Camping at Colonial Creek North Campground

Introduction to Colonial Creek North Campground

Colonial Creek North Campground is a scenic campground situated within the North Cascades National Park in Washington State. It's one of the most popular bases for exploring the rugged beauty of the North Cascades with lush forest surroundings, sweeping vistas, and proximity to trails and lakes.

Location

The campground is located off State Route 20 (also known as the North Cascades Highway), roughly 25 miles east of Marblemount and 65 miles west of Winthrop. It sits on the northern shore of Diablo Lake, a reservoir created by Diablo Dam along the Skagit River.

Campsites and Reservations

The campground is divided into two sections; only Colonial Creek North Campground is maintained by the National Park Service.

• Campsites: There are over 140 tent and RV campsites available.
• Reservations: Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance through the National Park Reservation System.
• Camping Season: The campground is generally open from May through September, depending on the weather conditions and snow levels.

Amenities and Facilities

• Running Water: Potable water is available during the open season.
• Restrooms: Flush toilets are available, but there are no showers.
• Dump Station: There is no dump station for RVs at the campground.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
• Food Storage: Bear-proof food storage boxes may be available, but campers should come prepared to store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife.

Activities

There are various recreational activities that visitors can engage in while camping at Colonial Creek North:

• Hiking: The campground provides easy access to several trails, including the Thunder Knob Trail and a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail.
• Boating: Diablo Lake offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. However, it's important to note that the lake's waters are often cold and subject to sudden wind changes.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a diversity of bird species.

Regulations

• Wildlife Protection: Feeding wildlife is prohibited, and all food items and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers or vehicles.
• Campfires: Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings, but this can change with park fire restrictions.
• Pets: Pets are allowed in the campgrounds but must be kept on a leash at all times.
• Quiet Hours: To respect all visitors, quiet hours are typically enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Accessibility

Colonial Creek North Campground is not particularly known for its accessibility features, so visitors with mobility challenges should check in advance regarding the availability of accessible facilities.

Contact Information and Reservations

For the latest information on the campground status, reservations, and seasonal closures, visitors should contact North Cascades National Park directly or visit the park’s website. To make reservations, visitors can use the National Recreation Reservation System (Recreation.gov).

Conclusion

For those looking to explore the breath-taking landscape of North Cascades National Park, Colonial Creek North Campground serves as an excellent and immersive accommodation choice. Whether you're interested in hiking, boating, or simply relaxing amidst nature, this campground offers a prime location to experience the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest. Just be sure to plan ahead, especially in peak summer months, as sites can fill up quickly.