unwind beneath the stars. Also, unlike many of the other sites in the area, there’s no need to worry about train noise or train encounters while staying with us at Timber Canyon Ranch. Please remember to clean up your waste and anything your dog leaves behind ;) We’ve had zero issues yet and desperately want to keep it that way (hence the $100 fine if we find something you’ve left). Some final notes dedicated to safety: Be careful standing and walking on the rocks near the water! Many of them are more slippery than you’d expect and people have gotten severely injured- thankfully not at our site! Our trails to each creekside campsite also require intermediate to advanced skill based on both tripping hazards as well as raw steepness. For your safety, do not book these sites if you are not comfortable navigating extreme terrain!
Pets
Campfires
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

4. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

90%
(105)
National forest in Washington · 3357 sites
The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

5. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

92%
(128)
National forest in Washington · 753 sites
High-altitude beauty north of Mt. Rainier. From glaciers to river fishing, all is spectacular!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Del Rosario Family Vineyard

6. Del Rosario Family Vineyard

99%
(176)
Palisades, WA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Vineyard nestled in the valley of the Palisades Road in Palisades, Washington. The Vineyard has a personal touch which includes wine tasting in a secluded yet open farm environment. The Vineyard is open for on site tours and wine tasting. Campers have the option to camp on the premises. Water access available and electrical hoop ups. Note: Access the camp site off Palisades road thru the main entrance gate. Do not turn on Wagon Road.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ellensburg Camp Resort

7. Ellensburg Camp Resort

Ellensburg, WA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
A Family Resort on One of Washington's Most Beautiful Rivers Ellensburg Camp Resort has been welcoming families, anglers, adventurers, and road-trippers to the banks of the Yakima River for generations. Nestled in the heart of the Yakima River Canyon, Ellensburg Camp Resort is a family-owned and operated campground that has grown from a simple riverside camp into a full-service resort destination. We're proud to offer something for everyone — from full hookup RV sites and cozy cabins to glamping tipis and a vacation rental home. We believe the best vacations are the ones spent outdoors, close to nature, and close to the people you love. That's why we've invested in amenities that bring guests together — a sparkling pool, a huge dog park, sports courts, a party pavilion, and a packed calendar of social events throughout the season. Located just minutes from downtown Ellensburg and Central Washington University, we're the perfect basecamp for exploring the Kittitas Valley — whether you're here for the world-class fishing, the Ellensburg Rodeo, a CWU graduation, or just a long weekend away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Earthlight Camping

8. Earthlight Camping

97%
(266)
Entiat, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV
!!!ROAD IMPROVEMENT READY!!!  Come enjoy our land with a new road. After months of waiting for our road to be improved we finally did it! No need to drive on bumpy roads no more ;)  WE GUARANTEE YOU THERE WONT BE ANY OTHER CAMPERS AT YOUR DESIGNATED CAMPGROUND, 20 ACRES JUST FOR YOU.  This is a camper's dream with 100% privacy and no other "camp site neighbors".  From the moment you turn off from the main road, you will experience magic, as the colorful fields on either side lead you to one of the best views of Columbia river, the snowy mountain tops behind, and the vast valley beneath. Once you reach the land, the views are meant just for you, as there is peace and tranquility of pure nature all around. Sit on our swing, or in your RV, hike the 180 acres of land, or just soak in the amazing 360 degree views of mellow sunrises, all the way to the fiery sunsets, as the wildlife around you joins your day.Short ride away, you can also visit numerous award-winning wineries, swim in lake Chelan, hike the vast nature, golf, and enjoy all what the Columbia River Valley has to offer. Over 180 acres of land on top of the canyon, you will hardly get better views anywhere else in the state. Completely unobstructed views of the Columbia River the the furthest horizon you can imagine. One of the most magical places to find tranquility and a lot of activities to do. Disclaimers: - Drone flying is allowed inside our property. If you wish to fly a drone please let me know so I can send you a full map of all of our property. You will have 180 acres to fly it. 
Pets
Whispering Pines RV Campground

9. Whispering Pines RV Campground

89%
(22)
Cle Elum, WA · 88 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the charm of Whispering Pines, a unique family-owned RV campground nestled in the heart of Cle Elum, WA, where nature and comfort blend seamlessly. Spanning 60 acres, this premier destination offers a variety of accommodations, from traditional tent sites and RV spots with hookups to luxurious glamping options like fully furnished tiny homes and apartments. At Whispering Pines, we prioritize your comfort with clean, well-maintained amenities, including modern bathrooms, showers, and a convenient laundry center. Our fully-stocked convenience store ensures you have everything you need for a perfect getaway. Enjoy a range of activities, whether you prefer relaxing by the picturesque pond or engaging in water adventures on the stunning Yakima River. Whether you choose to stay on-site or venture out, there’s an abundance of activities to explore. From hiking scenic trails to discovering local shops and restaurants, Whispering Pines is the ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Experience the tranquility of nature while enjoying the comforts of home at our exceptional campground.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
North Cascades National Park

10. North Cascades National Park

96%
(81)
National park in Washington · 360 sites
Take in alpine scenery from along a backcountry trail in this remote national park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Alta Lake State Park

11. Alta Lake State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Washington · 125 sites
Recover, relax, and rest at this picturesque mountain lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Daroga State Park

12. Daroga State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Washington · 47 sites
Daroga State Park is a riverside adventure spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wallace Falls State Park

13. Wallace Falls State Park

100%
(1)
State park in Washington · 7 sites
Discover the cascading beauty of Wallace Falls State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Silver Ridge Ranch & Campground

14. Silver Ridge Ranch & Campground

89%
(181)
Easton, WA · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Tucked beneath the pine-covered ridges of Washington’s Central Cascades, Silver Ridge Ranch offers a peaceful mountain escape just 90 minutes east of Seattle. Whether you're snowmobiling in the winter or hiking, paddling, or relaxing in the summer, this historic ranch blends rustic charm with year-round adventure. Located in Easton, WA—just minutes from Lake Easton and miles of forest trails—our ranch features a mix of lodging options including cozy cabins, glamping yurts, star-gazing domes, and tent/RV sites. With sweeping mountain views, fresh alpine air, and direct trail access from the property, it’s an ideal basecamp for both quiet getaways and group gatherings. Amenities include: Access to snowmobile, ATV, biking & hiking trails directly from camp Lodge with bar/lounge, fireplace, and occasional live music Shower house, clean restrooms, picnic areas, propane fire pits Group sites, event space, horse trailer parking & seasonal corral Pet-friendly (leash required), family-friendly, RV-friendly Local highlights: 5 minutes to Lake Easton (boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming) Trailheads, rivers, and backcountry access right out your door 20 minutes to Cle Elum for groceries, gas, and dining
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Paradise View Retreat

15. Paradise View Retreat

98%
(30)
East Wenatchee, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @paradiseviewretreat2025 Private 62 acres at the highest elevation (3100 ft) on Badger Mountain adjoining 900+ acres of public land.
Pets
Picnic table
Ascent Basecamp

16. Ascent Basecamp

94%
(74)
Skykomish, WA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come experience this amazing Off Grid riverside enclave! Situated along the banks of the Tye River, this is the closest location to Steven’s Pass mountain and all the popular sites the scenic corridor has to offer! 6min from Steven’s Pass Resort, 1min to Scenic Hot Springs, 2min to Deception Falls, 2min walk from Iron Goat Trailhead and Cat skiing pickup! Just 45min from Leavenworth as well! Guests have the option to add on the Sauna package and enjoy our wood fired river view barrel sauna! No better feeling than to take a cold plunge in the river after a sauna:) On weekends we run our riverside wood burning hot tub as well included in the sauna/ hot tub package! All tent sites are riverside and feature mostly level tentpads and riverside fire pits! Some with room for multiple tents. While some sites are close in proximity, the sound of the river over powers most normal conversations just a few feet away and each site has a great stretch of river heaven! Drive in vehicle camping sites feature river views but are perched higher on the bank and while not directly riverside, are just feet away from the river! The property has communal river access points. All campers have access to our communal kitchen area as well featuring propane grill! Please bring your own cookware. Restroom facilities are well maintained portable toilets. We have limited extra parking onsite depending on reservations on a given night, available for $20/ night per vehicle. Otherwise there are some other spots available at lots in the general area.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Scenic Cedars

17. Scenic Cedars

100%
(9)
Skykomish, WA · 2 sites
Welcome to Scenic Cedars our campground in the small town of Scenic. It’s situated next to the Iron Goat Trailhead. We have two campsites for people to stay at and each has their own picnic tables. We plan on getting more amenities in the future and for now the toilets will be used at the trailhead which is a 2 minute walk. Parking can also be found there but there is also usually a spot open across old cascade highway in the gravel parking lot. If you like hiking this is the place to be. The Iron Goat Trail cuts through the property and has a ton of hiking for anyone. There’s a flat section for beginners or if you want to do switchbacks to the tunnels and lookout that’s also nearbye as well. If you like waterfalls Deception falls is also a good hike just a few minutes drive west on highway 2. Steven’s Pass is just under a 10 minutes drive east so if you like downhill biking that can be found there. I haven’t done it but across the highway are some nice hot springs you can hike up to. Please feel free to feel at home with everything and let me know if you need anything or have any questions! Enjoy and welcome
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Earth Biscuits Skykomish Campground

18. Earth Biscuits Skykomish Campground

97%
(200)
Skykomish, WA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Earth Biscuits is a sanctuary and a place to enjoy nature Located in Skykomish Washington, a small town 15 minutes from the Stevens Pass Ski Resort and the Pacific Crest Trail. We have 53 acres of a southern facing hill side that runs along the Henry M. Jackson, Wild Sky Wilderness within the Mt. Baker National Forest. We have seven sites for camping. All sites have a fire ring, a table of some sort and a barrel of water for dousing your campfire. All sites have a deck for setting up on. We give each party a clean camping toilet and privacy tent. All campers are welcome to hike up to the cliffs for viewing. The road going into the property is flat and level; however, we reclaimed an old logging road and it takes a jeep or 4-wheel drive truck type vehicle (Subaru makes it all day long for some reason) to get past the switchback as it heads up to the cliffs and camping spots 1-3. Bring binoculars. Be advised that it takes an able-bodied person to get to the top as the trail going to the cliffs is rough. We are laying some ropes but count on your own ability, not the ropes. We have not put in electric hook ups, water, sewage disposal, therefore your rig needs to be self-contained. We offer a clean and sanitary camping toilet for each party. Works well and easy to use. If panning for minerals is your thing there are a couple of seasonal creeks. The property is walking distance to 3 local eateries, a laundromat , a tavern, coffee shop, outfitter, fishing guides, convenience store/gas station. Skykomish is a train community and sports a train park which offers free miniature train rides May thru October. Fun for the kids of all ages. Keep in mind that as a train community there will be trains that rumble through the valley at night. If that bothers you bring ear plugs. There are numerous hiking trails in the area as well as several rivers in the area. The Foss, Beckler, Skykomish and several pristine alpine lakes. Biscuits come to the area for a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities including skiing, snow shoeing, rafting, mushroom hunting, rock climbing, quad tours, gold panning, bird watching, fishing, mountain biking, mountain rescue instruction or just unplugging from the world below and simply chilling. Pets are welcome however the property is located within the town limits of Skykomish and there is a leash law and you don’t want rover to chase wildlife into the mountains or across the highway and be lost forever. It happens. This area is rich with history from “The Olden Days”. The longest train tunnel in the western hemisphere was constructed through/under these mountains in the early 1900s after the nation’s worst train disaster, an avalanche, took 96 souls. Wellington (site of the disaster) is a short drive, is worth seeing and is wheel chair accessible. Two books written about this, both excellent reads. The White Cascade and Vis Major. During the time of tunnel construction between the logging and rail/tunnel workers there were some 20,000 living and prospering in the Skykomish Valley. They were a hearty rough-and-tumble crowd. Thursday through Sunday there is a museum and art gallery in town. Also, there is abundant wildlife in the area including bear, deer, cougar, bobcat, porcupine, etc. In the event you’re fool hearty, NOT diligent, (lazy) and you leave food items out, that will serve as a chow call for the bears. FULL DISCLOSURE: There hasn’t been a bear attack in a very long time up here, and don’t think you're the bear whisperer because you’re not. That title belongs to Father Earth Biscuit. His ghost wanders the woods at night. I observed him playing poker recently late at night with the Sasquatch and bear that lives in these woods. The bear lost and was angry and was departing the area hoping to find a tasty human but found a nice nest of grubs instead and so he forgot about his people hunt. Unfortunately, just as my camera was ready to take video of the whole affair my battery went dead. I needed to get out of there anyway as to that point I had not been detected by them. But they are there! We biscuits find that bears are people too and they are just trying to fill their calorie needs and they like cheese burgers and chips of any kind with their beer. Don’t leave out the food items. IT WOULD BE A PROVOCATION ON YOUR PART! Enuf said. Hunting/ shooting is strictly forbidden. All state fire restrictions are adhered to. No Rock climbing the cliffs unless you’re an instructor level climber and can show credentials We have planned this as a FAMILY CAMP GROUND therefore, illegal substance users should look for another place. Your rig must be in good condition. No old 1900s models that clutter city streets down below. I hope you understand our intent here. Be advised that Length of stay is limited.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mineral Springs Resort

19. Mineral Springs Resort

75%
(4)
Cle Elum, WA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Pack your bags, and let's go make some memories at Mineral Springs Campground! We have 14 spots, 8 with power hook up!! 🌲 What’s nearby? ✔️ Scenic hiking trails ✔️ Rockhounding spots ✔️ Wildlife & beautiful views ✔️ Peace, quiet, and starry skies ✔️ Miles of off road / UTV trails
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Masabaje Camp

20. Masabaje Camp

96%
(249)
Ellensburg, WA · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Purchased in 2013 after a fire came through the area. We've spent the following years regenerating the land, planting trees, building our house and collecting places for people to rest their heads. Masabaje is the first two letters of each of our parents names (Margaret, Sandy, Barry, Jerry). We offer multiple listings - the cottage, a converted schoolbus, an Airstream, truck bed glamp pod and tent spot. Meet Birdy, a semi-converted Blue Bird school bus with a comfortable queen mattress, couch, two recliners, dry kitchen, cooking utensils, and camp stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 4 minute walk). Birdy sits at "Top Pond", farthest from the house in a super quiet and private spot. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). There is no electricity available in Birdy. Devices can be charged up at the house. There is also no heater in Birdy, overnight temperatures in September and October can dip down into the mid-low 40's or lower. Meet Tin Man, we found him after he had been in an accident. We bandaged him up and he became the first place to sleep when we bought our empty land. He has a comfortable double mattress, couch, chair, kitchen, cooking utensils, and two burner stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 30 second walk). Tin Man sits on our driveway round-a-bout and is closest to the house. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). Ellensburg is known for its wind and our land is just down from a wind farm. We cannot control the wind, but Birdy sits in a pretty wind protected oasis. Masabaje is a clothing optional space. We are less than 2 hours from Seattle, 1 hour to Yakima wine country, 40 minutes to Vantage, 40 minutes to Leavenworth, 50 minutes to Snoqualmie Pass, 15 minutes to Ellensburg, 25 minutes to Roslyn, 25 minutes to Yakima River Canyon for floating and hiking, and so much more!
Pets
Toilets
Showers

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Lake Wenatchee camping guide

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve campsites and one of the two picnic areas over the phone or by using the Washington State Parks online reservation system. Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance. New sites go live at 7am Pacific Time.
  2. If you can't find a campsite for your entire stay, you can split your stay across two campsites without having to pay double reservation fees. However, this can only be done over the phone.
  3. Campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-October until late March. Winter camping takes place in the south day-use area and Sno-Park permits are required.

When to go

If you like warm temperatures and aren't fond of rain, the best time to visit is in July or August, when weather is at its finest. However, plenty of people come for winter camping, when the park and its surroundings are covered with white snow, ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. December is a great time to come to experience the holiday festivities in the nearby faux-Bavarian tourist town of Leavenworth.

Know before you go

  • Lake Wenatchee Park Store sells basic prepared foods, espresso drinks, firewood, ice, and other supplies from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
  • Outside of high season, the nearest place to pick up supplies is Leavenworth, where there are banks, a supermarket, gas stations, and lots of German-inspired restaurants.
  • While there are heated restrooms and a hot shower for wintertime use, hookups are not available during the November through March offseason.
  • Burn bans are common during the summer wildfire season. During such periods, campfires and some types of cooking devices are prohibited.
  • You will not need a Discover Pass (annual access permit) if you are camping in the park.

Frequently Asked Questions

North and South Campgrounds are both located at Lake Wenatchee State Park in Washington State. They each offer a different camping experience: North Campground: - Situated on the north shore of Lake Wenatchee - Offers more campsites (96 standard non-electric sites and 42 partial-hookup sites) - Provides access to a designated swimming area - Has a boat launch and dock for easy access to the lake - Features a playground for children - Tends to be more popular and busier during the peak season South Campground: - Located on the south shore of Lake Wenatchee - Offers a more rustic and secluded camping experience - Has 42 standard non-electric campsites - Provides access to a smaller beach area - Ideal for those seeking a quieter and more peaceful camping experience Both campgrounds offer restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, and access to hiking trails. However, the choice between the North and South Campgrounds depends on your preferences for amenities, crowd levels, and the type of camping experience you desire.

Yes, campfires are allowed at Lake Wenatchee State Park in designated fire rings or fire pans at established campsites. However, it's essential to check for any current fire restrictions or bans before starting a campfire, as these can change depending on weather conditions and fire danger levels. Always follow the park's guidelines and practice responsible fire safety to protect the environment and other campers.

Yes, Lake Wenatchee is generally safe to swim in. The lake offers clear water and sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for swimming during the warmer months. However, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings, follow posted safety guidelines, and always swim with a buddy. Water temperatures can be cold, especially in the early summer, so be prepared for cooler water. You can find more information about Lake Wenatchee camping and swimming here.

Yes, you need a Discover Pass to visit Lake Wenatchee State Park. The Discover Pass is a vehicle permit required for day-use access to Washington state parks, including Lake Wenatchee State Park. The pass costs $30 annually or $10 for a one-day pass. You can purchase a Discover Pass online, at a state park, or at various retail locations. Note that the Discover Pass is not required for overnight camping, as camping fees already include the cost of the pass during your stay.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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