Washington / Whatcom County / Ross Lake National Recreation Area / North Cascades National Park Complex

Colonial Creek South Campground

Closed — Ten walk-in tent sites (sites 64-73) are open first-come, first-served during winter from October through late May with no water, services, or fees. The full campground operates with reservations from late May through early September. A brief first-come, first-served period may occur in early to mid-September before winter closure.

About

Colonial Creek South Campground is a remote yet popular campground nestled in old-growth western redcedar, western hemlock, and Douglas-fir forest on the shores of Diablo Lake. Located at milepost 130 on State Route 20, the campground offers 93 campsites that vary in size from small to medium, with most sites not suitable for large trailers or RVs. The campground features 10 walk-in, tent-only sites that remain open during the winter months. The campground provides direct access to the Thunder Creek Trailhead from the South Loop, while the Thunder Knob Trailhead is accessible across State Route 20 on the north loop. A fully accessible fishing pier and boat launch on Diablo Lake offer opportunities for water recreation, though boaters should note that the launch may have shallow water due to silt accumulation. Fishing is permitted with a Washington State Fishing license. Black bears are active throughout the campground and surrounding trails. Bear boxes are provided at each campsite for storing coolers, cookware, and other odorants. The campground is surrounded by native vegetation including red huckleberries and offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake. During peak season, the campground operates on a reservation system with sites released in two booking windows: 6 months in advance and 7 days in advance.

Directions

Colonial Creek South Campground is located near milepost 130 on State Route 20. From Burlington, drive 70 miles east on State Route 20. From Twisp, drive 71 miles west on State Route 20. The campground is on the south side of the highway, 20 miles east of Marblemount and 63 miles west of Winthrop.

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