Colonial Creek South Campground
4.43336 reviews810 State Route 20, Sedro-woolley, WA, 98284, USA
Colonial Creek South Campground
$24.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $24.00 for Hike-To, Standard Nonelectric, and Walk-To sites to $75.00 for Group Standard Area Nonelectric sites during peak season (May 19 - September 07, 2025). Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Discover a hidden gem where 93 campsites are tucked beneath towering giants of the Pacific Northwest. Colonial Creek South Campground invites you to sleep under ancient canopies while the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake shimmer just beyond the trees. This intimate retreat welcomes tent campers and small RVs to experience authentic wilderness camping, where black bears roam freely and proper food storage becomes part of your nightly ritual. Choose between convenient drive-in sites or more secluded walk-in spots, each offering its own slice of old-growth magic.
Colonial Creek South Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including standard nonelectric campsites, walk-in tent sites, and group camping areas.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a camper's paradise, with warm days perfect for lake adventures and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. As autumn approaches, misty mornings and frequent rain showers create an ethereal atmosphere that true nature lovers cherish. Pack your rain gear for shoulder seasons—the forest's moody beauty rewards those who embrace the Pacific Northwest's ever-changing skies.
ElevationElevation details are not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where centuries-old western redcedars stretch skyward alongside massive hemlocks and Douglas-firs, their branches creating a natural ceiling hundreds of feet above. The stunning turquoise waters of Diablo Lake—painted brilliant by glacial flour—beckon from nearby shores, while the Thunder Creek Trail winds through this enchanted forest, promising adventures for hikers of all abilities. Native ferns and moss carpet the forest floor, creating a lush understory that feels like stepping into another world.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic peaks of North Cascades National Park, Colonial Creek South sits at the edge of Diablo Lake, a stunning reservoir whose otherworldly turquoise hue comes from suspended glacial sediment. This ancient landscape tells the story of ice and time, where glaciers carved deep valleys and left behind the spectacular alpine scenery that defines the North Cascades. The surrounding old-growth forest stands as a testament to the region's ecological richness, thriving in the temperate climate created by Pacific moisture meeting mountain barriers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, parking, and restrooms are available. Detailed descriptions include features such as accessible flush toilets and parking areas.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as varying in size from small to medium, suitable for most tents and smaller trailers or RVs. Many sites are not suitable for large RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies widely across the campground. Some sites offer lush vegetation for screening, while others are close together, especially lakeside sites. A user noted, "The sites on the lake are not as private but offer lakefront property."
Total Campsites93 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose outer spots away from the lake. Campers with watercraft should prioritize lakefront spots.
Best CampsitesLakefront campsites, such as #79, are highly praised for their views and direct water access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14:00 (2 PM)
Check-out
12:00 (Noon)
Stay Limit
- Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during a visit
- Maximum Stay: 30 nights within a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate larger parties, though specific details about maximum occupancy were not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes loops with accessible sites, lakefront sites, and walk-in tent-only sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 19, 2025, to September 07, 2025. First-come, first-served availability before and after the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website or app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not reserved during peak season can be claimed same-day as first-come, first-served for one night only. Walk-in tent-only sites (#64 - #73) are available outside peak season, from January through late May and early September through December.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations subtract the first night's fee. Changes to reservation dates outside the original stay require a $10 modification fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Colonial Creek South Campground offers a wide variety of recreational activities, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy on-site hiking trails, fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Swimming is available in Diablo Lake, but its chilly 43-degree water may not appeal to everyone.
Hiking
Hiking trails accessible from the campground include the Thunder Creek Trail and Thunder Knob Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views. One user described Thunder Knob as "a great view of Diablo Lake," while another noted that Thunder Creek Trail was "great for families."Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Diablo Lake with a valid Washington State fishing license. Common catches include trout. A review noted, "Fishing is pretty decent if you can get out on the lake."Swimming
Swimming is available in Diablo Lake, though the water temperature remains a chilly 43 degrees year-round. A user remarked, "The water is freezing cold for swimming," while others recommended kayaking as an alternative.Boating
Diablo Lake offers opportunities for boating, including kayaking and canoeing. Sites with direct lake access are ideal for watercraft launching. A user shared, "Kayaking on the lake is really fun," and another added, "You can launch your devices from here."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer, geese, and even black bears reported in the area. Campers are reminded to use bear-proof storage lockers to prevent wildlife encounters.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground features an amphitheater where ranger-led educational talks are occasionally conducted. Visitors highlighted a need for more frequent ranger programs.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are highlighted as key recreational activities on Diablo Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, except during bans.
- Quiet hours are enforced but inconsistently, according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are active in the area. Other wildlife like raccoons may also pose a concern. Uneven gravel parking and proximity to water features may require caution.
Active alertsNo active alerts were provided.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 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
Nearest emergency services, including hospital and police station information, were not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 19, 2025 - September 07, 2025
Trash and recyclingOn-site trash and recycling facilities are available. Detailed reviews report that trash facilities are conveniently located and well-maintained, with ample garbage containers for campers' use.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites offer proximity to Diablo Lake; some sites have direct lake access.
Common complaintsUsers frequently criticized proximity of campsites, lack of enforcement of noise regulations, crowded conditions, and occasional rude behavior from rangers.
HostHosts are available onsite but were noted as inconsistent in reviews.
Campground Map
810 State Route 20, Sedro-woolley, WA, 98284, USA
Driving directionsColonial Creek South Campground is located near mile marker 130 on State Route 20. From Burlington, WA, drive 70 miles east on State Route 20. From Twisp, WA, drive 71 miles west on State Route 20.
The campground is accessible via State Route 20, which is a paved highway. Some campsites have paved parking spaces, but most have uneven gravel parking. No seasonal road closures were mentioned.Nearby places
Burlington, WA (70 miles east)
Twisp, WA (71 miles west)
Nearby supplies
The nearest services such as firewood, ice, gas, and groceries are located in Marblemount, WA, which is approximately 30 miles west of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
336 reviews
Colonial Creek South Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Colonial Creek South Campground are mixed, with many praising the stunning natural beauty and well-maintained facilities, while others expressed concerns about campground crowding and noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 336 reviews
What Campers Love
"The campground is very clean and nestled in beautiful nature!" "Flush toilets and potable water are available, and the lake's proximity is fantastic."
Based on 336 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include noise from other campers, small and closely packed campsites, and insufficient enforcement of quiet hours. "There was no quiet hours enforcement. Party central." Another noted,...
Based on 336 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing earplugs due to the close proximity of sites and potential noise. Stock up on firewood and other supplies in Marblemount, as these are not available on-site.
Based on 336 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season reviews note the campground's popularity, resulting in crowds and limited privacy. Off-peak visits are described as quieter and more enjoyable.
Based on 336 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Right on Diablo Lake with stunning views!" "Bathrooms were clean and well-stocked." "The rangers were very friendly and helpful."
Based on 336 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 079 is frequently praised for its lake access and proximity to clean restrooms. Negative reviews often center around sites like 099, which are described as cramped and lacking privacy.
Based on 336 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites, restrooms, and parking are available. Reviews highlight the thoughtfulness of these features, though specifics about site layouts are limited.
Based on 336 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews address pet-related facilities or policies.
Based on 336 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025