Lake Chelan State Park
Lake Chelan State Park occupies a breathtaking 127-acre stretch of the forested south shore of Lake Chelan, one of the deepest and most beautiful lakes in North America (1,486 feet at its deepest point — the third-deepest in the US). Located in Washington’s sun-drenched Cascade foothills, the park boasts 6,000 feet of pristine shoreline, a sandy swimming beach, excellent boating facilities, and a campground that serves as the perfect base camp for exploring the Lake Chelan wine country and North Cascades wilderness. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, this is Washington’s premier lakeside camping destination.
Beach & Swimming
The park’s large sandy beach is the centerpiece, offering warm-water swimming in one of Washington’s sunniest locations. Lake Chelan’s crystal-clear glacial water warms to the low 70s°F by mid-summer, making June through early September ideal for swimming. The beach area features picnic tables and easy access from the campground. The contrast of the turquoise-blue water against the golden-brown hillsides creates a landscape that feels more Mediterranean than Pacific Northwest.
Boating & Water Sports
| Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 🚤 Boat Launch | Paved ramp, moorage dock available | $7/day launch fee |
| ⛵ Overnight Moorage | Max 18ft, current campers only | $12/night |
| 🏄 Water Skiing | Permitted on open water | — |
| 🤿 Scuba Diving | Crystal-clear visibility in deep water | — |
| 🏄♂️ Windsurfing | Reliable afternoon winds | — |
Lake Chelan stretches 55 miles into the North Cascades, making it one of the longest and most scenic boating destinations in the Pacific Northwest. The park’s **boat launch and moorage dock** provide direct access to the lake. Motorboats, sailboats, kayaks, and canoes all find excellent conditions here. The lake’s narrow, fjord-like upper reaches are only accessible by boat, floatplane, or foot — creating a unique gateway to the remote community of Stehekin and the North Cascades National Park.
Camping
| Site Type | Sites | Features |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡ Utility Sites | 35 | Water/electric hookups, RVs up to 45ft |
| ⛺ Standard Sites | 103 | Tent camping, picnic table, fire ring |
The campground’s 138 total sites are nestled among pine and fir trees on the south shore, with many sites offering lake views or short walks to the beach. 35 utility sites with water and electric hookups accommodate RVs up to 45 feet. Five restrooms with modern showers and a dump station serve the campground. Reservations are available May 15 through September 15 and are strongly recommended — this is one of Washington’s most popular camping parks.
Fishing
| Species | Best Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🐟 Chinook Salmon | Spring–Summer | Trolling, downriggers |
| 🐟 Lake Trout (Mackinaw) | Year-round | Deep water jigging, 30+ lb possible |
| 🐟 Kokanee Salmon | Summer | Light tackle, schools in open water |
| 🐟 Rainbow Trout | Spring–Fall | Shore fishing, trolling |
| 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | Summer | Near shore structure |
Lake Chelan Wine Country
Lake Chelan has emerged as Washington’s newest AVA (American Viticultural Area), with over 30 wineries and tasting rooms within easy driving distance of the park. The combination of hot, sunny days and cool mountain nights creates ideal conditions for premium varietals including Syrah, Malbec, and Riesling. A day exploring the tasting rooms followed by a sunset at your lakeside campsite is one of Washington’s most rewarding experiences.
Seasonal Guide
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring (Apr–May) | Wildflowers, uncrowded lake, fishing opener | Lake water still cold, some facilities opening |
| ☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) | Peak swimming/boating, wine touring, 90°F+ days | Very popular — reserve early, park fills on weekends |
| 🍂 Fall (Sep–Oct) | Wine harvest, golden hillsides, warm lake into September | Campground reservation season ends Sept 15 |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov–Mar) | Quiet lakeside walks, nearby skiing at Mission Ridge | Limited facilities, campground open but minimal services |
Budget Planning
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🅿️ Discover Pass | $10/day or $45/year | Required for vehicle entry |
| ⚡ Utility Campsite | $35–45/night | 35 sites, water/electric |
| ⛺ Standard Campsite | $25–35/night | 103 sites |
| 🚤 Boat Launch | $7/day | Plus Discover Pass |
| ⛵ Overnight Moorage | $12/night | Current campers only |
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 7544 S Lakeshore Rd, Chelan, WA 98816 |
| 📞 Phone | (509) 687-3710 |
| 🌐 Website | WA Parks – Lake Chelan |
| 🕐 Hours | 6:30 AM – Dusk, year-round |
| 💲 Entry | Discover Pass required ($10/day or $45/year) |
| 📍 GPS | 47.8319°N, 120.1756°W |
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep is Lake Chelan?
Lake Chelan reaches a maximum depth of 1,486 feet, making it the third-deepest lake in the United States and one of the deepest in North America. The lake stretches 55 miles into the heart of the North Cascades.
When is the best time to swim?
The swimming season runs from late June through early September, when water temperatures reach the low 70s°F. The Lake Chelan area receives over 300 days of sunshine annually, with summer air temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F.
Can I boat to Stehekin from the state park?
The park’s boat launch provides access to the full 55-mile length of Lake Chelan, including the remote community of Stehekin at the lake’s upper end. Stehekin is also accessible via the Lady of the Lake ferry service from downtown Chelan, which is a more common option for day-trippers.
Are there wineries near the park?
Yes! Lake Chelan is a designated AVA (American Viticultural Area) with 30+ wineries and tasting rooms within easy driving distance. The combination of camping at the park and exploring the wine country makes for an outstanding Washington getaway.
🏔️ Washington’s Deepest Lake, Sunniest Shores
With 6,000 feet of shoreline on one of America’s deepest and most beautiful lakes, 300+ days of sunshine, and world-class wine country next door, Lake Chelan State Park is Washington’s premier lakeside camping experience. Visit the Washington State Parks website to reserve your spot.
