Camping on Ross Lake

·

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

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

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

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

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

93% (3.4K) • 1,839 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ross Lake

Cascade River Retreat

1. Cascade River Retreat

96%
(707)
Marblemount, WA · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
50% off all sites from October 10th thru April 1st use code DNFPUTCJ 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lakewood Cabins

2. Lakewood Cabins

98%
(153)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hideaway cedars campground

3. Hideaway cedars campground

98%
(153)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
North Cascades National Park

4. North Cascades National Park

96%
(83)
National park in Washington · 360 sites
Take in alpine scenery from along a backcountry trail in this remote national park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

5. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

92%
(131)
National forest in Washington · 753 sites
High-altitude beauty north of Mt. Rainier. From glaciers to river fishing, all is spectacular!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

6. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

90%
(201)
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
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
American Alps Base Camp

7. American Alps Base Camp

99%
(35)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
North Cascades Basecamp

8. North Cascades Basecamp

98%
(117)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Skagit River RV and Camping

9. Skagit River RV and Camping

95%
(252)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

11. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

90%
(107)
National forest in Washington · 3357 sites
The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rasar State Park

12. Rasar State Park

95%
(10)
State park in Washington · 58 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Rasar State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chom's RV Campground

13. Chom's RV Campground

84%
(56)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

14. Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

96%
(118)
WA · 1 site · Tent, RV
This property is located within a gated cabin community called Cascade River Park Club. Your camping lot is located in a beautiful wooded lot surrounded by trees and vegetation, and a creek that wraps around the property. It includes a large fire pit, 8 Adirondack chairs, a bench overlooking the creek, and a picnic table. During a burn ban, we provide a propane fire bowl as well as a propane tank that is available for use but not kept full by us. You can have it filled at Chom's gas station that is 10 minutes from camp. PLEASE DO NOT MOVE NATURAL SURROUNDINGS SUCH AS BOULDERS AND LOGS. DO NOT DISRUPT THE CREEK'S NATURAL HABITAT BY REARRANGING ROCKS/LOGS. THIS IS HOME TO OUR SALMON. PICK UP ALL GARBAGE NO MATTER HOW SMALL.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Azila's Mossy Grove - North Cascades Basecamp

15. Azila's Mossy Grove - North Cascades Basecamp

75%
(6)
Marblemount, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to your own peaceful forest retreat in the heart of Washington’s spectacular North Cascades. Nestled on a private ¼-acre wooded lot just outside Marblemount, this campsite offers the perfect balance of convenience and seclusion. Located within the gated Cascade River Park community, the property features its own private gated entrance, allowing you to bypass the community’s main gate and drive directly onto the site. Whether you’re traveling by RV, camper van, overlanding vehicle, or pitching a tent beneath the trees, this is an ideal basecamp for exploring one of Washington’s most beautiful mountain regions. The upper portion of the property features a long, unpaved driveway with plenty of room for most RVs and camper vans, along with a level area that’s perfect for tent camping. A picnic table and fire pit provide a comfortable place to relax after a day of adventure. The property gently slopes into a lush, moss-covered forest where towering evergreens create a peaceful and surreal atmosphere. Bring a hammock and suspend it between the trees, enjoy your morning coffee beneath the forest canopy, rest among the thick, pillow-like moss carpeting the forest floor, or simply unwind while listening to the birds and the gentle sounds of the surrounding forest. Although there are neighboring properties on both sides, the dense forest provides a surprising sense of privacy. One neighboring cabin is rarely occupied, and the other is tucked away enough that I have yet to see anyone there during my visits. Most guests find that the campsite feels quiet, secluded, and immersed in nature. This is a true off-grid camping experience, so please plan accordingly. The site does NOT have: • Electricity • Potable water • Restroom or toilet facilities • Sewer hookups • Trash service (please pack in and pack out) Guests should bring everything needed for a comfortable, self-sufficient stay. If you’re looking to disconnect from the distractions of everyday life and reconnect with nature, you’ll feel right at home here. Why You’ll Love It: • Private gated entrance (no need to stop at the community gate) • Quiet wooded setting with excellent privacy • RV-, camper van-, and tent-friendly • Flat camping area with additional forest space to explore • Fire pit and picnic table • Perfect for hammock camping among moss-covered evergreens • Minutes from North Cascades National Park • Excellent basecamp for hiking, photography, kayaking, climbing, and scenic drives Whether you’re chasing alpine views, planning an early-morning hike to Cascade Pass, or simply looking for a peaceful weekend beneath towering evergreens, this campsite offers a comfortable place to slow down and enjoy one of Washington’s most beautiful landscapes.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Silverline Lakeside Resort

16. Silverline Lakeside Resort

90%
(126)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Hidden Gem Base Camp-Marblemount WA

17. Hidden Gem Base Camp-Marblemount WA

94%
(17)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cascadia Elk Farm

18. Cascadia Elk Farm

95%
(64)
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.
Toilets
Potable water
Harrison Family Farm

19. Harrison Family Farm

97%
(119)
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. 
Toilets
Picnic table
Zender Camp

20. Zender Camp

99%
(219)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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