Mitchell Creek Campground
04 reviewsMitchell Creek 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 Permit is required for using National Forest and Park Service docks on Lake Chelan from May 1 to October 31. The permit costs $10 per day or $75 for a season pass.
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About this campground
Accessible only by boat, Mitchell Creek Campground offers an exclusive waterfront escape on Lake Chelan's pristine north shore. This intimate retreat features seven thoughtfully spaced campsites, each furnished with picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings under starlit skies. A charming picnic shelter complete with a stone fireplace serves as the social heart of the campground, while two well-maintained restroom facilities ensure comfort during your wilderness stay.
Mitchell Creek Campground is a boat-in campground featuring tent camping facilities. It is designed for those seeking a primitive camping experience without access to running water or power. Group or RV camping options are not specified in the available data.
Historical SignificanceWhile specific historical records remain unchronicled, Mitchell Creek Campground sits within the ancestral lands that have witnessed centuries of human connection to Lake Chelan's abundant waters and surrounding wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the North Cascades at Mitchell Creek. Winter blankets the landscape in snow and crystalline frost, creating a serene frozen wonderland. As spring unfolds, wildflowers emerge and temperatures climb to perfect camping weather. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures often soaring above 85°F—ideal for swimming and water activities. For the ultimate camping experience, visit during late spring and early summer when moderate temperatures, crystal-clear skies, and blooming alpine meadows create magical conditions.
ElevationPerched at 1,140 feet above sea level, Mitchell Creek Campground enjoys a unique microclimate where mountain air meets lake breezes. This modest elevation provides relief from valley heat while maintaining accessibility, creating comfortable conditions that extend the camping season and offer spectacular vantage points for sunset viewing.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of Lake Chelan's crystalline waters, where glacier-fed depths reflect towering peaks and endless sky. Mitchell Creek Campground serves as your front-row seat to nature's daily spectacle—watch golden sunsets paint the water in brilliant hues while mountains cast purple shadows across the lake. Visitors consistently rave about the 'beautiful camping area' where panoramic water views and dramatic mountain backdrops create an photographer's paradise and a haven for those seeking genuine wilderness immersion.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Mitchell Creek Campground rests along the shores of Lake Chelan—a geological marvel carved by ancient glaciers over millennia. This 50-mile ribbon of deep, cold water winds through a dramatic glacial trough, surrounded by peaks that tell the story of ice ages past. The rugged mountainous terrain creates a natural amphitheater where forest meets water, offering campers an intimate glimpse into the powerful forces that shaped the North Cascades.
Campsite details
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring firewood, as the picnic shelter includes a fireplace but no wood is provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are highlighted as best.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Not clearly stated in the source materials.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of seven campsites, a picnic shelter, and a dock accommodating up to 17 boats.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground requires permits from May 1 to October 31, indicating that it is open during this period.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform information is provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided about walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not described in the source materials.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mitchell Creek Campground offers a range of water-based and recreational activities, primarily centered around its lakefront location. Activities include motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing, and picnicking at designated areas. As one user review notes: 'You can catch fish from docks or shore.' The campground is also ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, as highlighted in another review: 'Very much for those who entertain themselves.'
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available both from the dock and the shore. User feedback supports this with comments like: 'You can catch fish from docks or shore.'Boating
The campground features a dock with a 17-boat capacity, accommodating both motorized and non-motorized boating activities. User reviews frequently emphasize the necessity of arriving by boat.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned beyond the presence of fire rings.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include lake conditions that can affect boat access and challenges with navigating to the site. Wildlife may also pose risks as the area is primitive.
Active alertsNone mentioned in the provided materials.
Weather forecast
100
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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 are likely in Chelan, approximately 24 miles drive and 4 miles boat trip. Specific facilities include local hospitals and ranger stations in Chelan.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely coincides with the permit-required period from May 1 to October 31.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly on Lake Chelan, offering close access to water activities including motorized and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and the necessity of boat access are noted by users as potential downsides.
HostNot mentioned whether campground hosts are available.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Chelan, travel south on Highway 97A 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 4 miles downlake. Mitchell Creek Campground is on the north shore.
Accessibility is challenging as the campground is only accessible by boat. Travelers must navigate lake conditions and have a boat to reach the site.Nearby places
Chelan (approximately 24 miles drive and 4 miles by boat, estimated travel time varies due to boating conditions).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Chelan, which is the nearest city with grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supply outlets.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Mitchell Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise Mitchell Creek Campground for its scenic beauty, tranquility, and suitability for those comfortable with primitive camping. Its unique boat-in access adds to the allure for many campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the beautiful views, the availability of fire pits and picnic tables, and the dock facilities. One review states: 'Our favorite campground on Lake Chelan, plenty of room for lots of...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users mention the lack of potable water and the primitive nature of the facilities. One reviewer notes: 'Toilet pit available, no running water or power,' pointing out the limitations for those...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood and being prepared for a self-sufficient experience due to the lack of running water and limited facilities. One user advises: 'Shelter has fireplace. Take wood!'
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not provide comprehensive information on seasonal variations. However, the boat-in nature of the campground may make it less accessible during adverse weather conditions.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Shelter has fireplace. Take wood!' 2. 'You can catch fish from docks or shore. Beautiful place!!!' 3. 'Our favorite campground on Lake Chelan, plenty of room for lots of people and boats, great...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025