Gorge Lake Campground campground

Gorge Lake Campground

Check by phone
8 campsites
Open in maps

8

Total Campsites

Campground

8

Reservable Sites

Check by phone

1

Accessible

ADA-compliant sites

Organization

Managing agency

Overview

About Gorge Lake Campground

Overview Gorge Lake Campground is a small, primitive campground with 8 sites. The campground is set on a steep bank overlooking Gorge Lake. The sites are small and do not accommodate large RVs or trailers. There is an accessible boat ramp at the lower end of the campground. Recreation The campground has an accessible boat launch and small dock. This boat launch is not recommended for large powerboats. Ideal for canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and small power boats. Practice boating safety while on the water. Fishing is allowed in Gorge Lake with a Washington State Fishing license. The nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating. Hiking and other recreation opportunities can be found across the park. Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report. Facilities The campground has an accessible boat launch and small dock. This boat launch is not recommended for large powerboats. Ideal for canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and small power boats. Practice boating safety while on the water. Fishing is allowed in Gorge Lake with a Washington State Fishing license. The nearest location to purchase a license is in the town of Marblemount, WA. Follow Washington State Fishing Regulations when recreating. Hiking and other recreation opportunities can be found across the park. Black bears are active in this campground and the surrounding trails. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking, picnicking, and camping. Use the provided bear boxes in your campsite to store coolers, cookware, and other odorants when not in use. If you encounter a bear around the campground or on a trail, inform campground staff or go to the North Cascades Visitor Center and fill out a bear report. Natural Features Gorge Lake Campground is a minimally forested campground with surrounding views of the Gorge Lake. At an elevation of 900’ this campground experiences bouts of powerful winds from the Fraser Valley Outflow. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (360) 854-7200. Nearby Attractions Traveling west on State Route 20: The North Cascades Visitor Center is 7.5 miles (12 km) west on State Route 20 from Gorge Lake Campground, operating seasonally, typically from May to September. Campers can find the passport stamps, exhibits, park film, park store, and much more. Traveling east on State Route 20: Diablo Lake Overlook is 6.5 miles (10 km) east on State Route 20. There is ample day use parking and vault toilets. Ross Lake Overlook is 10 miles (16 km) east on State Route 20, this is a less developed vista point. There are two pull off areas with interpretive way sides and with views of the Ross Dam and the Ross Lake.

  • 8 total campsites listed.
  • 1 accessible campsite listed.
  • Most common site type: standard nonelectric (8).
  • Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Gorge Lake Campground photo 2
Gorge Lake Campground photo 3

Our Take

What makes Gorge Lake Campground special

Gorge Lake Campground is one of the smallest and most dramatic campsites in Washington's North Cascades. With just eight primitive sites perched on a steep bank above Gorge Lake, it feels more like a backcountry outpost than a developed campground. The turquoise glacial water below and the towering peaks above create a setting that punches far above its weight class. A boat ramp provides access to the lake for kayakers and canoeists, though motorized boats are restricted, keeping the water peaceful. Hiking options range from short interpretive trails along the Skagit River corridor to ambitious day hikes deeper into the park. The best window runs from late June through September, when the access road is clear and wildflowers carpet the subalpine meadows. Sites are first-come, first-served and go fast on summer weekends, so plan a Thursday arrival if you can. This campground is best suited for tent campers, paddlers, and anyone who wants a gateway to North Cascades National Park without the longer drive to remote trailheads.

Campsite Inventory

8 sites to choose from

STANDARD NONELECTRIC

8total sites

8

Reservable

1

Accessible

Amenities & Details

Everything you need to know

BOAT RAMP

Boat Ramp

Campfire Allowed

Yes

Site capacity

Single

Check-in time

02:00 PM

Check-out time

12:00 PM

Condition Rating

Standard

Fire Pit

Fire Pit

LAKE ACCESS

Lake Access

Location Rating

Good

Max guests

8

Minimum guests

Yes

Pets allowed

Yes

Picnic Table

Picnic Table

Proximity to Water

Lakefront

RECYCLING

Recycling

Shade

Yes

Site Access

Drive In

Site Rating

Standard

Reservations & Contact

Plan your stay

Check by phone

Phone

360-854-7200

Email

noca_information@nps.gov

Getting There

Located just outside the community of Diablo, north of SR 20 at mile post 126. 20 miles (32 km) east of Marblemount, 67 miles (108 km) west of Winthrop.

FAQ

Common questions

Everything you need to know before your trip to Gorge Lake Campground.

How do reservations work for Gorge Lake Campground?

Reservation availability for Gorge Lake Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.

What campsite types are available at Gorge Lake Campground?

Gorge Lake Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (8).

Where is Gorge Lake Campground located?

See this page for location details and directions.

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