Camping in Washington is a special treat, and we love finding hidden spots for the best outdoor experience. If you’ve never been camping in the North Cascades, we believe it’s as amazing as it gets. North Cascades National Park is full of alpine landscapes, lush valleys, turquoise lakes, and breathtaking overlooks. And if you manage to get a spot at the Colonial Creek Campground in Rockport, you’ll have a front-row seat to it all. Pack your camping gear and come with us to this beautiful Washington campground that’s like a little slice of heaven. 

You'll find the Colonial Creek Campground right next to the gorgeous Lake Diablo.
DJost / TripAdvisor
People come from all over the state just to get a glimpse of this gorgeous body of water, so staying here feels especially lucky.
The campground is divided into two areas — the North Loop and the South Loop.
Colonial Creek Campground
Anwesha Pan/Google
The North Loop is located in old growth forest at the base of Colonial Peak on the shore of Diablo Lake. You'll find the South Loop on the south side of State Route 20 near mile marker 130.
This place is remote, but it's bustling. The secret has been out for years.
misopiso88 / TripAdvisor
However, that doesn't make a stay here any less special. There are plenty of secluded spots to explore, and it's easy to feel like you're the only one here. The fishing pier and boat launch tend to be the most popular places.

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Firewood is available outside of the park and the campground has toilets available.
mc_vienna / TripAdvisor
That being said, the campground is pretty rustic. Bring plenty of water and supplies.
The North Loop has 41 campsites surrounded by forest, many of them right on the shores of Diablo Lake.
Colonial Creek Campground
Kristina Alekseeva / Google
The South Loop is about the same size, with 94 campsites. While tents and campers work well, none of the spaces are large RV-friendly.
Colonial Creek is open from early May until early September.
Alex Budchanin/Google
As you can imagine, reservations go quickly. You may have to plan a trip for next summer... but it will be worth the wait.
Not only is this campground beautiful, it's close to some of the park's top attractions.
Colonial Creek Campground
misopiso88 / TripAdvisor
Aside from Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and Thunder Knob Trail are nearby, just to name a few.

Have you ever stayed at this rugged and relaxing campground in Washington? Learn more about making a reservation on the official Recreation.gov website.

If you’re searching for more places to go camping, be sure to read our article featuring the top-rated campgrounds in Washington.

The 26 Best Campgrounds in Washington: Top-Rated & Hidden Gems

Also, if you’re looking for the perfect camping chair, we can’t recommend the GCI Outdoor Kickback Rocker Chair from REI enough.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Colonial Creek Campground

Tori Jane | April 18, 2023

Where can I find some of the best camping in Washington state?

Washington is an incredible state for camping! You’ll find awesome campgrounds almost anywhere, but our state parks are probably the downright best. Some of our favorite parks for camping in Washington State are:  

  • Beacon Rock State Park – If you’re a fan of mountainous camping with an incredible view, this is the state park for you.  
  • Birch Bay State Park – Beach camping, anyone?  
  • Leadbetter Point State Park – This state park in Washington is so ridiculously scenic that you’ll never want to leave. All the better for camping!  

Learn more about each of these amazing state parks, where you’ll find the best camping in Washington state! 

What are some of the best places to go camping in WA?

Of course, the epic camping in WA isn’t anywhere near limited to just the state parks; there are literally hundreds – if not more – of places that are amazing for camping in Washington, like:  

  • Heart O’ The Hills – This stunning campground is located within the beautiful Olympic National Park, and it’s a must-do.  
  • Moore Point Campground – Located right on the shores of Lake Chelan, Moore Point Campground is a perfect escape from the chaos of real life.  
  • Lena Lake – Dispersed camping at its finest!  

Learn more about each of these wonderful places to go camping in WA.   

Where are the best hidden gems for camping in Washington?

So, sure, you’ve got all the popular campgrounds, but what about some hidden gems? Washington’s got plenty! Some of our favorite, more off-the-grid camping places in Washington are places including:  

  • Camano Island State Park – If you prefer peace and quiet on Puget Sound, this is an excellent option. 
  • Hoh Campground – Camping in the incredible Hoh Rainforest? We think yes.  
  • Marcus Island Campground – A shady, secluded gem that doesn’t get the love it deserves.  

Learn more about these secluded, private campgrounds in Washington!   

Are there glampgrounds in Washington?

If you prefer to camp in a more luxurious way, here are some of the best glampgrounds in Washington that we recommend: 

  • Lakedale Resort, Friday Harbor
  • Cape Disappointment State Park, Ilwaco
  • Rolling Huts, Winthrop
  • The Yurt Village at Kayak Point, Stanwood
  • Sagecliffe Resort & Spa, Quincy
  • Pacific Beach State Park, Pacific Beach
  • Crystal Sky Camp, Various Locations
  • Washougal Riverside Treehouse, Washougal

Read our previous article to learn more about these glampgrounds in Washington. 

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Colonial Creek South Campground, State Rte 20, Rockport, WA 98283, USA