If you’re looking for a scenic camping destination in Washington, an Alta Lake State Park camping trip might be just what you need. This 181-acre camping park is situated where the mountainous pine forests meet the desert, providing a unique landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s main attraction is the 2-mile-long Alta Lake, which offers a range of water activities, including trout fishing, water skiing, and windsurfing during the summer months.
Alta Lake State Park is a great way to experience the great outdoors while enjoying modern amenities. The park has 115 campsites, 32 of which come with full hookups, and the campground is open from early April through October. The park also offers amenities like drinking water, flush toilets, showers, trash collection, and Wi-Fi. If you’re traveling with an RV, you’ll be happy to know that RVs are allowed, although no hookups are available.
Key Takeaways
- Alta Lake State Park offers a unique camping experience where mountainous pine forests meet the desert.
- The park has 115 campsites, 32 of which come with full hookups, and modern amenities like Wi-Fi, showers, and flush toilets.
- Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities at Alta Lake, including trout fishing, water skiing, and windsurfing.
Table of Contents
Overview of Alta Lake State Park
Location and History
The park is located between Winthrop and Lake Chelan, making it a popular destination for anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and families who love to camp. The park is named after Alta Lake, a two-mile-long lake that is about half a mile wide. The area was formed by glaciation, which created the unique landscape that visitors can enjoy today.
Geography and Climate
The park is situated in a high-desert/mountain setting, which means that visitors can expect a dry climate with hot summers and cold winters. The park is surrounded by towering stone cliffs, which provide a breathtaking backdrop to park adventures. Goat Mountain, which rises 4,200 feet west of the lake, is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
Alta Lake State Park offers a variety of amenities, including accessible campsites, RV sites, and two group campsites. The park also has a boat launch, a fishing dock, and a swimming area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and bird-watching.
Camping at Alta Lake State Park
Campsites and Amenities
Alta Lake State Park has 115 campsites, including 32 sites with full hookups. The maximum site length is 38 feet, with limited availability. Each campsite comes with a picnic table, grill, and fire pit. The park also offers two group campsites for larger groups.
The campground has four restrooms, one of which is ADA accessible, and 12 showers. RVs are allowed, but there are no hookups available. A dump station is available year-round for a fee of $5 per use, which is included in your campsite fee.
Reservations and Fees
Camping at Alta Lake State Park requires a reservation, which can be made online or by calling the park office. The campground is open from early April through October. Check-in time is 2:30 pm, and check-out time is 1:00 pm.
The fees for camping at Alta Lake State Park vary depending on the type of campsite you choose. Partial-hookup sites are $30 per night, while full-hookup sites are $35 per night. Group campsites are $125 per night.
Campground Rules and Safety
To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, Alta Lake State Park has a few rules that all campers must follow. Fires are only allowed in designated fire pits and must be extinguished before leaving the site. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash at all times.
Group campsites must be reserved in advance and have specific rules regarding the number of people allowed. Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:30 am. The park also has a strict policy regarding alcohol and drug use.
When camping at Alta Lake State Park, it’s essential to follow all safety guidelines. Keep food and trash secured to avoid attracting wildlife, and always be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, contact the park office or dial 911.
Recreational Activities
Alta Lake State Park offers a plethora of recreational activities for you to enjoy during your camping trip. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, water sports, or golfing, the park has something for everyone. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy at the park.
Hiking and Wildlife Watching
Take a hike on one of the many trails in the park and enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. You can spot wildflowers, birds, and even black bears on your hike. The trails range from easy to moderate, so there’s a trail for every skill level.
Water Activities
Alta Lake is perfect for water activities such as fishing, swimming, water skiing, and boating. The lake is home to trout, and trout fishing is a popular activity among visitors. You can also rent kayaks and windsurfing equipment to enjoy the lake to the fullest.
Golfing and Other Attractions
If you’re a fan of golfing, you’ll love the 18-hole golf course near the park. The golf course offers stunning views of the mountains and the lake. The park also has volleyball and horseshoe pits for visitors to enjoy.
Park Services and Conveniences
Food and Supplies
The park offers campers an array of amenities to make their stay comfortable. If you’re in need of firewood, it’s available for purchase at the camp store. The store also stocks grocery items, including ice, snacks, and beverages. You can also grab a bag of ice for your cooler or pick up some grilled items for a tasty meal. If you’re craving something sweet, the store has ice cream and espresso drinks available.
Visitor Information and Support
The park has a ranger station where you can find maps, information about park activities, and other visitor support. There are also several picnic areas throughout the park, each equipped with a table and grill. The park also has restrooms and showers, as well as a dump station for RVs.
Park Regulations and Environmental Stewardship
Protecting Wildlife and Vegetation
This park is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the park and its wildlife. To protect the vegetation, visitors are not allowed to pick flowers or disturb the plants in any way. Feeding wildlife is also prohibited, as it can disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem. Please refrain from littering and dispose of trash properly to prevent harm to the environment.
Fire and Safety Regulations
To ensure the safety of visitors, Alta Lake State Park follows the Okanogan County safety ordinance and enforces a burn ban during dry weather conditions. Level 1 fire restrictions may be in place during certain times of the year, and visitors must use designated fire pits for campfires. Propane and gas grills are permitted, but visitors must take care to use them safely. In freezing temperatures, the park may be closed to prevent accidents.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
The summer months are the most popular time to visit Alta Lake State Park, especially on weekends. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder season. Keep in mind that the park is a day-use park, so plan your visit accordingly.
Getting There and Parking
To get to Alta Lake State Park, take Alta Lake Road off of Highway 153 and follow it for about 7 miles until you reach the park entrance at 1B Otto Road, Pateros, WA 98846. There is ample parking available, but it can fill up quickly during peak season.
When planning your visit, be sure to check the Washington Parks Visitor Guide for any updates or closures. The park offers a range of family-friendly activities, including bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and more.
To make the most of your visit, consider bringing a picnic or snacks to enjoy by the lake. Additionally, the park has a camp store and recycling center, and firewood is available for purchase.
Activities and Events
Seasonal Events
When you visit Alta Lake State Park for camping, you can enjoy various seasonal events throughout the year. During Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, the park hosts special events such as live music, outdoor movie screenings, and nature walks. These events offer a great opportunity to socialize with other campers and learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.
Sports and Games
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, Alta Lake State Park has plenty of sports and games to offer. The lake is perfect for sailboarding, personal watercraft, and stand-up paddleboards. You can also enjoy hiking, running, or rolling on the park’s scenic trails. The park has volleyball and horseshoe pits for group games.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or looking for some casual fun, Alta Lake State Park has something for everyone. Make sure to pack your gear and get ready for an adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Alta Lake State Park campgrounds?
Alta Lake State Park campgrounds offer 32 utility spaces, trailer dump, four restrooms, and 12 showers. Firewood and food are available at the park store.
Are pets allowed at Alta Lake State Park camping sites?
Pets are allowed at Alta Lake State Park camping sites, but they must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times. You must also clean up after your pet.
Can you fish at Alta Lake, and do you need a permit?
You can fish at Alta Lake, and a permit is required. The lake offers trout fishing during the summer months. You can obtain a permit from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
What are the camping fees for Alta Lake State Park?
The camping fees for Alta Lake State Park vary depending on the season and the type of campsite you choose. You can expect to pay between $12 and $45 per night. You can reserve a campsite up to nine months in advance.
How do you reserve a campsite at Alta Lake State Park?
You can reserve a campsite at Alta Lake State Park online or by phone. You will need to provide your name, contact information, and payment details. You can reserve a campsite up to nine months in advance.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Alta Lake State Park besides camping?
Besides camping, visitors can enjoy water skiing, windsurfing, and swimming at Alta Lake. The park also offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking. Nearby Lake Chelan offers additional recreational activities, such as boating and fishing.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve always felt at home in the outdoors. We created Evergreen Adventures PNW to share our love of hiking, camping, and exploring, and to help others discover the best adventures this region has to offer. Along with trip guides and tips, we also enjoy diving into the science behind the landscapes—thanks to a background in Environmental Science—because understanding nature makes every adventure even more meaningful.