1. Explore
    /
  2. United States
    /
  3. Washington
    /
  4. Ross Lake

Private camping in 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.

99% (333)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ross Lake

  • Lakewood Cabins
  • Lakewood Cabins
  • Lakewood Cabins

1. Lakewood Cabins

93%
(15)
3 sites · Lodging · Chilliwack, BC
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$85
 / night
  • Swimming hole
  • North Cascades Basecamp
  • Swimming hole

2. North Cascades Basecamp

98%
(84)
7 sites · Tents · WA
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
  • Big Twin Lake Resort
  • Big Twin Lake Resort
  • Big Twin Lake Resort

3. Big Twin Lake Resort

97%
(39)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Winthrop, WA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
  • Harrison Family Farm
  • Harrison Family Farm
  • Harrison Family Farm

4. Harrison Family Farm

98%
(123)
5 sites · Tents, RVs · Concrete, WA
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. 
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$38
 / night
  • Extensive trails to explore
  • Toilet paper and sawdust
  • Extensive trails to explore

5. Feral Farm

100%
(107)
2 sites · Tents · Rockport, WA
A 46 acre off grid communitiy nestled within an established food forest. A mile of trails, a creek/pond, established agroforestry plantings and multiple examples of tiny homes and natural buildings dot the landscape. All within the context of a mature and established forest. The camping sites are private and removed from the bustle of the farm. History: the farm was started in 1997. Matt Van Boven (your host and the owner) started on raw land and built all of the infrastructure with the help of many interns over the years. Every edible plant that could be grown here has been trialed. No irrigation, fertilizer, or cultivation is used on the farm. Only the most resilient and adapted plants remain to this day. These include hundreds of nut and fruit trees as well as many perennial edibles. Much of the forest, itself has been managed with thousands of cedar trees planted among the existing vegetation. Besides the plantings, all manner of natural buildings are represented. Cordwood and cob being a few of the methods explored. The farm has a collection of tiny homes that surround a core of utilitarian structures and provide housing to an eclectic bunch of forest folk. The land is uniquely situated on the confluence of two major rivers (the Sauk and the Skagit). The creek is an old river channel that is now abandoned. A couple sit-on-top kayaks are available to use to explore. For the adventurous, a trail carries on from the creek to the river itself. The trail system is a labor of love crafted over the last 20 years. Almost a mile of manicured trails weave their way around the plantings and forest. The trees are almost 100 years old with some very large specimens of both maple and cedar. The farm is completely off grid and has been so since its inception. Working with limited means has been a theme in the design and development. Living in a more ecological way has been a major inspiration for us and we hope that you, as a guest, not only have an enjoyable stay but also leave inspired to change your life in a similar direction!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
  • Fraser Canyon teepee escape
  • Fraser Canyon teepee escape
  • Fraser Canyon teepee escape

6. Fraser Canyon teepee escape

100%
(6)
2 sites · Lodging · Hope, BC
Experience nature by sleeping in a uniques, waterfront, handcrafted luxury teepee steps away from the Fraser River. Located in the fraser canyon just 15 minutes north of Hope bc off of Highway 1. We feature 2 teepees Teepee #1- 26 foot teepee 7.93 MThis teepee boasts a gorgeous king bed and two singles with quality bedding, including down duvets and down alternative pillows and can accommodate up to 4 people. The teepee features a fully furnished space with power and water with ample seating and includes all the necessities to create your perfect meal. Also includes a is a coffee and tea bar. The decor is inspired by the culture of the local indigenous peoples of yale First Nation. Sit outside on your private deck overlooking the river and enjoy the beauty of seeing eagles bears deer and other wildlife.  Here you will find a barbecue and outdoor propane griddle to create your favourite meals. Sit and enjoy the views of the river at your balcony railing bar or relax in your lounge chairs. Afterwards sit around the campfire and roast marshmallows while sitting next to the river. We include firewood. Guests can share a fully functional outdoor washroom facility featuring a compostable toilet and an outdoor low flow shower. As a gift we provide naturally handcrafted locally made soap, eco friendly shampoos and conditioners. Towels and washcloths are provided. Teepee #2This teepee is a more rustic adventure and features accommodation for 2 with access to the shared washroom. Outside you will find a picnic table and a tabletop barbecue. Quality bedding is provided as well as towels and washcloths and naturally handcrafted soap. This teepee is also decorated with local indigenous decor. This teepee has no power or water. Potable Water is available in the washroom. Battery powered LED lanterns are provided for you. Adventure is at your doorstep with activities such as river rafting, gold panning, hiking, swimming at nearby beaches and the best fishing in Canada. We would be more than happy to book your fishing adventure with the world class reputable Great River Fishing Adventures. 
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
CA$335
 / 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.

99% (333)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ross Lake

  • Lakewood Cabins
  • Lakewood Cabins
  • Lakewood Cabins

1. Lakewood Cabins

93%
(15)
3 sites · Lodging · Chilliwack, BC
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$85
 / night
  • Swimming hole
  • North Cascades Basecamp
  • Swimming hole

2. North Cascades Basecamp

98%
(84)
7 sites · Tents · WA
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
  • Big Twin Lake Resort
  • Big Twin Lake Resort
  • Big Twin Lake Resort

3. Big Twin Lake Resort

97%
(39)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Winthrop, WA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
  • Harrison Family Farm
  • Harrison Family Farm
  • Harrison Family Farm

4. Harrison Family Farm

98%
(123)
5 sites · Tents, RVs · Concrete, WA
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. 
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$38
 / night
  • Extensive trails to explore
  • Toilet paper and sawdust
  • Extensive trails to explore

5. Feral Farm

100%
(107)
2 sites · Tents · Rockport, WA
A 46 acre off grid communitiy nestled within an established food forest. A mile of trails, a creek/pond, established agroforestry plantings and multiple examples of tiny homes and natural buildings dot the landscape. All within the context of a mature and established forest. The camping sites are private and removed from the bustle of the farm. History: the farm was started in 1997. Matt Van Boven (your host and the owner) started on raw land and built all of the infrastructure with the help of many interns over the years. Every edible plant that could be grown here has been trialed. No irrigation, fertilizer, or cultivation is used on the farm. Only the most resilient and adapted plants remain to this day. These include hundreds of nut and fruit trees as well as many perennial edibles. Much of the forest, itself has been managed with thousands of cedar trees planted among the existing vegetation. Besides the plantings, all manner of natural buildings are represented. Cordwood and cob being a few of the methods explored. The farm has a collection of tiny homes that surround a core of utilitarian structures and provide housing to an eclectic bunch of forest folk. The land is uniquely situated on the confluence of two major rivers (the Sauk and the Skagit). The creek is an old river channel that is now abandoned. A couple sit-on-top kayaks are available to use to explore. For the adventurous, a trail carries on from the creek to the river itself. The trail system is a labor of love crafted over the last 20 years. Almost a mile of manicured trails weave their way around the plantings and forest. The trees are almost 100 years old with some very large specimens of both maple and cedar. The farm is completely off grid and has been so since its inception. Working with limited means has been a theme in the design and development. Living in a more ecological way has been a major inspiration for us and we hope that you, as a guest, not only have an enjoyable stay but also leave inspired to change your life in a similar direction!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
  • Fraser Canyon teepee escape
  • Fraser Canyon teepee escape
  • Fraser Canyon teepee escape

6. Fraser Canyon teepee escape

100%
(6)
2 sites · Lodging · Hope, BC
Experience nature by sleeping in a uniques, waterfront, handcrafted luxury teepee steps away from the Fraser River. Located in the fraser canyon just 15 minutes north of Hope bc off of Highway 1. We feature 2 teepees Teepee #1- 26 foot teepee 7.93 MThis teepee boasts a gorgeous king bed and two singles with quality bedding, including down duvets and down alternative pillows and can accommodate up to 4 people. The teepee features a fully furnished space with power and water with ample seating and includes all the necessities to create your perfect meal. Also includes a is a coffee and tea bar. The decor is inspired by the culture of the local indigenous peoples of yale First Nation. Sit outside on your private deck overlooking the river and enjoy the beauty of seeing eagles bears deer and other wildlife.  Here you will find a barbecue and outdoor propane griddle to create your favourite meals. Sit and enjoy the views of the river at your balcony railing bar or relax in your lounge chairs. Afterwards sit around the campfire and roast marshmallows while sitting next to the river. We include firewood. Guests can share a fully functional outdoor washroom facility featuring a compostable toilet and an outdoor low flow shower. As a gift we provide naturally handcrafted locally made soap, eco friendly shampoos and conditioners. Towels and washcloths are provided. Teepee #2This teepee is a more rustic adventure and features accommodation for 2 with access to the shared washroom. Outside you will find a picnic table and a tabletop barbecue. Quality bedding is provided as well as towels and washcloths and naturally handcrafted soap. This teepee is also decorated with local indigenous decor. This teepee has no power or water. Potable Water is available in the washroom. Battery powered LED lanterns are provided for you. Adventure is at your doorstep with activities such as river rafting, gold panning, hiking, swimming at nearby beaches and the best fishing in Canada. We would be more than happy to book your fishing adventure with the world class reputable Great River Fishing Adventures. 
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
CA$335
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Lakewood Cabins
C
Chen
3 weeks ago
1 night at Lakewood Cabins
I love how patient Michael was. We got the wrong way and he made a long phone call w us just to make sure we could find the way. I feel like the communication is quite smooth, will recommend to my friend :)
See more
Lakewood Cabins
S
Siena
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
Cozy little cabin for an affordable weekend getaway.
See more
Lakewood Cabins
G
Geoff
November 2025
2 nights at Lakewood Cabins
Delightful, romantic, recommended ! It IS rustic , and the bathroom is a little walk away, and it’s a work in progress but it’s quiet, peaceful and a horse and goats have your view. Thank you Michael
See more
Lakewood Cabins
Avatar
Jack
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
We have the absolute best time staying at Micheals cabin this past weekend. He is a fantastic host, very welcoming (He even came to us to show us a brand new chick he was keeping warm in his jacket!) The cabins are lovely, have everything you need for a comfortable stay in the woods. The local area is beautiful and we made some amazing steaks over the fire. 10/10 would recommend to anyone needing a little affordable get away!
See more
Walk in the woods straight out the door!
C
Christa
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
I loved my stay in Michael's Woodland Cabin. It was the perfect blend of tiny house living and camping. The outdoor bath under the stars and short hiking trail in the forest through lush ferns and moss made my stay even more special! Perfect spot to unplug completely (or even sneak in a little work while enjoying the view of the mountains and reliable internet, to boot). Add in the easy check-in/out, quick responses to questions and friendly host means I will be back!
See more
Lakewood Cabins
R
Ravisha
November 2025
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
Absolutely great! Host communicates really well! The property is amazing and the time was very memorable. Would 10/10 chose this again
See more
Lakewood Cabins
K
Kelly
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
Our stay at Woodland Cabin in Chilliwack was wonderful! The cabin was cozy, and surrounded by peaceful forest. Michael was a fantastic host — friendly, responsive, and thoughtful. We loved the quiet atmosphere and all the little touches that made it feel special. Highly recommend for anyone looking to relax and recharge!
See more
Lakewood Cabins
B
Banafshe
November 2025
Group trip
1 night at Lakewood Cabins
We had an amazing stay at Michael’s place! The cabin and the bathroom were super clean and well maintained, which made our stay very comfortable. The whole property is peaceful, surrounded by beautiful nature, and you can really feel the care and love put into every detail. Michael was such a kind and helpful host — friendly, responsive, and always making sure we had everything we needed. We enjoyed sitting by the fire at night, watching the stars, and just relaxing in the quiet atmosphere. It was the perfect getaway from the city, and we’ll definitely come back again. Highly recommended!
See more
Lakewood Cabins
N
Navneet
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
Amazing place very peaceful and quiet. The host was very helpful.
See more
Lakewood Cabins
K
Kristin
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakewood Cabins
The perfect 1 night getaway from the city. We are right for money right now but we wanted to get out of the city and Michael made that possible with his accessible pricing. He provided everything we needed so packing was light. The bathtub was a wonderful addition and both of us (both 6 foot plus) could fit comfortably inside. Will recommend!
See more
Lakewood Cabins
N
Nick
October 2025
1 night at Lakewood Cabins
This was a pretty great little spot. The cabin is small, but it had a good setup with a hotplate, sink, fridge, & microwave. There was a big very comfortable mattress in the loft. The bathroom wasn’t too far away across the parking area and it was well maintained, with a flush toilet and a sink. Everything during my stay was very clean. I walked down to the lake, and it was about 10 minutes on a nice trail through the woods which meets up with the main road just before the lake. Property has a horse, goats and other animals. It’s quite a nice place, the host was very friendly and I will definitely be back in the summer.
See more
Big Twin Lake Resort
Avatar
Isabel
October 2025
2 nights at Big Twin Lake Resort
Love love our stay at the cabin. I will be back!!! Beautiful peaceful views. Comfortable beds - just bring what will make you comfortable.
See more
Big Twin Lake Resort
D
David
October 2025
With kids
1 night at Big Twin Lake Resort
What a wonderful spot! We'll be back next year for sure. Great people and beautiful views!
See more
Campsite was a one hour drive from a beautiful larch hike
K
Kelsey
October 2025
Tent
1 night at North Cascades Basecamp
This was a large site with a fire pit and nice picnic table. Perfect for a quick night before heading farther down 20 for hiking.
See more
Harrison Family Farm
l
laney
October 2025
16 ft car
1 night at Harrison Family Farm
Great space! Dogs barked but in my car I couldn’t hear them. Was kind of nice background noise. Lovely place!
See more
Big Twin Lake Resort
C
Cat
September 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Big Twin Lake Resort
Loved our tent spot on Ben's Ridge! Beautiful view of the lake and far away from the other campsites.
See more
Feral Farm
F
Fallon
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Feral Farm
I loved camping here!!! It was beautiful, and the scenery was beautiful, I especially loved the size of the campsite, I will say the parking is a little tight so if you’re driving larger vehicles plan for that! Would love to come back!
See more
Big Twin Lake Resort
M
Mantica
September 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Big Twin Lake Resort
My husband and I enjoyed our time at the cabin! Jessica was very kind and made sure we were well taken care of. The campground is very kept. We enjoyed sitting on the porch swing in the mornings with coffee. It is a very cute little place and we would definitely stay again!
See more
The amenities. Chairs, table, drinking water,hand washing water, stove top, garbage can, and a light.
Avatar
Krystl
September 2025
Tent
1 night at Feral Farm
Matthew graciously accepted my late booking after a sudden change of plans, and I am so grateful I got to visit Feral Farms. Beautiful, lush, natural landscape all around plus some thoughtful amenities (outhouse, water, table, chairs, light) and gorgeous grounds to explore. My little dog loved the morning hike to the creek. Absolutely would stay here again.
See more
Big Twin Lake Resort
Avatar
John
September 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
3 nights at Big Twin Lake Resort
Pretty solid stay. We had a big huge grassy area all to ourselves for our dogs. The showers were OK. It could be a little cleaner and the water pressure could be a little better but they were fine. The location was close to Winthrop or easy access to restaurants and pubs.
See more
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Ross Lake trips

All
Mountainous camping
Camping with fishing
Camping
Camping with wifi provided
Camping with horseback riding
Forest camping
Camping with swimming

Top parks in and near Ross Lake

North Cascades National Park
Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Rockport State Park

Top regions near Ross Lake

Mount Rainier
Deception Pass
San Juan Islands
Mt. Hood
Oregon Coast
Lake Wenatchee
Washington Coast
Southern Oregon

Top cities in and near Ross Lake

Concrete

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Best RV camping near me
Best glamping near me