Meadows Campground sits at 6,250 feet in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest near Winthrop, serving as a resupply point for Pacific Crest Trail hikers and a base for exploring the Pasayten Wilderness. The campground offers both tent and RV sites for $5-10 per night. No potable water or trash service. Come prepared to pack everything out.
Meadows Campground supports standard tent camping and limited RV camping. No trailers are allowed due to road restrictions.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable access and the best conditions. Daytime highs reach 60-75°F while nights drop into the 30s-40s, so pack a warm sleeping bag and layers. Trails clear of snow completely, making ridge walks and meadow exploration safest. Wind is a constant presence. Powerful gusts sweep across the exposed meadows, strong enough that campers recommend securing all gear. Weekends see moderate traffic from thru-hikers and day-trippers, but crowds remain light compared to lower-elevation campgrounds.
ElevationAt 6,250 feet above sea level, Meadows Campground offers a true alpine experience where the air is thin, the views are endless, and the weather can change in a heartbeat. This lofty perch places campers above much of the surrounding landscape, creating a natural balcony overlooking the North Cascades. The high elevation brings its own character to the camping experience—cooler temperatures that provide relief from summer heat, winds that carry the scent of distant glaciers, and a proximity to the sky that makes stars seem close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryAlpine meadows stretch across the landscape, carved by glaciers and shaped by thousands of years of mountain weather. The open terrain creates unobstructed views of surrounding peaks and ridgelines. On clear nights, the Milky Way cuts across the sky with minimal light pollution. Wildflowers peak in summer, blanketing the high-elevation meadows in color. The Harts Pass area provides one of the most accessible alpine environments in the North Cascades without requiring backcountry travel.
Geological RegionNestled within the spectacular Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Meadows Campground sits in a unique alpine ecosystem where ancient geology meets vibrant life. The surrounding meadows, carved by glaciers and shaped by millennia of mountain weather, create a rare high-elevation habitat that supports diverse plant and animal communities. This remarkable landscape in the Harts Pass area represents one of the most accessible alpine environments in the North Cascades, offering visitors a chance to experience the delicate beauty of mountain meadows without extensive backcountry travel.
Scenic ViewsSpectacular scenery, with mentions of alpine meadows, open views of the sky (ideal for stargazing), and vistas of Slate Peak Lookout.
Lodging & AccommodationsLodging options beyond the campground itself are not described in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.