Camping on Ross Lake

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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% (2.7K) 1,838 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ross Lake

Lakewood Cabins

1. Lakewood Cabins

98%
(84)
Chilliwack, BC · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
We’re located just 2 minutes by car from Cultus Lake and the Vedder River. Our tiny farm is home to friendly animals and sits right on the edge of an old-growth forest. Trails and forest walks are just steps away from your spot. As an experienced host, I’ll make sure you have a wonderful stay. This is an amazing spot for families of all ages.
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Cascade River Retreat

2. Cascade River Retreat

96%
(759)
Marblemount, WA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
50% off all sites from October 10th thru April 1st use code NVWH71P5 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 ($15.00 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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Hideaway cedars campground

3. Hideaway cedars campground

97%
(77)
Marblemount, WA · 4 sites
Our property is 1 mile east of the town of Marblemount sitting on a beautiful 4 acres surrounded by thick cedar trees with 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, paddle boarding and outdoor activities. In our campground we offer a outdoor but inclosed restroom. Enjoy and nice hot or cool shower at the end of your day . Potable water is available in our campground. Fire wood bundle are available for purchase when you arrive or when booking. All day Paddle Board Rentals are available when booking. Rentals are $55.00 and available from 11:00 am to 11:00pm . Enjoy a full day on the beautiful Diablo lake 20 minutes east settled in the Cascade mountains. Head west to float the beautiful Shannon Lake that offers a dayuse with beautiful views of Mount Baker. Baker lake is just a little further with breath taking views and a awesome lake . Across the road from our campground there is a trail leading to a peaceful spot on the river . In the town of Marblemount there are two gas stations that offer a wide verity of supplies for you and your every day adventures , two restaurants both serving amazing food. Head east on Hwy 20 North Cascade pass leading you to the historic antiquted town of Winthrop to enjoy great food and a tone of family fun.
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North Cascades National Park

4. North Cascades National Park

96%
(71)
National park in Washington · 360 sites
Take in alpine scenery from along a backcountry trail in this remote national park.
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Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

5. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

92%
(127)
National forest in Washington · 753 sites
High-altitude beauty north of Mt. Rainier. From glaciers to river fishing, all is spectacular!
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Canvas Cabin near the Cascade River

6. Canvas Cabin near the Cascade River

Marblemount, WA · 1 site
Perched on a treed ridge above the white waters of the Cascade River just outside of the North Cascades National Park, this canvas cabin offers a snug retreat tucked among second growth fir & cedar trees and wild huckleberries. Wake to filtered sunlight through towering evergreens, the sound of the river below, and crisp mountain air that feels worlds away from everyday life. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, writers, hikers, and anyone craving a true forest escape near the North Cascades. Your next adventure awaits you in an off grid recreational community among tall trees. A quality constructed 12x12 Kodiak canvas “cabin” has been set up for you with a 12” memory foam mattress and bed frame, lush pillows, a down alternative comforter and duvet cover, linens, plus all of the basics needed to enjoy a mug of coffee with the chipmunks or to make a simple meal after a long day on the trail. Your camping site includes a porta potty for your private use. It also comes with direct access to the Cascade River from our riverfront property a short 8 minute walk away. This is a new listing and is still in development so the photos are few but more are coming! Book now to take advantage of introductory rates…you won’t regret it. The property is gorgeous, the space is peaceful, the woods need you and the guest experience is important to us. We have set the stage for a GREAT camping experience and provide the vast majority of your camping needs but you will need to bring drinking water with you. This property and the arrangement by design are best suited to 2 people but with alternative sleeping set ups (think hammock) there can be up to 4 people. There is an inflatable twin mattress for use in addition to the queen bed. We will provide a battery pack that has the ability to charge devices and power lights. Being an off grid community means you may hear distant generators though quiet hours are 10pm-7am.
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Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

7. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

90%
(160)
Marblemount, WA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
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Full hookups
Skagit River RV and Camping

8. Skagit River RV and Camping

95%
(209)
Marblemount, WA · 38 sites · Tents, RVs
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 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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Full hookups
Living Large on Chilliwack River

9. Living Large on Chilliwack River

97%
(154)
Chilliwack, BC · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Camping is open and the weather is beautiful! 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 camp sites are great for anyone wanting to camp, including groups. Walk in tenting only. We have Glamping tents as well - we provide everything except your food, drinks and personal items! They are situated beside the river, with a eating bar overlooking the river and with beautiful views. For the romantic couple - but we also can accomodate a small child (inquire). 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. (then you can have a propane campfire) 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 that you can use. 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, cold plunge and sauna retreats, wine tastings and more! The stargazing at night is beautiful as there is no light pollution here. We look forward to hosting you!
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Pearrygin Lake State Park

10. Pearrygin Lake State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Washington · 159 sites
Indulge in all of your favorite water sports at Pearrygin Lake!
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Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

11. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

90%
(104)
National forest in Washington · 3357 sites
The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.
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Rasar State Park

12. Rasar State Park

95%
(10)
State park in Washington · 58 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Rasar State Park.
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Silverline Lakeside Resort

13. Silverline Lakeside Resort

89%
(114)
Winthrop, WA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Dispersed camping in "The Field" can be booked through HipCamp, all other sites within the campground must be booked through our direct website. Please note the following about The Field: The Field is exactly that - a large, open, grassy field. There are no shade trees so it is recommended that you bring your own shade, if you desire any. The Field does not have any lighting - it is recommended that you do not arrive after dark. The Silverline Resort is a no generator park, however we do allow generators to be used in The Field, but they must be turned off during quiet hours (10pm - 8am). All external noise devices must also be turned off during these hours. Fires are allowed until Washington State or Okanogan County issue their annual summer burn ban. It is a different date each season, feel free to email the day before your stay to check if one has been issued for your dates. Please book 1 site per tent or trailer. If you have more than one tent or trailer please book additional sites. These sites are dispersed and are first come first served. Assigned tent/RV sites within our campground must be booked through our direct website - they can not be booked through HipCamp. Each site can accommodate up to 4 adults in the same tent/trailer, and up to 4 children in the same tent/trailer. Additional adults or tents/trailers need to book an additional site. There is a port-a-potty located in the field, the bathhouse and showers are located inside the campground. Our showers are quarter operated with a cost of $1.50/five minutes. Please plan ahead and bring quarters or stop by our store before we close and we can make change for you. Our resort has a well-stocked general store where you can pick up camping essentials, including fishing tackle and supplies, RV supplies, soda and snacks, firewood, and ice. After picking up supplies, you can enjoy a family picnic at one of our large grass common areas. If you'd prefer someone else do you cooking, stop by the Wagon Wheel Kitchen, our onsite restaurant offering unlimited pancakes most Saturday and Sunday mornings. If you want to get out on the lake but don't have a boat, we offer a wide variety of watercraft for rent. Other campground facilities include the following: 3 fishing docks  Horseshoe pits  Boat launch  Swimming beach  Mini golf  Boat Trailer Parking  Restrooms & showers  Dump station  Gravel roads  Kids' play structure  Grass common areas Silverline Lakeside Resort is the perfect place to create unforgettable camping memories along the banks of Pearrygin Lake. Our campground offers a wide range of facilities and amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Water enthusiasts will love our range of watercraft available for rent, and our boat launch makes it easy to access the lake. For land-based activities, we have a mini-golf course and a kids' play structure. Our grassy common areas are perfect for picnics, and we have three fishing docks and a swimming beach for those who enjoy water activities. Our general store is stocked with all the camping essentials, including fishing tackle, RV supplies, firewood, and ice. We also have an onsite restaurant, the Wagon Wheel Kitchen, where you can enjoy delicious food and unlimited pancakes on weekends. If you prefer to dine out, we offer a range of food and drinks. No matter what your camping style or preferences, Silverline Lakeside Resort has amenities that cater to your needs. We aim to ensure that your camping experience is comfortable, relaxing, and unforgettable.
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North Cascades Basecamp

14. North Cascades Basecamp

98%
(84)
WA · 4 sites
Situated under 5 miles from the North Cascades National Park West Entrance, this lush property provides ample rest, relaxation and preparation for all of your adventures in the North Cascades. Set at the confluence of the Skagit and Cascade Rivers in the quiet outpost of Marblemount, you're perfectly positioned between ancient valleys and dramatic mountain peaks—an ideal place to rest, reset, and reconnect with nature before and after your days on the trail. This property is located near the National Forest and National Park and wildlife sightings and weather events are a possibility throughout the year.
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Harrison Family Farm

15. Harrison Family Farm

98%
(123)
Concrete, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Picnic table
Sauk View Woods

16. Sauk View Woods

99%
(34)
Concrete, WA · 1 site
A peaceful and hidden piece of land in big timber along the skagit river. Camp under big Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedars, right next to a boat launch into the Skagit River. Come with family and pets to enjoy privacy and connect with nature. Close to many good hiking trails while still getting 5G internet at the campground.
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Camp Hideaway

17. Camp Hideaway

98%
(126)
Darrington, WA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

18. Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

89%
(127)
BC · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
SELF-CONTAINED UNITS ONLY! ***PLEASE CONFIRM IN YOUR REQUEST TO BOOK THAT YOU HAVE YOUR OWN TOILET and a pop-up change tent to put it in if not in an RV. (You can dump it before leaving - just let the host know in advance). The map, is not accurate on this site! Check on my Tamihimeadows.com website and click on "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 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 & 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 & fall & world-class fishing. The area features Class I–IV rapids for whitewater kayaking, with Chilliwack River Rafting just 5 or so minutes away. You can ATV right out of our gate onto unlimited logging roads and trails or hike the Trans Canada Trail 3 blocks from our gate. There isn't river access at the sites. The stairs to the beach are through the picnic shelter. There is a light wire fence along the river in riverfront sites for protection due to a drop-off & undercut banks. ATV's are idle in - idle out. QUIET, well-mannered, leashed pets are welcome if you pick up after them and not leave them unattended. 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 9 AM and 8 PM. BEEF and EGGS: We have grass-fed Black Angus beef jerky for sale (this cow was treated as a pet until her time & was dispatched on the farm to avoid stress). 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".
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Electrical hookup
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Big Twin Lake Resort

19. Big Twin Lake Resort

98%
(40)
Winthrop, WA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Relax by the Water at Big Twin Lake Resort Nestled on the shores of Big Twin Lake in sunny Okanogan County, our resort is just three miles south of Winthrop, WA—close to town, yet perfectly peaceful. This is a site or camping cabin located within our 50 acre camping resort. Big Twin Lake Resort offers a quiet, relaxing getaway with easy access to the area's natural beauty. Big Twin is a renowned fly-fishing lake, stocked annually and ideal for both seasoned anglers and beginners. Spend your days casting a line, exploring nearby hiking and biking trails, or simply soaking up the views. Our resort offers the perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor fun. Kids and adults alike will love spending time on the water with our rowboats, pedal boats, and paddle boards, all available for rent. With its quiet, laid-back atmosphere and a wide range of outdoor activities, Big Twin Lake Resort is the perfect spot for your next family vacation.
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Full hookups
Hidden Gem Base Camp-Marblemount WA

20. Hidden Gem Base Camp-Marblemount WA

100%
(1)
Marblemount, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Tucked away in the lush forest of Marblemount WA, this peaceful half-acre campsite offers a true Pacific Northwest escape. Surrounded by beautiful mossy trees and the soothing presence of a nearby river, this private site is perfect for those looking to unplug and reconnect with nature. The property features a half-acre single campsite, giving you plenty of space and privacy. Whether you're tent camping or dry camping in your RV/motorhome/van you'll enjoy a secluded setting inside a gated off-grid community. This site is a 15 minute drive to the North Cascades National Park entrance, 45 minutes to Diablo Lake and 10 minutes to the town of Marblemount.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

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

At Ross Lake, you can wake up to views of snow-capped summits at your lakeside campsite, fish from the shore, or paddle out into the brilliant blue water. You can also explore the Pacific Northwest Trail and the East Bank Trail, hike along the 23-mile lake toward Canada, or climb high into the Cascades on the Sourdough Mountain Trail.

Camping at Ross Lake gives new meaning to “getting off the grid”. You can hike in —or, paddle from Diablo Lake up Riprap Creek and portage your boat overland to Ross Lake. You can also explore different options for camping near Ross Lake on Hipcamp.

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

Top cities in and near Ross Lake