Camping on Ross Lake

·

Camping at Ross Lake gives new meaning to “getting off the grid”. Tucked deep in the North Cascades of Washington, this reservoir isn’t accessible by car (on the U.S. side, anyway). You can hike in —or, paddle from Diablo Lake up Riprap Creek and portage your boat overland to Ross Lake.

It takes some effort to get in, but the work is well worth the reward. Wake up to views of snow-capped summits at your lakeside campsite. Fish from the shore, or paddle out into the brilliant blue water.

Feel like a walk? The Pacific Northwest Trail and the East Bank Trail are right in your backyard. Hike along the 23-mile lake toward Canada. On the Sourdough Mountain Trail, you can climb high into the Cascades. From there, the views over North Cascades National Park are breathtaking.

There are 19 campgrounds on Ross Lake, each with 1-7 campsites. Whether you choose a boat-in or trail-accessible site, you’ll need to get a backcountry permit. At Ross Lake Resort, you can rent boats and book floating cabins.

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times for camping in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. In the winter, heavy snow causes avalanches and road closures. Due to changing water levels, boating is possible from July through September.

96% (2.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The beach in late July

3. Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

90%
(124)
22 sites · Tents, RVs · BC
SELF-CONTAINED UNITS ONLY! ***PLEASE CONFIRM IN YOUR REQUEST TO BOOK THAT YOU HAVE YOUR OWN TOILET & a pop-up change tent to put it in if not in an RV. (You can dump it before leaving - let the host know in advance). The map, is not accurate on this site! Check on my Tamihimeadows.com website for the actual map and directions & for more information and pictures. We strive to provide a place to enjoy the peace & quiet of nature, so it's not a place to party or have music loud enough for any neighbours to hear. Nestled in the heart of the Tamihi Recreational Area, just 20 minutes from town, our property offers a rare blend of seclusion and adventure. Surrounded on three sides by lush, moss-draped forest and bordered on the fourth by the stunning Chilliwack River, it’s a true nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy a spacious riverside beach, great for swimming during the summer and fall & has world-class fishing. The area features Class I–IV rapids, ideal for whitewater kayaking, with Chilliwack River Rafting just minutes away. There isn't river access at the sites. The stairs to the beach are through the covered picnic shelter. There is now a light wire fence along the river in riverfront sites for some protection because of the drop-off & undercut banks (not shown in the pictures). We have an endless network of trails and logging roads, perfect for ATVs (ride directly out of our gate), hiking, and biking. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or tranquility, this property offers both. ATV's are idle in - idle out only. QUIET, well-mannered, leashed pets are welcome if you pick up after them. LONG WEEKENDS are a minimum of 3 nights. CHILDREN MUST be accompanied by a parent at all times! FIREWOOD is $9. for a large feed bag full & is available between 8 AM and 8 PM. BEEF and EGGS: We have grass-fed Black Angus beef for sale and we occasionally have eggs from our pastured chickens. Our free-range kind, gentle horses also wander the property. Any interactions with them are at your own risk! The gate must be kept closed because of them. If you prefer, we have 6 bare-bones fishermen's cabins. All the details are on my Tamihi Meadows site under "Cabins".
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

7. Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

82%
(87)
39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Skagit River RV and Camping

9. Skagit River RV and Camping

96%
(206)
40 sites · Tents, RVs · Marblemount, WA
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
Living Large on Chilliwack River

13. Living Large on Chilliwack River

97%
(152)
10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Chilliwack, BC
Glamp camping is open until the end of September. (we provide everything except your food, drinks and personal items!) Enjoy the beautiful acres right on the Chilliwack River! A wonderful family-friendly (including pets!) getaway with endless activities nearby. (no pets allowed for glamping) Our campsite is available in the spring and summer and is just 20 minutes from the city of Chilliwack, BC. We provide a fire pit and campfires are allowed as long as there is no fire ban. The sites are quite private but there will be other campers nearby. We try to keep a large amount of space between sites and some are separated by trees. We are a walk in tent only site- parking is very close, 30 second walk. We can also provide access to electricity so you can charge your phones or other devices if needed. There is no cell reception, but we do have wifi. Potable water is available. We supply natural spring water but you must bring your own jug. We live in an adventure playground! Activities nearby include hiking, white rapid river rafting, fishing, watching bald eagles, Cultus Lake water slides and adventure park, mountain biking, and more! The stargazing at night is beautiful as there is no light pollution here. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$55
 / night
Pulling into our campground

16. Hideaway cedars campground

97%
(75)
5 sites · Tents · Marblemount, WA
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
The seclusion is so nice for sleeping in!

17. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

91%
(158)
8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$51
 / night
Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

18. Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

100%
(89)
13 sites · Tents, RVs · Deming, WA
Our 28 acres are located in between maple falls and glacier, Wa, directly on Mt Baker Hwy on the way to Beautiful Mt Baker. Ben and I run a chemical free farm, on which we raise 7 and 1/2 acres of veggie and flower. 15 acres of pastureland on which we raise pasture raised chicken, as well as biannual lamb and beef. The remainder of our land is breathtaking pacific northwest forest that is boarded by the Bay to Baker trail. Our campsites range between walk in wooded sites, and car camping sites that are open field sites next to the tree line. We provide wagons in our cart corral area to make it more convenient for the very short walk in. ( no more then a 200 foot walk in) We have a beautiful cedar grove to enjoy for lounging and picnics. The Bay to Baker trail borders our property, so it is just steps away and includes a 45 min round walk to a quaint little waterfall (maple falls). As well as a nature loop trail. You can also walk the other direction on the trail over a boardwalk. This direction walks along the back of the farm and allows you to see the veggie fields from a distance. Yofu can continue on the bay to baker trail for a nice walk. There is a conservation area, just a quarter mile drive down the road. With access to the Nooksack river, that includes several nice swimming spots and a couple nice walking trials. Silver Lake is just 3.8 miles away. It has a great recreation area, fun for the whole family. Just a heads up , you will probably lose service on your drive up here. But you will get service back when you are here. We suggest putting the map in your phone before you leave. Google maps will take you just past the farm, and apple maps will stop you too soon. So you are looking for the large kragnes family farms sign in the driveway. pull in and follo the camping signs to the back.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
North Stilly River Yurt

19. North Stilly River Yurt

93%
(7)
1 site · Lodging · Swede Heaven, WA
Come on up to a magical dreamland in the forest on a winding river! We welcome you to a secluded, yet accessible getaway. You will walk down a winding trail with moss draping from the old forest firs and emerge to an opening in the forest with a welcoming large rock patio, fire ring and well accommodated 20 ft yurt. You can then creep along the trail further and come upon a nice flat, comfy greenery area to pitch multitudes of tents, have a swing in the hammocks, or play some yard games. And yet the magic does not end-- emerge further down the hill and you will come upon the glorious North Fork of the Stillaguamish River. It is mighty during the winter months, but flows to a slow and shallow trickle during the summer making it a wonderful place for romping of children and pets alike. There is also some swim holes if you need to truly cool your skin down. The flowing Stilly has blessed us with a very large sand bar on our side of the river which has an abundance of flat, soft sand to pitch more tents on, and also build castles in for the littles. Lastly, don't forget to catch the fantastic view of White Horse Mountain from the two seats that overlook the river! Catch it during the day or during the night with the moon in front of the mountain. You will never forget it! This is an off-grid property. Please bring your own drinking water. We have an outhouse on sight. The yurt has an audio system with CDs if you so choose to bring in your own portable battery. If it is cold winter months, please be aware that there is no heat source within the yurt. We hope you enjoy this forested river land!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

Camping at Ross Lake gives new meaning to “getting off the grid”. Tucked deep in the North Cascades of Washington, this reservoir isn’t accessible by car (on the U.S. side, anyway). You can hike in —or, paddle from Diablo Lake up Riprap Creek and portage your boat overland to Ross Lake.

It takes some effort to get in, but the work is well worth the reward. Wake up to views of snow-capped summits at your lakeside campsite. Fish from the shore, or paddle out into the brilliant blue water.

Feel like a walk? The Pacific Northwest Trail and the East Bank Trail are right in your backyard. Hike along the 23-mile lake toward Canada. On the Sourdough Mountain Trail, you can climb high into the Cascades. From there, the views over North Cascades National Park are breathtaking.

There are 19 campgrounds on Ross Lake, each with 1-7 campsites. Whether you choose a boat-in or trail-accessible site, you’ll need to get a backcountry permit. At Ross Lake Resort, you can rent boats and book floating cabins.

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times for camping in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. In the winter, heavy snow causes avalanches and road closures. Due to changing water levels, boating is possible from July through September.

96% (2.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The beach in late July

3. Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

90%
(124)
22 sites · Tents, RVs · BC
SELF-CONTAINED UNITS ONLY! ***PLEASE CONFIRM IN YOUR REQUEST TO BOOK THAT YOU HAVE YOUR OWN TOILET & a pop-up change tent to put it in if not in an RV. (You can dump it before leaving - let the host know in advance). The map, is not accurate on this site! Check on my Tamihimeadows.com website for the actual map and directions & for more information and pictures. We strive to provide a place to enjoy the peace & quiet of nature, so it's not a place to party or have music loud enough for any neighbours to hear. Nestled in the heart of the Tamihi Recreational Area, just 20 minutes from town, our property offers a rare blend of seclusion and adventure. Surrounded on three sides by lush, moss-draped forest and bordered on the fourth by the stunning Chilliwack River, it’s a true nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy a spacious riverside beach, great for swimming during the summer and fall & has world-class fishing. The area features Class I–IV rapids, ideal for whitewater kayaking, with Chilliwack River Rafting just minutes away. There isn't river access at the sites. The stairs to the beach are through the covered picnic shelter. There is now a light wire fence along the river in riverfront sites for some protection because of the drop-off & undercut banks (not shown in the pictures). We have an endless network of trails and logging roads, perfect for ATVs (ride directly out of our gate), hiking, and biking. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or tranquility, this property offers both. ATV's are idle in - idle out only. QUIET, well-mannered, leashed pets are welcome if you pick up after them. LONG WEEKENDS are a minimum of 3 nights. CHILDREN MUST be accompanied by a parent at all times! FIREWOOD is $9. for a large feed bag full & is available between 8 AM and 8 PM. BEEF and EGGS: We have grass-fed Black Angus beef for sale and we occasionally have eggs from our pastured chickens. Our free-range kind, gentle horses also wander the property. Any interactions with them are at your own risk! The gate must be kept closed because of them. If you prefer, we have 6 bare-bones fishermen's cabins. All the details are on my Tamihi Meadows site under "Cabins".
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

7. Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

82%
(87)
39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Skagit River RV and Camping

9. Skagit River RV and Camping

96%
(206)
40 sites · Tents, RVs · Marblemount, WA
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
Living Large on Chilliwack River

13. Living Large on Chilliwack River

97%
(152)
10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Chilliwack, BC
Glamp camping is open until the end of September. (we provide everything except your food, drinks and personal items!) Enjoy the beautiful acres right on the Chilliwack River! A wonderful family-friendly (including pets!) getaway with endless activities nearby. (no pets allowed for glamping) Our campsite is available in the spring and summer and is just 20 minutes from the city of Chilliwack, BC. We provide a fire pit and campfires are allowed as long as there is no fire ban. The sites are quite private but there will be other campers nearby. We try to keep a large amount of space between sites and some are separated by trees. We are a walk in tent only site- parking is very close, 30 second walk. We can also provide access to electricity so you can charge your phones or other devices if needed. There is no cell reception, but we do have wifi. Potable water is available. We supply natural spring water but you must bring your own jug. We live in an adventure playground! Activities nearby include hiking, white rapid river rafting, fishing, watching bald eagles, Cultus Lake water slides and adventure park, mountain biking, and more! The stargazing at night is beautiful as there is no light pollution here. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$55
 / night
Pulling into our campground

16. Hideaway cedars campground

97%
(75)
5 sites · Tents · Marblemount, WA
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
The seclusion is so nice for sleeping in!

17. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

91%
(158)
8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$51
 / night
Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

18. Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

100%
(89)
13 sites · Tents, RVs · Deming, WA
Our 28 acres are located in between maple falls and glacier, Wa, directly on Mt Baker Hwy on the way to Beautiful Mt Baker. Ben and I run a chemical free farm, on which we raise 7 and 1/2 acres of veggie and flower. 15 acres of pastureland on which we raise pasture raised chicken, as well as biannual lamb and beef. The remainder of our land is breathtaking pacific northwest forest that is boarded by the Bay to Baker trail. Our campsites range between walk in wooded sites, and car camping sites that are open field sites next to the tree line. We provide wagons in our cart corral area to make it more convenient for the very short walk in. ( no more then a 200 foot walk in) We have a beautiful cedar grove to enjoy for lounging and picnics. The Bay to Baker trail borders our property, so it is just steps away and includes a 45 min round walk to a quaint little waterfall (maple falls). As well as a nature loop trail. You can also walk the other direction on the trail over a boardwalk. This direction walks along the back of the farm and allows you to see the veggie fields from a distance. Yofu can continue on the bay to baker trail for a nice walk. There is a conservation area, just a quarter mile drive down the road. With access to the Nooksack river, that includes several nice swimming spots and a couple nice walking trials. Silver Lake is just 3.8 miles away. It has a great recreation area, fun for the whole family. Just a heads up , you will probably lose service on your drive up here. But you will get service back when you are here. We suggest putting the map in your phone before you leave. Google maps will take you just past the farm, and apple maps will stop you too soon. So you are looking for the large kragnes family farms sign in the driveway. pull in and follo the camping signs to the back.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
North Stilly River Yurt

19. North Stilly River Yurt

93%
(7)
1 site · Lodging · Swede Heaven, WA
Come on up to a magical dreamland in the forest on a winding river! We welcome you to a secluded, yet accessible getaway. You will walk down a winding trail with moss draping from the old forest firs and emerge to an opening in the forest with a welcoming large rock patio, fire ring and well accommodated 20 ft yurt. You can then creep along the trail further and come upon a nice flat, comfy greenery area to pitch multitudes of tents, have a swing in the hammocks, or play some yard games. And yet the magic does not end-- emerge further down the hill and you will come upon the glorious North Fork of the Stillaguamish River. It is mighty during the winter months, but flows to a slow and shallow trickle during the summer making it a wonderful place for romping of children and pets alike. There is also some swim holes if you need to truly cool your skin down. The flowing Stilly has blessed us with a very large sand bar on our side of the river which has an abundance of flat, soft sand to pitch more tents on, and also build castles in for the littles. Lastly, don't forget to catch the fantastic view of White Horse Mountain from the two seats that overlook the river! Catch it during the day or during the night with the moon in front of the mountain. You will never forget it! This is an off-grid property. Please bring your own drinking water. We have an outhouse on sight. The yurt has an audio system with CDs if you so choose to bring in your own portable battery. If it is cold winter months, please be aware that there is no heat source within the yurt. We hope you enjoy this forested river land!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

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