Purple Point Campground

Star4.51
45 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,093 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open season: May 19 ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens North Cascades National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Purple Point Campground
$0.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
During peak season from May 19 to September 7, the fee is $20 per night for tent-only non-electric campsites. During the first-come, first-served...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 45 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanlakewell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"Purple Point Campground is highly praised for its scenic location, proximity to Lake Chelan and Stehekin Landing, and well-maintained facilities. Several users highlight the campground's accessibility and the convenience of nearby amenities such as flush toilets and bear-proof storage."

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Campground Map

Purple Point Campground

48.3130, -120.6580

Driving directionsThere are no roads that connect Stehekin to the rest of Washington. Access is via foot, boat, or plane.
There is no direct road access to Stehekin; it is accessible only via foot, boat (ferry or private), or plane.
Nearby supplies
The Stehekin Landing area hosts a very small store at the North Cascades Lodge, offering limited groceries. Visitors are strongly encouraged to bring sufficient supplies as well-stocked stores are not available in Stehekin.

Best Time to Camp at Purple Point Campground

Summer brings gloriously moderate days perfect for exploration, though evenings turn refreshingly crisp—pack that extra layer for stargazing by the campfire. As autumn arrives, the valley transforms into a painter's palette before winter's quiet embrace brings pristine snow and crystalline air. Spring shoulder seasons offer solitude amid nature's reawakening, though late December visitors should prepare for dramatic weather featuring heavy rainfall and significant snowfall that transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland best admired from warmer lodgings.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Summer receives the most favorable reviews; campground is fully open and ideal for exploration.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn praised for quieter atmosphere and good scenic transitions, though season is limited.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring reviews positive but campground opens May 19 (late spring), so conditions are variable early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is seasonally closed in winter; access is limited during winter months.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 19 to September 7 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season: May 19 to September 7, 2025. Reservable dates: June 23 to September 7, 2025.

About Purple Point Campground

Nestled in the remote Stehekin Valley at the northern tip of Lake Chelan, Purple Point Campground offers an enchanting escape accessible only by boat, plane, or foot. Just an 8-minute stroll along a paved path from the Stehekin Landing dock, this walk-in campground beckons adventurers with its lakeside setting and well-appointed sites. Each camping spot comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire pits perfect for evening gatherings, and bear-safe food storage lockers. Modern conveniences including fresh drinking water and flush toilets ensure comfort without sacrificing the wilderness experience.
Purple Point Campground features tent-only, walk-in sites and is designed for primitive camping. The campground caters to individual and small group campers who prefer a minimalist experience close to nature.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Purple Point Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The surrounding Stehekin Valley provides access to multiple trails and wilderness backpacking opportunities. Visitors can enjoy birding, kayaking, and star gazing while immersing themselves in the scenic beauty of the area.
HikingSeveral trails are accessible from the campground, such as the Imus Trail, Purple Creek Trail, and Lakeshore Trail. Trails further up the valley can be reached by foot, bike, or shuttle bus. The region offers options for short hikes and longer wilderness backpacks, requiring a backcountry permit for overnight stays.
FishingFishing is permitted in Lake Chelan, which is located near the campground. Specific details about fish species or fishing conditions are not provided.
SwimmingLake Chelan offers swimming opportunities, though the water remains chilly at 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The lake is shallow near the shoreline, making it suitable for swimmers, but caution is advised due to cold temperatures.
BikingBikes are available for rent near Stehekin Landing. Trails in the area accommodate biking, providing opportunities to explore the valley.
BoatingVisitors can enjoy boating activities on Lake Chelan. A federal dock permit is required for mooring private boats. Canoe and kayak rentals are available near the landing.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as bears inhabit the area, making it an excellent spot for observing nature. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and use bear-safe procedures when storing food.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears inhabit the area, requiring caution with food storage. Wind can be strong at some campsites, especially near the lake.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredBear-safe food lockers are provided for every two campsites, ensuring secure food storage in an area frequented by wildlife.

Weather at Purple Point Campground

Reviews

4.5
45 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Purple Point Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Purple Point Campground is highly praised for its scenic location, proximity to Lake Chelan and Stehekin Landing, and well-maintained facilities. Several users highlight the campground's accessibility and the convenience of nearby amenities such as flush toilets and bear-proof storage.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights from user reviews include the campground's beautiful views of Lake Chelan, clean and well-maintained facilities, and its proximity to trails and Stehekin Landing. Many users appreciated...
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Based on 45 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted the campground's proximity to the road, which can result in noise and reduced privacy in certain campsites. Others mentioned that the sites are small, and some are exposed to wind....
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Based on 45 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing a sunshade for exposed sites, using bear-safe procedures, and utilizing hand carts for transporting gear from the ferry. For those seeking privacy, choosing sites further...
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Based on 45 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer receive the most favorable reviews for comfortable weather and vibrant natural beauty. Fall visitors appreciated the quieter atmosphere, while winter access is limited due to remote...
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Based on 45 reviews

Camper Quotes

"A scenic free campground that caters to hikers. Best kept secret in Washington State." - Travis R. "When you just cross the street to Purple Point there is a dock and ramps that you can walk on, and...
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Based on 45 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 1 offers views of the Cascade Pass and Lake Chelan, but it is visible from the road. Campsite 2 is near the road and can be noisy. Campsite 3 is praised for its lake views and afternoon...
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Based on 45 reviews

Accessibility Features

Purple Point's walk-in design and proximity to Stehekin Landing make it accessible for most visitors. However, some campsites feature steep slopes or rocky terrain, which may pose challenges for...
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Based on 45 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground. Reviews specific to pet experiences were not provided.
Based on 45 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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