Camping at Lake Wenatchee State Park is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the Cascade Mountains in Washington. Located just 16 miles from the charming town of Leavenworth, WA, this 492-acre camping park offers 12,623 feet of waterfront on glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River. The park is a natural wildlife area, so visitors should be aware of the presence of bears and other natural dangers.
The park has 155 campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 42 feet. The campground has two distinct camping areas – South Park and North Park. South Park is generally open from early May through mid-September. In the fall, the park continues to offer first-come, first-served sites until a deep freeze is imminent, which usually occurs in late October. At that time, water will be turned off in the campgrounds, and all exterior water will be turned off. However, the bathhouse is open year-round.
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Getting to Lake Wenatchee State Park
If you’re coming from Leavenworth, it’s a scenic 30-minute drive to Lake Wenatchee State Park. The park is located at 21588 WA-207, Leavenworth, WA 98826, and is easily accessible from Highway 2.
If you’re coming from outside the area, you can use a map or GPS to navigate to the park. The park has ample parking, but it can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early.
Once you arrive at the park, you’ll need to check in at the entrance station. You can purchase a day pass or an annual Discover Pass, which is required for vehicle access to all Washington State Parks.
The park has two distinct camping areas: North Park and South Park. North Park is located on the north side of the Wenatchee River, and South Park is located on the south side of the river. Both camping areas offer a variety of campsites, including standard tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and primitive sites.
If you’re planning to camp at the park, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season. You can make a reservation online or by calling the park office.
Overall, getting to Lake Wenatchee State Park is easy and straightforward, and the park offers a variety of camping options for all types of campers.
Camping at Lake Wenatchee
If you’re planning a camping trip to Lake Wenatchee State Park, you’ll have two campgrounds to choose from: North Campground and South Campground.
North Campground
North Campground has 42 campsites, including 26 standard sites, 15 partial-hookup sites, and one group campsite. The partial hookup sites have water and electric hookups, while the standard sites have no hookups. The group campsite can accommodate up to 50 people.
All campsites in North Campground have a picnic table and fire ring, and the campground has several restrooms with flush toilets and showers. There are also several pull-through sites for larger RVs.
South Campground
South Campground has 113 campsites, including 87 standard sites, 26 partial-hookup sites, and one group campsite. The partial hookup sites have water and electric hookups, while the standard sites have no hookups. The group campsite can accommodate up to 50 people.
All campsites in South Campground have a picnic table and fire pit, and the campground has several restrooms with flush toilets and showers. There are also several pull-through sites for larger RVs.
Both campgrounds are open year-round, but services are limited during the winter months. Tent camping is allowed in both campgrounds but be prepared for cold temperatures and snow during the winter.
Overall, Lake Wenatchee State Park offers a great camping experience with plenty of amenities and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway or an action-packed family vacation, Lake Wenatchee has something for everyone.
Recreational Activities
Lake Wenatchee State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer water activities, land activities, or winter activities, there is something for everyone.
Water Activities
With 12,623 feet of waterfront on glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River, the park is perfect for swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing. The swim beach offers a great spot to cool off during the summer months, while the boat launch provides easy access to the lake for boaters and paddlers. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching salmon in the Wenatchee River.
Land Activities
The park has over 7 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, that offer stunning views of Lake Wenatchee and the surrounding mountains. For those who prefer a leisurely stroll, there are walking trails that are perfect for a relaxing walk. Equestrian trails are also available for horseback riding enthusiasts. Bikes are allowed on some trails, but be sure to check the park’s website for specific trail information.
Winter Activities
In the winter, Lake Wenatchee State Park transforms into a winter wonderland. The park has over 20 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, as well as snowshoe trails for those who prefer to explore on foot. Snowmobiling is also allowed in designated areas, and there is a sled hill for sledding enthusiasts.
Overall, Lake Wenatchee State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Whether you prefer to swim, hike, ski, or snowshoe, there is something for everyone.
Amenities and Services
Lake Wenatchee State Park offers a variety of amenities and services to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.
Parking
There is ample parking available within the park, including designated spaces for RVs and trailers.
Camp Store
The Lake Wenatchee Park Store is open daily during peak season and on weekends throughout the fall, winter, and spring. The store offers a range of camping supplies, including firewood, ice, and propane.
Rentals
Visitors can rent boats, paddleboards, and kayaks from the park store.
Concession and Snacks
The park store also offers a range of snacks and beverages, including espresso drinks and ice cream.
Drinking Water
Potable drinking water is available throughout the park.
Dump Station
A dump station is available for RVs and trailers.
Toilets
Restrooms with flush toilets and showers are located throughout the park.
Playground
A playground is available for children.
Beach
Lake Wenatchee State Park offers both sandy and rocky beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and beach exploration.
Shelter and Picnic Tables
Picnic tables and shelters are available throughout the park for picnicking and enjoying the great outdoors.
Overall, Lake Wenatchee State Park provides a variety of amenities and services to make your camping trip comfortable and enjoyable.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Camping at Lake Wenatchee State Park is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. The park is located on the 5-mile-long, glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River, which offers a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The park is also surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, which provide stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Lake Wenatchee State Park is a natural wildlife area, which means that visitors should be aware of the presence of bears and other natural dangers. It is important to store food properly and dispose of garbage in the bear-resistant containers provided by the park. The park also offers wildlife viewing opportunities, where you can observe a variety of animals, such as deer, elk, and birds.
The natural beauty of Lake Wenatchee State Park is truly breathtaking. The park’s glacier-fed lake and river provide crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming and boating. The surrounding mountains offer a variety of hiking trails that provide stunning views of the area. The park also has a variety of campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins, that are nestled among the trees and offer a peaceful and relaxing camping experience.
Overall, Lake Wenatchee State Park is a natural wonder that offers a unique and unforgettable camping experience. The park’s natural beauty, wildlife, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for any camping enthusiast.
Park Rules and Regulations
When camping at Lake Wenatchee State Park, it is important to be aware of the park rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Here are some of the main rules and regulations to keep in mind:
Reservations
Campsites at Lake Wenatchee State Park can be reserved in advance. However, keep in mind that some campsites are first-come, first-served, so it is best to arrive early if you do not have a reservation. Check-in begins at 2:30 p.m., and check-out is at 1 p.m. Sites cannot be held for someone who might arrive later.
Check
Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. unless otherwise noted. Engine-driven electric generators may be operated between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Please be respectful of other campers and keep noise levels down during quiet hours.
Burn Ban
During periods of high fire danger, a burn ban may be in effect at Lake Wenatchee State Park. This means that campfires and charcoal fires are not allowed. Propane and gas stoves are typically still allowed, but it is important to check with park staff to confirm.
Firewood
Firewood is available for purchase at the Lake Wenatchee Park Store. It is important to only use firewood purchased from the park to prevent the spread of invasive species. Additionally, it is important to keep fires in designated fire rings and to fully extinguish fires before leaving them unattended.
By following these rules and regulations, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience at Lake Wenatchee State Park.
History and Significance
Lake Wenatchee State Park is a 489-acre camping park located in the Wenatchee National Forest on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains in the state of Washington. The park is bisected by the Wenatchee River, creating two distinct areas — South Park and North Park. South Park has areas for camping, swimming, and horseback riding, while North Park is a less developed, forested section, a quarter-mile walk from the lake.
The lake itself is a glacier- and snowmelt-fed lake that is surrounded by stunning mountain views. It has been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts for many years, particularly for camping, fishing, and boating. The lake is also a popular spot for swimming, with a designated swim area located in South Park.
In the early 1900s, the area around Lake Wenatchee began to be developed for recreational use, with the construction of cabins and lodges. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built many of the structures that are still in use today, including the picnic shelter and the ranger station.
Today, Lake Wenatchee State Park is a popular destination for camping and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from all over the world. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campsites at Lake Wenatchee State Park?
Lake Wenatchee State Park has two campgrounds, South and North, with a total of 155 campsites. The South Campground is the larger of the two, and it has more amenities. Both campgrounds have campsites that can accommodate RVs, tents, and trailers. The best campsites at Lake Wenatchee State Park depend on your preferences and needs, but some popular options include sites near the lake, sites with full hookups, and sites that offer more privacy.
What amenities are available at Lake Wenatchee Campground?
Lake Wenatchee State Park offers a variety of amenities for campers, including picnic areas, fire pits, restrooms, showers, and a dump station. The park also has a boat launch, a playground, and a volleyball court. The South Campground has more amenities than the North Campground, including a camp store, a boat rental service, and a beach area.
Is wild camping allowed at Lake Wenatchee State Park?
No, wild camping is not allowed at Lake Wenatchee State Park. All camping must be done in designated campsites in the park’s two campgrounds, South and North.
Are there showers available at Lake Wenatchee State Park?
Yes, there are showers available at Lake Wenatchee State Park. Both the South and North Campgrounds have shower facilities that are available to campers.
Do I need a pass to camp at Lake Wenatchee State Park?
Yes, you need a Discover Pass to camp at Lake Wenatchee State Park. The Discover Pass is a state park pass that is required for all vehicles entering Washington state parks. You can purchase a Discover Pass online or at the park.
Is swimming safe at Lake Wenatchee State Park?
Swimming at Lake Wenatchee State Park is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the potential hazards of swimming in a natural body of water. The water can be cold, and there may be underwater hazards, such as rocks or logs. Visitors should also be aware of the presence of bears and other wildlife in the area.
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.