Best Camping in and near Lake Wenatchee State Park

93% (27 reviews)

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Stay at a public campground in Lake Wenatchee State Park

92%

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Lake Wenatchee South Campground

102 sites · RVs, Tents In Lake Wenatchee State Park

93%

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Lake Wenatchee North Campground

97 sites · RVs, Tents In Lake Wenatchee State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Wenatchee State Park

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Earth Biscuit Skykomish Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents56 acres · Skykomish, WA

The Good news is Earth Biscuits Skykomish Camp Ground, at least most of it, survived the Bolt Creek wildfire ( largest wildfire in western Washington in over 30 years) over 13,000 acres burned. Firefighters and first responders are our our heroes! Earth Biscuits is a private camp ground for the “Inner Earth Biscuit “in all of us. Earth Biscuits is a sanctuary and a place to enjoy nature Located in Skykomish Washington, a small town 15 minutes from the Stevens Pass Ski Resort and the Pacific Crest Trail. We have 53 acres of a southern facing hill side that runs along the Henry M. Jackson, Wild Sky Wilderness within the Mt. Baker National Forest. We have eight sites for camping. All sites have a fire ring, a table of some sort and a barrel of water for dousing your campfire. All but 2 sites have a deck for setting up on. We give each party a clean camping toilet and privacy tent. There are two outhouses one up top and one below. Two of the sites (1 and 2) overlook the town and valley below. Here is where you can watch the birds from above and see the sun shimmering of the back of their wings as they sore. Eagles, Hawks, etc. Saw an Owl three days ago and lots of Grouse. Site 1 has one deck but the view is worth the trek. AWD needed to get there. You may have campers hiking up to the cliffs 250' further up the trail. Site 2 has a nice view of the town below. Three decks. AWD needed to get there. Site 3 is very private and down a fairly steep grade. You'll be camping in a forest on an old logging road. It's private. AWD definitely needed! Site 4 is in the far corner of the lower property. It's private and is where most vans go. It has one 12x8 deck. Site 5 is at the cross roads. it is large enough to accommodated several autos or a van or trailer. One 12x8 deck. Some highway noise. Site 6 can accommodate larger parties and has one deck. Some highway noise but it can handle larger parties. Last weekend it accommodated a party of 14. Site 7 is new and therefore primitive compared to the others; but it is private. This site is one where the Bolt Creek Wildfire came through. There is one more new site not listed yet that is up top right next to site one. it is eight next to the national forest in an area I'm told is very good mushroom hunting. You cannot park next to the camping spot unless you have a vehicle that can traverse it. A short bed jeep and/or vehicle with high clearance. Site 1 and the new site together can accommodate a party of 6+. With all this information you can reserve the site you want but be advised that to get to the upper sites ( 1-3) will definitely require a AWD vehicle. All campers are welcome to hike up to the cliffs for viewing. The road going into the property is flat and level; however, we reclaimed an old logging road and it takes a jeep or 4-wheel drive truck type vehicle (Subaru makes it all day long for some reason) to get past the switchback as it heads up to the cliffs and camping spots 1-3. Bring binoculars. Be advised that it takes an able-bodied person to get to the top as the trail going to the cliffs is rough. We are laying some ropes but count on your own ability, not the ropes. We have not put in electric hook ups, water, sewage disposal, therefore your rig needs to be self-contained. We offer a clean and sanitary camping toilet for each party. Works well and easy to use. If panning for minerals is your thing there are a couple of seasonal creeks. The property is walking distance to 4 local eateries, a laundromat , a tavern, coffee shop, outfitter, fishing guides, convenience store/gas station. Skykomish is a train community and sports a train park which offers free miniature train rides May thru October. Fun for the kids of all ages. Keep in mind that as a train community there will be trains that rumble through the valley at night. If that bothers you bring ear plugs. There are numerous hiking trails in the area as well as several rivers in the area. The Foss, Beckler, Skykomish and several pristine alpine lakes. Biscuits come to the area for a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities including skiing, snow shoeing, rafting, mushroom hunting, rock climbing, quad tours, gold panning, bird watching, fishing, mountain biking, mountain rescue instruction or just unplugging from the world below and simply chilling. Pets are welcome however the property is located within the town limits of Skykomish and there is a leash law and you don’t want rover to chase wildlife into the mountains or across the highway and be lost forever. It happens. This area is rich with history from “The Olden Days”. The longest train tunnel in the western hemisphere was constructed through/under these mountains in the early 1900s after the nation’s worst train disaster, an avalanche, took 96 souls. Wellington (site of the disaster) is a short drive, is worth seeing and is wheel chair accessible. Two books written about this, both excellent reads. The White Cascade and Vis Major. During the time of tunnel construction between the logging and rail/tunnel workers there were some 20,000 living and prospering in the Skykomish Valley. They were a hearty rough-and-tumble crowd. Thursday through Sunday there is a museum and art gallery in town. Also, there is abundant wildlife in the area including bear, deer, cougar, bobcat, porcupine, etc. In the event you’re fool hearty, NOT diligent, (lazy) and you leave food items out, that will serve as a chow call for the bears. FULL DISCLOSURE: There hasn’t been a bear attack in a very long time up here, and don’t think you're the bear whisperer because you’re not. That title belongs to Father Earth Biscuit. His ghost wanders the woods at night. I observed him playing poker recently late at night with the Sasquatch and bear that lives in these woods. The bear lost and was angry and was departing the area hoping to find a tasty human but found a nice nest of grubs instead and so he forgot about his people hunt. Unfortunately, just as my camera was ready to take video of the whole affair my battery went dead. I needed to get out of there anyway as to that point I had not been detected by them. But they are there! We biscuits find that bears are people too and they are just trying to fill their calorie needs and they like cheese burgers and chips of any kind with their beer. Don’t leave out the food items. IT WOULD BE A PROVOCATION ON YOUR PART! Enuf said. Hunting/ shooting is strictly forbidden. All state fire restrictions are adhered to. No Rock climbing the cliffs unless you’re an instructor level climber and can show credentials We have planned this as a FAMILY CAMP GROUND therefore, illegal substance users should look for another place. Your rig must be in good condition. No old 1900s models that clutter city streets down below. I hope you understand our intent here. Be advised that Length of stay is limited.

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The Landing at Index WA

8 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Index, WA

Welcome to The Landing at Index - located on the South Fork Skykomish River, in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, off of Highway 2. With 16 acres of beautiful, private woods and breathtaking views of Mt. Index, this is a wonderful getaway to kick back and relax after your day of adventures, or just to escape the city rush. The campsites are at the bottom of a long logging road so an SUV or AWD vehicle are preferable , especially during the wetter seasons. When the property was logged approximately 100 years ago they scooped out gravel from the river to make their roads in the area thus creating the back eddy pool along the beach. A rather peaceful setting, including the rushing sound of the river and the occasional whistle of a train. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after you stay at The Landing. Pets are welcome, there are outhouses at each campsite. Campfires are allowed (when burn bans are not in place).

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Silver Ridge Ranch & Campground

81 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Easton, WA

Silver Ridge Ranch is located on 22 acres in the base of the Cascade mountains. There are 45 RV Sites, 35 tent sites including 3 Glamping Tents, 8 lodge rooms, a full Lodge for rent, and horse corrals at many of the sites. You can ride your horse, or hike right from the property, enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing at nearby Lake Easton and Lake Kachess. Refer to Campground Map for Site # and location. Take a short day trip to Roslyn, WA most noted for the filming of the Northern Exposure series. Roslyn was founded in 1886 as a coal mining company town. During the 20th century, the town gradually transitioned away from coal, and today its economy is primarily based on forestry and tourism. Don't forget to visit The Roslyn Cafe and The Brick. Another fun day trip is to Snoqualmie Falls one of Washington state's most popular scenic attractions. Approximately 45 minute drive from Easton. More than 1.5 million visitors come to the Falls every year. At the falls, you will find a two-acre park, gift shop, observation deck, the Salish Lodge and the famous 270 foot waterfall.

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Sasquatch Villa

3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Chelan Falls, WA

Welcome to the number one Hipcamp in the area…Experience the beauty of Lake Chelan from our private sites located on a mountain with stunning views of the rolling hills. Our secluded location, just one mile up a well kept dirt road, provides a tranquil escape. For those seeking adventure, we offer a private lookout trail up a small mountain, offering the best vantage point to admire Lake Chelan and the Columbia River. Solar lights enhance the ambiance at night, including propane fire pits, creating a cool and inviting atmosphere. Our location is conveniently situated, with Beebe Park on the Columbia River only 10 minutes away and Lake Chelan just 20 minutes away. You'll have easy access to everything the valley has to offer. Want to plan something special? Want to pull off a surprise engagement? Let us know how we can help. Please note that if you choose tent camping, portable toilets are required to ensure convenience and hygiene. Come and discover the wonders of Lake Chelan at our private sites.

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Whistlin' Pine Ranch Resort

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents500 acres · Pateros, WA

Exquisitely beautiful area formed by melting glaciers forming the "Alta Coulee". The campground is situated at the South end of Alta Lake, opened in 1946 and operated by my Grandparents until 1980 when my father decided to continue operations, adding Outfitting and Guide services into the Pasayten and Sawtooth Wilderness areas. Covid put a halt on business for a few years but we are making some gradual upgrades and changes to offer camping and horseback riding experiences again. The lake is 220 acres known to Anglers near and far. Plenty of room for the sunseekers wanting to play in the water on paddle boards, kayaks, jet skis, and water skiing. An 18-hole Golf Course resides at the North end of the lake and white water rafting just a few miles down the hill on the Methow River. We will offer guided horseback rides by the hour on site for the season 2024. Must book in advance. Free Wifi available near the office only.

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The Plain Valley

6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Leavenworth, WA

Welcome to The Plain Valley, an idyllic 8-acre property nestled between the charming town of Plain, WA, and the tranquil Wenatchee River. Our serene setting, with its open field and small stand of pine trees, provides a peaceful camping experience. Please note that our campsite is dry, meaning you'll need to bring your own restroom facilities and water supply. However, a water hose is available on-site for refilling purposes. Additionally, for those moments when you're feeling parched, we have a microbrewery conveniently located on the premises. Escape to The Plain Valley for a quiet retreat surrounded by nature's beauty.

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The Lakes

8 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Manson, WA

We purchased this 60+ acre property in 2004 as an apple orchard. We still maintain 12 acres of the orchard and replaced the rest with grape vines several years ago. This peaceful location with surrounding mountains, lakes and nature will make you want to call it home. Whether you are planning on spending your time relaxing, wine tasting, hiking, fishing, hunting or a little bit of everything this camp site is just minutes from it all.

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Camp Koinonia

26 sites · RVs, Tents111 acres · Cle Elum, WA

Camp Koinonia includes access to a full court basketball court, trout fishing pond, fun zone area for kids, heated pool June 1-Sept 30 and 80 acres of hiking trails. We also have an escape room, kayaks with lifeguard, slingshots when staff are available. Amenities are based on staffing. If you are curious what options will be available please contact the host. August & September all amenities are offered. Wood is not included but is for sale. There is a sledding/tubing hill perfect for the kids. Our property also has large areas to explore including snowshoe trails.Accommodations range from camp sites, to cabins - along with RV sites. All of our listings allow pets, campfires (when burn bans are not in place), and have toilets. Guests love staying here: "This was a great stay. So much for the kids to do and explore- fishing pond, canoes, jungle gym, life size chess, trails, teepee. Kevin was overly accommodating and available for any needs/ questions. Our trailer even got a flat tire the day we tried to leave and him and his friend helped us change the tire before leaving that day. We will stay here again!"

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Busters on the Sauk

2 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Darrington, WA

This place feels like your. in the wilderness, 4G fading in and out, right by the Sauk river, and yet it's still within city limits\. Within walking distance to Darrington. Downhill mt bike park across town 10 minutes away. Skatepark and pump track in town, 5 minutes away. Its basically on the Mt loop highway. Great access to hikes in the area and the the beautiful Sauk River. There is wood to burn for your campfires, Buster is more than happy to deliver that wood ..free of charge! that's a good time as any for a meet-n-greet. If your a star gazer or like looking at the moon with binoculars on clear nights, we've got reduced light pollution right here. there is room to explore the riverfront and find yourself noting the diversity of animal and plants. Buster and Tracy are the owners of this property. They are going to take over hosting their campground. And this land is a many works in the making...A diamond in the rough.!! If you have appreciation for the wilderness , this spot will turn into your next annual getaway. Its within walking distance to town, but has a feeling of seclusion. This property is classed as light industrial, used for industrial purposes and so when you first drive down our driveway it opens up to a scrap pile here, and a car boneyard there. Then the huge shop with an excavator, forklift and evidence of recent use. Fairly amusing. As you make your way down the road, past the shop and residence and start heading down towards the Sauk river, the raw land starts to take over. . The scenery is serene, the birds are singing, The River rushing in the background..

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Masabaje Camp

5 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Ellensburg, WA

Purchased in 2013 after a fire came through the area. We've spent the last 7 years regenerating the land, planting trees, building our house and collecting places for people to rest their heads. Masabaje is the first two letters of each of our parents names (Margaret, Sandy, Barry, Jerry). We offer four listings - a converted schoolbus, an Airstream, retro trailer, and tent spot. Meet Birdy, a semi-converted Blue Bird school bus with a comfortable queen mattress, couch, two recliners, dry kitchen, cooking utensils, and camp stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 4 minute walk). Birdy sits at "Top Pond", farthest from the house in a super quiet and private spot. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). There is no electricity available in Birdy. Devices can be charged up at the house. There is also no heater in Birdy, overnight temperatures in September and October can dip down into the mid-low 40's or lower. Meet Tin Man, we found him after he had been in an accident. We bandaged him up and he became the first place to sleep when we bought our empty land. He has a comfortable double mattress, couch, chair, kitchen, cooking utensils, and two burner stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 30 second walk). Tin Man sits on our driveway round-a-bout and is closest to the house. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). Ellensburg is known for its wind and our land is just down from a wind farm. We cannot control the wind, but Birdy sits in a pretty wind protected oasis. We are less than 2 hours from Seattle, 1 hour to Yakima wine country, 40 minutes to Vantage, 40 minutes to Leavenworth, 50 minutes to Snoqualmie Pass, 15 minutes to Ellensburg, 25 minutes to Roslyn, 25 minutes to Yakima River Canyon for floating and hiking, and so much more!

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The Little Cabin in the Woods

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Skykomish, WA

Totally private, the property sits on a acre surrounded by undeveloped forest. Huge old century-old cedar stumps litter the surrounding woods and you'll see where loggers in the early 1900's cut into the sides to place their springboards. The trees surrounding the property today are mostly fir and alder. The 16'x20' cabin sits tucked back against the forest, looking out with territorial forest and mountain views of the Cascades. Outside you'll find a firepit with chairs and a picnic table for your enjoyment. Off to the side you'll also find our tidy and clean-smelling outhouse. Inside the cabin you'll be surprised at the roominess and open feel given the cabin's dimensions. A counter with sink hides all of your plates, utensils, pots and pans. An L-shaped dining nook seats 3-4 comfortably. Across the room you'll find wonderful wood-stove for those chilly nights, and a pull-out sofa to relax on. A wide ladder leads up to the sleeping loft where you'll find a double -sized (full) futon bed tucked under the window looking out toward the mountains. Given the cabin's size, it is best-suited for couples - though it is possible to sleep 4 with the pull-out sofa. There is a nice flat tent-site at the cabin as well. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests at the property at any time. Please note, this is an OFF-GRID cabin with NO ELECTRICITY or RUNNING WATER. You're welcome to bring a portable generator to plug into our lighting system. In the Spring/Summer we have a rain barrel that may provide limited water to the sink for washing only, NOT for drinking.

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Heron's Rookery

1 site · RV, Tent38 acres · Cle Elum, WA

Beautiful private 0.4-acre property right on the Yakima river and located within the Elk Meadows Community. Plenty of shade, fire pit, picnic table, electricity, and water. Grey water or compostable sewage only. Great for a place to RV, and also plenty of flat grassy space for tent camping. Just off I-90 between Easton and Cle Elum. If you are looking for a peaceful riverfront getaway, here's your spot!

The best camping near Lake Wenatchee State Park guide

Overview

About

Lake Wenatchee State Park is a wonder in all four seasons; the kind of place you want to make lasting memories with friends or fly solo with ambient jams in your headphones while you discover the beauty of Mother Nature. Across 489 acres you have a choice of both South and North Park; South offering campsites with sick views of glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee, horseback riding, and swimming. North offering a more chilled out vibe, less development, and lots of lush forest to explore. No need to choose sides though! The park’s automated pay system makes it easy to stay for a few days. And you’ll want to with robust activities including 8 miles of hiking and biking trails, windsurfing or water skiing in addition fishing, kayaking, swimming, rock climbing, and even golf. A visit in the winter is just as spellbinding with 25 miles of cross-country skiing, interpretive snowshoeing trails, ice climbing, snowmobiling, and dog sleddin’. Perhaps best of all, they offer groomed sled riding trails. With over 150 inches of snowfall every winter, you can barrell your bottom down those groomed hills until your heart’s content. Go back to where you started, and do it all again.

Notable campgrounds

Great for boating: Lake Wenatchee South Campground offers easy access to a public boat launch.
Great for larger RVs: Lake Wenatchee North Campground has dump stations and plenty of pull-through utility sites suitable for RVs.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve campsites and one of the two picnic areas over the phone or by using the Washington State Parks online reservation system. Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance. New sites go live at 7am Pacific Time.
If you can't find a campsite for your entire stay, you can split your stay across two campsites without having to pay double reservation fees. However, this can only be done over the phone.
Campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-October until late March. Winter camping takes place in the south day-use area and Sno-Park permits are required.

When to go

If you like warm temperatures and aren't fond of rain, the best time to visit is in July or August, when weather is at its finest. However, plenty of people come for winter camping, when the park and its surroundings are covered with white snow, ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. December is a great time to come to experience the holiday festivities in the nearby faux-Bavarian tourist town of Leavenworth.

Know before you go

Lake Wenatchee Park Store sells basic prepared foods, espresso drinks, firewood, ice, and other supplies from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
Outside of high season, the nearest place to pick up supplies is Leavenworth, where there are banks, a supermarket, gas stations, and lots of German-inspired restaurants.
While there are heated restrooms and a hot shower for wintertime use, hookups are not available during the November through March offseason.
Burn bans are common during the summer wildfire season. During such periods, campfires and some types of cooking devices are prohibited.
You will not need a Discover Pass (annual access permit) if you are camping in the park.