Pros & cons
PROS
- Lakeside sites with a small boat ramp and dock
- Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear box
CONS
- No potable water and pack-it-out trash
- Small sites; not suitable for large RVs or trailers
Overview
A tiny, primitive spot perched on a steep bank above Gorge Lake, this 8-site campground trades hookups for views and simple, quiet nights. It’s tent-friendly, with a few tight sites that can fit small rigs, and the vibe is very back-to-basics.
Current Status
The campground is closed until further notice due to debris flow and flooding hazards following the 2023 Sourdough Fire. Always check official status before planning a stay.
Camp Setup and Amenities
Expect the essentials, not comforts: each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and animal-resistant food locker. Vault toilets are provided. There’s no potable water and no services—bring all your water and plan to pack out trash. Some sites have tent pads. Occupancy per site is typically 8 people, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles.
Boating and Fishing
Down at the lower end, an accessible boat ramp and small dock make it easy to slip in a canoe, kayak, SUP, or small powerboat. Fishing is permitted on Gorge Lake with a valid Washington State fishing license.
Safety and Conditions
This campground sits within a hydroelectric project and uses a high‑water warning system; sirens can sound ahead of dam releases. Strong winds can rip through—secure tents and gear. Black bears are active; store all food and scented items in the bear boxes or a hard‑sided vehicle. Cell service is generally unreliable.
Location and Nearby
It’s just off SR 20 near Diablo, with easy access to marquee viewpoints: Diablo Lake Overlook lies to the east, and the North Cascades Visitor Center is to the west. For supplies like gas, ice, and firewood, plan on Marblemount. Potable water is available at Colonial Creek and Newhalem Creek Campgrounds along SR 20.
Reservations and Season
When open, the small summer season is typically reservable, and outside that window it switches to first‑come, first‑served with no fee, water, or trash service. Check the park’s camping page for seasonal shifts.
Best Time to Visit
When operational, aim for the summer reservation season (roughly mid‑May to early September) for predictable access. Regardless of season, arrive with daylight to navigate the small, tight sites and steep lakeside setting.
Where it is
48.7158, -121.1517Tips for Gorge Lake Campground
- 01Bring all drinking water; nearest potable water is at Colonial Creek and Newhalem Creek campgrounds.
- 02Plan to pack out all trash—be fully self‑sufficient even if you spot bins in photos.
- 03Secure tents and gear; strong winds can whip through the lake corridor.
- 04Recheck closure status shortly before your trip; conditions change quickly.
- 05Sites are small; only small rigs up to about 30 feet fit.
Amenities
Near Gorge Lake Campground
All places →All trails →
0.3 mi awaySourdough Mountain TrailA punishing climb to a historic lookout with huge North Cascades viewsChallenging · 10.4 mi · 9.5 hr
0.5 mi awayPyramid Lake TrailSteep forest climb to a tiny lake with floating log gardens.Moderate · 4.2 mi · 2.7 hr
0.5 mi awayPyramid LakeShort, steep forest hike to a quiet, pond-like alpine lakeParking · Trailhead
0.9 mi awayDiablo DamDrive across a historic dam with turquoise lake viewsPullout · Parking
0.9 mi awayDiablo Lake Boat TourGuided cruise on turquoise waters with history and optional lunchRestroom · Food
1.5 mi awayDiablo Lake TrailForest-to-dam traverse with gorge drama and turquoise waterModerate · 7.6 mi · 4 hr
1.8 mi awayDiablo LakeTurquoise reservoir with easy wow-factor views and hiking add-onsParking · Restroom
2.9 mi awayThunder Knob TrailShort, steady climb to Diablo Lake’s turquoise panoramaEasy · 3.6 mi · 1.7 hr
