How much does camping cost at Colonial Creek North Campground?

Camping fees at Colonial Creek North Campground are $24/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Colonial Creek North Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Colonial Creek North Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Colonial Creek North Campground before I book?

Yes! Colonial Creek North Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Colonial Creek North Campground?

Colonial Creek North Campground is open May 18 to September 03. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Colonial Creek North Campground?

Colonial Creek North Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Colonial Creek North Campground?

Fire policies at Colonial Creek North Campground: Firewood, ice, gas, and other services are not available in the park complex. The nearest services are in the town of Marblemount, WA.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Colonial Creek North Campground have?

Colonial Creek North Campground has 41 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Colonial Creek North Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Colonial Creek North Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Colonial Creek North Campground?

Colonial Creek North Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Colonial Creek North Campground?

Popular activities at Colonial Creek North Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Colonial Creek North Campground

4.40

276 reviews

810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Top 6%Summer

B-Report Card

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near North Cascades National Park

Quick Facts

1,283 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

41 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,283 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

41 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Colonial Creek North Campground

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Tent Only Nonelectric: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 5 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

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263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Provider

360-854-7200noca_information@nps.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Colonial Creek North Campground

810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Nearby places

Burlington, WA: 70 miles

Twisp, WA: 71 miles

Marblemount, WA: closest for supplies, distance unspecified.

Weather at Colonial Creek North Campground

Current alerts(8)

Campground reservations are accepted during the specified season dates. Campgrounds may be open before or after the reservation season on a walk-up basis. For more information on camping in the North Cascades visit, www.nps.gov/noca .
Campsite occupancy is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles per site.
Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
No Show Policy : If you do not arrive at a campground or cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date, your reservation will be cancelled. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

Best Time to Camp at Colonial Creek North Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and the fullest range of activities — expect warm, comfortable days (roughly 60–80°F) and cool nights (mid-40s to mid-50s), perfect for hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing on Diablo Lake. The lake’s signature turquoise water is at its most inviting and trailheads are typically clear of snow, but sites fill quickly so reservations are strongly recommended. Note that late summer can bring wildfire smoke or temporary campfire restrictions, so check current Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in US

Best season: warm days, full range of lake and trail activities; peak season May–Sep.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 18 to September 03. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open for reservations from May 19 to September 7 annually. It may operate as first-come, first-serve outside of this period until the park closes, typically in mid to late September.

About Colonial Creek North Campground

Colonial Creek North Campground sits on the shore of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park, operated by the National Park Service. The mid-sized campground offers tent and RV sites with flush toilets, potable water, and direct access to hiking trails and the lake's distinctive turquoise water. Reviewers praise the scenic beauty and clean facilities, though State Route 20 runs nearby and sites are closely spaced.

The campground supports tent camping and walk-in sites but is limited in accommodating large RVs. Group camping and primitive camping are not explicitly mentioned.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and the fullest range of activities — expect warm, comfortable days (roughly 60–80°F) and cool nights (mid-40s to mid-50s), perfect for hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing on Diablo Lake. The lake’s signature turquoise water is at its most inviting and trailheads are typically clear of snow, but sites fill quickly so reservations are strongly recommended. Note that late summer can bring wildfire smoke or temporary campfire restrictions, so check current Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1283 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a pocket of old-growth forest at 1,283 feet elevation, where massive conifers tower over gravel loops and Colonial Creek runs through the grounds. Diablo Lake is the visual centerpiece. Its turquoise color comes from glacial flour. Ultra-fine rock particles ground by glaciers high in the surrounding peaks. Suspended in the water. The effect is striking. Morning mist drifts through the trees. Evening light turns the lake into a mirror reflecting the jagged North Cascades skyline.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or similar accommodations are available at this campground. Camping is the only option.

Programs & ActivitiesDuring peak season, interpretive programs are available at the North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem, a short drive from the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit, with a maximum of 30 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Campsite occupancy is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through its mobile app. Phone support is also available.

AccessibilityThe campground has accessible campsites and parking spaces. Flush toilets and paved roads add to its accessibility.

Site SizeSites range from small to medium, with some spacious options. Larger group accommodation options are limited.

PrivacySite privacy varies; some areas are well-spaced and secluded, while waterfront sites are closer together and experience more foot traffic.

Total Campsites41 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #5 is noted for its lake access but can experience foot traffic from trail users. Site #28 is large, shady, and near Colonial Creek. Consider sites further from the highway for less noise.

Need help booking Colonial Creek North Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There are no shower facilities or electrical hookups available. The entire facility offers drinking water, flush toilets, garbage and recycling, and some paved parking spaces, but most sites have uneven gravel parking. Each campsite offers a picnic table, bear box, and campfire ring. An RV dump station is located in the South Loop.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Colonial Creek North Campground

Colonial Creek North Campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Specific trails and lake access enhance opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Swimming is also possible, though the water temperature is noted to be very cold.

Hiking4.0/5

Boating4.0/5

Boating and small boat launches / kayak access on Diablo Lake are available and commonly used.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayaking explicitly mentioned with lake access and small-boat launches.

Fishing3.0/5

Fishing permitted in Diablo Lake (WA license required) but no detailed fish/conditions info.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote North Cascades location with low cell service and peaceful nights suggests good dark skies.

Photography5.0/5Turquoise glacial lake, forested campsites and mountain backdrops make it highly photogenic.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant food lockers are available at every campsite to ensure safety from wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

276 reviews

Recommended

Colonial Creek North Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the stunning natural setting, clean facilities, and abundance of recreational activities at Colonial Creek North Campground. Common themes include the proximity to Diablo Lake, wildlife sightings, and the availability of hiking trails. Most reviewers were satisfied with the privacy of campsites, though some noted noise from the nearby highway.

Review Summaries

Based on 276 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 276 reviews.

Site #5Loved
Site #5: Highly praised for lake access but noted for foot traffic cutting through.
Site #36Loved
Site #36: Described as secluded and spacious.
Site #9Loved
Site #9: Praised for privacy and a personal swimming hole.
Site #15Issues noted
Site #15: Criticized for parking issues due to proximity to Thunder Knob Trail.

What Campers Love

Positive comments frequently mention the scenic beauty of the location, the cleanliness of the bathrooms, and the ease of access to hiking trails and Diablo Lake.

Based on 276 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns raised include noise from nearby Highway 20, occasional issues with campsite administration, and the lack of certain amenities like showers and firewood. Some reviewers also complained about...

Based on 276 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring firewood as it is not sold on-site. Be prepared for no cell service and pack accordingly. For quieter experiences, choose sites away from the highway. Utilize bear boxes for food storage to...

Based on 276 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular time, with visitors enjoying warm weather and lake activities. However, the lack of cell service and the proximity of the highway are consistent complaints.

Based on 276 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground is clean, quiet, and well-kept.' 2. 'Sites near the lake are convenient for kayakers but closer together.' 3. 'Bring your own firewood—none is sold on-site.'

Based on 276 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites and flush toilets make this campground suitable for visitors with mobility challenges. No issues were specifically reported by users with disabilities.

Based on 276 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, with multiple users mentioning that pets are welcome. However, pet owners should note the presence of wildlife and keep pets on a leash.

Based on 276 reviews

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Colonial Creek North Campground

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Tent Only Nonelectric: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 5 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

360-854-7200noca_information@nps.gov

Go if

You want budget-friendly access to Diablo Lake's turquoise water and North Cascades trails during summer.

Skip if

You need privacy between sites or want to avoid highway noise from State Route 20.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.5

(729)

Colonial Creek South Campground

810 State Route 20, Sedro-woolley, WA, 98284, USA

Colonial Creek South Campground sits on the shore of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park, operated by the National Park Service. The large campground offers tent, RV, primitive, and group sites under an old-growth canopy with access to the lake's distinctive turquoise water. Visitors hike park trails, launch boats and kayaks, and fish from the shore during the seasonal operating window.

Colonial Creek North Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Colonial Creek North Campground

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Colonial Creek North Campground

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About Colonial Creek North Campground

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Amenities available

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Common Concerns

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Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Colonial Creek North Campground

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Need help booking Colonial Creek North Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Colonial Creek North Campground

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Common Concerns