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Lake Chelan Camping
Lake Chelan Camping
Lake Chelan is over 50 miles long, and while the Northern half of the lake can feel deserted and offers tranquility, the Southern section of the lake can be busy during the summer season. Measuring an ear popping 1,486 feet deep, the third deepest lake in the United States, behind Crater Lake and Lake Tahoe, is Lake Chelan. Campsites can be found all around the lake, from boat-in and hike-in campsites to state parks, find your perfect Lake Chelan campsite with this guide.There are many different activities to do while camping along Lake Chelan. The region is home to close to 40 wineries, and there is likely to be a winery a short drive, or walk, away from your campsite. Water activities are extremely popular, and you will often find folks paddleboarding, boating and jet skiing on the lake. There are a number of different hiking and mountain biking trails in Chelan Valley - use our Lake Chelan Hiking Guide to find the perfect outing.
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ways to camp
Campgrounds
Campgrounds around Lake Chelan offer the easiest and most accessible way to camp, with established sites, amenities, and options for both tents and RVs. Many are located right on the water, while others provide quieter settings just a short drive from the lake.
Boat-in Camping
Boat-in camping is one of the most unique experiences at Lake Chelan, with remote campsites only accessible by boat. These sites offer a more secluded feel and incredible scenery, but require extra planning for transportation, supplies, and changing lake conditions.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping offers a more flexible and often free alternative to developed campgrounds, with sites located on forest roads and public lands. Expect fewer amenities and a more self-sufficient experience, but also more solitude and space away from busy areas.
RV Friendly
RV camping includes campgrounds and parks that can accommodate larger vehicles, with some offering full hookups and easy access. Options range from lakeside RV parks to more basic campgrounds, depending on how close you want to be to the water and town.
quick picks
Best Overall - Lake Chelan State Park
Lake Chelan State Park is often considered the best overall campground in the Lake Chelan area thanks to its mix of waterfront access, amenities, and convenient location. With over 6,000 feet of shoreline, it offers extensive lake access for swimming, boating, and relaxing, along with a boat launch and moorage. The campground includes both tent and RV sites, including full hookups, as well as clean bathrooms and hot showers. Despite its popularity, it still feels somewhat secluded with its wooded setting, while being just 15 minutes from downtown Chelan. On-site, Paninis in the Park provides food, drinks, and basic groceries, and the well-known Watson’s Alpenhorn Cafe is just across the street. Add in hiking trails, a playground, and large open lawns, and it's an easy, well-rounded choice for a wide range of campers.
Most Convenient - Lakeshore RV Park
Lakeshore RV Park is the most convenient camping option in the Lake Chelan area, especially for those who want to be right in the heart of town. Located within the city of Chelan, it offers easy walking access to restaurants, shops, grocery stores, and other everyday amenities, making it a great choice for a low-hassle stay. The park sits right next to Don Morse Park, which features a sandy beach, swimming areas, volleyball courts, and a playground, adding plenty of outdoor space to enjoy just steps from your site. It’s also ideal for families, with fun activities nearby like go-karts, a bowling alley, and other kid-friendly activities, all within close reach.
Best for Boating - Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park is one of the best campgrounds for boating on Lake Chelan, and while it’s tough to choose between it and Lake Chelan State Park, this one stands out for its uplake location. Being farther from town means less boat traffic and easier access to the quieter, more remote stretches of the lake, making it ideal for longer days on the water. The park has a convenient boat launch and moorage, along with on-the-water fuel access so you can gas up and explore without worrying about range. For those planning to spend most of their time boating, it’s hard to beat the combination of access, convenience, and a more relaxed setting.
Best for Hiking - Echo Valley Resort & Cabins
Echo Valley Resort and Cabins offers some of the best campsites for hiking in the Lake Chelan area, thanks to its quiet setting and immediate access to trails. The campsites are more secluded than most, each with a picnic table, and guests also have access to the on-site pool, adding a nice bonus after a day outdoors. One of the biggest highlights is being able to walk right out your “door” and onto nearby hiking trails, while the extensive trail network at Echo Ridge is just a short drive away, giving you access to even more scenic routes and varied terrain.
