National Park

The best camping in Ross Lake National Recreation Area, WA

Name: Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Address: Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Rating: 5

100% (19)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ross Lake National Recreation Area adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

1. Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

97%

(105)

20mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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.

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Cascade River Escape

2. Cascade River Escape

95%

(31)

22mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

An enchanting glampsite nestled in the gated Cascade River Community of Marblemount, Washington. Located in close proximity to the breathtaking cascade river, the site offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature's wonders, promising an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and seekers of tranquility. The site features two charming cabin structures, designed to provide a cozy space for a restful night's sleep. Each cabin is large enough to accommodate a queen mattress which can be provided upon request. A spacious fire pit sits at the heart of the site, serving as the centerpiece of the property. Gather around the crackling flames, share stories, and enjoy a s'more or two. For additional guests, there is an 8' x 8' space in the back of the property for a tent setup. Wake up to the gentle sounds of of the river and embrace the tranquility of your natural surroundings, ready to embark on a day of exploration and adventure. A card key is required to access the Cascade River Community. You can pick up the card key from a lock box in Marblemount. The combination will be provided before your stay. Escape to the captivating beauty of Cascade River Community in Marblemount; reconnect with nature, unwind, and create everlasting memories in this serene haven.

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Skagit River RV and Camping

3. Skagit River RV and Camping

95%

(208)

22mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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 Basecamp

4. North Cascades Basecamp

98%

(84)

22mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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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Hideaway cedars campground

5. Hideaway cedars campground

97%

(76)

22mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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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A place by the creek

6. A place by the creek

100%

(18)

22mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

Nice camp or RV site on Nugget Creek This camp site is set up for camping or your RV to pull in and start enjoying the clean air with the peaceful sound of the creek flowing through the property. The lot has water and a bathroom on site for your convenience as well as a fire pit and gazebo ready for you to enjoy. There is access to the creek and an area to sit and enjoy nature and woods around it. It is located in the gated Cascade River Park Community with lots of Hiking, fishing, rafting, and exploring just around the corner.

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Cascade River Retreat

7. Cascade River Retreat

96%

(759)

22mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

50% off all sites from October 10th thru April 1st use code NVWH71P5 PSA: Please use google maps, any other locater app will lead you astray. On a better note, This property is a Native American homestead. We are located in Marblemount, WA along the Cascade river. Every site we have you can hear the river and walk to in less that 5 minutes. There is an amazing rocky beach along the river with the view of mountains all around. We are located 4 minutes from the town of Marblemount were there is 2 gas stations with some food and drink items, propane and a small hardware section year round. Marblemount has 3 restaurants open in the summer. The town also a post office. We are 15 minutes from the North Cascades National Park and an entrance to the Pacific Crest Trail. We offer fire wood ($5.00 a bundle), propane fire pits ($15.00 a night, please request ahead via messaging to Heather ) and in season vegetables (price varies depending). You can pay cash or Venmo on site. Please be aware that we have a Firework show for the 4th of July. We really appreciate your interest in our small homestead.

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Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

8. Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

90%

(160)

23mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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

Twin Cedars Cascadia@pondview place

9. Twin Cedars Cascadia@pondview place

95%

(10)

23mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

This property is surrounded by Pacific Northwest forest and Mountain views. Right now there are a few pretty level gravel parking spots ideal for self contained Class B R.V.'s. When the ground is dry there is a loop in the yard for Sprinter vans, 25 ft. trailers and tent campers. Very private and secure oasis. Potable water is available at wellhouse along gravel driveway. A composting toilet is on edge of forest for campers. Howard Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport takes R.V. waste. Walk around the pond and pasture while enjoying the fruit and nut trees on the property . Mountains views. Marblemount Fish Hatchery walking distance. Marblemount Boat Landing 1/2 mile at Skagit River. North Cascade National Park Hiking Trails in Area, 22 Miles to Cascade Pass, 70 miles to Washington Pass. Located On Bike Route 10... River rafting down the road, bicycling, North Cascade National Park and Hiking Trails. dog friendly. Loxer beach area on Cascade River. on Dead end road. Take I 5 and Hiway 20 to access

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Chom's RV Campground

10. Chom's RV Campground

93%

(28)

26mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 3 sites

Chom's RV Campground staff have been working on an extensive remodel, so bare with us as we are new here too! Camping is unaffected as there are plenty of woods to explore here. Only 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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N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub

11. N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub

98%

(33)

28mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site

Escape to nature without sacrificing comfort in our stunning glamping dome! Nestled in the heart of the North Cascades, this dome offers a private hot tub, outdoor kitchen with grill and fridge, a fire pit for stargazing, and WiFi for staying connected. Enjoy an outdoor bathroom (litrine) and shower for a true glamping experience. With the Barr Creek trailhead just 1/4 mile away with a view of a waterfall, it’s the perfect spot for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. Reconnect with nature in style! We are a short 15 minute drive to the North Cascades National Park! During the winter (typically end of November/early December through April/May) part of Highway 20 and driving access to the park is closed. You are still able to get to our dome using Highway 20 as that part is open all year round, but you are unable to access the park. You are able to drive to the entrance, park and snow shoe in if you'd like. The part of Highway 20 that is closed is on the west side at milepost 134 at the Ross Dam Trailhead and on the east side, at milepost 171 at the Silver Star Gate, near Mazama. An alternative hiking destination for the winter months is the Rockport State Park which is only a 4 minute drive from the dome. You are able to purchase a day pass on your phone once you arrive.

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Lautensleger Family Camp Property

12. Lautensleger Family Camp Property

96%

(40)

30mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Choose your perfect spot from 8 different sites (power and water) in the campground. Each site used is $75. No need to choose site beforehand, just book and you can choose your site once you arrive as your party will be the only ones there to enjoy the great outdoors! After Memorial Day, there is a porta potty on site. There is a large firepit (when there isn’t a fire ban. BRING YOUR OWN FIRE WOOD. Please do not use the already cut fire wood, that is our personal stash) However, you may use a portable propane fire pit (even when there is a ban). There are trails all over for walking or there are trailheads just a short drive away if you want to hike. The river is a 30 second-1 minute walk from the campsite. Perfect area to pitch a hammock and enjoy the sounds of nature. The campground is 5 miles away from the Mazama Store which sells amazing food (sandwiches, pastries, cookies, and the famous Sea Salt Baguettes). There is also a portable basketball hoop and a tether ball pole. Group rates available. OCTOBER and MAY campers: There is no water, however you are still welcomed to camp. If you choose to camp here, please know that this is our beloved family property. Please take care of it by cleaning up after yourselves and not touching our private things on the property. Thank you!

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Cascadia Elk Farm

13. Cascadia Elk Farm

95%

(52)

30mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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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Potable water

Feral Farm

14. Feral Farm

100%

(109)

31mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 2 sites

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!

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Sauk View Woods

15. Sauk View Woods

99%

(34)

32mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site

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

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Harrison Family Farm

16. Harrison Family Farm

98%

(123)

33mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

We live on a beautiful farm tucked in the foothills of the North Cascades. We are a multi-generational farm with chickens, a giant organic garden, a couple of horses [pasture pets], three dogs, a couple of barn cats [and one prissy house cat]. We also raise 100% grass-fed and finished cattle utilizing regenerative farming practices.We have a beautiful private mountain view pasture that we can not use to graze the cattle, so we decided to make it available for folks to have a gorgeous private campsite. All the money we make from this campsite goes back into our family farm and our endeavors to provide excellent beef for those who value small family farms and regenerative farming practices. 

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Picnic table

The Pathfinders Sanctuary

17. The Pathfinders Sanctuary

100%

(52)

33mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 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.

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The River's Edge Camp Ground

18. The River's Edge Camp Ground

98%

(153)

34mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site

This is a hidden gem! This is waterfront on the river where you can relax, play in the river with your own beach for your stay. It's a Very beautiful private open RV and Trailer Site on the Skagit River. I have currently owned the property for 10 or so years. This is one of my happy places to bring friends and family and relax. This is where we get our river therapy. Nothing better than sitting by the camp fire watching the river flow and listening to the nature. There is a nice big fire pit as well as a log picnic table. Lots of room to lounge around and enjoy the peace and quiet. Watch the eagle and fish on the river as you sit by the campfire. Kayak down the river from RockPort bridge and pull out right at camp. It's about a two and half hour float down with a Kayak right to camp. Close drive to Baker Lake for the day to hike or sight see. An hour or so away from North Cascade Hwy passes. Or if you feel like a drive, head to Winthrop for the day and walk the town. Fishing can be done right at the site or a short walk to the point. Check the fishing regulations for the time of year you want to fish.

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Spearhead Lake Campground

19. Spearhead Lake Campground

97%

(49)

34mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 19 sites

Multi Acre wooded rustic area(formally known as Lake "Caskey", search lake "Caskey" when using GPS) with dedicated(leveled and graveled) camping spots, personal fire pits, paddle boarding, fishing, swimming, hiking, covered area and bathroom. Your stay with the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe owned camping site includes firewood, water, paddle boat access, fishing, trash/recycling, bathroom access and covered picnic area access. There are a total of 20 rustic camp sites for use, all camping areas are hike-in only. Please respect local wildlife. Please contact our camp hosts for further questions! Camphost Russell: 360 503 9402

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Eden East Skagit River

20. Eden East Skagit River

91%

(62)

37mi from Ross Lake National Recreation Area · 1 site

PLEASE NOTE, only 1 RV/trailer is included in the nightly rate. If you are bringing another RV/trailer please update the number of vehicles accordingly at time of booking. It is $50 per night per each extra RV/trailer. The additional vehicle includes up to 6 extra guests. This site does not have bathroom facilities. Eden on the Cape is a 1 acre lot nestled along the banks of the Skagit River roughly 3 miles west of Concrete, WA. Whether you seek adventure or a quiet basecamp, this is the place for you. Camping and fishing onsite and adventure everywhere you look. Hiking, biking, kayaking, local shopping, it's all here. We have a well graded camping area complete with power and potable water. Bring your outdoor spirit and we will provide the scenery. The area is noted for the large population of bald eagles so bring binoculars because there is almost always something to see on the river. This site does have security cameras. The Skagit River along with Baker Lake and Shannon Lake (just to the north) are great places for fishing so check the WDFW guide to see what is open. Feel free to reach out with any questions. Thank you.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Katherine

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sauk View Woods

Great spot for a weekend away! Outhouse was clean and comfortable to use. Appreciated the cover over the table we had on and off rain.

Lees

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Feral Farm

beautiful healthy forest and great campsites. we loved the creek and appreciated the 2 little boats. so many trails left to explore. thank you for hosting us.

Kribbie

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

We had a magical stay at Winedown camp, the downloadable app was extremely helpful it had every detail and question you may have already answered, as someone who likes to be prepared this was perfect. The host Janna was quick to respond and kind. The site is beautiful and close by plenty of natural attractions. The sound of the river and creek flowing was wonderful and the camp grounds got super dark and quiet at night you could see stars through the tree tops. I hope we stay here again.

Justin

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sauk View Woods

Such a beautiful and amazing space! Really nice to have a canopy and table provided, and the view from the camping spot is amazing. Short walk down to the river where we were able to hang out on a small bank.

Coming in, (from hwy, office, and bathrooms), at the beginning of the "Camp C" trail.

Jenne

May 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Chom's RV Campground

Exactly what I needed. A safe quiet place to sleep before a long day on the trails. I was shown where to go by the host.

Muriel

May 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sauk View Woods

Great access to the Skagit River, private, and a beautiful view! The hosts have created a great access trail, while still maintaining the natural untouched feel of the wild and scenic Skagit corridor. We appreciated all the extra touches: a covered picnic table, leveled sand tent pad and the BEST compost toilet I have ever used (seriously, this wins the gold medal for hand crafted Hip Camp toilets). We were attracted to this camp based on reviews that our dogs could roam off leash, and it did not disappoint- our dogs enjoyed free access to the woods and river all weekend, and were tuckered out by the end!

The amenities. Chairs, table, drinking water,hand washing water, stove top, garbage can, and a light.

Audrey

April 2026

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Feral Farm

Such an amazing spot. We loved going down to the creek to enjoy the sun and threw a stick for rusty the camp dog who was incredibly sweet. Absolutely would recommend this spot, and will definitely be coming back.

Ashley

April 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cascade River Retreat

We had a great time! Nice size campsites, clean bathroom, cute little park and a trail down to the river. Definitely recommend and will be coming back again!

40 miles NW of the camp site is Baker Lake and it's excellent for kayaking, swimming and boating.

Cassandra

April 2026

25 ft campervan

1 night at Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

Janna was absolutely incredible. After our extremely long drive, she was so kind and accommodating and made us feel welcome right away. She helped us get the water turned on at the site and even let us borrow kayaks, which truly helped make my boyfriend’s birthday so special. This trip meant a lot to us because we came to Washington to explore the area and see whether it might be a good fit for our family as we think about a future move with our disabled son. Janna really made the experience even more memorable and was truly the icing on the cake for us. We fell in love with it here and will absolutely be back very soon. We’re so grateful for her hospitality!! 🫶🏽

The seclusion is so nice for sleeping in!

Vivian

April 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

Good place to camp very near the north cascades, accessible and peaceful

christany

April 2026

Tent

2 nights at Sauk View Woods

Loved the campsite here! Really appreciated the bench as well as the burn barrel and picnic table. We came early April and the canopy was so helpful with the light rain. The sunshine still poked thru and made sure to say hello before we left :) If you plan on visiting in the rainy months- bring your rain boots, we brought ours and it made clean up so easy. The mini waterfall leading to the river was unexpected and lovely! The rope leading down to the rivers beach was super helpful as well. The area is well maintained and the bathroom was so nice. Felt like a luxury, we definitely want to visit this site again next year. Thanks guys!

Our cozy geodome surrounded by the forest

Mitch

March 2026

Weekend Trip to N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub

The glamping dome was perfect for me and my wife’s anniversary getaway. The dome was clean and everything we needed was provided. The bed was comfortable too! The electric heat and wood burning stove kept us warm all night. We went at the end of March. We especially loved the hot tub and fire pit outside for evening relaxing. 5/5 stars.

Ryan

March 2026

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cascade River Retreat

The site was beautiful and the owners were very kind and accommodating. Had some trouble with my trailer and wasnt sure when I'd be able to make it to the site but as soon as I did I had help getting into camp (mainly because its was night when I arrived) but it was a peaceful and lovely getaway for a weekend. Definitely want to go back soon!

Jack

November 2025

21 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Skagit River RV and Camping

What a great spot, just across the road from the Skagit River. Very relaxing and beautiful! They were super nice to us and both the camp host and maintenance guy helped us get to a spot. We had some issues early on with getting to the campground, but after a three day delay we made it. We will certainly stay here again!

Emily

October 2025

2 nights at N. Cascades Glamping w/ Hot-tub

The glamping dome was everything I hoped it would be, and more. Sheila was quick to reply to any questions and genuinely cared about my comfort. The dome was stocked with everything I needed. Thank you for making my birthday weekend so special!

SuperViper

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Skagit River RV and Camping

I love this camp site!! Happy to be back. It rained a lot one nights and the hostess was super nice and gave us a towel to dry out the inside of our tent and gave us coins to dry our cloths. Would recommend to anyone looking to hike in the North Cascades!

Bailey

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Skagit River RV and Camping

Amazing campground. Felt very safe and the hosts were extremely inviting. Great proximity to the park and nearby restaurants in Marblemount. Would recommend!

Loved seeing this cool little travel trailer and fun family that camped!

Jayne

October 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

We had an awesome stay at Zach’s! Epic location. No problems plugging in my Tesla for some car camping before hiking to see the larches on Heather Maple Pass! We walked to the tavern down the road for dinner and met a cool local girl and made friends with the bartender Lori! The shower was such a nice treat after a long hike. Bathrooms were clean and the area was quiet. Trash cans available on site. Would highly recommend this spot!

Emma

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lil Bit O' Heaven Camping

What a cool experience! The Dome was comfortable and unlike anywhere I have ever stayed before. Definitely did not get cold with the thoughtful amenities: space heaters and blankets. There is firewood available for purchase and the bathrooms are a luxury! The only thing I’d be aware of is that you may not have service upon arrival, so you may not be able to contact Zachary thru the app. There is a code to get into the dome that I didn’t have directly, but luckily we were able to figure it out. Overall, I definitely recommend staying in the galaxy dome!

Lucy

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Winedown Camp at Boulder Creek

Would definitely recommend! The instructions were very clear and detailed, making it easier to find the site! The site was exactly as advertised and it was in a beautiful forest. Very nicely built firepit too!

Ross Lake National Recreation Area camping guide

Overview

About

Between the snow-capped peaks of the North Cascades is a 22-mile-long, 500-foot-deep lake that hosts some of the most secluded campsites Washington has to offer. Forget about car camping—the only way to access these sites is by foot (along the East Bank Ross Lake Trail) or by water taxi service. The lake is the product of Ross Dam (responsible for supplying power to nearby Seattle), and a popular site for rainbow trout fishing. The Ross Lake Resort, which offers a water taxi for campers, floats on log booms repurposed from the loggers’ camp once used when the dam was being built. Ross Lake features 19 campgrounds, each with one to three sites each, for a total of 58 campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

The boat-in campsites along Ross Lake have tent pads, food storage lockers, picnic tables, fire rings, and an outhouse. Docks are unusable when the lake’s water levels are too low.
Backcountry permits are required and must be picked up in person (except during winter); reservations are recommended, but some walk-up permits are available.
North Cascades National Park’s nearby Colonial Creek Campground has 19 sites (three of which are reserved for ADA usage) a short drive west on Highway 20 from Ross Lake. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance from late May to early September. Sites closest to the lake are walk-in only.

When to go

Visit in summer to enjoy the long days (as much as 16 hours during the solstice) and (comparatively) dry season in the Pacific Northwest. This is also when the lake’s water levels are reliably high. Some snags and other obstacles can become an issue for boats when the lake is lower.

Know before you go

Lake conditions are best before 11am.
Fishing is permitted from July 1 to October 31 (no bait allowed).
Motorboat, canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals are available at the Ross Lake Resort.
Birdwatchers can expect to see loons, osprey, bald eagles, blue herons, and kingfishers, among others.
The 30-mile East Bank Trail extends all the way to the Canadian border. Ross Lake can also be accessed from British Columbia via the town of Hope.