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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.

94% (3.3K) 1,846 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ross Lake

Cascade River Retreat

1. Cascade River Retreat

96%
(851)
Marblemount, WA · 20 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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Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

2. Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

100%
(122)
Deming, WA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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 Tyne 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 very nice composting outhouse and hand-washing station. We do not have water for drinking or a dishwashing sink, but if you are in a pinch just ask Ben or Tyne and we can help you out. We want all of our campers happy, comfy, and to have the best time here. :) 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 follow the camping signs to the back.
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Big Twin Lake Resort

3. Big Twin Lake Resort

96%
(68)
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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North Cascades National Park

4. 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.
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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!
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Chom's RV Campground

6. Chom's RV Campground

84%
(49)
Rockport, WA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Chom's RV Campground staff have been working on an extensive remodel, so bare with us as we are new here too! (Update:work has paused on buildings) Camping is unaffected as there are still plenty of woods to explore here. The initial appearance of the old laundry(to be restored in near future), might send confusion. The bathrooms are completely ready to use and we have hot showers! Also, we just finished making an amazing nature walk along the river, where you can find blackberries, huckleberries, salmon berries, and even apples, (depending on the time of year). There are birds to watch, among many other types of wildlife. I will be adding more pictures of more campsites soon!
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Hideaway cedars campground

7. Hideaway cedars campground

98%
(126)
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 when checking in to 11:00am the following day before check out . 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 day use with beautiful views of Mount Baker. Visit Baker Lake nestled around miles of water surrounded by the beautiful cedars. Please message to receive a online waiver of release for paddle board rentals. 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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Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

8. Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

84%
(111)
Rockport, WA · 28 sites · Tents, RVs
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
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American Alps Base Camp

9. American Alps Base Camp

100%
(23)
Marblemount, WA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled along the banks of the Skagit River at the gateway to the North Cascades, our small riverside campground offers the feeling of a remote wilderness escape — without the strenuous work to get there. Surrounded by mountains, towering evergreens, a wildflower meadow, and river access, it’s a place to slow down and experience the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest in comfort. Our campground features four campsites spread throughout a densely wooded riverfront setting, creating a quiet, uncrowded experience with plenty of space to relax and connect with nature. Guests wake to birdsong, mountain views, and the sound of the Skagit River flowing nearby. Bald eagles, swallows, ospreys, owls, herons, and countless songbirds are commonly seen around the property, making this an especially rewarding place for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers. Additionally, spawning salmon can be found right along the river bank late summer through fall. The campground is an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the region. Spend your days hiking, fishing, kayaking, rafting, swimming, biking, or taking scenic drives through the North Cascades corridor, then return to camp for peaceful evenings under the stars. River access offers opportunities to cool off, relax by the water, or simply take in the incredible scenery. While the setting feels wild and secluded, guests still have access to thoughtful amenities including a bathroom with two private stalls and a hot outdoor shower — offering a more comfortable alternative to true backcountry camping while preserving the feeling of being immersed in nature. The entrance to the property is located directly off the North Cascades Scenic Highway, making the campground easy to find while still feeling worlds away. Each campsite includes dedicated parking at the top of the meadow, followed by a short walk along well-maintained trails past the bathroom and shower house down to the campsites and riverfront. Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend escape or a basecamp for your American Alps adventure, this campground is designed for people who love rivers, mountains, forests, wildlife, and the outdoors. *All photos in listings have been taken from the property itself.
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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%
(105)
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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Campfires
Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

13. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

89%
(187)
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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Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

14. Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

90%
(144)
BC · 15 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). Check in is between 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM. We want our place to be about peace & quiet so we don't allow generators but we do have power sites. THE MAP IS NOT ACCURATE ON THIS SITE! Please screenshot the directions that you will be sent. I do have a site map that I will post in the photos. 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 and 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. WATER: We do have a non-potable water tap in the park. I'm not allowed to say that the water at the waterfall/creek is good water - so I won't. 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.
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Lakewood Cabins

15. Lakewood Cabins

98%
(133)
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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North Cascades Basecamp

16. North Cascades Basecamp

98%
(112)
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. Starting Wednesday, August 12th, 2026 a full fire burn ban is in effect.
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Skagit River RV and Camping

17. Skagit River RV and Camping

95%
(237)
Marblemount, WA · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
Skagit River RV and Camping is located only 20 minutes from the entrance of the world-famous North Cascade National Park in the foothills of Cascades and located on Skagit River. Skagit River RV is the basecamp to explore the North Cascades, Diablo Lake and the surrounding hikes. We offer full hook-up RV sites, tent camp sites and nightly rental furnished RVs. Want the comforts with tent camping? How about restrooms, showers, laundry on site and WIFI. 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
The Pathfinders Sanctuary

18. The Pathfinders Sanctuary

100%
(97)
Concrete, WA · 6 sites
The Pathfinders Sanctuary is a small, intentionally designed glamping campground featuring six private, fully equipped campsites set along a scenic river and forest in the North Cascades. Each site is prepared in advance with everything you need for a comfortable stay—no setup required. This is not traditional camping. It’s a quieter, more effortless way to experience nature. Designed for 1–2 guests per site, the atmosphere is peaceful, low-density, and focused on privacy, scenery, and rest. Please note that none of the sites are drive up sites. You won't have headlights hitting your tent walls in the middle of the night.
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Hidden Gem Base Camp-Marblemount WA

19. Hidden Gem Base Camp-Marblemount WA

100%
(12)
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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Picnic table
Cascadia Elk Farm

20. Cascadia Elk Farm

94%
(61)
Rockport, WA · 1 site
The property is a 20 acre farm/homestead producing hay, chickens, berries, and much else. We are located near Rockport, underneath Sauk Mountain, near the confluence of the Sauk and Skagit rivers. We use permaculture/organic/regenerative methods, and share our space with wildlife. There’s a historic barn on the Property. We are located about a mile from Howard Miller Steelhead Park and the Town of Rockport, not far from North Cascades National Park. when you get here please feel free to drive on the grass to the tent.
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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