Domke Falls Campground
03 reviewsDomke Falls Campground
$10.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A Federal Dock Site Boat Permit is required from May 1 – October 31 for all National Forest and Park Service docks on Lake Chelan. Permits cost $10 per day or $75 for a season pass.
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About this campground
Escape to the pristine wilderness of Domke Falls Campground, a hidden gem accessible only by boat along Lake Chelan's stunning south shore. This intimate retreat features four thoughtfully positioned tent sites, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, creating the perfect setting for lakeside evenings under the stars. A well-maintained floating dock welcomes up to six boats at a time, while a short trail beckons adventurers to discover the cascading beauty of Domke Falls. Open throughout the year, this secluded sanctuary offers a rare combination of accessibility and untouched natural splendor.
The campground provides primitive camping facilities accessible by boat. It is geared towards tent campers and does not support RV or glamping accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Lake Chelan through every season at Domke Falls. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures climbing into the pleasant 80s and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest erupts in golden hues while the lake level gradually recedes. Winter brings a quieter charm, with temperatures hovering between 31°F and 42°F, occasional snow dustings, and the unique advantage that Domke Falls maintains reliable dock access even when other sites become challenging. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and rushing waterfalls fed by mountain snowmelt.
ElevationPerched at 1,140 feet above sea level, Domke Falls Campground enjoys a gentle mountain climate that moderates both summer heat and winter chill. This sweet-spot elevation creates comfortable camping conditions while maintaining the crisp, clean air that makes every breath feel rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be enchanted by what visitors describe as 'simply a beautiful spot to spend the night.' Each campsite frames its own 'magical view' of Lake Chelan's sapphire waters, while towering evergreens provide natural privacy and shade. The crown jewel of the area, Domke Falls, tumbles through ancient rock formations just a short walk from camp, creating a natural symphony that lulls campers to sleep. Morning mists rise from the lake surface, eagles soar overhead, and the untouched shoreline invites exploration at every turn.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Domke Falls Campground showcases the raw beauty of the North Cascades ecosystem. The dramatic landscape tells a story written in stone and water, where glacial forces carved the deep Lake Chelan trough and created the perfect canvas for cascading waterfalls. Dense coniferous forests blanket the steep hillsides, their roots anchored in volcanic soils that have nurtured this verdant wilderness for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities has been provided.
Sites SizeThere are four tent sites available, but the size of each site is not specified.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites are not explicitly described.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers are recommended to secure a spot at the dock for the best access and views. Each campsite is noted for its scenic value.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers are mentioned, but all four tent sites offer "magical views" and proximity to Domke Falls and Lake Chelan.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Details about group accommodations are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features four tent sites distributed along the lakeside, with amenities including three fire rings and four picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsPermits must be pre-purchased for Federal Dock Site Boat Permit; specific platforms for reservations not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability mentioned. All docking requires a permit during peak season.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Domke Falls Campground offers a limited range of recreational water activities, including motorized and non-motorized boating. Visitors can enjoy swimming and scenic views of Lake Chelan, though there is no direct access to nearby trails like Domke Lake National Recreation Trail.
Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an enjoyable activity by users, who highlight the clear waters of Lake Chelan. For example, one user noted: "Great swimming."Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are available. The floating dock can accommodate up to six boats, making it a convenient spot for boat-in campers.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned. However, the campground is accessible year-round.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and canoeing are supported, as highlighted in the source documents related to Lake Chelan.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsSnakes have been reported sunning on the shore, so visitors are advised to tread carefully. Otherwise, no specific hazards are noted.
Weather forecast
101
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are located in Chelan.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 through October 31 for Federal Dock Site Boat Permit usage.
Trash and recyclingNo garbage services are provided, so campers must pack out their trash. Recycling services are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on the shore of Lake Chelan, with a trail leading to Domke Falls. Great for swimming and boating.
Common complaintsNo potable water or garbage services provided, as highlighted in the official description. Campers must pack out their trash and bring their own drinking water.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Chelan, travel south on Highway 97 Alternate for 3 miles. Turn right onto Southshore Road and go approximately 17 miles to Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park. From the Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park boat launch, boat approximately 18 miles uplake. Domke Falls Campground is on the south shore. Note: Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park is a popular boat launch for accessing many uplake recreation sites via personal boat.
Boat-in only. Accessible year-round; the floating dock has a six-boat capacity. The campground is reachable via a personal boat from the Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park boat launch, which is 18 miles uplake.Nearby places
Chelan (approximately 20 miles by road + 18 miles by boat)
Southshore Road leads to Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park.
Nearby supplies
Supplies and amenities can be accessed at Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park or in the city of Chelan.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Domke Falls Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the scenic beauty and tranquility of the campsite, with its close proximity to Lake Chelan being a highlight. The campground's accessibility by boat and year-round use are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers note the scenic views, peaceful environment, and the convenience of having a floating dock. Comments include: "Simply a beautiful spot to spend the night." Another noted the accessibility...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Users raised concerns about the presence of snakes, as one reviewer pointed out: "You may find snakes sunning themselves here, so tread slowly."
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to tread carefully due to potential snake activity. Bringing potable water is essential, as none is available on-site. Additionally, packing out all trash is required.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is accessible year-round, and one reviewer noted that the floating dock remains usable even during fall and winter when Lake Chelan's water levels drop. This makes it a reliable choice...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Simply a beautiful spot to spend the night." - Dylan; "If you can get a spot at the dock, you're in for a treat as each campsite has a magical view!" - Adventure__ Pete; "Lake Chelan's water level...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific feedback regarding individual campsites was available, other than a general appreciation for the scenic views offered by all sites.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically comment on the campground’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no mention of pet policies or experiences related to bringing pets.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025