Purple Point Campground

For Washingtonians craving a truly unique and immersive outdoor experience, Purple Point Campground in Stehekin offers an unparalleled adventure. Located at the pristine northern tip of Lake Chelan, nestled within the magnificent Lake Chelan National Recreation Area – part of the larger North Cascades National Park Complex – this campground is a testament to the wild, untouched beauty of our state. What makes Purple Point, and indeed all of Stehekin, so special is its deliberate inaccessibility by conventional road; visitors must arrive by boat, seaplane, or foot, ensuring a genuine escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Purple Point Campground offers a blend of rustic charm and surprising convenience, making it an excellent base for exploring the breathtaking wilderness of the North Cascades. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of Lake Chelan, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and the crisp, clean air invigorating your senses. It’s a place where the journey itself becomes part of the adventure, setting the tone for a truly memorable Washington camping experience.

Purple Point Campground is located in Stehekin, WA 98852, USA. This places it at the very northern end of Lake Chelan, deep within the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, which is part of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. What truly defines its location and accessibility is the fact that Stehekin is a remote community with no direct road access from the rest of Washington.

Visitors primarily reach Stehekin and, subsequently, Purple Point Campground via:

• Ferry Boat: The most common method is to take the Lady of the Lake ferry (either the slower Lady II or faster Lady Express) from the town of Chelan, traversing the 50.5-mile long Lake Chelan. The ferry ride itself is a scenic journey, offering stunning views.

• Private Boat: Visitors with their own boats can also moor at the public docks in Stehekin, though a federal dock permit is required.

• Seaplane: For a quicker and more dramatic entrance, seaplanes also provide service to Stehekin.

• Hiking: Adventurous hikers can reach Stehekin via various backcountry trails, such as the famous Pacific Crest Trail, connecting to the Stehekin Valley. A backcountry permit is required for overnight stays in the backcountry.

Once in Stehekin, Purple Point Campground is approximately an eight-minute walk (about 0.3 miles) from the boat dock at Stehekin Landing along a paved road. While the campground is very accessible from the landing, visitors should be aware that many campsites are located quite close to the road, meaning some road traffic and early morning boater sounds might be audible. However, this small trade-off is often overshadowed by the convenience of the location and the spectacular views it affords.

• Campsites with Basic Amenities: Purple Point Campground offers designated campsites, primarily for tents. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic bench and a fire pit (though visitors must be mindful of fire bans, which are common during dry seasons).

• Clean Washrooms with Flush Toilets: A significant highlight, especially for a remote campground, is the availability of clean washrooms with flush toilets. This provides a level of comfort not always found in wilderness settings.

• Bear-Safe Food Storage Units: Due to the presence of bears in the North Cascades, bear-safe food storage units (bear boxes) are provided, typically one for every two campsites, ensuring proper food storage and wildlife safety.

• Potable Drinking Water: The campground offers access to potable drinking water, a crucial amenity that saves campers from needing to pack in all their water or treat natural sources.

• Garbage Removal: While visitors are encouraged to pack out everything they pack in to minimize impact, garbage removal services are available at the campground. All waste is eventually barged down Lake Chelan.

• Dishwashing Sink: For added convenience, a dishwashing sink with running water is available, making clean-up easier for campers.

• Stunning Views: Purple Point Campground boasts phenomenal views of Lake Chelan and the surrounding North Cascades mountains, including glimpses of the Cascade Pass. Site 1, for example, is noted for its exceptional vistas.

• Lake Access for Swimming and Water Activities: Just across the street from the campground, there's a dock and ramps that provide easy access to Lake Chelan. While the water is cold (around 45 degrees Fahrenheit), it's relatively shallow near the shore, making it suitable for swimming. There's even a log for sunbathing or swimming to.

• Unique Car-Free Experience: The fact that Stehekin is only accessible by boat, plane, or foot creates an incredibly unique and peaceful atmosphere, free from the noise and pollution of vehicle traffic (though some local road traffic exists within Stehekin itself).

• Proximity to Stehekin Village Amenities: The campground is a short walk from Stehekin Landing, which provides access to limited groceries, a restaurant at the North Cascades Lodge, public showers, and laundry facilities. The Stehekin Pastry Company and Buckner Orchard are also popular nearby attractions.

• Gateway to North Cascades Trails: Purple Point serves as an excellent base for various hiking and backpacking adventures. Nearby trails include the Imus Trail, Purple Creek Trail, and the Lakeshore Trail. Further up the valley, trails can be accessed by foot, bike, or the Stehekin shuttle bus.

• Friendly Atmosphere and PCT Hikers: The campground is known for its friendly vibe. It's a common stop for Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) thru-hikers, offering opportunities to meet fascinating people and hear great stories.

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, making proper food storage essential and offering chances for wildlife spotting (from a safe distance).

Address: Stehekin, WA 98852, USA

Phone: (360) 854-7200 (North Cascades National Park general inquiry line)

Mobile Phone: +1 360-854-7200

For campground inquiries and current conditions at Purple Point Campground, a more direct line often cited is (509) 699-2080 x 14.

Reservations for Purple Point Campground can typically be made through Recreation.gov, and it is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for peak season. Always check the North Cascades National Park Service website or Recreation.gov for the most current information on alerts, fire restrictions, and operating seasons.

For Washingtonians, Purple Point Campground in Stehekin represents a truly unique and accessible wilderness escape that feels worlds away from the daily grind. Its distinct "car-free" accessibility by boat, seaplane, or trail offers a built-in adventure, immediately setting a tone of disconnection and immersion in nature. This is perfect for locals seeking a profound sense of solitude and natural beauty without having to travel across the country.

The campground’s blend of primitive appeal with essential comforts—like flush toilets and bear-safe storage—makes it manageable for a wide range of campers, from seasoned backpackers to families seeking a memorable outdoor experience. The breathtaking views of Lake Chelan and the North Cascades, combined with direct access to swimming, fishing, and an extensive network of hiking trails, provide endless opportunities for recreation and rejuvenation. Moreover, the proximity to the small, charming community of Stehekin means that limited resupply options and other amenities are within walking distance, adding a layer of convenience to this remote paradise. Purple Point Campground offers Washington locals a chance to experience the very best of their state's wild heart, fostering a deeper appreciation for its iconic landscapes and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle amidst unparalleled natural splendor.

Purple Point Campground

Stehekin, WA 98852, USA