Refrigerator Harbor Campground

About

Refrigerator Harbor Campground is a remote, boat-in camping destination on the south shore of Lake Chelan within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Accessible only by water, the campground can be reached by private boat from Chelan (approximately 40 miles uplake) or from the Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park boat launch (approximately 21 miles). Commercial ferry services including the Lady of the Lake and Stehekin Ferry also provide access with stops at nearby Lucerne. The campground offers four primitive tent sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. A communal shelter provides additional gathering space. Two vault toilets serve the area, and a dock accommodates up to three boats simultaneously. There is no potable water on site; campers must bring their own supply or treat water from the lake. The site provides good protection from downlake winds but remains exposed to uplake winds. Situated near the old Lucerne Ranger Station, Refrigerator Harbor serves as a base for exploring the upper Lake Chelan area. Recreation opportunities include motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing, backpacking, and day hiking in the surrounding wilderness.

Directions

By private boat from Chelan, travel approximately 40 miles uplake to the south shore. Alternatively, from Chelan drive south on Highway 97A for 3 miles, turn right onto Southshore Road and continue 17 miles to Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park. From the boat launch there, travel approximately 21 miles uplake to Refrigerator Harbor on the south shore. Commercial ferry services (Lady of the Lake, Stehekin Ferry) provide passenger service with stops at nearby Lucerne.