The best waterfall campgrounds in Lake Wenatchee

Lake Wenatchee draws campers chasing waterfalls, with over 1,600 spots that put you close to tumbling water and forested trails. You’ll find everything from mossy creekside clearings to riverside perches, with shower, pets, and toilet facilities common across most sites. Prices average $146 per night, but you can snag a spot for as low as $100. Swimming, hiking, and climbing are all on hand—expect plenty of cold streams and rocky outcrops. For tried-and-tested picks, check out The Landing at Index WA (880 reviews), Waterfall Camp. Index (103 reviews), or Riverfront Skykomish Camping 6+ (20 reviews) for direct access to the area’s best cascades. Bring sturdy boots—the trails here get slick, but the payoff is worth it.

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The site had so much open space and we had 16 acres all to our selves!

Lake Wenatchee draws campers chasing waterfalls, with over 1,600 spots that put you close to tumbling water and forested trails. You’ll find everything from mossy creekside clearings to riverside perches, with shower, pets, and toilet facilities common across most sites. Prices average $146 per night, but you can snag a spot for as low as $100. Swimming, hiking, and climbing are all on hand—expect plenty of cold streams and rocky outcrops. For tried-and-tested picks, check out The Landing at Index WA (880 reviews), Waterfall Camp. Index (103 reviews), or Riverfront Skykomish Camping 6+ (20 reviews) for direct access to the area’s best cascades. Bring sturdy boots—the trails here get slick, but the payoff is worth it.

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Landing at Index WA

99%

(2525)

9 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. This is a gated property, protected with a code, which you will be sent 24 hours before your arrival. 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).

2. Mt. Index Sanctuary

100%

(51)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 less than a mile away, and other local highlights include Wallace Falls hiking trail, Heybrook Lookout Tower, and the Index Climbing Wall. Local amenities are close by with the Index General Store just 2 miles away and Gold Bar Grocer 11 miles west. We look forward to welcoming you to a peaceful retreat where comfort and adventure meet.

3. Waterfall Camp. Index

97%

(141)

1 site · Tent, RV · Gold Bar, WA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp where you'll enjoy a breathtaking and unique view of the "sunset Waterfall" located on the South Fork Skykomish River in Index WA , in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. find more pictures on Instagram @waterfall_camp This land used to be the property of the local market owner. From there you have a pristine and unique view of the sunset falls, where The Dept of Fish and Game built a fish ladder. You might spot some wildlife including eagles, deers and salmon during the Fall. Don't forget your camera, binoculars and camping chairs to take in the awesome views. Local places to hike include Wallace Falls, Sunset Falls, Lake Serene, Bridal Veil Falls trail ( literally 5 minutes away from us), or maybe you like rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking or fishing. All are available if you drive to Index; located just minutes away. Located at the very end of a private community area (you will need the code) , this place offers a very peaceful setting, including the rushing and relaxing sound of the waterfall and the occasional whistle of a train. Approximately 55 miles east of Seattle and 25 miles west of Steven's Pass. We welcome, tents and camper vans, small to medium groups of campers.

4. Riverfront Skykomish Camping 6+

89%

(40)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Gold Bar, WA

Secluded riverfront campsite in a gated community, located just above Canyon Falls on the South Fork of the Skykomish River. The site is surrounded by large redwood and maple trees for plenty of shade and privacy. There’s space for tents, extra RVs, or car camping. Site includes 110V power outlets (with extension cords), a hose water hookup (potable), picnic table, deck, and BBQ. The river is just steps away with private beach access. Great for fishing, floating, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery. A calm, slow-moving swimming hole is located a few hundred yards upriver and is great for a dip. Important Notes: - Please coordinate before booking if you have a larger RV or trailer. The road is private and narrow. - Cell service is limited in the area. - **Do not float downstream- Canyon Falls is only about ½ mile away, just past the train bridge.** -There is a Porta Potty on site for use. Nearby, you’ll find great hiking, wildlife, and waterfalls, and the famous Espresso Chalet with views of Bridalveil Falls. Quiet, private, and a great base for exploring the outdoors! Reach out if you have any questions or need additional information before booking!

Public campgrounds in and near Lake Wenatchee

Map of the campground. Be aware that as of 07/2019 there is no map available on Recreation.gov when booking.

83%

(3)

Nason Creek Campground

73 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

100%

(1)

Goose Creek Campground

58 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Pine Flats Group Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Pine Flats Campground

12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Johnny Creek Campground

130 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Long Meadow Dispersed Campground

2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Bridge Creek Group Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

The Stuart Lake trailhead, one access point to the Enchantments, is close by! If you're feeling strong, head up Asgard Pass and visit one of the most stunning places in Washington!

100%

(1)

Bridge Creek Campground

12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

100%

(4)

Eightmile Campground

90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

100%

(1)

Ida Creek Campground

20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Eightmile Group Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

100%

(3)

Glacier View Campground

46 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Stories from the community

View of Site 2 from the far side of the site. Both sites are gorgeous and huge - you honestly can't lose at The Landing!

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🐼Gage

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Landing at Index WA

Place was massive!!!! Clean out house and already came with grill at our site. HUGE family dinning table

Brian

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Waterfall Camp. Index

Great location, beautiful view, very quiet location and a great hangout

A

Allyson

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Landing at Index WA

Loved the site, will say be on the lookout though on wild animals as we had an overnight visit from some coyotes so keep that in mind for small animals if off leash. Only con is mainly a 1 way road once in property so when we arrived there was another vehicle trying to leave so caused some issues. Overall beautiful and clean worth the trip over!

L

Laura

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Landing at Index WA

Wow! What a beautiful spot. Thanks for sharing your property with us. We hope to be back! The views are incredible!

B

Bethany

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mt. Index Sanctuary

We loved camping here! The site was clean and spacious. Loved how easily accessible everything was. It was beautiful and it was awesome to be so close to the river. The host was so cool as well! We will definitely be back!!!

S

Stan

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfall Camp. Index

Nice campground. Great location. A little expensive had a lot of fun it was enjoyable for sure.

Danielle

September 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Landing at Index WA

The site was SO beautiful and spacious. There were tons of salmon swimming in the river, the access was easy, the outhouse was well equipped, and the check-in was smooth. Thank you!!

R

Richard

September 2025

11 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Landing at Index WA

The whole place is fantastic. Up over a ridge and then down so well away from the highway. Look like all the campsites had easy access to the water. Campsite 6 is amazing with a permanent tent and outside cover area. Well stocked with a gas BBQ and utensils. Everything is well built and very well maintained. If the weather is iffy, this is the campsite to book. David is very responsive and a great guy. Five stars and we will be back. For large groups booking campsites 1 & 6 together would work well R

Jim

September 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Waterfall Camp. Index

I'm 74. My daughter and I enjoyed 2 nights, she in her van and me in mine. It's rare to find a quiet,secure campsite with incredible views so close and convenient. I opted to refrain from taking the short trail down to the river because it's not ideal for a man my age but kids would love it. I would recommend this spot to anyone who enjoys camping with a tent or a van--not a trailer or larger RV.

T

Trent

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Mt. Index Sanctuary

Lovely campground! Appreciated that it had a firepit available to use. Beautiful views of mt index even though it was a bit smoky during our stay. Host was helpful and got us set up easily.

M

Meghan

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Waterfall Camp. Index

Beautiful spot with everything you need! We had a great time fishing on the river and hiking to serene lake which is right up the road from the camp! So convenient! We hope to be back!

Kelly

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Waterfall Camp. Index

Waterfall Camp is magical, I cannot recommend this place enough. It is extremely private, beautiful views, clean environment. We love it here!

J

Jeff

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Landing at Index WA

Incredible camping site. Beautiful setting, great facilities. Kids enjoyed swimming/playing in the river. Quick trip from Seattle. Will definitely return.

Caren

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at The Landing at Index WA

The landing is such a special place! All sites are gorgeous and have access to the river, the outhouse are pristine and private, and the views are to die for! We stayed in eagle #4 and it was large and could fit 3 tents if needed!

Furlana

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at The Landing at Index WA

This is such a beautiful spot, the river is so clear and view is wonderful. Great place to float on a sunny day. The camping sites are large and well kept. I hope to make this a yearly trip for my family!

H

Holly

August 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at The Landing at Index WA

The landing is one of the most magical places I have camped around here, with an incredible river and lots of swimming holes. It was wonderful! We will definitely go back. The owner, Dave, is very kind and attentive.. the property was clean, the outhouse is well cared for, and it is obvious that a lot of loving care has been put into cultivating a beautiful space. Thank you Dave for sharing it with us! Note: the dogs across from site number one howled the entire day after the owners put it inside. We had dogs and when we went down to the beach and the owner was outside, the dogs ran down to their side of the beach and aggressively barked. When they were put inside, they howled for hours. I felt bad for their situation, and there’s nothing that can be changed about it. But just a heads up. In case you are not into howling, barking dogs, you may want to look at one of the sites further down that isn’t number one. If you don’t have dogs, it probably won’t be a problem.

S

Sean

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Landing at Index WA

This campsite was amazing! Super easy to find, super secluded, quiet and right next to the warmest river I've ever been in, also the outhouse was maintained really well. I can't say enough good things about this campsite, we will definitely be coming back soon!

E

Erin

August 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at The Landing at Index WA

After staying three nights and two whole days at the landing at index in campsite number four, I can say with confidence that this is probably the best campsite I have ever stayed in! With a door-to-door drive time of only one hour and 15 minutes, unbeatable views, and amenities, incredible water access For fishing and floating and swimming, hardly any bugs, and a grocery store only 20 minutes down the road if necessary, I’m not sure why you had camp anywhere else! So grateful to David the owner for sharing his beautiful piece of land with all of us. We can’t wait to go back again! The only criticism I have is that our grill over the fire pit was far too small, but fortunately we had a cast-iron grill plate to put over it to extend the surface area. There are other campsites like #2 that has a freestanding barbecue grill, so depending on what site you stay at you may not need to worry about this. We met several guests during our stay while walking along the riverbank and checking out the property and in typical hip camp fashion, everyone was so very friendly and genuinely happy to be there!

We spent so much time at this private sandy beach. Just a short path from Site 2!

Jessica

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at The Landing at Index WA

The site was absolutely beautiful, well maintained and peaceful. I had also messaged David a couple times beforehand with questions and his responses were very quick. I will definitely be booking again!

C

Claire

August 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfall Camp. Index

This place is pure magic! The site itself is beautifully designed and laid out. Multiple flat parking areas.Two porta potties are clean and smell fresh. Lots of seating and an unbelievable view! There’s a fairly easy public trail close by to access a stunning large swimming hole and beach and then a more challenging private pathway down to a more shallow, smaller swimming hole that was perfect for my dog and I imagine would be great for younger children. Overall, we absolutely loved this campsite. Can’t wait to go back!