Camping in the Lake Chelan Valley

The Lake Chelan Valley offers a range of camping options suited to different styles and experience levels. Choices include a full-service RV park on the Lake Chelan waterfront, family campgrounds on smaller north shore lakes, two state parks on the south shore, a county park near the Columbia River, primitive Forest Service campgrounds, and boat-in sites along the undeveloped middle and upper lake.

Most campgrounds in the valley operate seasonally, with the greatest availability from late spring through early fall. Planning and early reservations are essential for summer visits.

City Park — Lakeshore RV Park

The City of Chelan’s Lakeshore RV Park is the most centrally located camping in the valley. It sits adjacent to Don Morse Park directly on the Lake Chelan waterfront, within walking distance of downtown Chelan, restaurants, shops, and the Lady of the Lake ferry terminal.

163 full hook-up RV sites (maximum 40 feet)
22 tent-only sites
Amenities: dump station, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, nearby marina access
Pets welcome during the off-season; restrictions apply Memorial Day through Labor Day
No wood-burning fires; propane fire pits permitted
Reservations required — sites fill quickly from June through August

Contact: (509) 682-8023 | ChelanCityParks.com

North Shore — Wapato Lake Campground

Wapato Lake Campground is operated by the Manson Parks District on the north shore. Set on the quiet shores of Wapato Lake, the campground has a shaded, relaxed character well suited to families and visitors oriented toward Manson, the north shore wine country, and the surrounding recreation area.

22 RV sites with electricity and water (50-amp and 30-amp)
13 tent sites
1 group site
Restrooms with quarter-operated showers
Open April through September
Rates: RV (50 amp) $35/night — RV (30 amp) $30/night — Tent $25/night

State Parks — South Shore

Two Washington State Parks are located on the south shore of Lake Chelan. Both accept reservations through Parks.Wa.gov or by calling (888) 226-7688.

Lake Chelan State Park

Lake Chelan State Park is the most developed state park camping option in the valley, with full facilities and direct lake access.

144 campsites, including 17 full hook-up sites
Amenities: showers, swim area, boat launch, picnic sites

25 Mile Creek State Park

25 Mile Creek State Park sits further up the south shore in a quieter, more removed setting. It offers boat launch access and a more rustic camping experience away from the main resort area.

Reservations for both state parks: (888) 226-7688 | Parks.Wa.gov

County Park — Beebe Bridge Park

Beebe Bridge Park is operated by Chelan County PUD and is located southeast of Chelan, across the Columbia River. It offers a more rural setting while remaining within the broader valley region and is a practical option for campers who do not need a reservation.

Tent and RV sites (maximum 40 feet)
Electric and water hookups, boat launch, dump station, showers, restrooms
Shoreline trail
Open April through October
Pet friendly
First-come, first-served — no reservations

Contact: (509) 661-4551 | ChelanPUD.org

Forest Service Campgrounds — Chelan Ranger District

The Chelan Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest operates 22 primitive campgrounds in and around the Lake Chelan Valley. All sites are first-come, first-served.

All sites include picnic tables, vault toilets, and fire rings
Some sites include group shelters
No reservation system — arrive early during summer weekends

Chelan Ranger District: 428 W. Woodin Avenue, Chelan | (509) 682-4900

Boat-In Campgrounds on Lake Chelan

Young Girl on Beach — Looking for Treasures?

Ten boat-in campgrounds are located along the middle and upper sections of Lake Chelan, accessible only by watercraft. These sites are managed by the Chelan Ranger District and offer a remote, shoreside camping experience along undeveloped sections of the lake.

Accessible by boat only — no road access
Dock Site Permit required: $5 per day or $40 for a season pass
All sites include picnic tables, vault toilets, and fire rings
Permits are available through the Chelan Ranger District and the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center

Permit information: Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce | (800) 4CHELAN

Planning Tips

Book early for summer — The Lakeshore RV Park and state parks fill quickly for July and August. Reservations should be made well in advance.
State park reservations — Both south shore state parks accept reservations through Parks.Wa.gov.
First-come, first-served options — Forest Service campgrounds and Beebe Bridge Park do not take reservations. Plan arrival times accordingly.
Boat-in camping requires a permit — Dock Site Permits for Forest Service boat-in sites must be obtained before launching.
Confirm seasonal dates — Most campgrounds operate April or May through September or October. Verify dates before planning spring or fall visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the closest camping to downtown Chelan?

The City of Chelan Lakeshore RV Park is located adjacent to Don Morse Park on the Lake Chelan waterfront, within walking distance of downtown. It offers full hook-up RV sites and tent sites.

Is there camping near Manson on the north shore?

Yes. Wapato Lake Campground, operated by the Manson Parks District, offers RV and tent sites on the north shore. It is open April through September.

Can you camp along Lake Chelan by boat?

Yes. The Chelan Ranger District manages ten boat-in campgrounds along the middle and upper lake. A Dock Site Permit is required — $5 per day or $40 for a season pass. Permits are available through the Ranger District and the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce.

Are there state park campgrounds at Lake Chelan?

Yes. Lake Chelan State Park and 25 Mile Creek State Park are both on the south shore. Lake Chelan State Park has 144 sites including 17 full hook-up sites. Reservations are made through Parks.Wa.gov or (888) 226-7688.

What is the most affordable camping option in the Chelan Valley?

Chelan Ranger District primitive campgrounds and Beebe Bridge County Park are both first-come, first-served with no reservation fees. Wapato Lake Campground tent sites are $25 per night during its April–September season.