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) 1,844 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ross Lake

Lakewood Cabins

1. Lakewood Cabins

98%
(82)
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 · 10 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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Skagit River RV and Camping

3. Skagit River RV and Camping

95%
(208)
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
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%
(126)
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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Buster's on the Sauk River

6. Buster's on the Sauk River

93%
(23)
Darrington, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome and Hello! We'll be OPENING the FIRST WEEKEND of MAY!! There's the after every winter campground road cleanup/maintenance. Our guests can enjoy being laid back, play music, stay up late, have a couple cocktails/beers and just let the air out of tires, so to speak...Our campground is perfect (we think!) for large groups of people that want a beautiful space for an event, like receptions, family or school reunions, work/corporate campouts, Church events, etc. where you can book the whole campground for yourselves. Or, there are three individual sites you can choose from and book separately on our campground. Two are by the river with wide open view of the river. The third has two entrances, big space, and secluded under a couple of big maple and various other trees without view of the Sauk but has a short and easy path to the river. Drive a little further and you'll find an open area site that also has two entrances. It has a nice wide view of the river with access to the river. It also has an established campfire pit there. The first campsite (the first campsite is the furthest one down) is very secluded as well. Driveway drops down to this site and delivers ample room for a few cars and tents, or rv's. (More on RV's in this listing).. The view of the river is beautiful there and the site features two separate coves on the river. There's a camp trailer down there as well...nothing fancy but we occasionally use it. The electrical needs hooked up and the bathroom hooked up in it. But if you're sick of the rain in your tent and want to get out of the rain, it's there. All three sites are very different from each other. We and the property were introduced to HipCamp last year by another HipCamper. and it's a diamond in the rough. Once you go past our shop and the industrial mechanical views and continue down the driveway it turns into a whole different scene. You'd never know that you're within city limits. Just out in the wild. We're still working on the property to maximize the property's potential. We love this property for its closeness to nature and beautiful scenery! There's lots of diversity in plants, neat rocks all over the place! It's a relaxing getaway and yet close to town and its amenities, including North Mountain Bike Park..
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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
Living Large on Chilliwack River

8. Living Large on Chilliwack River

97%
(152)
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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Hideaway cedars campground

9. Hideaway cedars campground

97%
(76)
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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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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Camp Hideaway

13. Camp Hideaway

98%
(125)
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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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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Zender Camp

15. Zender Camp

98%
(236)
Deming, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Zender camp is located in Deming and is surrounded by beautiful views of the Nooksack River, Kendall Creek and mountains. The Campsite has Kendall Creek on one side and the north fork of the of the Nooksack River on the other side. In the distance you can see White Mountain, Bald Mountain and Church Mountain. Fisherman will appreciate that the Kendall Fish Hatchery is a neighbor to our campsite and 3 C’s wedding and event venue is less than 1/4 mile away! Some of the many activities you might enjoy while staying here are fishing, eagle watching, hiking, camp fires, stargazing, and just being in nature to rejuvenate and relax. There are also many things to do nearby! We are less than a quarter mile from the North Fork brewery and 3 C’s wedding and event venue. We are 45 minutes from the Mount Baker ski Lodge and 9 miles away from the town of glacier.
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Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

16. Glacier Peak Resort and Winery

82%
(87)
Rockport, WA · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

17. Kragnes Family Farm Mt Baker Camp

100%
(91)
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 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 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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Silverline Lakeside Resort

18. 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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Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

19. Tamihi Meadows Cabins & RV Park

90%
(126)
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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Harrison Family Farm

20. 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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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