Harlequin Campground
4.678 reviewsnull
Harlequin Campground
$0.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $0 during the first-come, first-served season (January 1 through June 30 and September 8 through December 31) to $20 during the peak season (July 1 through September 7). Group and individual sites are priced similarly.
About this campground
Escape to Harlequin Campground, where adventure begins the moment you arrive. Tucked along the pristine Stehekin River, this secluded walk-in paradise sits 4.5 miles from Stehekin Landing, accessible only by foot, boat, or floatplane—ensuring an authentic wilderness experience far from the crowds. Here, you'll trade modern conveniences for the simple pleasures of riverside camping, with basic pit toilets and the river's natural soundtrack as your only amenities. It's the perfect basecamp for those seeking genuine solitude and unspoiled nature.
The Harlequin Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping and group camping. It is a walk-in campground with no RV or car camping allowed.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the living history surrounding Harlequin Campground. The nearby Buckner Orchard preserves the valley's homesteading heritage with its century-old apple trees still bearing fruit each fall. Just a short journey away, the thundering 312-foot Rainbow Falls showcases the raw power that has shaped this landscape for millennia, creating a dramatic backdrop to the human stories woven throughout the Stehekin Valley.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Harlequin Campground with its own dramatic palette. Summer unveils the valley at its finest, with comfortable temperatures and full access to all the area has to offer. Spring brings the powerful rush of snowmelt—be aware that late May and June's swollen rivers may claim some riverside sites. Autumn wraps the campground in crisp air and golden light, while winter transforms this corner of the Cascades into a snow-laden wonderland, accessible only to the most determined adventurers.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of the Stehekin River just steps from your tent, your campsite nestled on sandy ground that feels more like beach camping than mountain wilderness. Towering evergreens frame views of crystal-clear water, while bald eagles patrol the skies above. The campground's riverside setting creates an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow, where morning mist rises from the water and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionHarlequin Campground rests in the heart of the legendary Stehekin Valley, carved by ancient glaciers and cradled within Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. As part of the greater North Cascades National Park Service Complex, this dramatic landscape showcases millions of years of geological artistry—from jagged peaks to U-shaped valleys, all testament to the incredible forces that continue to shape the North Cascades today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHarlequin Campground is accessible only by foot, boat, or plane. Visitors with mobility challenges should note that there are no paved paths or ADA-specific features.
Sites Size"Most sites are large, with space to arrange multiple tents (no specific tent pads)."
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level varies. While the sites are large and can accommodate multiple tents, some reviews suggest that proximity to others can lead to disturbances.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1 and 4 are recommended for their space and scenic beauty. Reviewers note site 4 as quiet and surprisingly empty.
Best CampsitesReview highlights suggest campsites 1, 3, and 4 as among the best due to spaciousness and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features large sites with sandy lots. All sites are walk-in and arranged to accommodate multiple tents without specific tent pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but reservations are only available from July 1 through September 7. First-come, first-served camping occurs outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served camping is available January 1 through June 30 and September 8 through December 31.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations carry a $10 fee. Cancellations also incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee if canceled late.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Harlequin Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Swimming is possible in Lake Chelan or the Stehekin River, though the water is very cold at approximately 45°F. "Visitors can access several trails from the campground area, such as the Stehekin River Trail, Company Creek Trail, and Rainbow Loop."
Hiking
The campground provides access to several trails, including the Stehekin River Trail, Company Creek Trail, and Rainbow Loop. These trails lead to other backcountry trails, offering the potential for longer wilderness backpacks. Backcountry permits are required for overnight stays.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in the Stehekin River and nearby Lake Chelan. A user review mentions, "Bring your fishing rod or waders/fly gear for some amazing fishing! Caught a few nice cutthroat salmon!"Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Lake Chelan and the Stehekin River, but the water is very cold at 45°F. Safety precautions should be taken.Biking
Biking is possible along the Stehekin Valley Road, which also connects to various trails.Boating
Boating is a popular activity in Lake Chelan. Visitors can access the lake via a ferry or their own boat, which can be parked at the public docks in Stehekin with a federal dock permit.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including bears and bald eagles. "Wildlife frequents the area. All food must be stored in animal-resistant food lockers or hard-sided vehicles until use."Beach activities
The sandy environment near the campground provides a unique beach-like experience for campers.Water Sports
Kayaking and rafting opportunities are available on Lake Chelan or the Stehekin River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is frequented by bears; precautions are necessary for food storage. Late spring flooding may occur due to proximity to the Stehekin River.
Active alertsSpring flooding (late May and June) and lack of cell phone reception may affect usability.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through September 7.
Trash and recycling"Trash and recycling bins are available, but visitors are encouraged to pack out what they pack in."
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Stehekin River, with access to Lake Chelan for fishing and swimming.
Common complaintsSome reviewers mention noisy conditions during daytime near the airport due to loud generators and motors. Toilets are reported as having an odor that carries far.
HostPark rangers frequently visit and are reported to be informative and friendly.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsHead north on Stehekin Valley Road from the Landing approximately 4.5 miles and turn left at the large Harlequin Bridge. The campground is the first left after crossing the river.
Stehekin is only accessible by foot, boat, or plane. There are no roads connecting it to the rest of Washington.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
At the Stehekin Landing area, the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin has a small store with very limited groceries and a restaurant. Public showers and laundry facilities are located near the Landing but not at the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
8 reviews
Harlequin Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and peacefulness of the campground, though some noted challenges such as noise from nearby generators, the smell of pit toilets, and limited access to water facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the spacious sites, proximity to the Stehekin River, and opportunities for fishing and hiking. Quotes include: "Beautiful camp site along the river." "Caught a few nice cutthroat...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns included the pit toilet smell, generator noise, and early morning disturbances. "The toilets can be smelled very far away." "Generators could be heard until late at night."
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray for mosquitoes, a water filter for river water, and food supplies. Use the shuttle service for ease of access. "Grab an ice cream and oat bar at the bakery during the shuttle stop!"
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Many sites are reported to flood during late May and June due to spring runoff. Late fall camping offers solitude but can be noisy due to generators.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Amazing fishing! Caught a few nice cutthroat salmon!" "Nice bear lockers and stylish restrooms." "Lots of mosquitoes but not terribly aggressive."
Based on 8 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight issues like noise disturbances at campsite 2 and positive experiences at campsite 4. "Beautiful camp site, guy dropping of kayaks with his truck next to our campsite...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific user feedback on accessibility features was provided.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews addressing pet experiences were found.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025